Stay on Your Feet This Winter: PT Anti-Slip Ice Tips
Winter in New England can be beautiful, but it also brings treacherous walking conditions. Snow, ice, and slush turn everyday paths into potential hazards, making it crucial to take the right precautions. Our Physical Therapy team in Lebanon and Grantham, NH frequently sees patients for ice-related falls, but they can be preventable. Here are our top picks for anti-slip gear and expert-recommended strategies to keep you active and steady on your feet all season long.
Choosing the Right Anti-Slip Gear
Before you head out into the cold, it’s important to consider terrain, ability, and conditions and prepare appropriately. Starting at the feet, the right gear can make all the difference in preventing slips and falls while keeping you comfortable and confident on winter surfaces. In addition to wearing footwear with grippy soles, you may want to consider these over-shoe slip-on cleats to increase traction:
For Extreme Conditions & Trails
Microspikes and crampons provide excellent traction on ice and packed snow, making them ideal for hiking and rugged terrain. If you’re trekking through winter trails or tackling a snow-covered hike in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, these can help you stay sure-footed. However, they can feel uncomfortable and even slippery on pavement, so they’re best suited for more challenging conditions.
For Level Paths & Around Town
Removable spikes or nanospikes*—small rubber or metal studs that attach to your shoes—help improve grip on icy sidewalks and packed snow, making them a great option for everyday winter walking. Whether you’re navigating neighborhood sidewalks or going to downtown Lebanon, NH and hopping onto the Rail Trail, these provide a balance of traction and comfort without the bulk of larger spikes.
*Some models are available with built-in or retractable studs. While they come at an elevated price-point, the convenience may be worth it for some individuals.
If additional balance support is needed, hiking or ski poles with ice tips can offer extra stabilization. Canes and walkers also have ice-tip accessories available, which can provide crucial support for those navigating more challenging terrain.
Mastering Winter Walking Technique
While the right gear can significantly reduce fall risk, proper walking techniques also play a major role in staying safe. Here are a few key strategies:
Short, Shuffling Steps
By keeping your steps short, you maximize ground contact, ensuring that if one foot slips, you still have a chance to recover your balance.
Use Your Arms for Balance
Avoid carrying heavy loads in your hands when possible. Keeping your arms free allows you to react and stabilize yourself if needed.
Walk Like a Penguin
This tried-and-true method involves keeping your center of gravity over your front leg, which distributes your weight more effectively and helps prevent slipping.
Stay Safe and Enjoy the Season
Even with the right gear and techniques, it’s important to be mindful and stay on your toes: Look out for black ice, untreated surfaces, and changing conditions throughout the day. When in doubt, take it slow, stay balanced, and choose the safest route available. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping you steady on your feet, so you can enjoy the beauty of the season with confidence and peace of mind. Stay safe, stay steady, and make the most of winter!
