How to Keep Hands & Feet Warm

Your feet and hands can lose warmth in the snow if you're not prepared.

If you've ever been caught in a snowstorm, you know that your hands and feet are two of the most difficult parts of the body to keep warm. Even with gloves and boots, you may find that the heat from your hands and feet is sapped a few minutes after going up against the elements. You can help retain your body's heat and circulate the heat to your hands and feet by dressing properly and keeping your entire body warm.

Instructions

1. Clothe your entire body and wear a winter hat. Heat escapes through uncovered areas on your body, such as an uncovered arm, leg, hand or your head. Keeping heat from escaping means your feet and hands don't lose that much-needed warmth.

2. Run, jump, move and do anything that will warm the core of your body. Exertion of any kind warms your body, and a warm core means that your feet and hands can retain their warmth. When your body begins to cool, your body's circulation works in a way that the warmth from your hands and feet are pulled to the core of your body. Drinking warm liquids also warms your body's core.

3. Dress in fleece or wool gloves and socks. Fleece and wool material keeps you warmer than other material, such as cotton or polyester. Don't wear more than three layers of socks; otherwise you will hinder the circulation in your feet. Stick to two layers if possible.

4. Wear water-resistant boots. Whether you're out in the rain or snow, your feet will become wet in a hurry if you're wearing boots that don't protect against moisture. Water-resistant boots ensure that the inside of the boot will remain dry, which means that your feet will remain warm.

References

• ESPN: Winter Duds
• Health Line: Myths and Tips About Dressing for Winter
• New York Times: The Claim: You Lose Most of Your Body Heat Through Your Head