Cold Toes in Winter? Let’s Talk About What Actually Matters (Updated)

Winter in the North has increasingly become challenging as we navigate periods of warming and deep cold. One day it's -20C, and the next it warm slushy puddle at +8C. This unique fluctuation in our temperature has started to create some challenging situations when it comes to keeping toes warm. 

But regardless of the outdoor temperature, or the quality of your boot - cold toes are a problem we hear about regularly. It's a regular complaint that is the mix of many different factors. And the truth is, it’s rarely just about buying a “warmer” boot. Keeping kids’ feet warm in Northern BC winters comes down to fit, circulation, dryness, socks, and overall body warmth.

Here’s what actually matters — updated for winter 2025.

1. Winter Boots Need Wiggle Room for Warm Toes

If toes can’t wiggle, blood can’t circulate and without circulation, feet get cold fast.

This season we got down on the floor with hundreds of you - and I can promise that so many families are buying footwear that is too small. Now, with boots there is this awareness of trying to get 6 months of wear out of one pair so you are more likely to size up than with runners - but I'd think you'd be surprise at how much room you need. We arent' buying ski boots that need that perfect fit; wer'e buying running around and playing boots that need space to move, grow, and roll through.

Children’s winter boots that are too snug (especially once thicker socks are added) restrict blood flow and make toes colder, not warmer. We recommend aiming for about ½ inch of space at the toe, roughly one full finger of room. 

Fit tip for parents

Boots are hard to assess from the outside. If possible:

• Remove the insole or liner
  

• Have your child stand on it
  

• Check length and width
  

This isn't always possible - but if possible can be a great start.  Many styles within the Reima footwear collection offer this unique perk for trying on. A boot can fit in length but still be too narrow or shallow, which affects warmth. We comfortably sized my daughter up into a youth 7 this year

2. Dry Feet Are Warm Feet (Waterproof Matters)

Nothing makes feet colder faster than moisture.

Snow, slush, and sweat all work against warmth, which is why true waterproofing matters — not just “water resistant.” Many winter boots are designed for deep cold but struggle in wet, slushy conditions common during these warmer seasonal flucuations. For some families this might mean having two boots on hand like warm waterproof boot, and a deep cold snow boot. As easy as it is to want just one pair of shoes for the six months of winter; sometimes options can make for a better experience as it adapts to different changing conditions. 

Look for boots with:

• High-quality waterproof membranes, or rubber galosh soles - we've been really impressed with all things Reimatec for their waterproof membranes. But waterproof membranes often come with a double the price kinda price tag. So if picking up a warm winter boot with a water resistant exterior keep in mind that slushy warm days may lead to wet feet - and a rain boot with liner could be a better choice. 

  • A galosh boot is common in the winter for warmth and affordability by mixing a waterproof rubber sole with a water resistant insluated upper. This is one of the more common fits in both new and used - and we see with the Reima Nefar Winter/snow boot this year. 
    
    

• Breathable construction that allows moisture to escape
  

Breathability is key — sweaty socks can chill feet just as fast as snow.

Also check the top of the boot. Loose pant hems or poorly sealed cuffs let snow sneak in and undo all that warmth. Layering gear with tight cuffs can help improve the experience of well built ankle boots; while considering and being realistic abou the limit of different products 

Don't be scared to use those foot straps on snowsuits and rain pants for toddlers over your boots to keep the pants down and ankles dry.

3. Socks Can Make or Break Warmth

Sometimes it’s not the boot — it’s the socks. 🧦

Cotton socks are one of the biggest winter mistakes. Cotton absorbs moisture, stays wet, and pulls heat away from feet. Even the warmest boot can’t overcome a cold, damp cotton sock. Truth be told - so many of us just shove a cotton socked foot into our boots and call it a day. 

This is sometimes that area where investing in a really good boot can save you money long term if you're not ready for investing in wool socks. My kids have always hated socks and for a few years the wool boots of Emu Australia or Uggs have come in clutch for overing warmth, breathability without needing to fuss over socks. 

What works better in winter:

• Wool or wool-blend socks (including IsoWool)
  

• Shearling or fleece blends
  

• Socks that insulate and manage moisture
  

Equally important: don’t overdo thickness.
 A sock that gets crushed inside the boot reduces circulation and can actually make feet colder. Snug — not tight — is the goal. Does this start to feel like too many guidelines to follow and abide by? Sometimes it does for me, which is why I think the next idea is one of the most important. 

4. A Warm Core Helps Keep Toes Warm

This one surprises a lot of families, but it matters more than you think. When the body is cold, it prioritizes keeping the core warm and pulls heat away from hands and feet. If your child’s torso isn’t warm enough, even the best winter boots won’t solve cold toes.

Focus on:

• Thermal base layers
  

• Insulating mid-layers
  

• A properly rated winter jacket
  

A warm core helps heat reach the extremities including toes. Your feet are never going to be warm if your core is cold. Warm that body up - however you can. 

5. When It Is the Boot: Deep-Cold Performance Matters

If fit, socks, dryness, and layering are all dialed in and toes are still cold, it may be time for a higher-performance boot. A great example for Northern BC families is the Reima Laplander, a youth winter boot rated to -40°C. It combines:

• A wool-synthetic insulation blend that stays warm during long outdoor play
  

• High-quality waterproof membranes to keep feet dry
  

My kid has been wearing this boot all winter without any complaints. It's a hefty well built boot for the deep cold tha tis easy to get on, and keeps you warm no matter what. She hasn't even complained of being too warmed, and swaped it out for her stylish cozy wool booties I picked up from Winners. 

 

Before You Buy Another Pair of Boots…

You’ve got this. 💛
Before replacing boots, try:

• Switching to wool socks
  

• Making sure socks aren’t too thick or tight
  

• Double-checking overall boot fit
  

• Bundling up the core properly
  
  

Often, these changes make a bigger difference than buying a new pair.

Winter Gear for Northern BC Families

At Nest & Sprout, we curate winter gear with Prince George winters in mind — brands and products that work for real cold, wet days and active kids.

Whether you’re adjusting socks, rethinking fit, or investing in serious winter boots, we’re here to help you find what actually works for your family.

Stay warm,
Bailey 💛
Nest & Sprout