If you’re a North Carolina native like we are here at Foot & Ankle Associates, you know that the winter season brings an abundance of ice and rain; both of which can be a complete hassle!
Did you know slipping on ice is one of the main causes of accidents for pedestrians during winter? We’ve compiled a few quick tips on proper footwear for the season in hopes to keep you safe and on your feet!
Helpful Safety Tips
- Choose the right type of footwear: In the winter, particularly for icy conditions, you will want to wear snow or hiking boots that have a good grip.
- Snow Boots-These boots are insulated, so they are designed to keep your feet nice and toasty! They also come up higher than your typical shoes, which prevents ice chips, slush, snow, and rain from getting into your boots.
- Hiking Boots-These are wonderful for ankle support! Choosing a waterproof hiking boot will be your best option due to this winter season.
- Avoid smooth, flat soles and heels: These shoes typically do not have good grip or tread, which can certainly increase your risk for slipping, falling, and tripping. If you are required to wear these types of shoes for work, wear your boots to commute and bring your work shoes to change into! You will thank yourself later!
- Plastic and leather soled shoes are the WORST for icy and rainy conditions: Make a mental note to NEVER wear plastic or leather soled shoes when the forecast calls for snow, ice, or rain. Plastic and leather soled shoes are the worst shoes to wear in the winter due to their limited traction and grip.
- DIY traction: Did you know you can help your shoes gain traction by intentionally scuffing up the bottoms? This works wonders, especially if your shoes are brand new!
- Traction spray: These sprays help improve the grip of your shoes or boots and the spray-on traction adhesives coat your footwear with protection to brave those icy conditions!
One of the most important things to remember during the winter season, regarding your footwear and safety, is that you have to be aware of your surroundings! Even having the best boots in the world doesn’t give a 100% guarantee against accidents.
You should always try and walking on paths that have been cleared for pedestrian safety. Also, give yourself extra time! You’ll want to walk slower on ice, slush, and snow. Make sure you have extra time to accommodate the changing weather conditions.
One last safety issue is black ice, an invisible hazard. By wearing the proper footwear and following the above guidelines, you can limit your risk for slipping on black ice. Make proper footwear a top priority this winter season!
Discomfort or Pain?
Some patients report discomfort in their ankles or feet during the winter season. This could be due to the switch in footwear, or a variety of other issues pertaining to your ankles or feet. Please do not hesitate to contact us at Foot & Ankle Associates so we can get down to the root of the problem.
Founded in 1998 by Dr. Adam Shapiro, Foot & Ankle Associates is dedicated to providing the best medical and surgical care for your feet. With four convenient, state of the art offices located in Huntersville, Mooresville, Denver and the University area of Charlotte, the physicians of Foot & Ankle Associates provide comprehensive care for all foot and ankle conditions.