Review of STABILicers: Traction For Boots In The Snow & Ice

1421142Not gonna lie.  I hate winter.  I do.  Sometimes, I wish we could sign a Change.org petition to ban it.  Where I live, winter is half the year. Ice and snow are a constant hazard to me because I have a neuromuscular disease.  Even a moderate amount of snow and ice can be dangerous for people with mobility issues.  Last week, my dad bought me these things I’d never heard of before, STABILicers Lite Traction Devices” from REI.  Basically, you put them on your boots before leaving the house. They are $21.95 and come in four sizes: S, M, L, and XL.

Yesterday, I left the house and almost fell but my STABILicers and (spikes on my cane) saved me.  I had no idea there was so much snow at the foot of my door.  There was no distinction between the doorstep and the grass.  Normally, I wouldn’t be stunned by snow but this winter has been so mild (so far).

I put the lightweight spikes on the bottoms of my boots.  I need to sit down while doing this.  One caveat is that wearing STABILicers on a smooth surface can be dangerous.  For instance, we stopped over at McDonald’s.  There is no chair at the entrance of McDonald’s to help me take the spikes off.  I had to be very careful to balance on the spikes; they almost felt like figure skates.  (On the other hand, I was always bad at skating even as a child when I was healthy so maybe it’s me.)  If you have a companion to help you, he/she can remove the spikes.  I have gone out alone and survived with these.

Bottom line:  I feel so much better about this winter.  My deciding factor in leaving the house won’t be ice or snow.  After one week, I am very happy with these spikes.  NOTE:  This is not a medical opinion–just my unsolicited opinion about a product that’s worked for me.

Your Thoughts?

Do ice and snow get in your way?  What works for you?

–Your Stylist, Jessica Gimeno

JessicaGimeno

Hi there! I am a patient advocate, writer, and public speaker most well known for my TEDx Talk, “How to Get Stuff Done When You Are Depressed.” As someone who is juggling 5 illnesses: bipolar 2, myasthenia gravis, endometriosis, psoriasis, and asthma, I’m passionate about helping people who navigate life with both chronic physical & emotional pain. If you’re interested in hiring me to speak at your event, check out the CONTACT tab.

3 thoughts on “Review of STABILicers: Traction For Boots In The Snow & Ice

  • January 11, 2015 at 2:14 am
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    I’ve almost fallen 3 times last week. This post seems like its reading my mind. As Aaliyah said I need a Resolution! This slushy slippery Chicago winter.

    Reply
  • February 27, 2017 at 10:44 pm
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    I’ve had mild Depression (Disthymia) and that was enough. And I feel wonderful so this is not a problem at all. Needing blood thinners and anti-seizure meds can be a problem, so I’ll see if I can generate a Tool Kit for the Seizures! (I just have absence seizures every year or so – it really is a pain losing circa 100 I.Q. Points, I get pretty incompetent. I really enjoyed the T.E.D. Presentation because it was worthwhile! (Not to mention interesting and funny). Anyway, thanks!
    Will Peterson

    Reply
    • February 27, 2017 at 10:52 pm
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      Aww thank you, William. I’m glad you liked it and found it funny. Thank you for sharing your own struggles. Peace, Jessica

      Reply

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