Now that the winter months are here, it’s important we all have a pair of reliable winter boots in our wardrobe to see us through the chilliest of days. As your boots will become the most worn footwear you own during this season, it can be a real issue finding a pair that isn’t going to rub or cause you to have aching feet at the end of the day.
Make sure you choose a pair of boots that are both supportive and comfortable, and always try on a variety of pairs to see which suit your feet best.
There are also a few extra tips to keep in mind to provide additional comfort when you need it:
1. Moisture-wicking socks
The more your feet perspire, the more prone your feet are to blistering – regardless of how comfortable your boots are. As your feet become damp from sweat, they may start to rub around the toes, heels, and sides as a result of the constant friction, leading to painful blisters. In order to combat this issue, it would be worth purchasing a pair of moisture-wicking socks to help your feet breathe and prevent sweating.
Try and avoid wool socks altogether if your feet have a tendency to sweat, as they’ll absorb moisture and stay damp throughout the course of the day, rather than wicking it away.
2. Toe shields
Although pointed-toe boots are very on-trend this season, they do absolutely nothing for the comfort of your feet. Your toes will be squeezed into abnormally narrow positions, which not only cause immediate pain and discomfort but may also lead to long-term musculoskeletal problems. If you already own pointed boots that you just don’t want to get rid of, then you could always purchase toe shields to alleviate the pressure around the joints and help support the toes.
3. Insoles
Many boots now have an approximate 4-inch wedge which often causes cramps in the arch of the foot, as the toes curl to form an extra grip. If you wear this popular boot style, you’re likely to experience extreme discomfort and, in worst-case scenarios, develop a condition known as plantar fasciitis.
This condition is caused when the ligaments from the heel to the toe that support the arch of the foot are damaged as a result of wear and tear. It’s very common in people who wear heels on a constant basis.
Combat the pain and symptoms associated with the condition by using cushioned insoles for boots. These are designed to fully support the arch of the foot. Generally, you should use the firmest arch boot insoles possible to alleviate the symptoms, but it’s all about what gives you the best comfort.
Plantar fasciitis insoles for boots are custom-made to the shape of your foot, and the best ones include completely customisable arch and metatarsal supports. By placing these insoles in your boots, you’ll prevent your feet from slipping forward and tensing up, and you’ll be providing optimal cushioning to the areas of your feet that are under the most stress when you’re standing or walking.
4. Leather stretch spray
If you tried on your boots in the shop and believed they were the perfect fit, only to come home and realise they’re ever-so-slightly too tight in certain places – don’t panic. You can always purchase some leather stretch spray to help soften the leather as you walk. This should help to reduce chafing, too.
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