How can I avoid blisters!!!???

[Pavels]

My wife has toe separaters. My question is...what about alernating between a walking boot, and say Keen sandals. Would that give the feet a break and an airing?

Peter, If you can walk in (Keen) sandals, why not do it everyday? That's what I did (using Teva sandals though)

 

[Peter Aulbury]

Thanks Pavels...did you wear socks as well? My Keens seem to rub a bit on the outside of the little toes. I thought maybe alternating between them and my Merrell Moab Mid boots (which I only just got)...wow they seem comfortable, but haven't done any long walks ...yet

 

[Jan_89]

I think the shoes are the most important thing.. I walked about 1000km and I had just ONE blister! For me the best choice was this kind of shoes: Mammut Tatlow GTX. High hiking boots are not good option! But sure, it depends of many things..

 

[Pavels]

Thanks Pavels...did you wear socks as well? My Keens seem to rub a bit on the outside of the little toes. I thought maybe alternating between them and my Merrell Moab Mid boots (which I only just got)...wow they seem comfortable, but haven't done any long walks ...yet

I walked without socks. But I had to stick medical tape (fficial&channel=fflb&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=KDhaVNWzJquP7Aa6uYHwDw&ved=0CAgQ_AUoAQ&biw=1117&bih=683) under ball of each foot (like this http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_CA2dmA3Npds/Swwn_vluNCI/AAAAAAAAAGM/YjaqdBkVWxU/s1600/IMG_7120.JPG ) , to prevent blisters forming there from abrasion caused by dust and a bit of sand collecting there. Shaking stones out couple of times a day is easy. Getting rid of blackish dust that collects there because it is the lowest point in the sole surface... not so easy. But medical tape acsts as a second skin. You can also wraps some around a little toe. That's what I did twice, when I felt some tension there.

 

[owms2323]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

 

[owms2323]

I think the shoes are the most important thing.. I walked about 1000km and I had just ONE blister! For me the best choice was this kind of shoes: Mammut Tatlow GTX. High hiking boots are not good option! But sure, it depends of many things..

I walked the Camino Frances with only one blister on which I used the needle and thread method and was never bothered again. I walked in Trail running shoes and 1000 mile Fusion Socks.

 

[Jennyallan]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

Hi Juju we didn't get any blisters not one single one and I swear this is because we trained on hard surfaces pavements ect done a lot of road walking in prep for our camino we only wear liners !!! That's it nothing else this works for us the other thing we do is take our boots of the minute they start feeling warm we actually prefer if our feet are a little cooler than snug also I don't like vibrant soled boots they are much harder to wear out but I find there's no give in them ,my boots that I wore for the camino September this yr were 18 mths old before I started the camino well worn in and I'm still wearing them !! Hope this helps don't let it deter you it's magical

 

[enerol]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

81 yr old pilgrim 2013 , 2014 No blisters. Used Vaseline every am before putting on silk liners then wonderful Asolo boots. Change liners around noon each day. Buen Camino.

 

[firefly57]

I will share a foot preparation method that my brother, a "triple crown" hiker, swears by:

A good way to toughen your feet and minimize blisters is to make a solution of alcohol and black tea. Put 6 single size tea bags in a pint of rubbing alcohol. Let it to set for a week, apply twice a day, be sure to apply between the toes and as high as your boots fit. Start two months prior to the hike.

He also recommends going barefoot a lot before your hike to help toughen your feet.

Buen Camino

 

[grayland]

Thanks for sharing that. I am one of the lucky ones that seldom get blisters...but others are plagued by them.
Your suggestion will certainly not cause any harm or inconvenience so I would hope that others would give it a try.
I do use Body Glide every day and wear thin liners under Smart Wool socks.

I have walked a couple of thousand miles here in Seattle last year (according to GPS log) between caminos. I also walked the Camino del Norte in August/September...all without blisters.

