Hello, I’ve been struggling with getting blisters on my feet way too easily. It runs in my family (my dad and grandmother have the same issue). I’ve tried many things—different shoes, double layer socks, taping my feet, specialized socks, different materials, etc. The only thing that has helped a bit is wearing sandals, as they create fewer contact points, but I still get blisters after long hikes.
I love hiking, but full-day hikes leave me limping for days afterward. Has anyone found a shoe, sock, or something that works to prevent blisters?
Have you tried Leukotape P? Pre-applying it to the areas you usually get blisters might help. Also, custom footbeds could help by locking your heel down to reduce friction.
Riley said:
Have you tried Leukotape P? Pre-applying it to the areas you usually get blisters might help. Also, custom footbeds could help by locking your heel down to reduce friction.
Leukotape and custom footbeds are great suggestions.
Have you tried foot powder? It can make a big difference, especially if your feet sweat a lot. Also, did you use dedicated liner socks with your double socks? Combining foot powder with a merino wool or nylon liner sock and a thick merino outer sock could help.
I use Gold Bond Triple Action foot powder and Smartwool socks. But I’d still suggest seeing a doctor since feet are tricky, and it’s hard to give specific advice without seeing them in person.
You’ve probably already tried this, but I used to wear dress socks underneath regular socks. The dress socks slide against the regular ones, keeping your foot from moving too much inside the shoe. I recommended this to others during Basic Training, and it helped them avoid blisters too.
Have you heard of ‘hiking wool’? It’s been a game changer for me. Just put bits of it inside your sock in the spots where you usually get blisters. It even works in uncomfortable closed-toe heels!
Blisters happen to everyone. Over time, your feet toughen up, but even if your feet are used to hiking, doing more than usual will still give you blisters. Are you hiking regularly, or are you only putting on your boots once in a while for long hikes?
Apply Vaseline or anti-chafing cream generously to your feet, especially between your toes and on the areas where you tend to get blisters. I do this on hikes, and it’s worked wonders for me.