How To Navigate Winter & Foul Weather with Walking Aids
Winter can present unique challenges for those walking with the support of crutches and / or walking sticks. Whatever your preferred walking aid is with the right preparation and products, you can stay safe, comfortable, and confident. Check out our top tips to help you navigate winter weather and foul weather, including expert advice and recommendations for must-have mobility products.
1. Upgrade to Certified Walking Aids
Whether you’re using a hospital issue walking stick or have bought one online, please check they are certified! The single biggest risk with walking aids that do not have medical certification is snapping and the cold weather increases this risk significantly! All of our walking aids are CE certified for long term medical use, checking for certification is essential for safety. Our walking aids are robust, reliable, and certified to provide stability with every step, even in challenging conditions. Key features include:
• Enhanced grip: Prevent slips on icy or wet surfaces.
• Comfortable squidgy handles: Moulded to reduce pain, blisters, and the discomfort of cold handles.
• Adjustability: Height-adjustable designs with removable cuffs and straps to prevent accidental drops.
• Stylish options: Say goodbye to dull grey aids with walking sticks and crutches that reflect your personal style.
2. Stock Up on Emergency Essentials
Be prepared for unexpected situations by packing your car with emergency essentials e.g. phone charger, small first-aid kit, blanket, extra layers of clothes and a torch. These items are invaluable in emergencies, particularly in winter when conditions can change quickly and you can get caught off guard.
3. Invest in Sturdy, Winter-Friendly Footwear
Pairing your walking aid with appropriate footwear is crucial. Look for boots that offer:
• Deep treads for better grip on slippery surfaces.
• Waterproof materials to keep your feet dry.
• Insulation to stay warm in freezing conditions.
Sturdy winter boots, combined with a reliable walking aid, significantly reduce the risk of falls – we love Sorel Boots for the very best grip, insulation and protection on wet, icy and snowy conditions.
4. Replace Worn Rubber Tips with High-Performance Ferrules
Ferrules (the rubber tips on your walking aid) are critical for maintaining traction, particularly in winter. Over time, they wear out and lose grip. The most important thing you can do right now if you, or anyone you love, uses a walking aid, is to flip your stick and check your tips! Ensure you replace regularly (we now have a subscription available to automatically receive replacements every 3 months) OR if you find you need some additional grip for winter, our Co-Founder Amelia swears by our High-Performance Ferrules for reinforced durability and superior traction. These ferrules are designed to absorb shocks and provide excellent stability on snow and ice.
5. Add Reflective Accessories for Visibility
Winter’s dark and shorter days mean reduced visibility, which can be dangerous if you're walking near roads or in poorly lit areas. Enhance your safety by adding reflective strips to your walking aid or opting for bright, high-visibility colours. Our Glow in the Dark walking sticks and crutches make sure you are seen in any weather to help keep you safe and confident on your feet even when the light is lower!
6. Layer Up!
Stay warm and comfortable by dressing in layers. A long duvet coat, thermals, and warm accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats are essential. Look for materials that retain heat without restricting your mobility. Gloves with touch-screen compatibility can also make it easier to use your phone while staying warm. We love thermals from Uniqlo and also Marks and Spencer that are affordable, but a fantastic way to keep toasty throughout the Winter months.
7. Plan Your Routes Wisely
Stick to well-maintained paths that are regularly cleared of snow and ice. Plan outings during daylight hours to take advantage of better visibility and slightly warmer conditions. Avoid uneven terrain and areas prone to ice build up whenever possible. Even better, check out accessible walks that have been tried and tested – we love Skyscanner’s Guide to Walkable Cities for the best cities to explore on foot!
8. Use the Stick Safe Walking Stick Holder
Preventing the need to bend down in icy weather when you use a walking stick or crutches is KEY. Similarly when you need to free your hands, having a secure place to store your walking aid is invaluable. The Stick Safe Walking Stick Holder is known for being the very best walking stick holder because it keeps your stick upright and accessible, preventing it from falling to the ground. It’s perfect for use at home or in public spaces, ensuring your walking aid is always within reach.
If you are unsure on how tall a walking stick should be for maximum comfort and safety read on how to measure your walking stick.
9. Stay Active Indoors
If your outdoor mobility is limited due to severe weather, then try indoor exercises instead to maintain strength and flexibility. Speak with a physiotherapist to find exercises tailored to your abilities, ensuring you stay active and healthy throughout the winter months.
Read our blog on how to make crutches more comfy to avoid getting tired.
10. Stock Up
With heavy snow landing very suddenly this winter, ensuring you have stocked up on essential supplies means you won't get caught off guard if you can't leave the house for a day or two. Prescriptions being the most important, but it's also worth considering food supplies too so if the snow does come you can rest assured knowing you're ready!
By following these tips and equipping yourself with the right products, you can confidently navigate winter weather while using your walking aid. Explore our range of high-performance walking aids, ferrules, and accessories to find everything you need for a safe and stylish winter season!
If you've found these winter tips helpful, then head over to these blogs for more useful information on navigating the colder months: