Enjoy COVID-Safe Winter Sports

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At NY Foot Health, we know staying active is essential no matter what the season or circumstances. Regular physical activity improves circulation, increases flexibility, and helps maintain an appropriate weight—all key factors in good foot health. Fortunately, winter provides numerous opportunities to enjoy several cold-weather sports and activities that are also COVID safe. Some choices include:

  • Snowboarding

  • Skiing—downhill and cross country

  • Ice skating

  • Snowmobiling

  • Tobogganing

  • Ice fishing

  • Snow tubing

  • Snowshoeing

You can do many of these activities either alone or with members of your household. Those in a more public setting follow safety protocols, including social distancing, masks, and frequent hand sanitizing.

Footwear Tips

To protect your feet while enjoying winter sports, you must choose the appropriate footwear for the activity you are doing. Many winter sports, like ice skating and skiing, require specialized footwear. It's important whether you own or rent your equipment that, your footwear fit you correctly. High backed skate and boots, mostly when made of rigid materials, can cause a condition known as Haglund’s Deformity or “pump bump.” It is an irritation to the bony protrusion at the back of your heel. Other issues such as blisters and toe deformities can result from winter sport footwear that doesn’t fit well. If you experience foot pain or discomfort after a winter activity, contact your podiatrist for an evaluation. Need to find a local podiatrist? Use our online directory.

Wearing the right socks is also important when protecting your feet during winter fun. Keeping feet warm and dry is the goal. You may want to wear two pairs of socks. A synthetic, moisture-wicking type of sock will help pull sweat away from the skin of your feet. It will reduce the risk of athlete’s foot and fungal infections. A thicker wool sock will keep your feet warm and prevent blisters.

To learn more about how to protect your feet during exercise and other activities, contact us and subscribe to our free e-newsletter.

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