Winter Foot Care Do’s and Don’ts

Winter can be tough on our skin, and our feet are no exception. With all the extra layers, winter boots, and exposure to cold and moisture, your feet can suffer from dryness, blisters, and even more serious conditions like frostbite or fungal infections. To help you keep your feet feeling good throughout the winter, here are some essential do’s and don’ts to follow for optimal winter foot care.

The Do’s of Winter Foot Care

Moisturize Regularly: The cold air and indoor heating can strip your skin of moisture, leaving your feet dry and cracked. Use a thick, nourishing foot cream or lotion to hydrate your feet every night before bed. Look for products containing shea butter, coconut oil, or vitamin E, which can help lock in moisture and protect your skin from further damage.

Wear Warm, Breathable Socks: Choose socks made from wool or moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic blends. These will help keep your feet warm while allowing sweat to escape. Avoid cotton socks, as they tend to absorb moisture and can leave your feet cold and prone to blisters. Make sure your socks fit properly to avoid rubbing and discomfort.

Keep Your Feet Dry: Wet feet are a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. If your feet get wet from snow, rain, or sweat, change out of damp socks as soon as possible. Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes, to prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot.

Protect Your Feet from the Cold: In extreme cold, your feet are at risk for frostbite. Make sure you’re wearing insulated, waterproof boots that will keep your feet dry and warm. If you’re going to be outside for extended periods of time, consider wearing foot warmers in your boots for extra warmth.

The Don’ts of Winter Foot Care

Don’t Ignore Wet Boots: If your boots get wet, do not let them stay damp for long. Wet footwear can cause blisters, fungal infections, and cold feet. Make sure to dry your boots thoroughly after use, and avoid wearing the same pair of boots every day to give them time to dry out.

Don’t Wear Tight Boots: Tight boots may seem like they are keeping your feet warm, but they can cause more harm than good. Tight shoes restrict circulation, which can leave your feet cold and prone to frostbite. Opt for boots with plenty of room for your toes and make sure they are not too tight around your ankles or instep.

Don’t Skip Foot Checks: It is important to check your feet regularly for signs of problems. Look for blisters, redness, or areas of irritation, and make sure there are no signs of frostbite or fungal infections. Catching issues early can prevent bigger problems down the road.

Don’t Ignore Foot Pain: If you experience persistent foot pain, discomfort, or signs of frostbite (like numbness, pale skin, or tingling), do not wait to seek help. Ignoring foot problems can lead to serious complications, especially in the winter when conditions are harsher on your skin and joints. Consult a healthcare professional if needed.

Final Thoughts

Your feet may not always be at the top of your mind during the winter months, but they play an important role in keeping you active and healthy all season long. By following these simple do’s and don’ts of winter foot care, you can ensure your feet stay comfortable, warm, and well cared for during the coldest months of the year. If you need more advice on footwear to optimize your foot care, consider seeking physical therapy services. Although they may not be on the top of your mind when thinking about foot care, physical therapists are experts on feet and how to keep them happy.

Remember: happy feet = happy you! So show your feet some love and give them the attention they deserve this winter.

Resources

1. Blazer MM, Jamrog LB, Schnack LL. Does the Shoe Fit? Considerations for Proper Shoe Fitting. Orthop Nurs. 2018;37(3):169-174. doi:10.1097/NOR.0000000000000447
2. Nigam PK, Syed HA, Saleh D. Tinea Pedis. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; October 29, 2023.