Compression Socks

[vaughan]

I just saw a write up in the current issue of In Fisherman on “compression circulation and warm feet” where they highlighted Ski Merino Compression Socks for ice fishing to keep your feet warm, etc.  just wondering if anyone out there has worn compression socks while ice fishing and if they in fact did keep your feet warm.  The idea sounds great for us older ice fishermen, especially those of us that don’t have a shanty.  Any comments appreciated.

[Rebelss]

Good post! That's true, especially with poor circulation or if you're a diabetic. I haven't worn them ice-fishing before, but do when I'm outside blowing snow when it's really cold, (10° or less) and they do help my old feet. I wear a light compression one with a loose wool sock over them.

[Ronnie D]

I wore a pair a few seasons back & after walking, my feet stayed warmer, but after sitting w/ slower blood circulation, same as usual socks. My go to is a boot 1/2 size bigger w/ 50 cent toe warmers on colder sits.

[skifisher]

I wore a pair a few seasons back & after walking, my feet stayed warmer, but after sitting w/ slower blood circulation, same as usual socks. My go to is a boot 1/2 size bigger w/ 50 cent toe warmers on colder sits.

I’ve fished without any shelter in minus 26 degrees, and never had cold toes.
If you need toe warmers, you need to find a better sock combination, and a better boot!

[Iceassin]

I’ve fished without any shelter in minus 26 degrees, and never had cold toes.
If you need toe warmers, you need to find a better sock combination, and a better boot!

Those of us that are 60+ years old might disagree with that. Poor circulation...the struggle is real. 

And I wouldn't fish in -26* at any age. Shelter or not. 

[skifisher]

Those of us that are 60+ years old might disagree with that. Poor circulation...the struggle is real. 

And I wouldn't fish in -26* at any age. Shelter or not. 

I’m 73!
I’m sure the temperature warmed up as the day progressed…-26 on the truck thermometer starting out at sunrise.

My point is you can do almost anything if you know how to dress for it.

[Rebelss]

And you still haven't learned to come in when it's -26° outside ?!   

[skifisher]

And you still haven't learned to come in when it's -26° outside ?!   

…I guess not! 😬

[esox_xtm]

And you still haven't learned to come in when it's -26° outside ?!   

I haven't! Kind of a "badge of Courage" if you will. Stood outside most of the day in that a coupla times. Gotta have good outer wear and great footwear. As far as boots the most important thing is to allow plenty of room inside. If you can't easily wiggle your toes you're gonna get cold. I don't care what you're wearing. Been on compression socks for a while. Started when I spent too much time sitting at a desk at work and then sitting more at home. Makes a difference to me. Sweaty feet get cold too. A good spray of antiperspirant deodorant works wonders. I use sure unscented for hunting and on the ice.

[FreshwaterPhil]

Saw the same ad in the latest In Fisherman issue, was wondering if they make any difference at all.

I use thermal socks with my baffins, never had any issues with cold feet, and I've fished into the minus 20's without shelter a number of times.

[Baetis62]

…I guess not! 😬

Ski I'm just guessing but I bet we've fished the same places.  Ant or 11.  Worst I've ever seen is  up there in Taylor Park.  -27 on the drive up at the dam.  Payoff is the most beautiful place to chase Lakers ever.  I've gotta drive 3-5 hours each way to fish these places but hit at least one of em every year.  Break your heart or make your Christmas Card.

[skifisher]

Baetis62,

You were spot on…That was at the Mile.
They had a temperature of -40+ at the other place!
Got to be crazy to fish in that kinda cold! Lol

[Raquettedacker]

Try these..

[tomturkey]

I am a diabetic. No way would I put on compression socks. I only buy diabetic socks. They are loose fitting so they do not restrict blood flow to your feet. A lot of diabetics end up having their feet amputated because of a lack of blood flow.

The right boots will keep your feet warm. I have had white Mickies and black ones. Always warm feet.  I went to Lacross icemen after they deteriorated.
A guy that worked in an unheated warehouse asked what I was wearing. He bought a pair and thanked me as it was the first time he had warm feet all winter.

[matzilla]

alpaca wool socks are hard to beat for comfort and warmth especially in boots

[pmaloney86]

Since I've added a layer of polypropylene sock liners my feet never get cold.  Prior to that my feet would sweat and it didn't matter what type of sock I had.  I was starting to think it was the lack of breathability in mucks or other rubber boots but once I added the poly liners over wool socks all my problems were solved.  They are pretty cheap so worth a shot.

https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/cabelas-over-the-calf-polypropylene-liner-socks-2-pair-pack