June 1, 2005 - While Yaks are located mainly in the high, cold mountainous areas of China, Yaktrax traction devices for shoes can be found all around the world.  The idea for Yaktrax was generated by a local art teacher, Thomas Noy, on an expedition to Mt. Everest about 8 years ago.  Steve Hunt, CEO of Yaktrax, says “With Winter affecting 2.5 billion people worldwide, 250 million in the U.S. alone, we are finding that our easy-to-use traction device is keeping many people safe, from the elderly to young college students.”

The Walker is the original Yaktrax and is good for most activities. The Pro model is more heavy duty, with the addition of a removable performance strap that was designed for added stability. It is perfect for someone who needs increased durability while working, running or enjoying outdoor activities. The secret is the SkidLock coil system: the high strength horizontal coils provide forward and backward stability, while the vertical coil pattern provides side-to-side stability. As you step, each coil presses downward, becoming embedded into the ice below. When you transfer your weight onto your foot, hundreds of SkidLock surfaces squeeze into the ice; when you lift your foot, the SkidLock coil system stays snugly with your shoe, offering unhindered ease of movement.

Yaktrax is so lightweight, the only way you'll know you're wearing them is thanks to the increased traction you'll feel the moment you put them on.

"We wanted to create a product that would give people peace of mind during the winter months, when ice and snow can make for precarious walking, and even injury," says company spokesperson Marla Hunt. "We also wanted something that was easy to use and carry. Yaktrax can fit in your pocket or your glove compartment, and they take just seconds to put on, so you're always prepared."

The company has received unsolicited testimonials from people all over the world.  The product is sold in retail stores, on the web and on QVC.  Yaktrax has been widely covered by the media in national publications such as Newsweek, USA Today, Men’s Health and many sporting magazines.  The Yaktrax Walker was recently on display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City as a "masterfully designed product for everyday use". The Yaktrax Walker was chosen among 122 other products (such as the Paper Clip, Post-It-Note and Band-Aid) as one product that "makes peoples lives easier and safer".

We know it’s almost summer time, but it’s always a good time to buy Yaktrax.