 

[JamesL]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

Everyone has their own solution. I have heard and read a lot of them. They all boil down to this: Pay attention to your own experience. When the "feeling" starts, look to the area and adjust. I can give you my experience, and you can judge for yourself. When I noticed even a POSSIBLE problem, I adjusted . Try on boots/shoes. Don't let someone TELL you what feels right for you. Do not SETTLE for something . Do not punish yourself because "it ought to work". Long ago, in my Boy Scout days, I learned to take care of my feet. When I was on the Camino in June '13, My partner and I (both old Scouts) marveled at the punishment some folks put themselves thru because the "had to" or (believe it or not) "deserved it"(yes we met some folks doing "penance", God help them).
Here is what I did: 1) shopped for new boots ,ALOT. found some that fit really well, KNEW these were the right ones. Gortex vented, mostly light leather and a treaded sole that had slanted (?) treads that did not hold mud but shed it. Straight block tread hold mud, but might be better for mountain climbing. I wasn't going to do that. 3/4 over ankles. Room up front, your foot SPREADS when you put your weight on it. Ladies: Forget the SIZE number! Wear the shoe that fits! 2) Relaced them so the tongue did not slide around to the side. Put the straight across string UNDER the sides rather than over them (but OVER the tongue, don't get me wrong here) Yes, the lacing pattern can make a difference. 3) 100% HEAVY wool socks, "Ragg". Only ONE pair on. Make sure they fit, but not baggy. Note that they will shrink if dried in a drier, only air dry! Hot water wash (by hand!) is worth the effort. ( I have heard of some who will buy REALLY big wool socks and purposely shrink them to make them thicker . Your choice, I did not.) 4) Hiked and hiked and hiked. Everyday, some. AT LEAST 15 or more KM on weekends. Carry the pack on the weekends. What do I really need? started planning in Feb. , started Camino 8 May . 5) Read the guidebook. Talk to people (like here?). 6) Tie boots so foot is snug back in the heel, and over the instep, loose over toes. Wriggle room. Walking does loosen up the laces etc., notice that. 7) Study your walking style/technique. Pigeon toed? Duck? Drag heel? Hard hit heel? Big toe first? Roll around the foot edge? Toes clench or flat? All can affect your blistering, how you slide, or glide.....8)Consider (I did not) adding an extra insole or heel pad to change slant of foot, recommended by a podiatrist friend. 9) My Vasque pair got me thru 6 weeks of 700 km Camino with no blisters (Scout's honor) . My partner the same , but last 100 km he had a blister one big toe pad. He used silk liners and Thorlos, and "old boots", well worn in before we left.
10) 97.5% of everyone is hiking WEST, right? so make sure you buy west facing boots, don't let'm talk you into east shoes... ;-) eh,eh,eh,
Buen Camino and may the wind be ever at your back!

 

[JamesL]

Reflections on Blisters

Having been on the Camino for over a month and a half now, I have seen some very horrifying feet. Having come of age on a New Mexican fire crew as my squad's medic, one would think I would have really exciting stories to tell: burns, slashes, snakebites. I have a few of those, but mostly I spent my evenings dealing with mens' stinking feet. After spending months of my life bent over swollen and disfigured toes, I am pretty well versed and comfortable with the world of feet gone bad.

Which is a good thing, as I have witnessed the fact that many pilgrims really just do not understand their feet and blisters. In the extreme example, I met an Irish kid who had horrible blisters, the kind that cover the whole heel, swell up between the toes, and get weepy and gruesome. He was ripping the skin off with his teeth, and forcing himself to walk over twenty km a day. When I saw him, a day into the trip, he could barely walk. I sat him down and told him how to drain a blister, to stop ripping theskin off with with is teeth, etc.

I saw him again in Pamplona, and sheepilshly, he asked for my assistance. His heel had the biggest blister I have seen, and I have seen a few. I helped him drain it, which if having someone's clear slimy blister juice burst all over makes your stomach churn, then this is not your calling.

I write this post hoping to set out a few basic reflections on blisters that can help your future journey.

Walking shoes should be old friends.
There are many new boots on the trail and way too many blisters. Take time to break in your shoes...not a week before trying to walk 300 miles, but a month. More. As soon as you begin planning, get your shoes and get to know them. Have dinner, go for long walks on the beach. Take a romanic weekend to a mountaintop. Experience domestic tedium by shopping and doing yardwork. You probably are not planning to make this journey with an acquaintance you meet online last Wednesday, so do not put your feet through new mail ordered boots either. Even if you're the type who would take a trip with a beautiful and charming stranger, just break in your dang boots.

