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5 Steps To Comfortable Feet When Out Walking

Posted by Bethan Bithell on Mar 16, 2024

Unlocking Comfort: Five Tips to Happy Feet on Your Walk

Experiencing discomfort like aching, cold, or hot feet while walking or hiking can quickly dampen your enjoyment!

You might notice that initially, your feet feel fine, but as you progress into your walk, discomfort sets in. Around two miles in, your feet may start to feel hot and achy, prompting you to pause, admire the scenery, and give your feet a break. After about twenty minutes, the discomfort subsides, and your feet cool down – fantastic! Eager to continue, you resume your walk, only to find that less than thirty minutes later, your  feet are now cold. This prompts you to stop once again, remove your boots and socks, and vigorously rub your feet to regain warmth. Sound familiar?

Numerous factors can contribute to the discomfort of aching, hot, or cold feet! Among them, two common culprits might include:

  1. Choosing inappropriate socks
  2. Wearing the wrong walking boots or shoes

Below are our five step solutions to help reduce foot ache, hot and cold feet.

Tip 1

Coolmax Walking Socks

Hoggs of Fife Field & Outdoor Socks

As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I understand the importance of having the right gear, especially when it comes to keeping your feet happy and cool during long walks or hikes. That's where Coolmax walking socks come in – they're like your feet's personal air conditioner, keeping them dry and comfy no matter where your adventures take you.

Coolmax  walking socks are designed to pull moisture away from your skin, which means less sweat pooling around your feet. This not only prevents blisters and discomfort but also helps keep your feet feeling fresh and dry, even on the hottest days.

Wearing cotton socks traps moisture inside, which keeps your feet warm initially. However, as your feet start to cool down, especially after taking a break, the trapped moisture in the socks can lead to them becoming wet or damp, leaving you with chilly feet.

One of the best things about Coolmax socks is how breathable they are. They're made with lightweight materials and special ventilation zones that allow air to circulate around your feet, so you stay cool and comfortable all day long.

Whether you're hitting the trails or pounding the pavement, Coolmax walking socks are a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their feet feeling cool and happy. Say goodbye to sweaty, uncomfortable feet and hello to the refreshing comfort of Coolmax – your feet will thank you!

Tip 2

Merino Wool walking socks

Horizon Merino Hike Socks

Merino wool walking socks are a game-changer in keeping your feet comfortable, as they offer a blend of snugness and performance that's hard to beat.

Made from top-notch Merino wool, these socks excel at keeping your feet cool and dry, even when the temperature rises. Unlike cotton socks that tend to hold onto moisture, Merino wool actively wicks away sweat, keeping blisters and discomfort at bay.

But what's truly remarkable about Merino walking socks is their adaptability. Whether you're hiking in scorching heat or chilly conditions, these socks work to maintain the perfect temperature for your feet, ensuring you stay comfortable no matter the terrain.

And let's not forget about odour control – Merino wool naturally fights off funky smells, so you can say goodbye to stinky feet after a long day on the trail.

Plus, these socks are incredibly soft and gentle on your skin unlike traditional wool, so you can enjoy your adventure without worrying about irritation or chafing.

For example, the  Horizon Merino Hike sock combines Merino wool for warmth, along with Polypropylene, Polyamide, and Acrylic for durability, and Lycra for a snug and comfortable fit.

Tip 3

Padded walking socks

Horizon Merino Trekker Socks

A possible cause of aching feet is insufficient padding in the sock, resulting in aching achilles and boots rubbing on your ankle.

When your socks lack proper cushioning, it can lead to aching Achilles tendons and annoying rubbing from your boots around the ankles. But fear not, because padded and shaped walking socks are here to save the day.

These socks are engineered with extra cushioning in all the right places, providing targeted support and protection where you need it most. Say goodbye to achy feet and hello to blissful comfort with every step you take.

But the benefits don't stop there. Padded and shaped walking socks also help prevent blisters and hot spots by reducing friction and pressure points. This means you can focus on enjoying your outdoor adventures without being sidelined by painful foot issues.

What sets these socks apart is their ergonomic design, which conforms to the shape of your foot for a snug and supportive fit. No more bunching or slipping – just a seamless connection between your feet and your footwear, allowing for optimal performance and comfort.

