Classic Canes - Beech Derby Canes

Name: Classic Canes - Beech Derby Canes
SKU: 341853

This is a robust beech wood derby cane, distinguished by its rich burgundy colour on some and lighter, fresh beech colours on others. Practical for everyday use, it is also smart enough for dressier occasions.

Men's

The overall height is 92cm (36") and fitted with a non-slip rubber ferrule. Ferrule diameter 19mm.

Item weight is 355g.

Ladies

A classic everyday walking stick for those requiring support and balance. The derby handle offers excellent support to the hand and may be hooked over the arm when not in use.

Overall height 87cm (34"). Fitted with a rubber ferrule. Ferrule diameter 16mm.

Item weight is 310g.

The Derby Style

Reputedly the invention of an earlier Lord Derby, who wanted a supportive walking stick that he could also hook over his arm, this style provides excellent support and can be held in either hand. The user’s weight is carried directly over the shaft of this stick. Their cane is supported as it can neither slip forward nor back. The sides of the derby handle should be rounded for comfort, not flat-sided. One of the most popular handles for the walking stick user in need of light to middling support and balance. Variations include the Melbourne Derby, which has a more rounded shape and a petite derby handle.

About Classic Canes

Classic Canes grows rustic walking sticks in its Somerset woodland using the centuries-old forestry technique of coppicing.

Native British hardwoods such as ash, hazel and blackthorn are cut off to a height of approximately 120cm from the ground. New shoots result and take three to four years to grow to the correct diameter for walking sticks such as hiking staffs, thumbsticks and knobsticks.

The wood is harvested in the winter when the sap is down in the trees, before being dried for at least a year to remove the moisture from the wood.

The sticks are then steamed and straightened before being hand sanded, varnished and fitted with ferrules to become finished walking sticks. Each one is unique.

Coppicing has many ecological benefits. The wood constantly renews itself so there is no need for clear felling or replanting. The system allows light to reach the forest floor, encouraging native wildflowers and the fauna that depend on them.