Know Thy Feet
As you walk, really let your feet speak to you. Do your feet sweat? Do they need air? Do you feel a pinch, pain or discomfort? Do you feel rubbing or warmth? This is called a hot spot, the initial very subtle development of a blister. Some people shove their boots on for the day, and only remove them in the evening filled with blisters and rubbed into various shades of raw. Don't be that person. Walk with a sense of mindfulness. When your feet speak, listen.

Have Patience
Our blisters are often simply a physical manifestation of our impatience. Not having patience to break in footwear. Not having patience to stop and address a hot spot. Pushing ourselves to do a whole stage when our feet are begging to do half. Your feet, with their needs and demands, might be trying to teach you something.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of moleskin
When you feel hot spot, stop. Like, right now. Not at the next town. Just crawl to the side of the Camino and take off your boots. Let your feet air and dry. The journey is long and 15 minutes is only 15 minutes. Look at the hot spot. You can do a few thing to assist your feet at this point. First, consider taping any friction areas. Good athletic tape over a hot spot works wonders, it stops the friction on the skin and thus prevents a blister from forming. For those pesky sweaty toe blisters you may need to change your socks. Change your shoes (making Chacos or Tevas your spare shoes is a great idea, as you can keep walking). Some people use high-tech creams (I just have never used them so can't vouch for them). Prevention of blisters is the goal.

Sock it to ya!
What socks do your feet need? Most people, for long walks, should avoid cotton as their main hiking sock, try a merino wool sock instead. If you do have sweaty feet, or feet prone to friction blisters, then try silk sock liners. Also, I see people with socks as thick as adobe walls. They get blisters because their socks make their shoes too small. Your boot should fit comfortably with your sock on...no cramming and not too much sliding. Try to wear them together to ensure proper

Rethink heavy boots.
I see a ton of heavy hiking boots on the Camino, worn by people who are not even carrying packs. The majority of your walking is pretty docile. You are not hiking the Grand Canyon. You will be walking twelve to twenty five miles a day, day after day after day, week after week. It seems to me that, for most people, heavy boots are overkill...they certainly are killing many people's feet. So take time to figure out what you really need, and go for the simplest, lightest, most comfortable solution.

You have Blisters
Despite breaking in your boots, having patience, listening to your feet and working with preventive measures, you discover you have a blister. It happens. Now comes a very critical step, to treat them with care and respect. I recently heard a twenty-something girl from Ireland talk about her feet.

"I got blisters. But I kept going. I was walking with some people, and I didn't want to fall behind them. I didn't want to be that person. And now I have to go home. My feet are wrecked, and I just can't walk any farther. I go home in four days."



[/b]Some blister healing tricks:
Keep your blister drained but the skin intact. Using a small sterilized pin, stick the fluid filled blister at the edge, and gently push the liquid out to drain. Air if possible. The goal is to get the blister to harden and heal. You may have to redrain a blister several times. Do not rip the skin, which exposes you to infection.

Cold water, salt, and vinegar soak. Feels good on you're feet. Helps dry up your blisters, if they are still in the docile stage.

Bag balm. At night, you can rub some bag balm on the blister. Encourages healing. I think you have to bring it with you, as I have not found it in Spain.

Air your feet, change shoes, change socks, rest. Having a pair of hiking sandals helps when your boots rub you the wrong way.

Your Blisters Get Ugly
There are a few good first aid things for bad blisters. Nothing replaces patience, rest, and removing the cause of the blister. There is no magic panacea except time. That said, here are a few ideas to treat your blister gone bad.

Second skin. This weird gelatinous blue film that you can apply directly on a ripped blister to provide comfort and padding. Bandage afterward with tape and a non-stick bandage. Decent for ripped blisters.

