In my research for my upcoming thru hike, one of my primary concerns is foot-care. After all I will be taking over 5 million of them.
My first question is about my shoe size growing. I now wear a 10.5 or 11 in some footwear. I have always been very active and spend 10 hours a day on my feet many days. Should I just buy a size larger and wear liners and heavy socks until my feet swell to wherever they end up?
Secondly, I have heard that applying rubbing alcohol to my feet for a month before my journey with toughen my feet, and help to alleviate hot spots and blisters. Is there ant truth to this?
Thirdly is Body Glide. I know that it helps runners and cyclists with chafing. I have also heard that if I apply it to my feet that it will alleviate blisters. Maybe use it until my feet toughen up on the trail?
Number 4 is liners. Sounds like a silky smooth layer next to my # 1 asset on the trail is a very good idea. At least until my feet are trail leathened. (not a real word).
Fifth is foot-care. Should have been #1. What is best? Water and a little Dr. Bronners. Let them dry, then an alcohol treatment?
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Then there is the 6th question. The best way to address a hot spot before it becomes a blister, and how to treat blisters.
If I can't fix the shoe problem, I hear that athletic tape holds better than moleskin or duct tape. I also read that it is better to cut a little slot in a blister instead of just poking a hole with a pin, so that the blister will keep draining.
What do you veteran thru hikers think?