Want to Keep Your Feet Blister-Free? (10 Proven Hiking Tips)

Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors, but it can also be tough on your feet if you’re not careful. Blisters can form from friction and heat, and they can be painful. If you get blisters while hiking, it could even ruin your hike.

In this article, we’ll provide you with our top ten tips to prevent blisters when hiking.

1. Wear Well-Fitting, Comfortable Shoes That Are Broken In

There are a few reasons why this helps with blisters.

First, if your shoes are too tight or uncomfortable, you are more likely to get blisters and other foot problems due to friction.

Second, if your shoes aren’t broken in, in addition to blisters, you may have sore feet after walking or standing for long periods.

And finally, well-fitting, comfortable shoes will help you stay focused and avoid distractions while you’re hiking.

#	Preview	Product	Rating
1		KEEN Women’s Circadia Mid Height Comfortable Waterproof Hiking Boots, Steel Grey/Cloud Blue, 8.5…	36 Reviews	Check Price on Amazon

2. Wear Socks That Fit Well and Wick Away Moisture

Socks that are too big can cause blisters, while socks that are too small can be constricting and uncomfortable. Wearing the wrong type of sock for the activity you’re participating in can also lead to blisters or other foot problems.

Socks that fit well and wick away moisture help to keep your feet dry and comfortable. They also help to prevent blisters by reducing friction between your skin and your shoes.

#	Preview	Product	Rating
1		FoxRiver Wick Dry Coolmax Crew Liner Socks Ultra Lightweight Unisex Sock Liners for Menand Women…	1,395 Reviews	Check Price on Amazon

3. Apply Moleskin or Other Blister-Prevention Products to Areas Where Blisters Commonly Form

This would be areas like the backs of your heels or toes. You should apply these products before you hike.

#	Preview	Product	Rating
1		KT Tape KT Performance+ Blister Prevention Tape, Designed for Athletes, Breathable, Durable,…	4,064 Reviews	Check Price on Amazon

4. Stop and Take a Break if You Feel a Hot Spot Developing on Your Foot

This is the first sign of a blister forming. Take a moment to stop what you’re doing and add padding (if it’s available) to the affected area.

5. Take Your Shoes and Socks off Regularly during Long Hikes

Do this to air out your feet and prevent excessive sweating.

6. Inspect Your Feet Regularly for Early Signs of Blisters

Look for redness, swelling, or tenderness, and treat them immediately if possible.

7. Avoid Walking through Puddles or Wet Grass

They can make your shoes wet and increase the risk of blisters forming.

8. Be Extra Careful on Rocky Terrain

Sharp edges can cause blisters more easily than on smoother surfaces like dirt trails.

9. Make Sure Any Hiking Gear You Use Fits Properly

Ill-fitting backpacks, for example, can rub against your skin and cause blisters.

It’s important that any hiking gear you use fits properly because if it doesn’t, it can cause problems while you’re out on the trail. For example, if your backpack is too big or too small, it can throw off your balance and make it difficult to hike.

Additionally, ill-fitting hiking boots can cause blisters and other foot problems.

Finally, clothing that does not fit properly can be uncomfortable and restrict your movement.

10. Listen to Your Body and Take Breaks Often if You’re Feeling Pain Anywhere Else Besides Your Feet

This could signify that something else is wrong, such as an injury, and not just the early stages of a blister.