Prepare Your Feet for a Long Walk

PREPARE YOUR FEET FOR HIKING

In this video, you will learn how to prepare your feet for hiking. As with many things in life, preparation is the key to prevent most problems from occurring. In the case of hiking it is easy to prevent getting blisters.

This video is in two parts: preparation a month in advance and preparation on the day

First of all, preparation a month in advance. This begins with your choice of footwear: check out our video "Which shoes for my feet?"

Once you have chosen your shoes, wear them as much as possible before the hike so as to break them in.

Wear them as much as possible with your hiking socks. Choose good quality weatherproof hiking socks which allow your feet to breathe and stay dry. For example, cotton socks would not be suitable.

If you perspire a lot, get cream or powder to help prevent the problem.

Cut your toe nails regularly, keeping them neither too long nor too short and slightly rounded, without cutting the corners. If you have any nail fungus or cracks, treat this problem in advance.

Wash your feet carefully with soap everyday and make sure you dry them thoroughly.

Step two is on the day of your hike.

Put your socks on, making sure there are no creases as this can cause blistering.

Your laces should be tied evenly, and securely but not too tight. Check out our video " Tying your hiking boot laces"

Bring several pairs of socks with you, or remember to wash them every night so that you have a clean, dry pair at the start of every day.

Enjoy your hike!