Compeed. High-tec, semi-permeate bandage that keeps the dirt out. It also provides some padding and gives the blister a chance to heal. Do not peel it back to peak, unless you notice an increase in pain, or redness developing at the site. This bandage can stay on a few days without changing. Read directions. You can wrap it with vet tape to keep it from peeling.

Don't be Afraid of the Doctor
Infected feet? Redlines running up your leg? Can't walk? Gruesome weeping? Smell of puetrification? Colored discharge from the blister? Fever?
You have already made that appointment...

*I aint't no doctor. Take what I say with a grain of salt. Use your best judgement. Know your feet. Talk to your own medical provider, legal blah, blah. But whatever. Break in your shoes. Stop when you feel hot spots. Have Patience with yourself.

Caminantequixote.wordpress.com

Man, what you said! I just answered a blister question down below, and thought I was wordy, but all of your writ is worth while. I vouch for Wool socks, and well fitting boots. How do you decide they fit? wear them! Walk around, up stairs, ""PAY ATTENTION"" to how they feel. Ladies: Ignore the size number! Your tootsies must spread out when you walk! Throw away the stilletos while you prepare (by walking! A lot!) for the Camino, or Hadrians, or the Pacific or the AT....
Walking is how we were designed, go for it!

 

[Mr.Bill]

Wow! What a plethara of information on blisters..Lets make this easy, efficient, yet cheap. I walk a lot-double digit kilometers-I put Vasaline on the front bottom of my foot and big toe, slide on a cotton sock, place another sock over it
(wool in winter for warmth/cotton in summer) and never have blisters that develop. At night I apply lotion after bathing and ready to go the next day. Prevention is the key.

 

[pmacegan]

juju here, thanks for all your wonderful replies. I appreciate it.

I wrote my plea having just returned from the 50km in one day, ie., 14 hours, 49 minutes and 45 seconds and lots of blisters.

i am training for my walk on the camino in september. i love distant walking and found the only way i could complete the 50km was to dissociate from the pain.
up until now, i have avoided Vaseline but i can see the time has come for me to try it... i can't keep buying new boots!!
just to hear your responses and to know that others have worker their way through these problems make me feel part of the camino community already... thank you

No one has mentioned moleskin yet. I love moleskin. Cut a small piece to fit the blister and stick it on. (It is self-adhesive.) In addition to all the other good advice given here, the moleskin will allow you to finish your day in comfort.

 

[Annie G]

I know this is weird but...I knit and so I took some of my wool and am now fluffing it up for my walk until I find a fluffy fence! I bought Keen's boots because they were wide width/good arches more than others I tried. Boy they feel great...for now. Here's to hoping! Thanks to all the help...can't wait to get on the Journey! Cindi

I would stay away from the fence wool. I spin and if you have ever cleaned a sheep's raw fleece you would NEVER think of putting it near your irritated skin! Sheep lay down in fields of poo after all. Rather, just go to a fiber store and purchase clean, carded roving, preferably merino. It's cheap.

 

[tpmchugh]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

On my first trip, Pamplona to Castrojeriz, taking two weeks, no blisters. Good well fitting hiking boots (Scarpa) good hiking socks designed for left and right (Lidl, Regatta) and vaseline type ointment and not pushing myself to do more than I should faster than I could chasing some time goal. Never more than 25km per day. On my second trip, Burgos to Santiago taking just over three weeks I got a small blister the day after I started but that was down to a small tear in the footbed. Bought new ones and no more blisters. I dont really know how to explain it but I did use a lot of vaseline type ointment. One in particular was a tub of foot balm sold specifically for pilgrims. Cant remember name but the word peregrinos was in it and it had a drawing of an old style pilgrim on the lid. A bit heavy but weight diminished each day and cost 12€ but well worth it.I put it on almost every morning and then again after a couple of hours particularly if it was really hot and walking on paved roads. Finally, never double socked. Hope that helps. By the way, September is a lovely time to walk except that every morning is darker than the one before so a lot of scenery in the early morning is missed but then you get to see some beautiful sunrises that put sunsets in second place. But the temperatures are good with only the odd day really hitting the heights and when it occasionally rains, boy does it rain

 

[tpmchugh]

juju,

You will have lots of advice here, from woollen socks, shoes, foot creams, to Compeed. I hope one of the methods will work for you.

