9 ways to avoid frostbite on your feet in winter
How to insulate your feet in winter weather (photo: freepik.com)
Walking in cold, snowy weather can be a lot of fun. And sometimes you have to stay outside for a long time while waiting for transportation or running errands. And during the winter, there is a high risk of freezing in the feet, and even frostbite in severe cold, according to Verywell Fit.
Choose leather shoes
Winter sneakers often contain a mesh membrane, which is not suitable for low temperatures. Boots made of genuine leather are best for the cold season. Your feet will not freeze in such shoes. Ideally, the material of the shoe should completely block the incoming cold air.
Shoes should be spacious
To prevent your feet from freezing during long stays in the cold, you should have roomy shoes or boots to help keep warm. You shouldn't buy boots two sizes too big - you just need to be able to wiggle your toes, and the laces shouldn't restrict your movements.
Insulate with paper
Take a tip from the Tour de France cyclists: paper is a great insulator. On cold days, take a paper towel or napkin and wrap them around the top of your foot, your toes, and under your toes. Then put your shoes on. This provides a thin layer of insulation that is just enough to keep you comfortable.
Plastic wrap
Tuck plastic wrap or a bag between the top of the shoe, the top of your foot, and your toes. This will block cold air from reaching your toes and prevent sweat from accumulating on the soles of your feet. The polyethylene is thin enough to fit in your shoes without changing the type of socks you wear. If your feet get hot, you can always pull the bag out and throw it away.
Disposable shower caps or shoe covers
These can be used as shoe gaiters to protect your shoes from rain and snow. You can wear them over your shoes or inside your socks. A waterproof layer will appear inside the shoe, which will also protect against the wind. This can cause your feet to sweat and your socks to get wet, so use this method with caution.
Duct tape
Stick duct tape on the top of your shoes. It's quick, easy, and almost free protection for your shoes in bad weather. Tape a full circle, including the sole. The tape will stick and not come off even during a long walk in the rain.
Double layer of socks
The classic combination for long hikes is a thin polypropylene sock that absorbs sweat and an outer wool sock. This works well to keep your toes warm. Do not choose a combination that is too thick and makes your foot feel cramped in the shoe. Another trick is to wear knee-high nylon socks or stockings. They won't add thickness, but they will help keep your feet warm.
Foot warmers
These are special disposable inserts that provide gentle warmth for up to 6 hours. They are worn in shoes above or below the toes. They are as thin as insoles, but if your shoes fit snugly, you will need to choose thinner socks.
Do not stand in one place
If you have a walk planned or have to be outside for a long time, walk instead of standing in one place. Moving your feet while walking will generate heat and keep your feet warm. If you are just walking, start at an easy pace for the first few minutes, then increase it, do brisk walking intervals, and choose routes with hills or stairs to get your blood flowing.
Earlier, we told that Doctors reveal 10 unexpected reasons behind constant chills.
We also wrote about 6 cost-effective ways to stay warm in winter.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
