Tags
blisters, camping, heals, hiking, hiking boots, mountains, outdoors, prevent blisters, tips, travel
This weekend I did the ultimate no-no. Can you guess? That’s right, I hiked without breaking in my shoes. I thought “Sure I can backpack 5 miles out with new shoes! I’ve gotten blisters before but this is different!” Um.. no! Its that moment you haven’t reached your destination and your heals become raw. All you can think about is that you have to hike BACK as well. Here are a few tips that I need to consider:
- Wear taller socks- don’t wear ankle socks wear your heal is already exposed. Invest in socks that cover your heals.
- Put on band aids (or moleskin) before you hike- If you are prone to blisters no matter what, try to add an extra layer.
- Get wet- If you have blisters and you are near a river, trout through the water. The cooling sensation will help alleviate pain.
For more tips on preventing and dealing with blisters, check out my 6 tips. Feel free to add any tips!
Girly Camping® 
If you have some cotton and a needle you should thread the cotton through the blister. Cut the thread leaving the cotton hanging out the blister. This prevents the blister closing and the cotton wicks away all the fluid while you hike. When you reach a way point remove the cotton and treat your foot accordingly.
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that looks painful…sorry
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No hiking boots yet? Safe and comfortable beats cute every time! 🙂
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I find I don’t need to break in my boots when I get them. I’ve found a brand who’s shoes fit me well and now if I just stick to that brand I’ll have no trouble. One pair of boots I got I wore for 20 miles on the first outing and had no trouble.
If you’re using cotton socks I’d stop using them, they almost guarentee blisters if walking more than 10 miles. Personally I use a wool blend, but synthetic socks are also very good but smell far worse.
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