Wet weather footwear Raynauds

[Benttoe]

Hello! Ok...I admit it, I am obsessed. I’m now worrying how I will run in wet weather. I have some goretex walking shoes, but they aren’t meant for running. I get completely numb and bloodless toes on cold days and don’t want to get frostbite If it’s cold. am I doomed to have to join a gym and use a treadmill in the winter?

[SlowLoris]

Generally the running keeps your feet warm even when they get wet.

[Benttoe Graduate in reply to SlowLoris]

I am a bit of a freak! [I have Raynaud's) I lose the blood supply to my toes really easily and have to wear electrically heated gloves and heated shoe insoles in the winter even when dry.

[SlowLoris in reply to Benttoe]

I know but I think running keeps the circulation going in your feet. I've run in freezing weather in just socks and running shoes.

If it does become an issue have a look at waterproof socks. Sealskinz make them. I also once saw a review for neoprene socks for cold weather.

The trouble with waterproof shoes is that water gets in from the top but can't get out again.

Edit.

Found it. It was Fellrunningguide.co.uk. Guy there was quite impressed with rooster neoprene sailing socks for cold wet weather.

[Benttoe Graduate in reply to SlowLoris]

Sealskinz ......of course! THANK YOU. just off to look at the roosters too!

[mrrun Graduate]

Socks and shoes will do the trick. You won't get frostbites in our climate if running, this is not artic circle.

[Benttoe Graduate in reply to mrrun]

I am a bit of a freak! [I have Raynaud's) I lose the blood supply to my toes really easily and have to wear electrically heated gloves and heated shoe insoles in the winter even when dry.

[mrrun Graduate in reply to Benttoe]

I have Raynoud's too. The only difference between my fingers and those of dead guys is that I'm somehow alive. Otherwise they are equally white and cold. Except when I'm running, when circulation is pumping and the blood is flowing. I run in all weather conditions, close to zero as well as manic hot, and l will have to take off my thermal gloves after 4-5K and stuff them in the pocket, cold winter or not.

[Benttoe Graduate in reply to mrrun]

Thank you.This is encouraging...maybe running will stop my toes getting as bad as when I cycle? In the meantime, I recommend Blazewear electric gloves to anyone with dead hands! No way will I be be able run with the electric insoles as they are quite chunky...I can’t walk with them, only cycle.

[2718281 Graduate in reply to Benttoe]

My mother has raynoud's too, she doesn't run, but if the electric insoles help you, maybe she should try them... Where did you get them? Thanks!!

[Benttoe Graduate in reply to 2718281]

The electric insoles are from Blazewear. BUT they are really only good for cycling as they lift the foot too high in back of shoe for walking. However, I think they also make electrically heated socks! Their gloves are fabulous...very expensive but I’ve had mine about 5 years.

[2718281 Graduate in reply to Benttoe]

Thanks, I'll have a look!

[GoogleMe Graduate]

The soles of 'walking shoes' are often rather inflexible which is probably not what you want for running (nor for keeping your tootsies warm I suspect although if they are working OK for you now you might be OK) But I started the programme in lightweight walking boots which were fine (certainly way better than my worst, expensive, running shoes) and in the Summer I run in Keen sandals quite often. So they might be worth a try.

I doubt you'd get actual 'frostbite' unless on a long run but it could well be painful and affect your gait of course. If you are not on medication currently it might be worth consulting on, given that your activities might otherwise be limited.

(FWIW acupuncture helped my circulation a lot. I didn't go for that, it is just what happened)

[Benttoe Graduate]

Thanks! My walking shoes actually are quite flexible at the ball of the foot. I’ve decided to buy some Enertor sports insoles and will try them out. If no good, the insoles will probably be really useful anyway!

I’m currently running in ASICS cumulus 20s and adore them!