Abstract: An escalator step plate is provided at each edge with a narrow ramp which slopes upwardly and laterally outwardly to divert wearing apparel or other objects from the gap between the moving step plates and the stationary escalator skirt members and to lift shoes off the lateral edges of the step plate to prevent a tendency of a rider's shoe which has gotten hot from friction with the skirt member from sticking to the metal step plate. The ramp is preferably formed of smooth urethane, and may be formed integrally with the step plate or as an attachment.