Blisters are the trekker's worst enemy, they can ruin the most beautiful hike or completely disable you at the end of your trek
Follow us to discover how to avoid them and ensure you only have beautiful memories of your treks
Blisters usually appear on a friction zone. It can be friction inside your shoe, in your socks or due to the presence of a foreign body in your shoes.
Moisture is also a factor that can promote blisters, both due to perspiration and weather conditions, because it weakens the skin and makes it more vulnerable to friction. Drying your socks and shoes during breaks can help!
Let's be honest, buying a pair of shoes the day before you're going trekking is a bad idea ... but we've all done it and we're not here to judge. It's a sure fire way to make sure you come back with blisters. If you want to prevent blisters, make sure you break in your shoes before setting off. Wear them in over several day trips or even if possible over a long-distance weekend
And most importantly: don't have them delivered at the eleventh hour to your holiday location!
The insoles inside your shoes will be good but not always the best for your feet. Changing the insole allows you to alter the internal volume of your shoe and keep a better hold of your foot. It can also help to increase comfort levels.
Correct lacing ensures that your foot does not move and a foot that does not move is a foot that does not rub (or moves very little) .... find the link to our article on the lacing of the shoes at the bottom of this!
We all know that no two feet are identical, a bit like snowflakes, so a sock that suits your friend may not be most comfortable one for you. You will need to try out several pairs before finding the right sock for your foot. The most sophisticated pairs have a different left foot and a right foot, to ensure better placement of anti-friction areas and seams.
Whatever your choice of socks, choose the right size: if you're between two sizes opt for the lower one. Position your sock properly to avoid wrinkles. Then try out your socks with your shoes: you have to find the combination that suits you best This may vary depending on the season.
P.S. Replace your socks regularly because socks that are worn or have holes will no longer protect your feet
Before setting off: a little foot rub with a pumice stone, nails trimmed ... so many simple actions that reduce your worries once you're trekking. Massaging your feet with creams to prepare for long walks can also help and you should continue this massaging during your hike.
During your trek: don't let blisters start; if you feel friction or your feet getting warm, make sure you take preventive action and use a bandage, protective stick or a strap to isolate the zone and to avoid the blister developing. You can also apply anti-rub creams each morning .
In the evening at the bivouac: massaging your feet with a nourishing cream is a great way to thank your feet for carrying you all day. Air your feet, ideally walk barefoot or in sandals. Dry your socks and take out your insole out to dry off.
Finally take care of yourself, and get enough sleep because fatigue can make the skin more sensitive and promote the appearance of blisters. Remember that diet also plays its part: alcohol makes perspiration more acidic and therefore more aggressive to the skin!
Some people get their feet ready by taking baths of lemon juice before the big departure. We haven't tried this out but if you do tell us what you think!
Tying your shoes well should also help prevent blisters. Take a look at our article on the subject.
When you're trekking, make sure you change your socks as regularly as possible: socks that have already been worn are moist and less soft which encourages the appearance of blisters.