What Is The Sidewalk Rule?

The sidewalk rule, sometimes referred to as "the gentleman walk", is a form of etiquette that every gentleman should know. While the sidewalk rule is mostly reserved for walking with a woman (typically a girlfriend or wife), a gentleman can implement the sidewalk rule with anyone including their friends, family, children, and even coworkers.

This simple act of sidewalk etiquette displays a gentleman's situational awareness and consideration for others. Although many may not notice this deed, those who do will appreciate it. 

What Is The Sidewalk Rule? 

The sidewalk rule refers to the chivalrous gesture of having the man walk on the side of the sidewalk closest to the road. He uses his body a buffer to protect others from debris that could be kicked up by a passing vehicle or from potential injuries like being hit by a side mirror or an out-of-control vehicle. It also provides the other person with room to leap out of the way in dangerous situations such as these.

While some may consider this rule to old-fashioned, others will be grateful that you protected them from danger. 

A Brief History Of The Sidewalk Rule 

Considered one of the oldest acts of chivalry, the sidewalk rule has existed since the medieval days of knights on horseback. Back then, before the advent of sewage, plumbing, and waste management, it was common for people to toss their garbage and excrement out their windows onto the streets below.

This waste would often end up on the curb beside the road, where it would get kicked up by passing horses and carriages. By walking closer to the street, a man could shield a woman and her more delicate clothing.

It was also during this time that people began wearing perfumed handkerchiefs over their noses to mask the atrocious smells emanating from the piles of waste that had been sitting, rotting, for days on end.

How To Practice The Sidewalk Rule:

When walking with others, make a conscious effort to position yourself on the side of the sidewalk closest to the road. The easiest, and most inconspicuous, time to move into this position is while you are waiting to cross the street at an intersection. 

If you are already walking with someone, slow your pace slightly, cross over behind them, then continue walking on their other side. They likely won't even notice, especially if you are engaged in conversation. This should be done as fluidly as possible to avoid being too obvious.

Can You Use The Sidewalk Rule On Narrow Sidewalks?

Sometimes you may come across a narrow sidewalk where you need to walk single file. In these cases, it's proper etiquette for the man to walk ahead of the woman. Once the sidewalk has widened again, the man moves over and they walk side by side.

In other social situations, like walking with friends, form a single line. Whoever was walking at the head of the group will lead the line until the sidewalk widens again.

What If There Is No Sidewalk? 

If the sidewalk suddenly ends or the road has no sidewalk to begin with, the sidewalk rule still applies. Give yourself a bit of space between the road and you, and be sure to look out for uneven surfaces, holes, ruts, muddy spots, or other possible dangers that you or the person you're with may encounter.

When Is It Acceptable To Not Follow The Sidewalk Rule?

There may be times when you have to trade positions with your company, putting them on the side of the sidewalk closest to the road. This decision should be made if you believe that their safety is at a greater risk if they continue walking on the inside of the sidewalk rather than the curb side. Some examples of when you should do this include:

• Walking past a dark alleyway where someone could unexpectedly jump out

• A group of people blocking the sidewalk or people lined up waiting to get into a building like a restaurant or bar

• Makeshift shelters, lean-tos, and/or tents

• Dangerous items like broken glass or drug paraphernalia

• Puddles, ice, and other tripping hazards

The Sidewalk Rule Is A Big Green Flag

Some women, especially those who are aware of the sidewalk rule trend on TikTok, use it to gauge whether their potential love interest is a gentleman or not. They may test the man by walking close to the road and seeing if he notices.

If he does not, she may think he isn't very courteous or doesn't. If he understands the sidewalk rule, he will either gently move her over or will begin walking closer to the road, making her step away from it.

Being aware of this and other etiquette skills, like how a gentleman acts in the modern world, the three phrases every gentleman should know, and the power of a sharply dressed gentleman, will transform you into the type of man that both women and men will look up to, admire, and respect.

Being a gentleman in the modern world doesn't require a degree. It requires awareness of the situation, respect for others, and a level of courtesy that goes above and beyond the norm.

Understanding and practicing the sidewalk rule will not only put you in your dates good books, they will also notice that you are protective of them and looking out for their safety.

Summary

The sidewalk rule is an etiquette must-know for every gentleman. Practicing this effortless action is a direct indication that you are chivalrous, respectful, and well-mannered. After some practice it will become second nature.

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