London winter is hard on feet. You step out into cold, damp air; pack into warm trains; walk long distances in heavier shoes; then repeat in reverse on the way home. By mid-December, toes feel cramped, heels crack, and that one nail starts to complain. Good foot health in winter is not a mystery; it is a set of sensible choices you can repeat without thinking, plus timely podiatry when problems refuse to settle.
Why winter commuting is different from summer walking
Temperature swings change how skin behaves. Cold constricts circulation; heat from boots and crowded transport increases moisture. Skin that is alternately chilled and damp softens in the wrong places, which increases friction and the risk of blisters. Meanwhile, thicker socks in last year’s boots steal toe box space and compress nails. The solution is not to “toughen up”; it is to keep skin dry when it should be dry, supple where it tends to split, and uncompressed inside shoes.
Start with fit: space is non-negotiable
Try your winter footwear with the socks you actually wear. You should be able to wiggle toes comfortably and feel no pressure across the forefoot. If you cannot, re-lace to create more room or reassess the shoe. A stable heel counter and adequate cushioning reduce hotspots when you are on your feet for long stretches. Rotating pairs lets each shoe dry completely and preserves the life of the midsole so it continues to protect you.
Moisture management is everyday, not occasional
Carry a spare pair of socks on very wet days and change at the office. Dry shoes near—not on—a heat source so materials do not crack or warp. When you get home, remove insoles to let air circulate and wipe out any obvious damp. Between the toes is a common winter trouble spot; dry gently after showers and avoid leaving water trapped where skin is thin.
Skin and nails: small habits prevent big problems
Trim nails straight across so corners do not dig into skin under pressure. Keep heels supple; tiny splits become painful quickly when the air is dry and you are in closed shoes for hours. If you notice a recurring pressure area on a toe, address it early with protective padding or footwear changes rather than ignoring it until it blisters.
Chilblains: recognise and manage before they escalate
Chilblains present as small, itchy or tender patches after cold exposure, sometimes with a red-purple tone. They are aggravated by rapid reheating—feet on a radiator is a classic trigger. Warm up gently, keep feet dry and avoid tight, compressive footwear when you will be outdoors for long periods. If lesions recur, break down or do not settle, it is time to see a podiatrist for tailored advice.
When to book podiatry in West Hampstead
Persistent pain, recurrent ingrown nails, split heels that refuse to heal, and numbness or pins-and-needles in specific shoes all justify an appointment. At the Wellness and Beauty clinic, we can relieve pressure points, tidy problematic nails, advise on socks and boot fit, and map a maintenance plan that keeps you comfortable through to spring. A short visit now often saves weeks of discomfort later.
Comfortable feet make winter easier
Walking to and from stations, standing at events, running errands in the dark—the month is demanding enough. With fit dialled in, moisture controlled and skin looked after, your commute becomes routine rather than something to endure. That is the point: fewer surprises, fewer sore spots, more energy for the things you actually want to do.
Need winter-specific foot advice or treatment? Book a podiatry appointment at our North London clinic in West Hampstead: thewellnessandbeautyclinic.co.uk