For me, none of them works. So I have to resort to blister management instead of blister prevention. I carry a sewing kit and employ what they say is a Spanish method of running the needle through the blisters with the thread visible on both ends of the blister. The logic is it will prevent additional blister forming around it as additional fluid will have an escape path through the threads. By the 3rd day in camino, I would have no more additional blisters. You do have to put up with the callous with threads, not to worry as they'll will come off eventually.

I know it sound gross and it's not for the faint of heart, but it works for me. Still, if other methods, all the better.

On the one blister I had, I used this method but please remember to sterilise your hands, needle and thread before doing it. I carried a small hip flask of whiskey which I used to sterilise a cut on my hand that went septic and to soak the thread in. A little nip now and then was also good for the soul . Medicinal purposes only you understand

 

[Aliotmail.co]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

I have done 4 weeks worth and have never had a blister even though I bought some Miendl boots 4 days before I left as I developed a knee problem just before I left which I walked off over 5 days. I tried them on different surfaces in the shop ( it had a bit of fake cobbling in there ). They are not too tight and I think I could walk with them undone they are so good but I am obsessive about taking off my boots and socks every time I stop as I realized that when people did the 100 kilometre Gurkha walk ( in 27 hours )( my husband included )the ones who changed socks, shoes every 10 K did the best. I also have decent walking socks which don't make my feet sore or smelly even when they are wet. I think it helps to take it easy speed-wise at the beginning until you get used to it. One member of our group had the bottom of his foot like one big blister and I wanted him to go to hospital ( as an ex- nurse ) but he refused and had to get the bus a few days but he wore shoes that were too small and walking way too fast; lots of people forget that the whole thing is about the journey not the destination and see it like a race......they find out the hard way and don't even realize what they have missed.

 

[Edith Frost]

Any of y'all ever heard of these things, Ezeefit ankle booties? I turn around and suddenly all the skaters are wearing them for blister prevention. One derby girl told me she doesn't even put socks over them. If you've skated you'll know how the vibration will cause wicked blisters, especially on your heels. I just ordered a pair to try em out (skating) and I don't see why they wouldn't work for hikers. Me, I've always used the liner-sock method plus BodyGlide all over heels & big toes, SmartWool trekking socks. Had a few hot spots but never a blister.

 

[Donna Sch]

http://www.fixingyourfeet.com/ and the e-book by Jon Vonhof are godsends. This guy works with ultramarathoners and there is a ton of useful information on the site. He also recommends BlisterPrevention.com.au which is podiatrist Rebecca Rushton's website. I swear by Injinji toe socks which is just one strategy Vonhof mentions.
Just be aware there are some really ugly photos of blistered and macerated feet.

 

[PeregrinoRoberto]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

Taking care of your feet is job #1 on the Camino. I am 67 and walked the Camino last September/October with NO blisters! Here's what I did and what I suggest...

1.) Get good hiking boots or shoes. Don't skimp on money here. Your shoes/boots are the most important items you will purchase for the Camino. I bought Vasque high-top boots and they were great. But, you need to go to a good store (REI, etc.) and try on several different styles and brands to see what works best for your feet. The salespeople are usually very helpful if you go to a good store. I saw people walking in all sorts of questionable shoes and they were paying the price big time.
2.) Take time to break the shoes/boots in prior to going to Spain. Even if you only wear them around the house for a few weeks it will help. But, try taking them on a few day-long hikes if you can. There's nothing worse than trying to break in a pair of boots while you are just starting the Camino! You will be guaranteed to get blisters.
3.) First thing in the morning and later in the day, if needed, I used a dollop of petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) for each foot. Just smear it on over your entire foot and rub it in well. It sounds a little weird, but it didn't get everything greasy and it WORKED!
4.) I wore two pairs of socks. First I put on thin liner socks (available at REI and other similar places) - get good ones. Then I put on Merino wool hiking socks - also, get good ones. Then I put on the boots.
5.) Do not let your feet get wet if you can at all help it. When you've been walking for hours in the heat and you cross over a lovely running stream, at all costs avoid the temptation to soak your feet in the nice, cold water. Your feet will absorb the moisture and damp feet will become blistered faster than you can blink. As tempting as it looks - DON'T DO IT!
6.) As you are walking, pay close attention to anything that starts to feel like a "hot spot" on your feet. As soon as practical after sensing a potential hot spot stop and check it out. I didn't have this problem much, but found that Compeed worked well for me on the few occasions when I wanted to take some extra caution. You can get Compeed in ANY pharmacia on the Camino. Some people don't like it, but I thought it was great. Just stick a piece of Compeed over the hot spot and forget about it. It will come off on its own in a few days.
7.) Take time to rest your feet once or twice during the day. Find a nice shady spot, take off your pack, sit down and then take off your shoes and socks and let everything rest and cool off for 15- 20 minutes, This is time well spent. Your feet and your body will thank you for it!

