Ice Walking - Walk Like A Penguin

January 11th, 2011 12:17pm - Posted By: Kara

It’s January – and although we haven’t had a ton of snow in Taos, we still have ice. And just walking around town requires special attention. At The Good Sole and Taos Mountain Outfitters we can fit you with YakTrax which attach to the bottom of your shoe or boot and will help -- but here are some friendly reminders for getting around on ice:

*Assume that all dark areas on pavement are ice and slippery  

*Avoid shoes or boots with smooth soles. Instead, wear footwear that can provide traction such as non-slip rubber soles.
 

*Use special care when entering and exiting vehicles – use the vehicle for support

*Keep your hands out of your pockets. Hands in the pockets decrease your center of gravity and balance. Plus, if you do slip, you want your hands free to break the fall. A friend up in Colorado actually broke his nose in a fall because his hands were stuck in his pockets. And no he had not had a drink yet!

*If you do slip, try avoiding landing on your knees or spine. It is better to relax and try to land on your side or your butt which is usually fleshier and provides a little more cushion.

*Most importantly - what living creature handles ice better than anyone?  The penguin. So, walk like a penguin. Point your feet out slightly on ice – this increases your center of gravity. It won’t be your best look, but when it comes to ice, it’s better to be safe than sexy! Plus, you can hum the “March of the Penguins” to help you move.

So take it easy during ice season so you don’t have to spend mud season with any broken bones!

 

Posted in: Boots, Ice/Snow

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