It is easy to keep yourself warm when it’s cold, but it is much harder to cool down on a hot day! One of the most frustrating things about hiking in the summer is staying cool even if the sun is blazing down on you. It is especially difficult to keep your feet cool because hiking boots are usually insulated, and if your feet get hot, that heat isn’t going to go anywhere.
So, now you’re here trying to find ways you can use to keep your feet cool. It is important because it can make your whole body uncomfortable if your feet overheat. You’ve come to the right place because we’re going to give you some helpful examples of how to cool down even in hiking boots.
This article will tell you what you need to do before and during your hiking trips to keep your feet cool. Read on to find out what you’re looking for!
How To Keep Feet Cool In Hiking Boots
There are various things to consider to keep your feet cool in hiking boots – from the boots themselves to your overall hiking attire.
Keeping your feet is not only good for your comfort, but it’s good for your feet’ health and hygiene. If you allow your feet to get too hot, they’ll sweat.
If your boots are not breathable enough, the sweat will make your socks wet. Those things, along with more issues, can cause a series of problems for you we will discuss later on.
So now, let us explain how and what you can do to keep your feet cool.
Choosing The Correct Insole For Your Hiking Boots
What are you waiting for if you do not have cooling gel insoles and live in a hot area? During hot, sunny days, the ground absorbs heat from air and sunlight, which means it can get even hotter than the weather itself.
When you are hiking in non-insulated hiking boots, the soles of your shoes will absorb the heat and disperse it into themselves.
Having hiking boots designed to withstand hot weather and protect your feet from it will make a huge difference. However, even if your boots are not insulated, you can buy yourself some cooling gel insoles instead!
Cooling gel insoles will do exactly what they’re called – they are made with gel that can keep your feet and hiking boots cool. Cooling gel insoles will protect your feet and absorb heat from your boots without further dispersing it to your feet.
Wearing The Correct Type Of Socks To Keep Your Feet Cool
Another good way to keep your feet cool is to use moisture-wicking socks. Moisture-wicking socks are usually thicker but more breathable than regular socks. You will find that athletes usually wear moisture-wicking socks whenever they train and compete.
Moisture-wicking socks have various benefits over regular socks. They can prevent bacterial and fungal growths, significantly reducing foot odor. When your feet get sweaty in an enclosed space such as hiking boots, it creates the perfect environment for microorganisms to flourish!
Additionally, sweaty feet can cause blisters and hotspots during long mile hikes. Thanks to their material, moisture-wicking socks will also protect your feet from blistering.
Hiking Boots With High Breathability
If you have especially sweaty feet, highly breathable hiking boots will be your best friend. By combining moisture-wicking socks and breathable hiking boots, you can make a big difference. You will find that your feet can stay cooler, and much less sweat will accumulate.
It helps in preventing microbial growth, fungal infections and awful odor. The breathable boots will allow your sweat to vaporize and keep your feet dry and happy.
Wearing Shorts Instead Of Heavy Pants
Your hiking clothes also really matter. If it’s an especially hot day, we suggest that you wear short, breathable clothing. In this case, to help keep your feet cool, some good shorts will do the trick.
You don’t need to buy any fancy sportswear – any comfortable, breathable pair of shorts will do. It will keep your legs cool, and in extension, your feet as well.
Your lower body may not be affected by cold weather easily, but the heat can cause your whole body to feel uncomfortable.
Take Breaks To Air Out Your Socks And Hiking Boots
If you are on long mile hikes that last at least a couple of hours, we recommend that you take a few breaks in between. During your hiking breaks, you can take your boots and socks off, let them air out, drink water and cool yourself down.
By doing this, you will allow your hiking boots and socks to remain dry, as well as your feet. It will help prevent odors, bacterial and fungal infections, and blisters.
You could also stop enjoying the best views or take photographs along the hiking trail.
Final Thoughts
Now you know that there are several ways of keeping your feet cool. But the bottom line is: keeping your feet cool and dry will save you from some annoying issues as well as more serious ones. Besides, it’s all a part of maintaining good hygiene!
You could either implement one, multiple or all of the solutions we provided in this article. We would highly recommend that you get breathable hiking boots and moisture-wicking socks. These two additions to your hiking attire will make your hikes so much more enjoyable.
You would worry less about your feet and feeling too hot and focus on your surroundings more. It’s especially great for people who sweat or overheat easily.
To conclude, we hope you found this article useful! Like we’ve said before, keep your feet dry and happy.
