Winter could spell many problems for your feet if you don’t have the proper footwear to see you through. Slips and frostbites are pretty common in the US during the winter.
Moreover, with the statistics indicating that about 116,000 people endure some form of winter injury each year, this may be necessary to know. Apart from the chilly weather, winter can be as warm and comfortable as you make it. These are some pointers to help you in the selection of your winter footwear:
Comfort
A good-fitting pair of shoes offers comfort and stability. Moreover, during the winters, it is one of the most critical factors to consider. A good-fitting shoe provides arch support that enables you to walk through snow and on wet, slippery ground. Without a doubt, you might want to consider the stylish features of the footwear, but for safety reasons, it can be pushed further to the backburner. It is better to satisfy more critical requirements than focus on the aesthetics alone.
Usually, it is recommended to try new footwear and walk around a bit before making the final purchase. If you fail to do that, you risk bringing home an uncomfortable pair that makes winter walking quite cumbersome. As a tip, you can ask the seller about the ideal conditions the footwear is purposed for. Having knowledge of that can help you make a better decision before purchasing. Indeed, everyone has different comfort needs in their shoes. Therefore, make it a point to know yours.
Waterproof
One of the worst experiences you can have in winter is wearing porous shoes that allow water or moisture to seep through. Apart from the chilly effects on your toes, you risk getting frostbite, which may require rushing to the emergency room. First of all, winter footwear usually has built-in protection. Additionally, although impermeable, the material is breathable and does not cause your feet to sweat in them. Moreover, the waterproof feature can be your priority, especially when you plan to be outdoors a lot more during the winter.
Many winter footwears have a waterproof rating. With a bit of research, you can find these details either on the tag, online, or from the seller. Considering that waterproof shoes come in different qualities, your best bet is to opt for high-quality ones for maximum protection. Furthermore, winter footwear is made to suit different environments. Some are specifically for the outdoors, while others are meant to be worn indoors. For example, felt slippers are primarily for the indoors, and they keep the feet from breaking into a sweat.
Insulation
Undoubtedly, insulation is a crucial thing to consider during winter. Just as you pay attention to protecting your home from the chilly effects of winter on your pipes, the same level of care for your feet is paramount. Insulated shoes mean your winter footwear has another inbuilt layer that provides enough heat to keep your feet comfortably warm in those chilly months. The insulation feature works by absorbing body heat from the wearer and retaining it for longer. It is a simple mechanism but offers immense benefits for the wearer.
