With snowfall in the forecast for the next few days, it's time to "winterize" my running shoes. Since i'm too cheap to spring for Yaktrax or a similar product, i'm relegated to a DIY solution.
The first time i heard about the "screw shoe" concept was in Runner's World magazine from over a year ago (i read it in the physical magazine, but the same article can be found online). The idea is simple: screw on some sheet metal screws (they essentially function as studs) to the soles of your regular running shoes to increase traction in the snow and ice. I don't know about other running shoes, but the bottom of my Mizuno Wave Inspire 6s aren't really suited for running in those conditions.
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| The bald sole. |
I used "screw shoes" through the winter and early spring from 2009-2010. While i've been fortunate enough to never have fallen even without the screws, i do think they enhance the "grip" when the sidewalks turns slick.
The most essential parts of the project are the actual sheet metal screws, sized 1/2" and 3/8". I got these from the local Menard's for $0.99 per packet.
There might be a "manual" way to put the screws in; fortunately i have an electric drill laying around (received as a gift from a friend 5 years ago) and an appropriate bit holder in my generic toolbox.
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| The screws are a perfect fit! |
It then only takes 5-10 minutes to screw them on, and voila! Screw shoes!
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| The finished product. |
I put in a total of 20 screws per shoe. Of course the number varies according to personal preference but in this case i think more is better. I already saved money on the project itself; no point scrimping on pennies just to save a few screws.
I used the half-inchers for the heel and the periphery of the forefoot and used the shorter ones for the rest. As thick as the soles on the Mizunos are, i don't think it'd be a problem to use half-inchers for everything, but why take the chance of puncturing my feet?
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