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Work boots protect us from different dangers and harms in the work environment. They protect us from things we can step on, or that can fall on our feet.
Besides protecting us, they can sometimes cause us discomfort and unpleasing conditions. Some of them are long-term, and some temporary.
One of the most common conditions we get from wearing work boots is cold feet. Here is an explanation of why we get cold feet, and some ways and tips on how we can keep our feet warm while wearing work boots.
Why We Get Cold Feet?
Cold feet are related to blood circulation. Poor circulation can make your feet cold. It happens when blood vessels constrict, and blood cannot flow to your legs and feet.
Some conditions that cause us cold feet are injuries, bone disorders, autoimmune diseases, nerve damage, lack of vitamins, etc. These are, of course, medical conditions for which we need to be aware. Also, our body may respond with cold feet when we enter a cold environment.
Your work boots can also cause cold feet. Our feet spend a lot of time in work boots. Not choosing the right type of boots and not being attentive to how we wear them and take care of them can cause us problems like cold feet or other conditions such as blisters, hammertoes, etc.
Best Ways to Keep Your Feet Warm in Work Boots
In the case of cold feet and work boots, prevention is easier and better than dealing with the condition after it occurs. Fortunately, there are ways we can keep our feet warm in work boots without trying too hard. Here we have collected some of them to make it easier for you.
Choose the right boots
Take your time when shopping for work boots. It is crucial to choose the right type, especially the right size for you. Your work boots should fit comfortably. Picking a size too small can make your blood vessels contract even further, causing your feet to become super cold, or picking a size too large, not only lets more cold air get inside the shoes but also, you will pinch your toes constantly and tighten your feet. Therefore, you will hamper your blood circulation.
Investing in thermal insoles
Investing in good insoles is never a bad idea. Moreover, in thermal insoles, because they help balance your body temperature by providing extra support to balance the pressure of your feet. They also prevent your feet from getting tired and other conditions. If you suffer from cold feet in work boots, thermal insoles might be a good investment. Thermal insoles have multiple layers of insulation to retain warmth inside the shoe.
Wearing gaiters
Gaiters add an extra layer of protection to your work boots. They are additional pieces of fabric that cover the space between your boots and your trousers. That way, they block the cold from entering your shoes.
Gaiters are excellent for keeping the cold away from your feet and keeping dirt and gunk away from getting into your boots.
There are various gaiters you can choose from, made out of different materials, velcros, and zippers, to fit well with your preference and your type of boots.
Dry your boots between each wear
It is very important to dry your work boots between each wear. The moisture in your boots is usually cold, and, when absorbed by your feet, will automatically make them cold. Wetness will cause your feet to feel numb, but it can also cause infections or other longer-term problems.
Some Tips to Remember
Here are some other tips and tricks you can keep in mind to help your feet stay nice and warm in work boots.
Wear the right socks
Socks made of materials like cashmere, polyester, and nylon are not an excellent choice to wear with work boots. Instead, it would help if you reached for the right socks, with breathable and comfortable fabrics.
When shopping for socks, reach for cotton, merino wool, and synthetic fibers. Socks made out of these materials are kept but light and airy, meaning that they will keep your feet dry and odor-free at the same time.
Keep moving
Some feet conditions can get worse when you stop moving. You should keep moving until you are free to take off your boots and take proper care of your feet afterward.
If you think that you are just taking a break to rest for a little while, think twice. This break will also put your blood circulation to rest, meaning that your feet will become even colder and number. Plus, getting back into moving will be much more difficult.
Keep your feet dry
Your feet are prone to absorbing the moisture they get in contact with. Such moisture will cause your feet to feel cold and numb and cause skin irritations.
You should take care of your feet when you take off your boots by washing and drying them properly. Also, watch out for the type of socks and boots you wear, as they play a massive role in how much moisture your feet are exposed to.
Conclusion
Protecting your feet and keeping them warm is the best way to avoid longer-term problems related to your feet and overall health. Take your time and try different things and methods to find out what works best for you and your feet
