Everyone seems to get bilsters every now and again. What I have to be the most effective way of dealing with them is to use a combination of neosporin and cloth based surgical tape. Just put a little of the ointment over the affected area but not so large as to impede the tape from sticking around the sides of the area. Then voila you are done! Cheap and effective.

John

I heard once from a guy who seemed pretty "hiking-intelligent" to use vasoline on your feet before you go on strenuous hikes. He said he wouldn't have made it to the top of Rainier if not for that. Have you ever heard of this, and if so, does it work?

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Steve Phillips

I have heard of people doing this, and supposidly it is effective but I suppose one would have to walk around with socks full of Vasoline, and slide around with it, which I guess would be how it prevents blisters. In that way I don't know how different it would be from wearing liner socks. Personally, I find the sliding around a little distracting - just me.

Best,

John

I was cycling down the Oregon coast last month and in camp I met an older guy who thru-hiked the AT. He highly recommended using women's nylons (cut to sock length) under wool socks to prevent blisters. It sounds a bit silly but it's cheap and lightweight. I rarely have problems with blisters so I haven't had the need to try it out, but maybe it's worth a shot for those who do get blisters often. It doesn't sound all that durable however, I'd be surprised if they lasted more than 2 or 3 days on a more challenging hike. Just thought I would toss the information out there.

Well fitting boots/shoes and a little moleskin on occasion has never let me down.
Edited by Dane Burke on Jul 17, 2005 at 09:27 AM