WINTER FOOT CARE: 4 WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR FEET ON THE SLOPES

January – March are big snow ski months; those months when half of Texas heads up to Colorado or New Mexico to enjoy the snow and ski to their hearts content!

Skiing can be all fun and games until an injury occurs. At Precision Podiatry – a top podiatrist in Round Rock – we want you to have a safe and fun time on the slopes. Here are 4 tips on how to protect your feet and ankles on the slopes this winter season:

Make Sure The Boots Fit
A huge part of winter sports is getting the right fit for the boots. The right fit can either make or break your day of skiing. Get fitted into your specialty footwear by someone who knows how they should fit. Properly fitting ski boots should feel supportive and tight around the heel and arch, while leaving room for you to wiggle your toes up front. If your boots are too tight, you could risk blisters, improper circulation, or a painful day of skiing that takes all the fun out of your day. If your boots are too loose, then ankle injuries are a huge concern. Your boots should provide proper support for your ankles, otherwise you may end up with an ankle fracture or sprain. Additionally, loose boots allow socks to slide around, causing corns or blisters.

Wear the Right Socks
Speaking of socks, not just any old socks will do when you are skiing! Ski boots are designed to keep your feet warm and well insulated, so socks that wick moisture away from your feet is a huge must. At Precision Podiatry, our podiatrist in Rock Round recommends purchasing wool ski socks or another synthetic blend. Do not wear cotton socks! 100% cotton socks leave fit wet and soggy – a bad mixture for warm ski boots and physical activity. This can make your feet cold on the slopes, cause blisters from the friction, and even promote fungal growth.

Wash Feet Immediately After Skiing
As quickly as you are able after skiing, wash your feet with warm soap and water and put fresh socks on. Ski rental places do their best to keep boots fresh and clean, but all the usage can promote fungal growth. Keep yourself safe by taking the proper precautions to keep feet clean and dry both during and after a ski session.

Make Sure Feet are Warm
Chances are, you aren’t going to experience the risk of frostbite during your winter snow skiing session, but keeping feet warm is a key part of keeping feet healthy and having an enjoyable day on the slopes. Remember – dry feet are warm feet. Only wear one pair of socks, and again, synthetics that wick sweat are best. If you feel the need for added foot warmth, then toe warming inserts can be purchased at your local sports equipment store. 

If you experience any issues with your feet or ankles after skiing, come see us at Precision Podiatry – the top podiatrist in Round Rock. We can diagnose your issue quickly and get you back on your feet in no time.