Workout gear – Yaktrax

Updated below after Yaktrax broke

It’s unseasonably warm here in New Jersey, but the app developer reports it is -40 degrees outside in Siberia. Sounds like a Jack London novel. I’ve asked Alex not to test the app outside – I prefer him coding with his fingers than his nose.

Running in the cold is a lot easier than it might seem. Wear a hat and gloves and you’re ok. I layer up these days instead of heading out in my shorts. That’s soft living for you.

It’s still January though and we’ll get nasty precip by this weekend. Which makes me grateful for my Yaktrax. Last winter, I hit a patch of black ice and skidded right on my keister.

Not crazy about adding more junk to my closet, but the Yaktrax are terrific. They slip on quick and grant you footing on ice or snow.

A little advice: Yaktrax are slightly annoying when there’s no ice (you’re running on little springs). You might keep them on your second shoes for the winter – and avoid taking them off when the streets clear.

Update: Loved the YakTrax, but they snapped after only a few uses (damaged rubber straps by running on non-icy streets). I twittered my problem to the company – and their competitor sent me replacements!

Tried Stabilicer Lite treads on this morning’s run:

1. Rock-solid traction
2. About the same weight, but much sturdier build
3. No springiness on pavement
4. Slightly uncomfortable away from snow (impact area is too small for a 230-lb pounding)
   • The sport model appears to have a larger impact area, but there’s no XL – and large isn’t colossal enough for my size-14 sneaks.

Verdict: Stabilicers win on sturdiness and amazing customer service.  I’m now a fan on their Facebook page.

Related posts:

1. Workout gear – Ziploc bag
2. Workout gear – Body Glide
3. Workout hack 6 – great music
4. Workout hack 2 – pick a friend
5. How to iPhone in the snow

Tagged as: Gear, Weather, yaktrax