Winter Foot Care: An Essential Guide (Infographic)

Winter can be hard on our feet, so it’s important to look after them. Take a look at this infographic to discover our top wintertime footcare tips.

During the chilly winter months, many of us tend to hide our feet away under big, thick boots and fluffy slippers. However, just because our feet aren’t on show doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t look after them. So, what can you do to ensure happy and healthy feet this winter?  

Common Foot Problems in Winter

Many people experience problems with the health and appearance of their feet during the winter. Some examples of common wintertime foot problems include:

• dryness
• chilblains
• circulation problems

In many cases, these problems are a direct or indirect result of the cold and wet weather which can wreak havoc on our foot health.

Choosing Wintertime Footwear

Wearing the right footwear is one of the best things you can do to ward off foot problems. When choosing new winter shoes or boots, be on the lookout for the following:

• A good-quality make that can withstand harsh weather conditions
• Made from watertight material to keep your feet dry
• Insulating qualities that will keep your feet warm
• A low-heel and anti-slip soles to prevent slips on icy surfaces

In addition to the usual pair of winter boots, you should also consider investing in “inside shoes” to help prevent sweating in the warmer inside temperature.

Getting the Right Fit

Once you have found a shoe that meets all of the above criteria, you will then need to check the fit. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight as they could cut off blood flow; causing your feet to get cold very quickly. On the other hand, shoes that are too big can lead to friction, painful sores, and blisters.

So how can you be sure of a correct fit? Firstly, try to wiggle your toes in the shoe. Then, you will need to check that your heel, instep and the ball don’t move within the shoe. You should also consider whether or not the shoe has enough space to accommodate thick winter socks.

Treat Your Feet Right This Winter

During winter your feet spend more time covered up, so you should frequently bathe them in warm soapy water. Weekly washes can help to stave off nasty infections and verrucae. It’s also one of the best ways to warm yourself up on a freezing cold day.

Following a relaxing foot soak, you should lightly exfoliate with a pumice stone to remove dead skin. Then you should moisturize with a small amount of lotion to prevent cracks from forming. Be sure to dry your feet completely (especially in-between the toes) to prevent fungal infections. During winter, it’s a good idea to skip the nail polish in order to give your toenails a chance to breathe.

Learn More About Winter Foot Care

In this helpful guide, Gabor Shoes Ireland lays out a number of top tips about how to look after your feet during the chilly winter season. Scroll down to the infographic below to find out more today.