lightweight running shoes barefoot

lightweight running shoes barefoot

Backpacking Without blisters on my feet

Nothing can ruin a hike or backpacking trip as quickly as foot blisters. The pain can be intense, and walking on blistered feet can make it worse, or are broken and infected. So how do you just avoid altogether? Here are ten things that have worked for others.

1. Wear running shoes instead of hiking boots. Not everyone will agree with this or can give up all the additional support provided initially, but this is a big part of what has prevented me from getting blisters. I also enjoy hiking much more without the heavyweights in the feet.

2. Try different socks. Wear lightweight clothing nylon socks was another of the best changes I made. Blisters are caused in part by the heat, so heavy boots and socks add the problem. Try a couple different kinds, to see what works best for you.

3. Make sure your shoes or hiking boots fit properly, without spots that rub fingers, the back of the heel or side of your foot. Not sure how to fit your shoes? Go to a shoe store, where serious runners go.

4. Treat "hot spots" early. If you feel an irritation or hot spot on your foot, stop and apply some moleskin before it becomes a blister. The tape adhesive can work well, if that's all you have (but can be messy to remove, and if you develop a blister that can rip open while trying to remove the tape). Small bandages can also be used.

5. Wear your shoes well. When the shoes are loose foot can slide along the interior, and friction results can lead to blisters on my feet, so well tied. Press evenly over the shoe laces, not only at the top.

6. Keep Clean and comfortable shoes. Shake out before putting them on. Stop to remove sticks, stones or other objects promptly. Adjust your socks if there are wrinkles or seams against the bottom of their feet.

7. Try templates. Some people swear by their "gel" insoles. Even cheap foam can help keep your feet more comfortable. Also, if foot movement inside the shoes are causing blisters, a template can make your foot more comfortable, prevent this. Experiment.

8. Bring extra socks and change them frequently. If you wear light socks as suggested above, this is easily done, even in a lightweight backpacking trip (my socks are of an ounce per pair). Change in fresh clean socks are a pleasure, and also helps prevent blisters on your feet. You can rinse the dirty socks and hang them in a stream in your pack to dry, so be ready for change is coming.

9. Take care of your feet at home. Before any trip, dealing with athlete's foot or skin conditions that can soften or weaken the skin. Healthy feet are less likely to develop blisters on the road.

10. Remove shoes and socks during breaks. When I reach the top of a mountain, I try to go barefoot for a while. I recommend taking your shoes and socks several times during a day trip. This allows the feet to cool, and socks and shoes to ventilate and dry. Keep feet cool and dry is a sure way to prevent blisters on your feet.

Follow the tips here to healthier, happier feet. But if you get blisters on their feet, this is the routine treatment: Apply a piece of moleskin, with a hole cut for the blister to rest in. This keeps the pressure on the ground, so it will only get worse. In general, you should not pop blisters, but if you ago, sterilize a pin with alcohol or a flame and insert it into the skin along the bottom of one edge. Gently push the liquid, cover the blister and keep clean.

About the Author

Copyright Steve Gillman. To get an ebook on Backpacking for FREE, as well as photos, gear recommendations, and a new wilderness survival section, visit: http://www.The-Ultralight-Site.com

The Evo – using VivoBarefoot technology

Barefoot Boy With Shoes on $18.95 Barefoot Boy With Shoes on

Nike Women’s Nike Free Run+ Running Shoes $84.95 The Women’s Nike Free Run+ Running Shoes from Nike is a trainer that emphasizes natural foot movement while delivering an extraordinary feel, combined with cushioning, traction and underfoot protection. This shoe strength-trains your legs and feet by imitating barefoot movement, and studies suggest that barefoot runners develop stronger feet. This running shoe encourages natural motion, which builds strength, and strength means speed. But first you’ll need to build your muscles, because NikeFree takes some getting used to. Deep cuts in the outsole enhance the foot’s flexibility and stability, while its full bootie designed gives you a barefoot like customized fit. The lightweight mesh upper of the Nike Free Run+ features minimal seaming that offers support and encourages your toes to flex and grip naturally; engaging muscles normally neglected in traditional footwear.

Nike Men’s Nike Free Run+ Running Shoes $84.95 The Men’s Nike Free Run+ Running Shoes from Nike is a trainer that emphasizes natural foot movement while delivering an extraordinary feel, combined with cushioning, traction and underfoot protection. This shoe strength-trains your legs and feet by imitating barefoot movement, and studies suggest that barefoot runners develop stronger feet. This running shoe encourages natural motion, which builds strength, and strength means speed. But first you’ll need to build your muscles, because NikeFree takes some getting used to. Deep cuts in the outsole enhance the foot’s flexibility and stability; while its full bootie designed gives you a barefoot like customized fit. The lightweight mesh upper of the Nike Free Run+ features minimal seaming that offers support and encourages your toes to flex and grip naturally; engaging muscles normally neglected in traditional footwear.