Keeping Feet Protected on an Arctic Expedition

An arctic expedition is on the bucket list for many climbers and the preparation for an endeavor such as that takes months and even years. Part of the preparation is physical and another large part is collecting the exact gear and supplies to make the expedition a success.

What About Feet?

The right footwear will make or break your mountain top experience. The weather can be extreme so you need to make sure feet are protected from cold temperatures and wetness. The wrong boots will leave feet and toes at risk for frostbite and serious injury.

Doug Stoup is a world-renowned expedition leader who also has a line of boots bearing his name for people who want to follow in his footsteps. Boots such as these are an investment but the features that you get are needed to keep feet safe. These boots and others such as these will keep feet warm in temperatures as low as -148°F. The liners inside wick away moisture to keep feet dry and comfortable. The outsoles are made of specific material that will stay flexible in the cold and have sole patterns that give enough traction in snow and ice.

Sorel is another great brand of boots that will do a great job of protecting feet on an expedition. Their drawstring tops keep snow and water out and feet dry. Waterproof soles and thick removable liners also keep feet comfortable and able to withstand the elements.

Whatever you decide on, the key is to keep feet warm and dry. Frostbite is dangerous and can lead to amputation in some cases. If you are gearing up for an expedition adventure, make sure your feet are ready. Have them evaluated by Dr. Jeff Bowman, foot specialist in Houston, TX. Call our podiatric office at (713) 467-8886 or visit us at www.houstonfootspecialists.com.

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Slip Your Feet into Something More Comfortable

Are you someone who has slippers waiting at your bedside for your feet first thing in the morning? Maybe you are the type to kick off the shoes you have worn all day and grab something more comfortable for your feet when you get home. Whether you call them slippers, house shoes or cozies, they can provide some much needed TLC for your feet and also keep them safe.

Believe it or not, there is more to slippers than you might realize. They keep feet warm and comfortable and help prevent injury. Many people love the freedom of going barefoot but this can pose a big risk for feet, especially those belonging to a diabetic. Diabetics should never go barefoot. Stepping on something and getting a cut or scratch could become very serious. Less blood flow to the feet makes it harder to heal an injury or resist an infection. Slippers can be a great option to provide a barrier around the house.

When looking for a good pair of slippers, diabetic or not, only choose ones that have non-slip soles to prevent slips and falls. This is especially important for the elderly. Look for washable fabrics and slippers with memory foam insoles as they provide a bit of extra comfort.

Spend a little more for special slippers.

There are some great online stores that offer special slippers with orthopedic and therapeutic features. Some provide slippers for the whole family with arch supports, memory foam insoles and removable foot beds that can accommodate custom orthotics. There are also slippers available in extra wide options to give room for those with foot and toe problems. If you have a foot problem or an injury, it helps to treat your feet well and that might mean spending a little extra on a great pair of slippers.

At Houston Foot Specialists, Dr. Jeff Bowman always encourages his patients to go the extra mile when it comes to foot care. For you, that might mean investing in a good pair of slippers. If you live in the Houston, TX area and are in need of foot care, please contact us today at (713) 467-8886. You can also visit our website at www.houstonfootspecialists.com. Your feet deserve it.

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