An Invention worth a Nobel Prize – Yaktrax

Yaktrax, named after the sure-footed, long-haired bovine, the Tibetan Yak, are lightweight ice grips worn over regular walking shoes when walking or running on packed snow and ice.

Yaktrax was originally conceptualized by an outdoor adventurer during his exploration of the Himalayas. It is said that this adventurer encountered a seasoned Sherpa walking with ease over the slippery icy surface. What he then saw on this Sherpa’s feet sparked a revolutionary invention known as the Yaktrax.

Over the years they have perfected this coil traction device and have come up with numerous types of Yaktrax for different levels of traction, to suit every need. So you no longer have to unpack that dreaded treadmill just because it is winter. Thanks to the outdoor adventurer who conceptualized this genius invention, you no longer have to worry about slipping and falling when going for your morning jog in the middle of winter.

Here is a brief description of each of their different Yaktrax:

Yaktrax Pro

These are ideal for someone who needs increased durability while running as it is equipped with a removable performance strap designed for stability.

Yaktrax Run

The Yaktrax Run is made up of 1.4 mm steel coils, carbide steel spikes, and is made from high strength natural rubber. These removable spikes and steel coils, give you 360⁰ of traction.

Yaktrax Walk

This is ideal for pedestrians, the elderly, and professionals as it is spikeless and ultra-lightweight in design.  It also has 1.2mm abrasion-resistant steel coils.

Yaktrax XTR

These would be ideal for any extreme outdoorsman who enjoys hiking during the winter. It has been designed in such a way that you do not have to worry about snow packing into your shoes and is adaptable to most footwear. It also comes with heavy-duty nylon storage back so you can easily pack them into your backpack should the terrain change.

Yaktrax Skitrax

SkiTrax are not only used to protect you from slipping and falling should you be wearing alpine ski boots, but they protect your ski boots from excessive wear while walking on solid ground. They are made from durable rubber and promote a natural walking motion.

Here are some more interesting facts about Yaktrax:

• They can be worn in temperatures as low at -41⁰F
• They are made out of an injected molded thermal plastic elastomer
• Yaktrax are designed in such a way that they are very easy and fast to put on and take off again
• The Yaktrax Walk is the original
• The coils are all hand woven and are protected against rusting

It is difficult finding a reason NOT to buy a pair of Yaktrax for those icy winter walks. They are inexpensive, light in weight, and will always provide you with solid traction.