Anyway, that's my regimen for foot care. Your mileage may vary, but it worked for an old guy like me. NO blisters - not even one - from St. Jean Pied de Port all the way to Finisterre!!

Buen Camino!

 

[VNwalking]

Last Camino...infected blisters, wicked pain every step. This time, nada.
As many have said everyone has their own best solution. For me it was paper tape every morning on potential trouble spots (especially around toes), and a roll of Omnifix that I got at a pharmacy in Leon. A total godsend, it worked for blister prevention as well as to protect pressure ulcers that I'd gotten from my pack's hip belt.
I started out also applying glide and wrapping trouble toes with lambswool...but gave these up as extra. For me the tape was enough.

 

[Alacoque]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

Hey I'm late to this thread but I guess it's one that will get visited often.
I first did the last section of the camino from Saria to Santiago with my mother in 2011. I set us a regime of 'Minding our feet' she brought along double layered 'Anti Blister socks' (I was sceptical) and I brought along a few foot creams/ointments and a positive outlook! each morning.. would be creams and ointment then socks... without fail on landing to accommodations it would be shoes socks off... and bathe.. if no bath.. in a bucket of water (I often sat up and put my feet in the sink) but to give them a true break.... once done.. ointment, more creme and into the sandals for the rest of the day... key thing here and this NEVER changed... even if folks that you were getting on with wanted you to go for the well deserved beer at the end of the walk... meet them later.. treat feet FIRST. That hour spent sat with the days 25k worth of sweat and friction on the foot might be enough to do your skin in and develop the heat and friction burn set in...... Feet first..always, treat them as your best bud for the whole trip.

I would not be so confident in this post if 3 years later I did not go back and do the full thing. Same regime every day for 40 days.. Not one blister. I know that i'm a total minority, and I know after doing the full thing realise that the first day over the mountain can cause the initial blister that stays with folks for so long thus causing the others.. (If on that trail)
but if these comments help I'm happy to give them.. and I do hope they resonate. I guess the key thing outside of the socks and ointments was prioritising feet over all.. morning and evening..

Re. boots/shoes.. I'm not the biggest sporting type (even though I've done the full thing) the first time I had a pair of trainers that were none remarkable... 2nd time for the full thing.. I had a unbroken in hiking boot. So.. I really do probably have a conflicting message on that stuff. I'd rather anyone reading this to only look at the regime/sock element - I don't feel qualified to talk trainers/boots.

That is all.

Onwards and good luck
X

 

[Deeppockets]

Hi & Buon Camino.


I walked 1,200 km of the Camino in 2012 and did not get any blisters.

I did do a lot of walking in the Adelaide hills as preparation for the Camino.


Blister prevention has three main components.

1. Keeping your feet dry

2. Minimizing friction in your boots or walking shoes.

3. Having good quality and well- fitting boots or walking shoes.


The best way to keep your feet dry is to use silicon cream liberally all over your feet.

I found that doing this at the start of each day’s walk was usually adequate but I occasionally needed a second application if it was a very long section of the track.


To minimize friction I used a three part strategy.


After applying the silicon, put on a pair of ankle length nylon stockings.

These have excellent friction reducing properties and are used by the SAS when on long treks.

