Getting the chills from winter so far? Our feet often suffer the most from cold weather and can be the most difficult to warm up while we’re out having fun in the snow. With these quick tips, you can keep your feet and toes warm in the winter and keep them healthy, even when Jack Frost comes to visit.
1. Wear Wool Socks
When choosing winter socks, it’s not the thickness you should look at, but the material. Thick socks don’t always mean warm socks, and in fact, could even cut off some circulation and make your feet colder.
Wool is the best material to keep your feet warm in the winter. It is both hydrophobic and hygroscopic, meaning it repels and absorbs water at the same time. This means that when your feet sweat, the socks won’t get wet and make your feet cold. Materials like cotton don’t wick away moisture meaning your feet get wet and cold much more quickly.
2. Liner Socks
If you’re looking for a layer of extra warmth and think wearing two pairs of socks will do it, think again! Doubling up on socks can create air pockets that allow cold air to circulate and keep your foot colder. If you want some extra warmth, use liner socks. They are made to be worn underneath socks as a bonus later to keep your feet and toes warm.
3. Waterproof
Waterproof everything. Socks, boots, shoes – make sure everything on your foot in the winter is waterproof. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, skating, or even walking to work, you need your footwear to be waterproof. Nothing is worse in the winter than stepping in a puddle and having wet shoes and socks for the rest of the day. While making your feet cold, this also contributes to the development of fungus and other foot conditions.
4. Bundle Up
When your overall body temperature drops, your body reduces blood flow to the extremities to conserve heat in your major organs and your core. This means your arms, legs, hands, and feet get colder much more quickly. When you’re going to be outside in the cold, make sure you bundle up! Stay warm in your core and then your extremities will get the benefit of all your body heat too.
5. Insoles
Did you know that your feet lose heat through the base of the foot? You lose more heat from your feet from conduction, i.e. standing on the cold ground, than from the cold air around your foot. Wearing insoles can help conserve some of the heat! If you create more layers between your foot and the snow or ice beneath, your feet can stay warmer longer.
Contact Collective Foot and Wellness Clinic
For your winter foot care needs, contact Collective Foot and Wellness Clinic! Book an appointment with us so we can discuss your winter foot care concerns or general foot condition inquiries. Winter is the perfect time to correct any foot conditions you may suffer from so your feet can be ready for summer in a few months!
Contact us today to book an appointment!