The sticks in the container at the albergue in Santander belong to the pilgrims staying there, and also there were a few old and broken ones left behind by others. I didn't buy sticks at Santander, as I didn't have time to go to Corte Ingles, and there were none to be got at other sports shops. I bought a lovely wooden one for €4.50 at Santillana del Mar, and it was perfect. I left it in the room where I finished at Ribadesella - I had only one week.