How to prevent blisters from ever happening

How to prevent blisters from ever happening

How to prevent blisters from ever happening! Ok, that’s a big call and maybe we can’t guarantee you won’t get a blister on one of our pack-free guided walks but you can certainly do a few things to minimise this happening. And even if you do get one it doesn’t have to mean the end of your walk!

 

 

So what is blister? It’s a layer of fluid that forms between the upper layers of your skin to protect the skin below, cushioning it from whatever damage is occurring and allowing the lower area to heal.

Causes: For walkers the likely cause of a blister is friction. This can be exacerbated by dirt; which causes friction, moisture; which softens the skin and can make seams or socks swell and rub, and heat.

Prevention: As usual, prevention is far better than any cure. The classic faux pas which will lead to blisters is not wearing in new boots.

This is more likely to be a problem if the boot has a tougher exterior such as leather, but can cause problems in any boot or shoe.

There is no quick fix when wearing in new hiking footwear, gradually increase the amount of time you spend in them and work up to the types of terrain you’ll be covering. This will ensure your foot is prepared for the tough grind ahead.

 

On the trail, if your feet get wet, clean and dry them as soon as practical, putting on a pair of dry socks if possible.

Wearing two pairs of socks can reduce the friction between sock and shoe and wicking socks or foot powder will help reduce moisture for those with sweaty feet or in humid areas.

 

Finally, if you suspect you might have some problems, pre-emptively tape the areas concerned.

Beter still make your Life’s An Adventure guide aware of the situation. They know all about blisters – and they have the first aid kit to prove it!

 

Cures: If you can feel a hot spot on your feet, stop immediately. Clean and dry the area, then apply anything which will reduce the heat and friction being applied.

Sports strapping tape is cheap, lightweight and potentially useful for other things on the trail and so a good option. However blister band aids or even duct tape can suffice.

Lubricants such as petroleum jelly will bring immediate relief but can lose their effectiveness as they melt.

If a blister has developed and is hurting, you might consider draining the blister – but your guide wil know all about this.

They’ll apply a sterilised needle to the side and base of the blister and allow it to drain.

Afterwards try to keep it clean, give it air and reduce the pressure on the area as much as possible. And then get back on the track!