If you are an avid hiker, then you know the importance of being prepared for any situation. You may have all your gear packed and ready to go, but what about your feet? Your shoes will become wet from walking through water or getting soaked by rain. There is also the chance that you’ll step on a sharp rock or lose balance and fall. The worst part is that if these things happen, it can lead to one of the most unpleasant hiking conditions: foot blisters! Read this article to learn how to avoid foot blisters while hiking!
Contents
Wear The Right Socks
When trying on new hiking boots, make sure to wear socks of similar thicknesses so that you can get an accurate feeling of how the shoe fits around your feet with them on. If it feels too tight or loose after wearing thicker socks, don’t buy them! You want to avoid blisters at all costs when hiking and, if possible, will save yourself some money by buying more comfortable ones in the first place. Hiking boots should fit well enough for you to walk several miles without any problems. Be aware that it’s normal for your feet to swell slightly during the summer months while walking long distances.
Take It Slow On Steep Trails
If you are hiking up a very steep trail, try to take it slow and steady when climbing or descending because quick movements can cause friction against the skin. If you start feeling blisters springing up along the way, stop and rest for a while to let them heal before continuing. You also risk hurting yourself in other ways by continuing to hike with blisters, such as slipping and falling, especially on steep trails.
Change Socks Frequently
This one may be a given, but you should change your socks when they get wet or sweaty. This is one of the most important ways to avoid blisters while hiking in hot weather since it will help keep them dry and comfortable for longer periods. If possible, use two different pairs of socks on each hike so that one pair can be drying out as the other becomes moist from sweat or water. You don’t want to wear wet socks all day long because if they stay damp too long, this could cause problems with foot odor, which might hurt more than just affect how good your feet feel!
Wear Shoes That Fit
It’s important to wear shoes that fit your feet. If the shoe is too tight, it will cause friction, and you’ll be more likely to get a blister. Ensure there’s enough room for your toes so they don’t rub against each other, leading to blisters. If your shoes or boots are too loose, they can slip while you’re walking and cause a great deal of discomfort. If your feet swell on hot days or during intense exercise, then get a larger pair of shoes that will fit comfortably when this happens.
Drink Plenty Of Fluids
When hiking, it’s critical to stay hydrated, especially in hot weather. When you’re dehydrated, your skin becomes dry and more susceptible to blistering. Also, while dehydrated, you will perspire more and cause your socks to become damp, leading to blisters. Make sure that you bring plenty of water with you on hikes, especially during summer months when it’s easy to get dehydrated from the heat. If you aren’t a fan of water, try drinking a sports drink or juices to increase your fluid intake.
Conclusion
There are many different ways to avoid foot blisters when hiking. Ensure you have the proper footwear and change your socks frequently to prevent blistering from occurring. If possible, try not to hike during hot weather conditions or on very steep trails because these factors can increase the chances of getting a blister while out on the trail.