Originally Posted by
wphamilton
Constricted blood flow can obliterate the effectiveness of layers if it makes them tighter, which is why extra or thicker socks never worked for me. We need the blood flow to keep extremities warm. Best for me have been the thicker neoprene shoe covers, and I can put something between those and the shoe as well.
Also, I mention because people sometimes dispute me on this so I think it's not generally known, keeping the lower legs warmer (to keep the blood warm) helps with the feet. Ditto wrists and forearms.
I have done as many as 3 layers on my legs, with SPD shoes with aerogel thermal insoles, wool socks, AND full neoprene shoe covers extending up my lower legs. Toes still freeze after about 45 minutes. I'm pretty certain that either chemical or battery-powered warmers are all that's going to work for me.