How to Prevent a Foot Blister

Foot blisters occur when skin rubs against your socks or shoes. Your chances of getting one greatly increase if your footwear does not fit properly, if your socks are wrinkled or lumpy, or if it is very hot outside. If you begin to feel any uncomfortable spot on your foot, its best to immediately stop and give your socks or shoe laces an adjustment. (Even if you are wearing the right shoes and socks, a blister can occur simply by not lacing the shoe correctly.)

Moisture is another major cause of blisters. If your feet sweat more than usual, I highly recommend wearing a pair of thin Liner Socks that not only wick moisture away from your feet, but also inhibit fungal growth, and help regulate temperature. Wearing thin undersocks and a heavier pair over them also helps to reduce friction.

If you have developed a reddened area on your foot, apply a Moleskin Blister Dressing over it to relieve the discomfort and prevent further problems. If you already have a blister, put moleskin around it (cut a hole in the middle, or purchase them precut).

Always take moleskin (molefoam) with you on your hike!

Other tips to prevent blisters:

• Lubricate: Reduce friction by applying antifungal powder, antiperspirant, or Foot Blister Defense Anti-Friction Stick. Bring it with you - it may need to be reapplied every few hours.

• Ventilate: Roll your socks down over the top of your boots, creating a "chimney effect". This channels the heat up and out.

• Keep Dry: If your feet perspire heavily, take off your boots and socks on each rest stop to air them out.

• Change Socks: Change your socks at lunch time or whenever they get too wet.

• React Quickly: As soon as you feel a sore spot, STOP! Wrap it in moleskin (or even duct tape will work in a pinch).

How to Treat a Foot Blister

Please don't ignore them! Follow the above recommendations. If you still get one, here is how to treat a foot blister:

Leave small blisters to heal on their own. If they are large, or about to pop, then they should be opened.

1. Wash the area with soap and water. Sterilize a needle with a lighter or match.
2. Insert the needle just under the skin, slightly outside the edge of the blister. Then pass it into the blistered area.
3. Gently press the fluid out and cover with a sterile bandage.
4. A blister that has already opened should be treated like any other open wound - clean it and cover with a sterile dressing.
5. If it looks infected, use a local antibiotic solution or cream. (You should always have some in your emergency first aid kit.)