As soon as the temperatures drop, the familiar problem begins for many: feet cool down and simply don’t want to get warm. But it’s not just in the winter months that people suffer from this unpleasant feeling. Some people struggle with cold feet all year round – a condition that can be far more than just a harmless annoyance. Freezing feet affect well-being and can also reduce concentration or mobility and have other negative effects. Whether you’re walking through frosty streets, sitting for long periods in the office or even at home on the sofa – cold feet can make everyday life noticeably more difficult.
But what is actually behind it? The causes range from harmless cold irritations to health reasons. In this guide, we look at the various triggers and show you what you can do to combat cold feet. In addition to the right footwear and warming insoles – which often provide amazing relief – there are numerous other tips to help you. Whether you’re looking for quick solutions on the go or want to make a long-term change: If you’re currently asking yourself “cold feet what to do?” you’ll find practical advice and product recommendations here that will effectively warm your feet.
Cold feet causes: What causes cold feet?
When temperatures drop outside, freezing feet are not unusual. In cold weather, the human body primarily protects its vital organs in the center of the body. To save energy, the blood supply to the extremities is reduced. So when the hands and feet get cold, it is a completely natural process.
But sometimes the feet freeze even in pleasant temperatures – regardless of whether the rest of the body is cold or not. The symptom of cold feet can actually indicate certain illnesses or physical weaknesses. We will now take a closer look at the possible causes.
Obvious triggers: cold, wet and unsuitable clothing
The reasons for freezing feet are often quite banal. If you wear thin shoes in winter or walk barefoot on cold tiles at home, you shouldn’t be surprised if your toes turn into little blocks of ice.
Freezing outside temperatures quickly draw heat from the body – especially if shoes are neither insulating nor waterproof. Wetness intensifies the effect: damp shoes or soaked socks cool the skin within a very short time. This also applies to sweaty feet. What sounds paradoxical is quickly explained: if you sweat in your shoes, the socks become damp. This moisture leads to evaporative cooling – and this is exactly what makes your feet feel freezing cold at some point.
Shoes that are too tight can also be problematic: They compress the feet and constrict the fine blood vessels. As a result, blood circulation is impaired and the feet cool down. Therefore, choose shoes in which you can move your toes freely. Thick socks in already tight shoes are also counterproductive. A little space is necessary so that warm air can act as an insulating layer.
Circulatory problems and circulatory disorders
If neither cold nor tight shoes are a possible cause, circulatory problems could be behind it. Low blood pressure, for example, causes the blood to circulate more slowly. The extremities are then less well supplied with blood, resulting in freezing feet and often cold hands. In particular, people who suffer from dizziness easily or often feel tired should have their blood pressure checked regularly.
Circulatory disorders caused by narrowed arteries are much more serious. A common disease in this context is arteriosclerosis (colloquially known as vascular calcification). Fat and calcium deposits build up in the walls of the blood vessels, making it harder for the blood to flow. It is estimated that around one in two people over the age of 50 is affected by arteriosclerosis – often without realizing it. Cold feet can be the first warning sign.
Another example of a vascular disease is Raynaud’s syndrome. Those affected react to cold or stress with a sudden vascular spasm in the fingers or toes. The skin first turns white, then blue and finally red again when the blood flow returns. Although the syndrome, also known as “white finger disease”, is usually harmless, it can be extremely unpleasant.
Other medical and lifestyle-related causes
In addition to circulatory problems and the like, there are many other triggers that can be responsible for cold feet. Here is an overview of common factors:
- Smoking: Nicotine constricts the blood vessels and impairs blood circulation. Regular smokers risk permanently freezing feet and serious cardiovascular disorders. The harmful substances in tobacco damage the blood vessel walls and promote the development of arterial diseases.
- Diabetes mellitus: A high blood sugar level can damage the nerves in the long term (neuropathy) and impair blood circulation. The feet are particularly affected. People with diabetes should therefore check their feet regularly and seek medical advice if they have cold problems.
- Hormonal fluctuations: An imbalance in hormone levels can also cause cold feet. An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), for example, slows down the metabolism, causing the body to produce less heat. Hormonal changes during the menopause or pregnancy can also affect thermoregulation.
