I wear SmartWools socks to temps below about 25 then I add toe covers. I've ridden with wind chills down to 6 and my toes stayed fairly warm. As for the cough, I'm asthmatic so I may not be of much help. I wear a balaclava that covers my mouth anytime I ride in temps below freezing and even some times when the temps are warmer but I'm riding in a headwind. You could try some Primatine (sp) Mist (OTC inhaler) after your ride and see if it helps the cough.