Abdelrahman
As winter grips the United States, many of us must navigate the outdoors despite the chill. If you’re looking for ways to safely reach your vehicle or make it across icy walkways without a slip, consider an innovative tip that has gained popularity on TikTok and is supported by research: wearing socks over your shoes.
This isn’t a brand-new concept. A study conducted in 2010 by researchers at the University of Otago revealed in the New Zealand Medical Journal that wearing socks over shoes reduces the risk of slipping on ice. However, while this method proved effective in the study, it might not score style points—many people hesitate to adopt this tactic for the long haul.
If you’re ready to give it a try, you can use virtually any pair of socks you have lying around. On TikTok, users have shown off colorful fuzzy socks and mismatched pairs—a fun way to repurpose those orphaned socks from the dryer—and even socks borrowed from a partner with larger feet. Opt for socks that are larger or made from stretchy material to comfortably fit over your shoes.
If you’re not quite ready to embrace this quirky accessory, try sprinkling some kitty litter or sand on the ground ahead of you for better traction. Additionally, consider adopting the penguin shuffle: mimic the way penguins walk to prevent slipping—keeping your hands out of your pockets will help maintain your balance!
For those willing to invest a little, removable traction cleats (available from brands like YakTrax) could be a smart purchase. Designed to fit over regular footwear, these ice cleats can significantly reduce the chance of slipping. They’re budget-friendly and won’t deplete your sock inventory. Just remember to take them off before stepping onto delicate flooring to avoid damage.
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