trästav

Trästav is a Swedish term literally meaning "wooden staff" or "wooden stick." It denotes a simple straight implement made of wood and used for support, walking, work, sport, training and ceremonial purposes. The compound word combines trä (wood) and stav (staff), and similar wooden staffs appear across many cultures and historical periods.

Construction and materials vary with intended use. Common woods include ash, oak and hickory for their strength and flexibility; softer woods are used for lightweight or decorative pieces. Trästavar may be carved, sanded and finished with oil or varnish, and often feature shaped grips, ferrules or rubber tips for stability. Length and diameter depend on function, from short baton-like forms to full-length walking staffs.

Uses of a trästav range from practical to symbolic. As a walking stick it aids balance and reduces strain on the lower limbs; in rural work it serves as a crook or tool for herding and measuring. In sport and martial training, wooden staffs are used for practice and demonstrations because they are inexpensive and safer than metal weapons. Ceremonially, a staff can signify office, authority or ritual function in local traditions.

Cultural associations include folklore and popular imagery of shepherds, travelers and guardians carrying wooden staffs. While non-lethal, a trästav can be used defensively and may be subject to local laws regarding carrying objects construed as weapons. Modern variations include treated or composite staffs and accessories such as rubber tips and wrist straps.