A Fukuokan's Notes from Sapporo

　　13,680 yen (reduced from 22,000 yen), plus a shareholder discount at Daimaru

Although the snow season will (hopefully) be over within a month, I bought a new pair of snow boots equipped with state-of-the-art soles (at least by my standards).

Living up to their reputation, they feel extremely secure. Even as a complete beginner at walking on icy, snowy surfaces—which I definitely am—I managed a seven-kilometer walk without slipping or falling. I’m already thinking of getting another pair with the same soles while the winter clearance sale is still on.

This time, a shop assistant in the shoe section at Daimaru told me:

* Snow boots are essentially consumable items. Don’t expect them to last forever. When the soles wear out, the boots are done.

* It’s still too early for a first-year Sapporo resident to try walking in a pair of Hunter boots. You need a couple of years to get used to walking on icy, slippery surfaces—and even then, you still have to be very careful.

* If you see someone walking effortlessly in such conditions, they’re either very experienced at walking on snow, or they’ve mastered the art of sliding and walking at the same time.

I hope one day I will be able to walk in style in Sapporo winter — staying alive and safe.