It was clearly one of the hottest days we've experienced in the Toronto for a long time on the day I was scheduled to test out Merrell's new line of winter boots with Vibram Arctic Grip technology. The new footwear collection was created for the most extreme winter conditions, providing traction and stability on icy surfaces. This new technology is considered the most advanced cold-weather gripping system Vibram has ever created and claims three times more grip even on wet ice.
At five storeys below surface at the iDAPT UHN Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, and hidden underneath the busy streets of the city I was invited to a testing chamber to experience winter conditions on a day that felt more like 40 degrees celsius outside. Hard to wrap my head around everyone here that were wearing parkas and socks. The researchers were on hand to guide me through the process they go through when they test out various safety requirements. One of their services is to actually test out winter boots and give it "snowflake" slip resistance ratings on ice under the program, RATE MY TREADS. Many familiar brands are tested and rated here.
After layering on a coat and thermal socks I entered the icy chamber. It was explained that the building structure slowly tilts so researchers can test out claims of various footwear brands. 7 degrees is the maximum curb ramp angle allowed in Ontario but even having said that, the researchers for this Merrell experience increased it a few extra degrees depending on the comfort level of each participant.
I had decided after personally falling on ice several times last year that I would keep myself at a comfortable level of my natural walking environment. While I walked back and forth I had not even noticed that I was walking on ice. The grip made me more sure footed. I had witnessed another tester inside the chamber who dared to go risk a steeper incline. I sat safely harnessed on the side lines inside the ice cold testing unit to witness her experience.
It was interesting to hear that this sort of testing facility is rare to find globally. Most use robotics for testing but here, researchers tells us that with humans testing it allows for a more accurate rating. Our bodies adjust to inclines and we shift our weight naturally. It's important to see how our body's respond. I don't think you can get that with robots.
We discovered the ratings for Merrell Vibram Arctic Grip boots performed really well in the testing. In terms of comfort, the boots are very much so. Lightweight and not bulky. They are also waterproof to keep your feet dry.
The new line is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activity or even to just get aroudn the neighbourhood in icy conditions to keep you safe and warm. The line is available starting in September in stores and online for men and women. Not available in kid sizes, yet.
