Blisters on your feet while hiking can really spoil your mood. Every step quickly becomes torture and the joy of your outdoor adventure disappears. We have put together some tips to help you enjoy every tour blister-free again.
We'll show you how to avoid blisters with simple tricks and what you can do in an emergency to continue hiking pain-free if you have a blister. So you can master any trail with ease. Sounds good, doesn't it?
Typical causes of blisters when hiking
A blister on the heel or toe does not occur by chance when hiking. There are various causes. These are
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Heat: Blisters quickly develop on your feet when hiking, especially in the warmer months. The temperature rises in the shoes and is increased by friction. If you don't give your feet a break in between, blisters are inevitable.
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Moisture: It's not just in summer that excessive moisture causes blisters when hiking. Sweating on the feet is an issue for many hikers all year round.
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Pressure and friction: If shoes do not fit properly, a pressure point is created. Slipping socks cause friction. Both have unpleasant consequences for your feet.
- Anatomical causes: For some people, it is almost normal to hike with blisters. Regardless of their footwear, they bring back an unpleasant souvenir from every tour. The cause is usually a foot malposition such as flat feet or splay feet.
What can I do to prevent blisters when hiking?
Tips against blisters when hiking are a dime a dozen. But do they actually deliver what they promise? We have tested them for you and show you our favorites for blister prevention.
1. wear suitable hiking boots
The most important point to avoid having to hike with blisters is the right footwear. This way you can avoid the most common causes such as pressure points, slipping and heat build-up from the outset. A hiking boot should always fit perfectly and suit your foot shape.
Many manufacturers now indicate whether the shoe is more suitable for wide or narrow feet. This is one of the most important points of orientation. But even if the shoe fits your foot shape, it doesn't mean that it fits perfectly. Because even the
- Shaft height,
- Lacing
- and upholstery play an important role here.
You should also ensure the best possible breathability to prevent perspiration.
When choosing your hiking boots, you should therefore take your time and not choose the price as the primary criterion. Good hiking boots for the sake of your feet (and your back).
Do you have found really good hiking boots and want to keep them for a long time, then read this article right afterwards: Care for and clean hiking boots like a pro
2. the right socks to prevent blisters when hiking
Socks to prevent blisters when hiking are also important. Unfortunately, their function is often underestimated. Socks with a high cotton or elastane content prevent optimum air circulation. Ill-fitting socks also have no place on a hike.
Breathable socks with a perfect fit are an ideal companion, such as Merino socks. Even if it may sound paradoxical at first glance to wear wool socks all year round, you'll never want to be without them again! Want to bet? Merino clothing is
- breathable,
- cuddly soft
- and offers you an incredible wearing comfort.
Thanks to their temperature-regulating properties, you won't break a sweat. Even smelly feet and shoes are now a thing of the past with merino socks.
The natural product reliably prevents any odor build-up. Even after repeated wear, your socks and shoes will smell absolutely fresh.
3. blister plasters or tape for prevention
If you are wearing new shoes or are prone to blisters due to the shape of your feet, you should take the precaution of using tape to prevent blisters when hiking. A blister plaster or tape is also important for prevention if you feel friction or pressure on the way.
Expert tip: These special products are breathable and offer additional cushioning to protect your feet in the best possible way.
4. take a break early
Taking an early break is one of the easiest options, but one that some hikers find particularly difficult. Those who are highly motivated or want to complete a certain section of the route before nightfall are naturally more willing to keep going. But walking too long without a break can quickly take its toll.
How can I prevent blisters when hiking?
You can prevent blisters when hiking with 2 simple tricks. The best thing is that both measures are absolutely free. The only thing you need is time.
1. regular barefoot walking
You may be wondering what barefoot walking has to do with blisters when hiking. After all, you're not wearing shoes. But regular barefoot walking is one of the best ways to train your feet. On the one hand, it optimizes your gait.
On the other hand, you "harden" your feet. A natural protective layer forms on the soles of your feet, making them resistant to blisters.
2. break in your hiking boots in good time
When you set off on a hike with new hiking boots, blisters are inevitable. That's why it is ALWAYS important to break in your shoes in good time. Take it as slowly as possible and gradually increase the time you wear them.
We recommend that you wear your new hiking boots indoors for a few hours before you go for your first short walk with your companions. Once you feel comfortable wearing them, nothing stands in the way of your first walk together!
Treating blisters from hiking: Tips for quick healing
Ouch! If you've brought back blisters from hiking as a souvenir, it's pretty painful. Want to know the best way to treat them? The following tips will help them heal quickly:
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If possible, you should not open blisters! They contain a fluid that protects deeper layers of skin from further injury and contributes to healing.
If you open the blister, there is an additional risk of infection. A blister plaster accelerates healing and relieves the pain.
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With a large blister, on the other hand, you are so restricted that every further step becomes an ordeal. In this case, you can lance the bladder. However, you must ensure absolutely sterile conditions to avoid inflammation.
First sterilize the needle and the surrounding tissue with alcohol. Then puncture the skin at the edge of the blister so that the blister serum can drain away. Then treat the wound with an antiseptic ointment and a plaster.
- An open blister from hiking should also always be disinfected, treated with a healing ointment and a well-padded wound dressing. This also applies to blisters that have opened on their own.
Conclusion
Blisters when hiking are a serious issue and should not be taken lightly. With the right hiking boots and merino socks, you can actively prevent blisters. Taking regular breaks and breaking in your shoes also contributes significantly to protection.
If you do get an open blister while hiking, treat it on the spot if possible. This also applies to closed blisters. This is the only way you can continue your tour without any worries.
FAQ
How long does it take for blisters on the feet to go away?
The healing time of a blister depends on its size and location. It usually takes between a few days and up to 3 weeks for blisters on the feet to go away.
Should I open the bladder or not?
If possible, you should not open small blisters. If a very large blister prevents you from continuing your hike, you can open it with a sterile needle. Be sure to remember the subsequent wound treatment!
Can I hike despite blisters or should I take a break?
You can cover a small, closed blister with a blister plaster and carry on walking. However, large or open blisters require a longer break.
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