Shake-activated handwarmers

jlj · 03-06-2011, 12:37 AM

One thing I don't like about camping in cold weather is it seems that no matter how many layers of socks I put on my toes are always cold. Then I found these handwarmer pouches that activate heat when you shake them and some last up to 8 hours or more. I just slip them in the bottom of my sleeping bag and they keep my feet warm all night. But if you use them, be careful not to put too many in your bag because you can burn your feet.

Jobiwan · 03-06-2011, 04:53 AM

They actually make toe warmers that are made out of the same stuff (iron powder) with adhesive to stick to your socks to stay in place.

If your feet are cold and you have on a bunch of layers, try removing some of the layers to create more insulating room. Too many layers in a shoe/boot makes the boot too tight and ya loose insulation.

Another thing: These hand-warmers turn to black "ink" when they get wet and break open. This has happened to me many times for both types. The toe warmers broke due to sweat.

Refrigerator · 03-06-2011, 05:58 AM

I take the toe warmers and place on top of my toes thus giving more oxygen flow. I have found that placing on the foot bed will sometimes close or diminish oxygen. They need oxygen to work and also keeps bottom moisture away.
They have gotten much better as far as quality. The only thing to remember is get them fresh. Be weary of sales or older products. Once I bought many for clients on sale cheap for a ADK trip in FEB 2004 ......looked at the best used by date (2003) and yes they were all old and only 50% worked like they should have, so my 50% off buy was not a sale at all.

outdoorsy · 03-06-2011, 04:59 PM

This sounds like something I need. I like the idea of placing them on your toes instead of under your toes too. Once my feet get cold my whole body gets cold and it takes me forever to warm up. Can you buy them at Dick's sporting goods?

Refrigerator · 03-06-2011, 06:05 PM

They should be available at Dick's

jlj · 03-06-2011, 11:20 PM

I was able to buy a big box of the handwarmers on Amazon a few years ago for a very reasonable price, if you 're interested in buying them in bulk. I can't remember the name brand but they came in a gold and orange packet. I haven't seen the toe warmers, I'll have to look for them. The handwarmers are also great for underneath a pillow (I hate laying down on a freezing, cold pillow at night) and of course your pockets. I love these things, they've been a lifesaver for my family on so many occasions.

Grandpa · 03-06-2011, 11:28 PM

We've bought them at Wal-mart and they have them seasonally at Costco. We use a lot of them during football season.

Benny · 03-07-2011, 06:55 AM

They are pretty cool and do get really hot at first, but the heat doesn't last long enough. You will want to have plenty of them with you.....

OpenAir · 03-07-2011, 07:54 AM

I never really liked the fact that you then had to throw them away. I bought some gel filled ones instead, that you boil to reset. The first set I bought lasted me for years before they got punctured.

outwest · 03-07-2011, 04:19 PM

I have not tried those before but I have used the things to slip into socks when hunting. I never had issues but I have heard of some people improperly using them and getting burns.