Do Sturmey Archer shift cables need special cable outers??

I have actually broken two brand new shifters already because as you use the shifter to change gear the cable doesn't seem to move and you end up breaking the shifter.

When you shift SA gears you need to stop pedalling (or at least take some pressure off the pedals) while you're shifting, if you're doing this and the shifting is still stiff enough to knacker the shifter the hub has problems.
Also, always use brake outer for Sturmey cables.