We are reaching that time of year where the weather is turning cold and wet again. With the onset of the autumn and winter months comes more need than ever for our feet to keep warm and dry. This is especially important if you’re heading out for a walk, the school run, or just going out to do some grocery shopping. Keeping your feet warm will not only make the rest of your body feel a bit warmer, but keeping your muscles warmer will also help to prevent your feet feeling stiff and being more prone to strains or injuries.
Here, the footwear experts at Charles Clinkard have brought together some top tips for keeping your toes warm and dry during this colder season.
Wear woollen socks
The type of socks you wear can really make a difference to how warm your feet feel. Wool is a great choice because this thick, natural fibre can insulate your body very effectively against drafts and cold, as well as remaining breathable so your feet will still feel comfortable too. 65% or even 80% merino wool is ideal, and wearing two pairs of socks can provide additional warmth that is especially important on winter walks. You can also get specialist hiking socks that are made to be both warm and sweat-wicking, and this can keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Avoid going barefoot indoors
Even when you’re at home indoors, avoid having bare feet. If your feet are constantly in contact with a cold floor then it will be much more difficult to feel warm. Even if your floors are carpeted, having bare feet can mean that you feel any drafts or chilly spells more, so it’s a good idea to always keep socks or slippers on when you’re inside. Fleecy and boot-shaped slippers are a great option as they provide more warmth and coverage than the traditional slip-on shapes, and can be combined with socks for extra cosiness. You can also try to keep your feet raised off the floor — for instance on a foot stool — as hot air rises, so you should find that your feet feel a bit warmer when above the floor itself.
Wear waterproof shoes
It’s important to remember that the drier your feet are, the warmer they will feel. Rain and dampness make us feel much colder immediately, so take the time to make sure that you are venturing out into the wet weather with appropriate footwear. Good winter shoes and boots should be water-resistant and durable, making them able to withstand the harsher temperatures and keep your feet protected from puddles and downpours. It’s best to go for winter-specific footwear too, so that you can be sure your shoes are up to the task of keeping your feet comfortable throughout your outings.
- Rachel Clinkard, Ecommerce Director at Charles Clinkard comments:
“In winter, it’s more important than ever to have the appropriate footwear. With rain and cold becoming commonplace weather features, you’ll want to start the season by investing in some shoes or boots that will serve you well and keep your feet feeling comfortable.
“Make sure to try shoes on in the store before buying, as then you can try them on whilst wearing your winter socks. Winter socks are often thicker than ones you’d normally wear (especially if they are specifically made to be walking socks) so it’s good to check they will fit comfortably with whatever shoes you’re buying. The attendant in-store can then also check that you are purchasing a comfortable size for your feet.”
