The Return of the Ice Spikes

It always looked likely to happen.

With a good amount of snow forecast for Sunday morning followed by rising temperatures and rain….. The logical outcome is for slippery conditions.

Maybe not so slippery down in the city where it was warm enough to melt away the slush, but higher up in the hills and in the woods the paths and roads were veritable ice rinks.

Now this is my 13th Winter in Norway on top of 4 full Winters living in the French Alps. I have slipped and skated so many times during my younger years that I try to avoid it when I can.

As I watched and heard some of my commuter neighbours scrape and slide down the road and pavement early this morning I went and found my ice spike boots.

I am actually very excited about the arrival of the ice as I got some new running shoes with spikes for my birthday in October. These are the type of exciting gifts that adventurous dog walkers love.

My decision to don my ice spikes was very much rewarded on my journey to kindergarten as I pushed the buggy. I was even jogging past some people who were holding on to fences for dear life.

Up in the woods and on both of my adventures today I have been extremely grateful for the added grip that the spikes have afforded me, even if the boots are less agile and comfortable than my usual shoes.

The dogs were adapting to the new found ice by using the claws as we picked our way down and up some amazing trails.

I know many Norwegians who feel that it is an assault on their ego to wear ice spikes but I see them as an essential piece of equipment, much like you would use crampons when walking on a glacier.

Ice Spike Season has begun so I recommend that you dig yours out in order to access maximum adventure without unnecessary injury.

Doggies: Ellie, Sonja, Henie and Mino