- Stress and psychological strain: Emotional tension, anxiety or depression affect the autonomic nervous system. Stress hormones such as adrenaline constrict the blood vessels, which reduces blood flow to the feet. Therefore, prolonged tension can also lead to feet that are always cold.
- Side effects of medication: Certain medications, especially those that affect the nervous system or lower blood pressure, can cause freezing feet as a side effect. Anyone who suffers from increased sensitivity to cold after starting a new medication should discuss this with their doctor.
How dangerous are cold feet? When you should see a doctor
Occasionally freezing feet are usually harmless. But if they occur regularly or are accompanied by symptoms such as numbness, pain, discoloration and tingling, you should take note. Such warning signs can indicate serious illnesses. In this case, a medical examination is important! If the symptoms occur suddenly, get worse or are accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath and sores on the feet, it is important to act quickly. Even if you have known risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure or diabetes, you should not take constantly cold feet lightly. Your doctor can carry out specific examinations to determine the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
Immediate measures against freezing feet
If your feet are already freezing cold, you certainly don’t want to wait long for them to warm up again. Fortunately, there are effective immediate measures that can provide quick relief. In addition to well-known tips such as exercise and warm foot baths, we will also reveal some secret tricks that not everyone knows – but which are all the more effective.
Exercise tips for warm feet
Exercise gets your circulation going and ensures that more warm blood reaches your feet again. The best thing about it: you don’t need a lot of time or space to boost your circulation with short workouts.
- Toe rocking: Sit comfortably and raise your toes while keeping your heels on the floor. Lower your toes again and repeat the movement 20 to 30 times. This simple exercise stimulates blood circulation in the feet.
- Foot circles: Lift one foot slightly and turn it in slow, controlled circles. Change direction and foot after 15 seconds. This not only loosens the joints, but also stimulates blood circulation.
- Step on the spot: If you have to sit for a long time, stand up in between and march on the spot for a few minutes. Just 2 to 3 minutes is enough to warm up your feet again.
If you have the opportunity, go outside and take a short walk. Just 10 minutes of exercise in the fresh air can activate your circulation and noticeably warm up your feet. In the office, you can incorporate small movement routines, such as walking around while on the phone or taking the stairs more often instead of the elevator.
Insider tip: Stand on your tiptoes for 30 seconds and then slowly lower your heels. This exercise activates the calf muscles and also improves the blood supply to the feet in the long term.
Targeted use of heat sources
Exercise helps – but sometimes you just long for a warm wrap for your freezing feet. This is where targeted heat sources come into play. The important thing is to choose the right method for your situation.
A warm foot bath is a classic – and so popular for good reason. The pleasant temperature relaxes, promotes blood circulation and warms from the inside.
- Temperature: The ideal temperature is 37 to 39 degrees Celsius. Water that is too hot can irritate the skin and is not recommended if you have circulatory problems.
- Duration: 10 to 15 minutes is completely sufficient. You should not bathe for longer, as this will dry out the skin.
- Beneficial additives: A teaspoon of ginger powder in the water promotes blood circulation. Rosemary oil has a stimulating effect. Mustard flour is an old household remedy that provides intense warmth – but be careful with sensitive skin!
Insider tip: Dry your feet well after the footbath and put on thick socks immediately to retain the heat.
Electric foot heaters or heat pads are a convenient solution for quickly warming up cold feet. However, make sure that the device has an automatic switch-off function and that the heat can be regulated. Cherry stone cushions are a natural alternative – simply place them briefly in the microwave and enjoy the soothing warmth.
Insider tip: Place a pre-warmed cherry stone cushion in your shoes before you go out. That way you’ll start with warm feet straight away!
Home remedies: more than just warm socks
- Rice socks: Fill a sock with rice, tie it up and heat it in the microwave. This homemade heat cushion fits perfectly around your feet and provides long-lasting warmth.
- Spicy food warms from the inside: Foods such as chili, black pepper, curry or cinnamon stimulate the circulation and help to combat freezing feet from the inside out.
- Drink enough: If you drink between 1.5 and 2 liters of water a day, you will improve your blood circulation. A good fluid intake helps the body to improve blood flow to the extremities and thus prevent cold feet.
