How to Keep Feet Warm in Winter

While the outdoors can be a summer hobby for many, there are just as many who continue to enjoy the outdoors in the cold winter months. One thing that can make a difference between a good and rough day outdoors in the winter is your ability to keep your feet warm. Fortunately, feet can be kept warm and toasty all day long in the coldest conditions with just a few adjustments to what you might normally wear outdoors.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Wool or other non-cotton socks
Waterproof boots
Air activated foot warmers

Step 1

Wear a polypro or other moisture-wicking sock liner. This will add extra protection against moisture reaching your feet regardless of what type of socks you wear over the top.

Step 2

Wear wool or other thick socks that are non-cotton. Cotton will make your feet sweat and will keep the moisture next to your skin, making your feet colder faster. Wool socks are more expensive but are well worth it in the colder months. On extra cold days, two pairs of socks is recommended.

Step 3

Wear boots that are Gore-Tex or another waterproof but breathable material. Keeping water away from your feet is critical to keeping them warm, as is keeping moisture from building up inside the boot. Be sure your boots are not too tight, which can restrict circulation and make your feet colder. You may need to buy boots that are at least a half-size bigger than shoes you normally wear to accommodate extra thick socks, multiple pairs of socks or foot warmers.

Step 4

Insert foot warmer packets into the bottom of your boots for extra toasty warmth. These are similar to hand warmers and heat up when removed from the packaging and exposed to the air. Foot warmers generally come in both full-sole and smaller toe-warmer sizes.

Article Written By Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams has spent over 11 years working in the information technology, health care and outdoor recreation fields. He has over seven years of technical and educational writing experience, and has brought strong skills and passion to the Demand Studios team in articles for eHow and Trails in 2009.

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