Its A Foot Thing

One of the biggest issues that you can have when out hiking is blisters, they are awful and can really affect your hiking and can even put you off future hikes.

Most of the time this is due to ill-fitting footwear or socks. I have tried so many types of boots and trainers and it has taken me ages to find a good fit. Actually, it seems to be really technical and there is so much to consider when you are choosing your footwear.

But here are some of the basics to think about.

1. Consider what terrain you'll be walking over whether it'll be mainly flat or rough ground.

2. The weight of the footwear and the fabric they are made from is important. When footwear gets wet every kilo on your feet adds 5kg to your back so minimizing that weight can help massively.

3. It's always a good idea to buy your hiking footwear a 1/2 size bigger than your normal shoe size because when you walk distance your feet will swell which will cause you blisters.

4. Socks are really important and spending a bit extra on them makes a massive difference. Always buy socks with extra thickness in the heel and toes, also making sure the elastic in the sock is not too tight around the top of the sock as you don't want them restricting blood flow.

5. Lacing up your shoes differently helps as it stops pressure from hitting the wrong part of your foot, so make sure to buy lace-ups.

6. For stability by footwear with a good tread so it helps support your foot when going over rough ground.

7. Footwear with a good instep is vitally important keeping the bridge of your foot support will help with foot pain. If your chosen footwear doesn't have any then spend some extra on good insoles.

All this may seem a lot to take on when buying new footwear but look at it as an investment, buying good quality footwear and socks will help massively with foot pain blisters and ankle rolls.

Go to a good outdoor store like Cotswold clothing or Blacks as they will be able to give great advice on what is best.

Two of my favourite footwear companies are Gri-Sport for lightweight boots and Salomon for activewear trainers both are great for all-weather and terrains, with me having a weak ankle I have found both these brands excellent and have affordable.

Remember Happy Feet means Happy Hiking!

Until Next Time

Happy Adventures

L x