Put Your Best Foot Forward

I had a pair of Raichle hiking boots I loved, and I wore through one re-soling, then decided to retire them after a toe blowout. I wore those boots everyday in the field and they served me well for many years. I never had a blister with those boots, through work and pleasure, and hope my next pair will be just as faithful. Take care of your feet- they can make or break your trip. Here are some tips to PREVENT blisters which is easier than treating them. Happy Hiking!!

BLISTERS - from REI.com Backcountry Health Topics
One little blister, the product of friction that rubs skin back and forth in a concentrated area, can ruin an otherwise wonderful backpacking journey.

Prevention: Blisters are easier to avoid than they are to fix. Make sure you start every backpacking trip with footwear that is broken in and fits you well. Also wear clean, properly sized socks. Consider wearing two pairs of socks—a lightweight wicking liner and a thicker cushioning sock—to lessen the chance of abrasion.

Tip: On the trail, address foot discomfort as soon as it develops. A quick response can often stop a blister before it becomes serious. At the first sign of irritation, put a small patch of protective material—moleskin, 2nd Skin or even duct tape—over the affected area to minimize abrasion.

Check out more backcountry health topics at http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/backcountry+health+topics.html#Blisters