Insider tip: Massage your feet with warm olive oil before going to bed. This not only promotes blood circulation, but also ensures supple skin.
The right footwear in cold weather helps immensely!
Warm feet start with the right clothing. Both the choice of socks and the right footwear play a decisive role here. Materials that store heat and wick away moisture are important. In addition, the fit should not be underestimated.
In this section, you can find out which materials are particularly suitable, how best to combine your shoes and which products from our store can help you keep your feet warm even on the coldest days.
Materials under the microscope: What really keeps you warm?
When it comes to cozy feet, the choice of material is crucial.
Natural fabrics such as wool, merino wool and alpaca are known for their excellent insulating properties. They not only keep you warm, but are also breathable and wick moisture away from the skin. Wool in particular offers a natural temperature balance so that feet stay comfortable all round without breaking a sweat.
Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, can have both advantages and disadvantages depending on their quality. High-quality synthetic fibers are often lightweight, quick-drying and offer good insulation. Cheaper versions, on the other hand, can “suffocate” the skin and retain moisture, which increases the feeling of cold.
Tip: The layering principle has proven successful for many people who always have freezing feet. First wear thin functional socks that wick away moisture and then thick wool socks that insulate. This way you can prevent both sweating and cooling down.
Warm shoes: how to recognize a good winter model
A good pair of winter shoes is more than just a fashion accessory. They protect you from the cold, wet and uneven surfaces. Decisive factors are the insulation, the sole material, the waterproofness and the fit.
โบ Insulation and lining: Shoes with a high-quality inner lining, such as lambskin, store heat effectively and ensure a comfortable fit. It is important that the lining is not flattened, even during long walks.
โบ Sole material: Non-slip soles made of natural rubber not only provide stability on slippery paths, but also insulate against the cold of the ground.
โบ Waterproofness and breathability: In winter in particular, it is important that shoes are water-repellent. Wet feet cool down more quickly and increase the risk of catching a cold. At the same time, the material should be breathable to prevent moisture build-up.
โบ Fit: The following also applies to warm shoes: models that are too tight are counterproductive. The toes should be able to move freely so that an insulating layer of air can be created between the foot and the shoe. As a rule of thumb, it’s better to choose a half to full size larger – especially if you want to wear thick socks.
Our product recommendations for warm feet
In our store you will find various models that have proven themselves in the cold season.
“JACKAROO black lambskin”
The JACKAROO is the ideal companion for anyone who is often out and about – whether walking the dog, on the playground or working outdoors. This Chelsea boot is not only a true design classic, but also functional: the robust, oiled cowhide nappa leather effectively repels water and lasts a long time. A genuine lambskin lining on the inside ensures cozy warmth. The non-slip natural rubber sole offers a secure grip even in slippery conditions. Thanks to its anatomical fit, it is also suitable for narrower feet. Particularly practical: the removable footbed with lambskin insoles provides additional thermal insulation. For a perfect fit, we recommend ordering the JACKAROO one size larger.
“MIRACAT cognac”
The MIRACAT is a feminine winter boot that not only impresses with its elegant look, but also with its high level of comfort. Made from robust, waxed suede, they are water-repellent and therefore ideal for wet winter days. The genuine lambskin lining keeps your feet warm, even when temperatures drop below freezing. The non-slip natural rubber sole on this model also ensures safe walking on difficult surfaces. Thanks to the anatomical fit, the MIRACAT offers optimum support without being restrictive – perfect for long walks in winter.
“Lambskin insoles”
Our lambskin insoles are a great addition for anyone looking for extra warmth and comfort. They have been specially designed for the JACKAROO model, but also fit many other shoes. The natural properties of lambskin provide excellent insulation against the cold, absorb moisture and ensure a pleasant foot climate. Available in sizes 36 to 46, the insoles can simply be slipped into the shoes and replaced if necessary.
Conclusion
Freezing feet can have many causes – from harmless everyday conditions to serious physical weaknesses. Simple measures to promote warmth can often provide effective relief. Only in rare cases is it better to consult a doctor.
With targeted exercise, suitable footwear and insulating insoles, you can quickly get the problem under control. If you are looking for comfortable, warm and all-round functional and simply stylish footwear, we have just the thing for you.
No more cold feet! Discover the warming shoes and insoles in our store