Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Yaktrax Traction devices work?

When you move with Yaktrax, every step you take places hundreds of biting edges in direct contact with the ice beneath your feet. Yaktrax create a solid, secure grip by way of our patented SkidLock coil system, made of specially treated steel. As you step, each tiny SkidLock coil presses downward, becoming embedded into the ice below. As you transfer weight onto your foot, hundreds of SkidLock surfaces squeeze into the ice, providing you with stability in all directions: forward, backward, and side to side. When you lift your foot, the Yaktrax device stays securely on your shoe, offering unhindered ease of movement.

Do I have to walk differently with Yaktrax Traction devices?

Yaktrax devices allow you to move about as you naturally would. You will experience an increase in stability on ice and snow like you have never felt before.

How can I make sure my Yaktrax coil devices keep their shape?

To ensure maximum life and effectiveness of your Yaktrax device, periodically pinch the coils in the areas indicated by the circles on the included insert to maintain original shape and angle. Please remember that Yaktrax devices are not intended for use on gravel, concrete, or sanded roads cleared of snow, as these do not allow the coils to compress properly, resulting in damage.

How do I put Yaktrax Traction devices on my shoes?

The easiest way to install Yaktrax on your shoes is to sit, pull your foot up near your other knee, then slip the device over your shoe. Start from the front of your shoe and then pull them over the bottom of your shoes, securing them in the back heel area. You may also fit them over your shoe prior to putting on your shoes.

Do Yaktrax men’s and women’s traction devices differ?

No, there is no difference in the design of the men's and women's devices. The only difference is the recommended sizing. Please see our size charts located on each device's product page. We suggest going up one size than your typical shoe size for use over work or hiking boots and adding two sizes for use over insulated/snow boots.

Is there a weight limit for Yaktrax traction devices?

There is no upper weight limit on our Traction devices. However, you must weight above a certain threshold (around 70-75 lbs) to engage the unit effectively to prevent slipping. For this reason, we do not make Yaktrax devices for children.

Which Traction product is right for me?

There is no upper weight limit on our Traction devices. However, you must weight above a certain threshold (around 70-75 lbs) to engage the unit effectively to prevent slipping. For this reason, we do not make Yaktrax devices for children.

What’s inside a Yaktrax Warmer?

 How does it work?All Yaktrax® warmers contain a mixture of natural ingredients that react together when exposed to air to product heat. This is accomplished through an extremely fast oxidation (or rusting) process. Ingredients include: iron powder, water, salt, activated charcoal, and vermiculite. Yaktrax® has perfected the process so that our warmers, depending on the individual product, produce heat anywhere from 105˚F to 165˚F for a duration of 1 to 18+ hours.

Are Yaktrax Warmers environmentally friendly?

Yaktrax Warmers are completely environmentally safe. Just use and dispose of in your everyday garbage. Neither the contents nor the packs themselves are compostable.

Can I take Yaktrax Warmers on an airplane?

Yes, Yaktrax Warmers are TSA approved and can be taken in your carry-on or used to stay warm during your flight. They are completely safe for air travel.

How long does a Yaktrax Warmer last?

Each warmer has various expected heat times due to the variation in size. Warmers generally last up to 5 hours for the smaller packs and up to 18 hours for the larger sizes.

What is the difference between a Foot or Toe Warmer and a Hand Warmer?

Foot Warmers and Toe Warmers are designed to work in restricted air such as a boot. The convenient half-moon shaped Toe Warmer has a thin adhesive layer that comfortably holds the Toe Warmer under or above the toes outside the sock. The Foot Warmer gets slightly warmer and is designed to fit on top of the insole in your footwear.

Are Yaktrax Warmers safe for children?

Yes, they are safe for children. Yaktrax® Warmers are completely nontoxic and totally safe with proper supervision.

Are Yaktrax Warmers non-toxic?

Yes, Yaktrax® Warmers are completely nontoxic, clean, safe and effective. There are no fluids, fumes, or flames. It is best not to intentionally open up the warmer pouches, as they are filled with a granular mixture of ingredients that can get messy.

If I order Yaktrax through your website, is my financial information secure?

Absolutely. We utilize the latest online security measures, including full data encryption of credit card numbers. We do not sell any customer records to mailing list companies or solicitors. We do everything we can to make sure your online purchase is safe.

What is Yaktrax shipping policy?

It’s important to us to provide the best shipping experience, so we are now shipping everywhere in the 48 Contiguous States only. We are unable to ship to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the other US territories. No P.O. Box or International orders are accepted.

Is there a best practice for wearing YakTrax products?

Wearing Yaktrax® – A Guide to Proper Use. Yaktrax® Must Be Worn Correctly. While Yaktrax® are designed to provide greater traction on ice or packed snow, always exercise caution and use extreme care when walking, running, or working on ice and packed snow. Yaktrax® will not eliminate the inherent risks of such conditions. Additionally, Yaktrax® will not eliminate the inherent risks and dangers posed by the performance of any activities in such conditions. When wearing Yaktrax®, always exercise caution and extreme care. Failure to do so could result in injury. Yaktrax® are not for use on gravel, concrete, or sanded roads cleared of snow. Avoid surfaces such as marble floors, or any non-icy, non-snowy surfaces when wearing Yaktrax®. Yaktrax® are not for indoor use. The improper use or installation of Yaktrax® could result in injury. Always use common sense when using any traction device on ice or snow.

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