Perfect Your Snow Waltz in Snow Shoes

The drudgery of having to shovel your snowy drive-way, sidewalk, and porch can be made easier this winter season. And no, despite its appeal, this does not necessarily mean you need to invest in the newest snow blower at the local hardware store. Actually, a great solution to easing the burden of snow-shoveling this winter season is the selection of proper snow shoes.

So, what kind of factors should you consider as you look into proper winter shoe wear this winter season? First, you should make the distinction between "winter" shoes and "snow" shoes. For purposes of addressing proper shoe attire for snow-shoveling, it's important to shift our emphasis to "snow" shoes. Winter shoes are intended for the general warmth of your feet during the winter season, but they lack the water-proof and sizing orientation that allows for the optimal moisture protection and stability needed for making routine stands against unruly snow drifts and the city plow.

Snow shoes, moreover, address these concerns pointedly. When looking for the proper snow shoes, heed these principles as chronicled by About.com's recent article regarding how to protect your feet from the elements of winter:

• Inspect the height of your snow shoe. The top of your snow shoe should extend high enough to a point just above the hem line of your pants. This affords your lower leg and ankle the needed protection from heat loss and ensures that any wayward snow will not find its way into the crevices of your shoes.
• Check the material of the uppers of your shoes. On the cuff of your snow shoe upper part, notice if the snow shoes are made of a leather or nylon. This material naturally wicks away moisture from the snow gathered on your shoe, which produces the necessary dry conditions needed for the protection of your feet.
• Inspect the material used to make the soles of your snow shoes. A solid rubber base on snow shoes offers the best protection for your feet against wet and cold elements. A rubber base is waterproof and can help ward against prevailing moisture.

As always, if you would like to speak to a podiatric professional about this or any other issue, please do not hesistate to contact Advanced Footcare Clinic in Findlay, Ohio as we can provide specialized service to these needs.