Got cold feet? If you're looking for a way to keep your toes from going numb, you've come to the right place.
We've all been there. The weather is wicked and the winter is here. Numb fingers, toes, and noses are in season. You can fight back and regain feeling in your feet with these five tips.
1. Keep Feet Dry
This may seem like a no-brainer, but many people think about keeping moisture from getting to their feet and forget about the moisture coming from their feet! Waterproof shoes are a necessity if you're walking through wet or snowy country, but if you don't need the waterproofing you're just holding in the sweat.
2. Material Matters Most
That super thick pair of socks may look warmer, but any guide will tell you what matters most is the material. Merino wool is popular because it pulls moisture away from your foot and it's itch-free. And, while cotton may be great in the summer, it really holds the sweat in during the winter. For really rough conditions, go with a liner sock to wick moisture from your feet with a pair or two of merino wool socks over top.
3. Good Shoes
What makes a good winter shoe? One that's suited for the task of course! Winter boots typically have a thicker sole since you lose a lot of heat from the bottom of your feet. You can also add insulating insoles to the inside of your shoes to help keep your feet warm, or use a stick-on heat pack for your toes. If you're shopping for a new pair of shoes, make sure they fit comfortably with your socks, insoles, ect. Your feet will sweat more if they're too tight, and they'll rub your feet raw if they're too loose!
4. Start Out Warm
Try to start with your first layer already warm and dry so your body doesn't have to work to equalize the temperature. If you're camping, a good tip is to tuck tomorrow's base layers in your sleeping bag with you so they're nearby and warm in the morning. Make sure you have appropriate clothing on the rest of your body as well. Your body prioritizes keeping your core warm first (since that's where all the important organs are). So keep your body warm!
5. Plan Ahead
If you're going to be fairly stationary outside, it may be worth bringing an insulated pad to stand on. If the snow will be deep, wear gaiters or suitable pants to keep the snow from getting into the top of your shoe or soaking your shins. If you'll be out for a long time, throw a dry pair of socks in your bag for when the ones you have on get too sweaty. Another thing to think about is the truck ride over. If you have an hour-long drive in a heated cab, wait to put your good socks and shoes on until you get where you're going so you aren't just filling your shoes with sweat!
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