kijki

Kijki is a Polish term that denotes long, slender poles or rods. The word is formed from kij (stick) with the diminutive-like plural ending -ki, used for a variety of elongated supports in everyday language. In practice, kijki most often refer to poles used to aid movement or balance during outdoor activities, but the term can apply to any sturdy pole.

Common uses include trekking and Nordic walking: kijki used to propel the body forward and to stabilize gait. They are typically made from aluminum or carbon fiber; common features include adjustable lengths, ergonomic handles (often cork or foam), adjustable wrist straps, and replaceable tips. Some models add snow baskets for winter use or rubber tips for hard surfaces.

Colloquially, kijki may be used to mean ski poles as well, though the formal Polish term for ski poles is kije narciarskie. In other contexts, kijki can refer to any slender pole used as a support, such as tent poles or flagpoles, depending on the speaker.