Most business that rely on winter are having a hard time this season. While resorts can make some snow, it’s not the same as having endless runs of deep powder. Board and ski companies are feeling the pain too – no sense buying new gear if there’s no snow. Clothing companies are faring a bit better, as it’s still cold out. One brand that specializes in cold weather gear is doing just fine though. Even without snow, there’s still ice, and ICEtrekkers makes a line of traction devices for shoes of all kinds. Their website lists three different products, covering most applications and a variety of footwear.
Just like snow chains can help your car get around in the snow, ICEtrekker’s Chains provide traction when you’re walking in snowy weather. You don’t need ice to slip and fall – packed snow is just as effective at landing you on your behind, especially if your shoe soles pack snow rather than shedding it. Putting a set of chains on them fixes that easily enough. A flexible rubber sling pulls over the toe and heel of your shoe, securing hardened steel chains that cross the ball of your foot, and form a triangle at the heel. This creates a good balance of comfort and traction, so you can wear them (and stay upright) all day.When you come back inside, it only takes a moment to remove them too.
Their Spikes are like cleats (soccer and football, not cycling) for your daily winter wear, whether that means dress shoes or snow boots, or anything in between. These are more for ice than deep snow and ice, making them perfect for those times where the snow has been cleared, but there’s plenty of lingering ice. Slip them onto your shoe, and you’ve got four tungsten carbide spikes under the ball of each foot, and two at the heel, for confidence when walking on icy surfaces. If you should happen to wear out the spikes, (that will take some hard walking) replacements are available, and they include the tools necessary for removal and installation.
ICEtrekker’s Diamond Grips are the go-to product for those needing the most traction in icy conditions. Used by government agencies such as law enforcement, search and rescue, and firefighters, they’ve proven themselves in the toughest life and death situations. That sort of assurance makes them a popular choice for winter hikers and even runners. Utilizing the same flexible rubber as the Chains, the Diamond Grips employ patented Diamond Beads on high-strength steel cable. Each bead has two dozen (by my count) angled edges that dig into ice from different directions, preventing your foot from slipping and sliding. Unlike lesser products, they’ll stay on during high-impact activities like jogging, while providing the kind of traction necessary for those brazen enough to run in freezing temps.
Whether you’re walking to the mailbox, or running a few miles, there’s a pretty good chance that one of the options from ICEtrekker is right for you. For more information, or to locate a retailer, go to www.icetrekkers.com. Because even if winter hasn’t arrived this year, it will eventually.
– Brian