I learnt this trick from an SAS paratrooper walking the Camino.

I then put on a pair of good quality thin Coolmax socks.

Finally, I put on a pair of Bridgedale medium-weight Coolmax socks.

Having tried dozens of different brands and types of walking socks I am convinced that Bridgedales are the “Rolls-Royce” of walking socks.


Regards

Peter (Deeppockets)

 

[Devon Mike]

Hi Peter,

I use pretty much the same approach.

I do lots of walking so the skin on my feet is toughened up.

I have tried lots of boots and socks over the years and know what works for me. Choice of socks is just as important as choice of boots.

For winter walking I use goretex leather full height boots (Braisher now Berghaus Hillmaster GTX) with ankle length nylons and heavyweight smartwool socks.

For spring/summer/autumn walking I use goretex fabric mid height boots (Merrel Moab GTX Mids) with ankle length nylons and medium weight smartwool socks.

This year I gave away several pairs of the ankle length stockings so there were a few more guys walking the Camino in ladies' stockings. They all agreed it worked very well for their feet in preventing abrasion and blisters.

Buen Camino,

Mike

 

[David Tallan]

Hi & Buon Camino.


I walked 1,200 km of the Camino in 2012 and did not get any blisters.

I did do a lot of walking in the Adelaide hills as preparation for the Camino.


Blister prevention has three main components.

1. Keeping your feet dry

2. Minimizing friction in your boots or walking shoes.

3. Having good quality and well- fitting boots or walking shoes.


The best way to keep your feet dry is to use silicon cream liberally all over your feet.

I found that doing this at the start of each day’s walk was usually adequate but I occasionally needed a second application if it was a very long section of the track.


To minimize friction I used a three part strategy.


After applying the silicon, put on a pair of ankle length nylon stockings.

These have excellent friction reducing properties and are used by the SAS when on long treks.

I learnt this trick from an SAS paratrooper walking the Camino.

I then put on a pair of good quality thin Coolmax socks.

Finally, I put on a pair of Bridgedale medium-weight Coolmax socks.

Having tried dozens of different brands and types of walking socks I am convinced that Bridgedales are the “Rolls-Royce” of walking socks.


Regards

Peter (Deeppockets)

What season were you walking in? I will be walking the camino this summer with my son (who will turn 16 on St. James' Day). I'd prefer to walk in the spring or fall, but my wife is adamant that she doesn't want him missing school for this, so summer it is. I picture myself with three layers of socks in the Spanish summer and it seems to me that my feet are likely to be swimming the whole way.

 

[SYates]

... I picture myself with three layers of socks in the Spanish summer and it seems to me that my feet are likely to be swimming the whole way.

Two layers of socks will be enough, especially if you change them during the day (just pin the wet/sweaty ones to your backpack to dry). Also considered to get shoes/boots that allow your feet to breath. You might have to compromise in waterproofness then ... Buen Camino, SY

 

[Donna Sch]

What season were you walking in? I will be walking the camino this summer with my son (who will turn 16 on St. James' Day). I'd prefer to walk in the spring or fall, but my wife is adamant that she doesn't want him missing school for this, so summer it is. I picture myself with three layers of socks in the Spanish summer and it seems to me that my feet are likely to be swimming the whole way.

Consider Injinji Performance 2.0 toe socks. I used the Trail version http://www.functionalrunning.com.au/gear-review-injinji-performance-socks/ and I love them. I prefer the higher ones with a definite cuff as I flick up debris when I walk. It's worth looking at the Ultramarathon/long distance running websites as they are pretty up to date with any new brands that are out there.

 

[Gustavus]

Came across some blister prevention and treatment informaton from what appear to be reputable sources. http://www.backpacker.com/view/phot...nted-duct-tape-heel-blister-repair/#bp=0/img2

Include tincture of Benzoin and some duct tape wrapped around a pencil for needed repairs and covering the blister as shown in the the first video. Duct tape, don't leave home without it. http://blog.rei.com/camp/8-duct-tap...60916_Educate_and_Engage&RRID=16240144&ev11=1

 

[Donna Sch]

Came across some blister prevention and treatment informaton from what appear to be reputable sources. http://www.backpacker.com/view/phot...nted-duct-tape-heel-blister-repair/#bp=0/img2

Include tincture of Benzoin and some duct tape wrapped around a pencil for needed repairs and covering the blister...

