Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the great outdoors – the chilly winter months present a variety of options for fun outdoor activities like skating, skiing, playing in the snow or hiking through a beautiful winter landscape. One thing that can make a big difference in your enjoyment of the day, however, is your ability to keep your feet warm and toasty.

  1. Be sure to keep your feet dry. Knee-high, waterproof winter boots are well suited for this. Keeping water away from your feet is critical to keeping them warm, as is keeping moisture from building up inside your boots. Be sure to buy a boot that has a fully breathable sole that enhances the release of perspiration from the feet. It’s important to allow your boots time to dry thoroughly before wearing them out in the cold again.
  2. Put on warm, thick socks. Wear socks that are made of wool or fleece as these types of fabric are more insulating and dry quicker than polyester or cotton. Knee-high socks keep both your feet and legs warm. Warming your feet, shoes and socks before putting them on is another good idea. You can also use sock liners as another layer of insulation.
  3. If your feet are extremely cold, warm them up quick with a soak in a foot spa or simply in a bowl of warm water. A hot water bottle can also be used to warm up your feet fast.
  4. Wear a hat. Since the rest of your body—including your feet—stays warmer when your head is covered, ensure that you don a wool or synthetic-blend hat that covers your head well. Not only will it keep the heat in, but it will also absorb sweat.
  5. For extra toasty warmth, insert foot warmers into the bottom of your boots. Like hand warmers, foot warmers heat up when exposed to the air.
  6. Stay active. Moving around and exercising gets your blood pumping through your legs to your feet, and is a natural way to keep them warm. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and help blood circulate to your feet.