Q: How can I prevent blisters caused by hiking?

To avoid blisters:

  • Make sure you have well fitted hiking boots.
  • Break in hiking shoes or boots well before your hike.
  • Wrap your blister-prone spots with athletic tape.
  • Keep your socks dry.

If you find a blister is forming, you should try to adjust your sock from rubbing against the blister area, stop often to let your feet rest, and choose a different hiking rhythm to ease the pressure. There are also several bandage-like products on the market that can help once blisters have formed.