How to stay warm in (extreme) cold? Tips to prevent cold hands and feet.

Meteorologists are predicting a cold winter, with more sub-zero days and longer frost periods. For many people this means: shivering on the bike, numb fingers while working or exercising, and feet you can’t feel after five minutes outside. But why do certain body parts get cold faster – and more importantly: what can you do about it?

Why does the body get cold?

When temperatures drop, your body switches to “survival mode”. It prioritises the core (heart, lungs, vital organs) and reduces blood flow to your extremities. That’s why your fingers, toes, nose and ears cool down fastest – with risks such as numbness, pain or even frostbite.

These body parts get cold first (and why)

How to prevent your body from cooling down

1. Protect the extremities first

Your body simply cannot function without warm hands and feet.

• Heated gloves or mittens keep blood flowing to the fingertips
• Heated socks or insoles stop numb toes
• A heated bodywarmer or jacket warms the core – and therefore the rest

Heat comes from within, but escapes through the outer zones. Warm fingers + toes = longer comfort and performance.

2. Layering

• Start with a thermal or heated base layer
• Add an insulating layer (fleece, padded fabric etc.)
• Finish with a windproof, waterproof outer layer

Common mistake: thick winter coat, but cold feet = you will still get cold.

3. Food & movement really help

• Eat healthy fats and warm meals (oatmeal, soup, nuts → long-lasting energy)
• Avoid alcohol (brief warmth, then faster cooling)
• Move your fingers and toes regularly, even inside gloves and shoes

5 quick tips against instant cold

1. Turn on the heat of your product before going outside
2. Don’t wear socks or shoes that are too tight → blocks circulation
3. Use gloves with heated fingertips, or Dual Heating for full coverage
4. Warm the core → hands stay warm longer