Investing In Your Body: Your Feet

Ok, so I had some feedback from the last "Investing In Your Body" post a couple days ago, and the verdict is that while it was good info it wasn't as attuned to the outdoor world as it should have been. My bad people, sometimes I get to focused on one aspect of a project and it sucks me in. So I'll give that one another shot down the road, but for now I've got a good one for ya. Oh too often have I been down a trail bitching and moaning about a a blister or soreness that just won't quit, all brought on by my boot (or other footwear choice), sock, or pride. But by remembering these few tips on how to avoid some foot fiasco's whilst enjoying your favorite secluded spaces you can put more miles on those puppies and enjoy your journey much much more.

1. TAKE CARE OF YOUR FOOTWEAR

Hiking is hard on your feet. Taking care of your feet starts with taking care of your hiking boots. Try your hiking boots on before your trip. It is a good idea to wear them for a few days to break them in before your hiking trip. Make sure that your hiking boots stay dry. Put your hiking boots in a dry place at night. Wipe off any moisture from them to help speed up the drying process. If you will be hiking over terrain that will have water puddles, you may want to bring two pairs of hiking boots.

2. CHANGE YOUR SOCKS

Ideally, you should layer your socks. Put moisture wicking socks on first and then put on thick hiking socks. Bring a lot of socks with you when you are hiking. Change your socks every time you stop for a rest break. If you are limited on space in your hiking pack, lay your socks out in the sun to dry during rest breaks so that they will be as dry as possible for the next leg of your adventure. Taking off your boots to change or dry out your socks will also give you the opportunity to re-tie your laces which will help protect your feet by keeping your hiking boots on securely.

3. KEEP YOUR FEET CLEAN

Wash your feet often. The dark and warm environment that hiking boots provide is a perfect place for bacteria and germs to breed and multiply. Carry baby wipes in your hiking pack. Clean your feet with the wipes as often as possible. After cleaning them, make sure that they are thoroughly dry before you put socks on again. You can also put foot powder or baby powder on your feet after cleaning them to further protect them from moisture. Wash your feet with soap and water at night if possible.

4. FEEL YOUR FEET

During a hike, you may feel a spot on your feet that feels warm. This is the first sign of a blister. If you feel this, stop hiking right away and check your feet for signs of blisters in the warm area. Carrying a blister cream and adhesive bandages in your hiking gear is a good idea so that you can apply them to problem areas as soon as you notice a problem. Continue replacing the bandage with a clean one until the blister is gone. You may have to put a piece of water proof tape over the bandage to prevent it from falling off.


And there you have it. So get on out there and start loving the feet that get you where you want to go! See you on the trail!
~Eco