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How to Prevent Blisters

How to Prevent Blisters

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Don't Get Rubbed the Wrong Way

Whether you spend your weekends out hiking the trails, your nights tearing it up in a pair of heels, or just breaking in a new pair of boots, odds are you’ve gotten a blister or two in your life.

Blisters are a nuisance at best during a normal day, but in a survival situation a blister can quickly cut off your most basic mode of transportation.

A blister is not only uncomfortable but if one were to burst and be left untreated, infection could set in in as little as a few hours. Below are a few steps that you can take to prevent blisters from forming.

Shoes

Shoes | How to Prevent Blisters

Your shoes must fit properly to avoid blisters. If they are too snug or too loose the shoes will cause excess friction on your feet.

A good rule of thumb is to make sure that there is ½ inch space between your longest toe and the end of your shoe.

Be sure that you have enough room to wiggle your toes inside the toe box, and your heel does not slip when you walk.

Periodically inspect the inside of your shoes for seams or worn areas that might produce extra friction.

Socks

Socks | How to Prevent Blisters

Select socks that fit your foot without being too tight or too loose. Tube socks are never a good option as they don't fit close enough to the foot. Ensure that the socks do not have bulky stitching at the toes or heels

Some people choose to wear two layers of socks (or a sock that is made with double layers) to aid in blister prevention.

Do not wear socks that are too old. Worn socks will have thin areas and holes are very likely to produce hot spots and blisters.

Do not wear untested socks on a long walk and never wear unwashed socks, dirty socks can cause a whole other mess of problems.

I have run across a ton of different blister remedies but I want to hear from you. Do you have any home remedies or preventions that you personally use on blisters?

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