Step 1- Before you go walking

Choose the correct hiking boots and walking socks. The main causes of blisters are friction and moisture so you need to be sure that your boots fit perfectly, are completely comfortable and your socks are thick and of good quality. Proper hiking socks will reduce the amount of friction between your feet and your boots and will also draw some of the moisture away from your feet, while your walking shoes should have a finger’s width of length between the end of your toe and the end of your shoes to allow your feet to expand while walking.

Step 2- Break in your walking boots.

Break in your boots. Heading off up Snowdon in a pair of shiny new walking shoes is sure to end in tears! Wear your boots around the house, to the supermarket, to pick the kids up from school – just five minutes a day to begin with, and you’ll soon get to know which socks and lace up method are most comfortable for you.

Step 3 - Prepare your feet before the walk.

Make sure that you powder your feet well with some baby powder or similar and apply plasters to the areas that may get blisters – tops of toes, back of the ankle, etc.

Step 4 – Whilst you are out on your walk

Heat is another key cause of blisters and hot sweaty hiking feet are a recipe for pain. When you stop for rest breaks during your walk, always take off your walking shoes and socks and let your feet cool down. Pack an extra pair of socks in your bag and change them if they get too warm or damp.

Step 5 – When you get home

Treat your feet when you get home. Remove your walking shoes and socks and make sure you clean your feet properly. If you’ve got time you may even want to give them a little soak. By doing this you can toughen up your feet and also stop blisters forming after the walk.

Follow these steps and you’ll be all set for a future of pain-free walks and blister-free adventure….. Happy Hiking!