Cold feet? 8 tips for warmer feet at home and outdoors
Cold feet are one of winter's most common problems. Here are eight simple, practical tips to help you keep your feet warm, both at home on the sofa and out in the cold.
It's hard to relax when your feet are freezing. Your feet are a long way from your heart, and when it's cold the body prioritises keeping your core warm. That's why toes and feet are often the first to get cold. The good news is that small changes can make a big difference. Here are eight tips that work both at home and outdoors.
Tips for warmer feet at home
1. Protect your feet from cold floors
Tiles, concrete and floors above cold basements draw heat from your feet quickly. Walking barefoot or in thin socks is a sure way to get cold. Slippers with a thick sole or lined socks create a barrier against the cold. Our CozySlippers have a thick sherpa lining and non-slip grip on the sole, so they also work on slippery floors like parquet and tiles.
2. Choose lined socks for cosy evenings
For the sofa and evenings in, fluffy lined socks are hard to beat. Fleece and sherpa trap lots of air and feel warm straight away. Our CozySocks have a fluffy sherpa lining and a cable-knit outside with a fold-over cuff.
3. Keep the rest of your body warm
If your body is cold, your feet will struggle to warm up, no matter how thick your socks are. A jumper, a pair of warm trousers and a blanket on the sofa help your feet too. Your legs are especially important, so a pair of fleece-lined leggings at home can make a difference.
4. Move around
If you sit still for a long time at your desk or on the sofa, your feet often get colder. Take a short break and walk around, wiggle your toes or do a few calf raises. Movement helps your body stay warm.
Tips for warmer feet outdoors
5. Choose the right sock material
Cotton absorbs moisture and dries slowly, which makes your feet cold. Choose socks in wool instead, or in a synthetic material with a warming lining. Our thick warming socks have a soft fleece layer inside and are made for winter boots.
6. Make sure your shoes aren't too tight
It may seem logical to wear two pairs of socks, but if your shoes get tight, the insulation is compressed and your feet get colder. There should be a little room around your toes. When buying winter shoes, try them on with the socks you plan to wear.
7. Keep your feet dry
Moisture is the cold's best friend. Change into dry socks if you've got sweaty or wet, and bring a spare pair if you'll be out for a long time. Let your shoes dry properly between wears, ideally with the insoles taken out. An extra insole in felt or wool can also insulate against cold ground.
8. Dress your legs warmly
Cold legs often mean cold feet. A warm layer under your trousers or skirt helps all the way down. Our fleece-lined tights are available with fleece in the foot too, giving an extra layer of warmth in your boots.
Bonus: small habits that help
- Warm up your feet before you go out. Starting with warm feet helps them stay warm longer.
- A warm foot bath after a cold day is soothing and relaxing.
- Put your socks on the radiator for a while before putting them on, but don't let them get hot.
- Always keep a pair of warm socks by the bed or the sofa.
When should you contact a doctor?
Cold feet are usually completely harmless and come down to the cold, clothing and habits. But if your feet are very cold even when it's warm, if the colour of your toes changes or if you have numbness or pain, it's wise to contact a healthcare professional for advice.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I get cold feet so easily?
When the body gets cold, blood flow to the hands and feet is reduced to keep the internal organs warm. That's why the cold is often felt first in the toes. Moisture, tight shoes and sitting still can make it worse.
Are two pairs of socks better than one?
Only if your shoes have room. If it gets tight, one pair of thick, warm socks is usually better.
Which socks are warmest?
Socks in wool or with a thick fleece or sherpa lining are usually the warmest. Lined socks work especially well indoors and in roomy winter shoes.
Do slippers help with cold feet?
Yes, especially on cold floors. A lined slipper with a sole that insulates against the floor makes a big difference.
