With Winter here, it’s important to be properly prepared for bad weather. Good footwear will help you avoid slipping and falling when you’re walking on ice and snow as well as on wet surfaces. Be aware of the condition of your own Winter footwear.

WINTER FOOTWEAR SHOULD

• Have a soft, pliable rubber tread for increased traction.
• Have a high top that supports and covers your ankle.
• Fit snugly around your ankle and grip your heel firmly but not too tightly.
• Be roomy enough to let you move your toes.
• Fasten, or have laces that can be tightened across the instep to stop your foot from slipping when you walk.
• Have a low, wide-based heel and flatter soles.
• Have firm material behind your heel to help stabilize your foot when you walk.
• Bend only in the front near your toes so you step forward on the balls of your feet.
• Provide good support and not be flexible in the arch area.
• Be made of water repellent and/or waterproof material so your feet stay dry.
• Have soles and heels that are made of a material that minimizes slipping under all conditions of normal use.
• Be insulated and keep your feet warm during cold weather.

Try to find winter footwear that:

• Is roomy enough for polypropylene socks that draw moisture away from your feet.
• Has deeper, rough treads that will bite through snow and ice, and channel out liquids.

REMEMBER TO

• Keep an extra pair of socks with you in case the pair you’re wearing gets wet.
• Dry your boots thoroughly after each days use. Remove insoles to facilitate drying, as necessary.