How To Keep Your Toes Warm In The Winter

On cold days, my feet are the first part of my body that feel the frigid temperature. There's nothing worse than being outside in a coat, gloves, scarf and jacket and still feeling cold because you can't get your toes to warm up. Luckily, there's a way to deal with freezing toes. Once you know how to keep your toes (and feet) warm during the winter, you'll be so much more comfortable in sub-zero temperatures. (Well, as comfortable as you can expect to be.)

The key to keeping your feet warm during the winter is a combination of aspects. First of all, you need the right socks, made of the right material. This isn't the time to cheap out on a 12-pack of socks from the 99 cent store (though I'm totally not knocking on that in warmer months). Splurge on a few nice pairs of warm socks and you'll be so grateful when the first snowstorm hits.

Second, you need to properly waterproof your winter shoes before you wear them. This goes for basically any pair of shoes you wear in rainy or snowy weather. If your feet don't get wet, you'll be much more comfortable. Here's exactly how to pick what to wear under your waterproofed shoes.

1. Pick wool socks, not cotton

Merino Wool Hiking Socks 3 pairs, $25, Amazon

If you take anything away from this article, it's that you need wool socks (preferably merino) to keep your feet suitably warm. Other fibers like fleece are fine, but avoid cotton at all costs. It doesn't do a good job of staying dry when your feet sweat, and wet feet =cold feet.

2. Stock up on toe warmers

Grabber Toe Warmers, $10, Amazon

In college during late-fall football games, hand and feet warmers were our best friends. In fact, we all fought over them during tailgates. If you know you're going to be outside for a long time, grab a pair of these to keep your feet extra warm.

3. Get the socks Arctic explorers love

The Ice Sock, $15, A mazon

Serious outdoorsman (and polar explorer) Eric Larsen swears by Wigwam's Ice Sock, which he wears on all his Arctic explorations. The socks even come with a two-year warranty.

4. Buy snow boots with snow gaiters

Sorel Snowlion XT, $120, A mazon

Do you know what a snow gaiter is? If you're shaking your head, you're probably wrong. You've most likely seen them around and wondered what they are. Basically, a snow gaiter is a feature added to boots designed to keep snow out. It's usually either waterproof fabric with a drawstring or fur, and it keeps snow from sliding into your boots. This is a necessity if you're wading through deep snow.

5. Dry shoes completely between wears

Like I said, wet feet = cold feet. When you get home, immediately remove your shoes and leave them to dry completely before you wear them. Trust me, your feet will get cold much faster if there's even a hint of moisture left in your shoes.

Winter is never going to be a completely pleasant experience, but it doesn't have to be as miserable as you think. Use these tips to start keeping your feet cozy all winter long.

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