What Is Cuffing Season & Why Is It A Thing?

It’s officially fall, which means cuffing season is just around the corner. If you’re in the dating world, you’ve likely heard the term or experienced it first-hand. If not, don’t worry — we’re here to help. So what is cuffing season and why is it even a thing? Here’s the deal.

What is cuffing season?

Cuffing season is the period of time when people who generally relish being single and playing the field decide they want a relationship… at least while the weather is cold. These short-term partnerships are meant to give people who participate in cuffing season regular companionship and sex until spring comes and it’s time to get back out on the dating scene again.

Why is this a thing?

Who wants to date when it’s cold out? During the colder months — cuffing season generally starts in October and ends just after (or right before) Valentine’s Day — most people want to stay warm and cozy indoors rather than having to go out and try to find someone. Not only that, but it’d be nice to have a plus-one to take to your work holiday party and Friendsgiving celebrations, which is always a bonus.

By finding someone to “cuff,” for the season, you basically have all the benefits of having a partner with the understanding that you’ll be dropping them like a bad habit come spring.

Why cuffing season is so toxic

  1. You never know if your relationship is real. Most people aren’t going to come straight out and tell you that they’re only going to be into you until the clocks go forward again. This means you might end up getting involved with someone that you really like, only for them to drop you without warning a few months later.
  2. It’s a waste of valuable time. When you’re with someone through cuffing season, you’re basically losing half your year on pursuing more valuable connections. Of course, it’s cool if you’re also only looking for something temporary, but if you’re dating for love, throwing away five months and having to start from scratch again come spring is a major bummer.
  3. It makes you feel disposable. You’re worth investing in. You’re girlfriend material. By being “cuffed” to someone, you start to feel like you’re not good enough to actually be in a long-term relationship with. It can take its toll on your self-esteem, and given how much regular dating already does this, cuffing season just makes things worse.
Bolde has been a source of dating and relationship advice for single women around the world since 2014. We combine scientific data, experiential wisdom, and personal anecdotes to provide help and encouragement to those frustrated by the journey to find love. Follow us on Instagram @bolde_media or on Facebook @BoldeMedia
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