Your Guide to Winter Boots

Winter is in full swing here, and most patients are arriving at the office wearing winter boots. How are your winter boots holding up? Is it time to invest in a new pair? Not all winter boots are equally effective at keeping your feet warm and dry and at helping you stay steady on snow and ice. Here are five tips for making sure that, whether you're sticking with your old favorites or you're selecting a new pair, you're wearing the best boots for tough winter use.

Wear the warmest boots you can find. Insulation will keep the feet warm, important for everyone, but even more so for people with circulatory illnesses such as Peripheral Arterial Disease and diabetes. A pair of wool socks will help, too. Change your socks any time the feet get sweaty enough to dampen them.

Waterproof boots are a must, to keep feet dry and free from foot fungus. If you're wearing last year's pair, treat them with a waterproofing product to keep them in good condition. If your new boots are advertised as waterproof, treat them anyway, just to be safe.

Ensure proper airflow by wearing boots made of natural material, like leather or shearling. Rubber boots do keep the feet dry, but they will not "breathe." If you wear boots made of rubber or plastic, make sure they are fully lined with a natural material to absorb the moisture that allows odor-causing bacteria to thrive.

Winter boots are not the place to make your fashion statement. Avoid styles with narrow toe boxes that cramp the toes and force an unnatural gait. If you prefer a slight heel, choose a chunky, stacked style.

Boots should have a thick, rubber sole with deep grooves to provide the best traction on slippery winter surfaces. They will improve stability and reduce your risk of falls that can lead to foot and ankle injuries.

Contact Podiatry Group of Annapolis and let us help with all your foot and ankle needs. Dr. James Mckee and Dr. Adam Weaver are experienced and dedicated podiatrists who provide high-quality individualized care. Call us today at 410-224-4448 or visit us online to make an appointment at our conveniently located Annapolis office.