Cold air, wet pavements and heavier footwear can make feet uncomfortable fast. If your commute ends with sore toes or your heels are cracking by the weekend, a few podiatry-led adjustments can make winter far easier on your feet.
Why winter creates problems
Reduced circulation and dry air leave skin vulnerable to splits, while damp socks soften it in all the wrong places. Boots concentrate pressure over hours, and temperature swings can trigger chilblains in susceptible people. None of this is inevitable; it’s a question of fit, moisture management and early attention.
Make your boots work for you
Start with space. Your toes should splay comfortably even in thicker socks. Cushioning and a stable heel counter help long days feel shorter, and rotating pairs gives shoes time to dry completely. Moisture-wicking socks keep skin comfortable, and careful drying between the toes reduces the risk of irritation.
Keep skin and nails under control
Trim nails straight across so edges don’t dig in when you’re in closed shoes all day. Keep heels supple so tiny cracks don’t deepen into painful splits. If you notice persistent dampness between toes, adjust socks and dry thoroughly; it’s a common winter problem in London’s stop-start, umbrella-heavy weather.
A word on chilblains
Small, itchy and sometimes tender patches can appear after cold exposure and rapid re-warming. Warming feet gently, keeping them dry and choosing sensible footwear for outdoor stints make a difference. If patches are recurrent or break down, a podiatry review is the next step.
When it’s worth seeing a podiatrist
If pain persists, if ingrown nails repeat, or if pressure areas refuse to settle, professional care prevents bigger issues later. At The Wellness & Beauty Clinic in West Hampstead, we offer practical footwear guidance, nail and skin care, pressure relief strategies and maintenance plans that carry you through the colder months comfortably.
Book a podiatry appointment in North London: thewellnessandbeautyclinic.co.uk.