Rebecca Rushton the Australiana podiatrist also recommends using Friars Balsam aka tincture of benzoin. http://www.blisterprevention.com.au/the-advanced-guide-to-blister-prevention-chapter-6#.V9-yBBln7qA

 

[Steve_White]

Hi,

I got a large blister on my heel about a week into my Camino. It was due to my tight fitting approach shoes.

In the Spanish Pharmacy the lady sold me a Syringe and Iodine. She said to remove as much fluid as possible with the syringe and then inject back in a little iodine.

The first time it stung quite a lot but I followed this method and the blister healed quite quickly. I used the same procedure with a couple of other blisters I got later on. I had no infections and although the blisters were sore they were very manageable.

After the first blister, I started looking after my feet ! I taped any spots that felt like they might rub and rubbed my feet with Decathlon anti chaffing (anti-frottement) cream whenever I stopped. I'd really recommend this cream as its great for rubbing shoulder straps and other sensitive areas !

https://www.decathlon.fr/creme-anti-frottement-100-ml-id_8335449.html

I'll be taking Tape, Iodine and Syringe along and using Anti-Chaffing Cream and Approach Shoes 1 size bigger than normal on my next Camino in September ...

Steve

 

[Sjp007]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

I walked the CF and did not get blisters...my secret: kinesiology tape, I taped the back of my heels, big and small toes daily...you can buy this tape all along the Camino from the pharmacy...prevention is the best policy!! If I had any other areas where I had a ‘hot spot’ I just added more tape to these areas. Good luck!!!

 

[scooker54]

I recommend the book:

Fixing Your Feet: Injury Prevention and Treatments for Athletes
by Vonhof, John

 

[tpmchugh]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

Good well broken in boots or shoes, good socks. I use Lidl hiking socks. Don't know if you have that store in Australia but you have aldi and what Lidl sells, aldi tends to sell. The final ingredient is Vick. Smear your feet before starting out and you will be fine. Five times on the Camino and I have had virtually no problem with blisters. You can use vaseline or the special ointment available on the Camino specially designed for pilgrim use but it's expensive. I found in some places I could not get it or vaseline but Vick was available everywhere. Finally, I have no idea if this is true but I have been told the smell of Vick repels bed bugs. I never used it before going to bed but also never had problems with the bugs. Make of that claim what you will but as far as blisters are concerned, it worked for me. One pharmacist smiled when I asked for it and said,'best thing for feet'

 

[Jean Ti]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

If all the 232 suggestions above are not working for you! Buy a pair of sandal and just rent a car!

 

[witsendwv]

hi all, i just wondered if there is any way to walk the camino and NOT GET BLISTERS.

i have just completed a 50km walk on friday as a fundraiser in australia and i am covered in blisters. I had the stamina for the walk but the blisters, especially around the outside of the heals were really painful and hindered my enjoyment. i just wonder how i will cope with such a long walk as the Camino.

i have booked to start in sj in September and feel a bit daunted by this.

i would love to hear from anyone who did the walk and did not get blisters.

ps, i am already double socking AND AM ON MY 5TH PAIR OF BOOTS!!

juju

Try ArmaSkins- they are Australian made: https://www.armaskin.com/ I haven't had a blister yet while wearing them.

 

[gunwharfman]

I can only answer as an individual but when I first started hiking I bought a pair of Brasher boots (I just bought size 7, they seemed OK in the shop) and from then on I suffered from serious blisters. In my desperation, I went to my local Cotswold Outdoor shop and had my feet measured properly. The man who measured my feet suggested that I as a male should now buy women's boots, I have narrow ankles.

I took his advice and I have never had a blister since. I recently walked for 13 days on the GR107 in France wearing a pair of ladies' Keen Targee III's, not a twinge or a hot spot, my feet were comfortable all of the way.

 

[LenB]

Were your Targhees the open or closed toe?