14 DAY TRIAL // If you have a 3D printer at home, or the willingness to call on the assistance of a 3D printing store or online service (Shapeways, Pinshape, i.materialise, Sculpteo), then you only need to do one more thing in order to make all your footwear winter-serviceable.
That one thing is to go over to the Instructables website and follow the instructions for the Traction Spikes.
These simple add-ons will strap to your shoes and make sure that the odds of you losing your footing and suffering even the slightest accident due to ice are minimal.
Connecticut resident Carmelito Andrade is the person we can thank for the idea and practical application alike.
The perils of taking a walk in winter
Ice is the main issue when going outside during the cold season. It coats the ground and sidewalk, making it quite possible for you to lose your footing. There is a reason all those extra accidents are reported between December and March.
Perfectly flat, smooth ice isn't something you can just walk on even with special foot soles. However, there is a way to conquer the problem: traction spikes.
Some of the ones one sale, especially those available to mountain climbers, are very long and sharp. Likely to injure you if you slip, fall and end up hitting your shin with the sole of your other foot.
Still, traction spikes are very important during snow days, and even afterwards. The city leadership may get the roads cleared and all, but not every alley is covered by the bulldozers, and many sidewalks have to go without the benefit of technological cleaning.
That is where the new DIY Traction Spikes come in. If you own a 3D printer or can place an order with a printing service, you can turn any shoes into winter-worthy footwear.
The DIY Traction Spikes
They are designed in such a way that you can attach them to the front part of your sole.
To make a pair, you need some 3D printer filament, a PC to download and process the STC file, around 20 screws, a screwdriver, pliers and velcro strapping.
Once you've got everything, the DIY Traction Spikes can be created in a few hours, since every 3D printed plate takes 20 to 25 minutes to make.