Whether you're tackling rugged trails or pounding the pavement, padded and shaped walking socks are a game-changer for anyone seeking maximum comfort and support on their outdoor excursions.

> Shop our collection of walking socks

Tip 4

Non-breathable membranes

Wearing the wrong walking boots or shoes can make your feet uncomfortable. Some of these shoes have a waterproof layer, which keeps your feet dry but might also trap heat and moisture inside, causing discomfort.

Grisport Terrain Walking Boots

However, with Grisport walking boots and shoes like the Grisport Quatro backpacking boot, this concern is addressed. Featuring a waterproof and breathable membrane, these boots keep rain at bay while allowing heat and moisture to escape, keeping your feet cool and comfortable. The Grisport Dartmoor walking shoe provides similar protection, making it a reliable choice for outdoor adventures.

Additionally, the use of high-quality leather enhances breathability, ensuring your feet can breathe freely. If you're in search of Italian leather boots, consider checking out Grisport boots. They're crafted in Italy using high-quality Italian leather.

Tip 5

Comfortable sole unit

Ensuring a comfortable walk is essential, and it starts with choosing the right walking boot with a sole unit that provides comfort, stability, and support. A rigid sole unit can exert strain on the bones of your feet and knees, leading to discomfort and potentially causing aches in your feet, knees, and even your back.

Grisport Lady Glide Waterproof Boot

Fortunately, Grisport has addressed this issue by designing a five-layer sole unit that promises a comfortable walking experience. This innovative design aims to alleviate pressure and provide ample support throughout your stride. What's more, all Grisport walking boots and shoes come equipped with arch support insoles, further enhancing comfort and reducing the risk of foot fatigue.

Remember, selecting the appropriate footwear is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable walk. So, before you hit the trails or sidewalks, be sure to choose footwear that prioritises your comfort and well-being. Your feet will thank you for it!

These four layers include:

  1. Midsole - The midsole is crafted from dual-density PU, a material chosen for its lightweight properties, which not only reduces the overall weight of their boots but also ensures a cushioned walk with guaranteed comfort.
  2. Stabiliser - The stabiliser, made of denser PU, works to prevent twisting while walking on rugged terrain.
  3. Sole Lining - The sole lining provides insulation while also allowing for breathability.
  4. Outsole - These boots feature various types of outsoles, all carefully crafted by Grisport’s design team. The patterns of the Vibram sole units are unique to Grisport, ensuring exceptional quality and performance. For maximum durability, be sure to choose boots with rubber or Vibram soles.

Grisport Five Layer Sole Unit

Shop our collection of Walking Boots and Shoes

5 Tips In Summary:

  • Opt for walking socks with Coolmax technology to regulate temperature and prevent overheating.
  • Choose walking socks with Merino Wool to keep your feet warm in cold conditions.
  • Select walking socks with padding on pressure points for added comfort.
  • Opt for walking boots with a waterproof and breathable membrane to allow moisture to escape.
  • Look for walking boots with a stabiliser and midsole to enhance comfort during walks.

Enjoy, safe and comfortable walking and hiking!

FAQ

What Socks Are Good For Hiking?

When it comes to socks, the best ones for hiking are those that offer a perfect blend of comfort, durability, and performance. Look for socks specifically designed for hiking, crafted from moisture-wicking materials like Merino wool or synthetic fibers such as Coolmax. These socks keep your feet dry and blister-free, even on the longest trails. Additionally, seek out socks with cushioning in key areas to provide extra support and reduce fatigue.

How To Manage Overheated Feet While Walking

Choose moisture-wicking socks made from materials like Merino wool or synthetic fibers (e.g. Coolmax) to keep your feet dry. Wear breathable and lightweight footwear with ample ventilation to allow air circulation around your feet. Consider taking breaks in shaded areas to cool down and remove your shoes to let your feet breathe. Lastly, staying hydrated is crucial to regulate your body temperature.

How To Deal With Cold Feet When Walking

Ensure you are wearing appropriate footwear with proper insulation to keep your feet warm. Consider layering with moisture-wicking socks made from materials like Merino wool to retain heat while keeping moisture at bay. Opt for shoes or boots that provide adequate protection against cold and damp conditions.

Last Modified: 16th March 2024

(Original 6th February 2014)

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