10 Things That Got Me Through Harvest (So You Don’t End Up Crying in the Cellar)
Harvest is no joke. We’re talking 12 to 14 hour days, six days a week, nonstop movement, and endless bending. Your body starts to fall apart faster than you’d think, especially your feet and your back. I remember feeling absolutely wrecked and wishing someone had warned me about what I’d need to stay sane.
So, here’s the list I wish I had during my first vintage. These are the products that saved me physically (and mentally). If you’re about to head into harvest, don’t skip this.
You can shop the full list here. (Affiliate link!)
Comfortable Work Boots
This one’s obvious, but seriously, get boots that last. Cellar work and vineyard work are tough on shoes, and you need something that can go the distance. I’ve tried a few brands over the years. I used to wear Doc Martens work boots, and they held up for two harvests. But after doing even more harvests, I realized my favorites are Timberland.
Blundstone, on the other hand, murdered my feet. I know they’re super popular, but they just didn’t work for me. Moral of the story? Try on a few and go with whatever actually feels good on your feet. Comfort is everything when you’re on them 14 hours a day.
Compression Socks
If you’re standing all day, your feet are going to swell. Compression socks help with circulation and reduce that awful end-of-day ache. I noticed an immediate difference on days I wore them versus when I forgot. Bombas is my favorite brand, but they’re pricey. I found a more affordable option that still works great.
Insoles
Even the best boots aren’t enough for me. I have high arches and walk heel-heavy, so I need extra support. Dr. Scholl’s Work Insoles with arch support and heel cushioning were total lifesavers. Some people don’t need them, but if your feet hurt no matter what, this might be the fix.
Foot Roller
Yes, we’re still talking about feet. This was the MVP of my entire harvest survival routine. I used it every night for five minutes per foot and the next day, I felt like a new person. It made a huge difference in keeping foot pain under control.
Foot File
Cellar floors are rough on your heels. The calluses are real, and honestly, pretty gross. A foot file keeps your skin from cracking and makes everything feel better. It’s also way less embarrassing than getting side-eyed during a post-harvest pedicure.
Kerasal Foot Repair
After using the foot file, this cream keeps your heels soft and helps prevent those painful splits. It comes with heel socks that you wear overnight to lock in the moisture. I use it during the off-season too because it actually works.
Back Stretcher
So much of harvest involves bending over barrels and tanks, which destroys your back. I finally bought a back stretcher and it was a game changer. I used it for five minutes every night, and it made a noticeable difference. No more feeling like I aged 20 years after a shift.
Leggings
I know not everyone is into this, but I live in leggings during harvest. They’re comfy, dry fast if you get soaked, and take up less space in the wash or your suitcase if you’re traveling. Plus, mine held up better than some of my actual work pants.
Hat
A must-have if you’re working outside. It protects your scalp from the sun, and if your winery doesn’t have shade over the crush pad, a hat makes a huge difference. I rotate through a few, but my favorite is my Adidas one. It just fits right and feels better than the others. Do I sound unhinged for having a favorite hat? Maybe. Still true though.
Fanny Pack
Yes, it’s old school, but so useful. I kept my phone, pens, hair ties, and AirPods in it. It even helped hold up my jeans when they got too loose. And on days I wore leggings without pockets, this came in clutch. Honestly, we should bring fanny packs back. They’re kind of iconic.
There you have it. My harvest survival lineup. These products kept me functional through the chaos and saved me from a total breakdown more than once.
Got a must-have item I didn’t mention? Drop it in the comments. I love hearing how other interns survive the madness.
