Blister control

Ok so I'm new here. Hey what's up. Now I know this is probably on the forum someplace but I'm going to ask anyway.
So blisters nasty little devil's. On a trip I took this summer we had to cut it short because I had blisters so bad they covered most of my feet. I had on wigwam socks and bad shoes. Yes I should have known better. So I changed those out I'm planning on using a polyester sock instead of wool blend and I got much better shoes. Ok done with back story. My question does anyone have any other advise? A toe blister I can deal with but this was crazy I have never seen blisters this bad.

Thanks Erok.

A lot of experienced hiker swear by a two sock system: one lighter pair close to the skin, and a heavier pair outside that. Seems to work perfectly for me.

The two-sock system (thicker, wicking outer layer with a thin wicking liner sock) is an excellent recommendation, even though I've not found it necessary since switching to low-cut trail shoes. I've also had zero blisters since switching to trail shoes. (You probably shouldn't use trail shoes unless you're carrying loads under 30 pounds - but load lightening is a whole other subject.) With my trail shoes, I use mid-weight synthetic or merino wool socks, usually with padded soles of some kind.

The best way to prevent blisters has always been a well-fitted shoe or boot, though. And try to get fitted with the socks you'll use with them (sometimes switching to a different thickness of sock will help get the fit right, too.

If, despite that, you still get blisters regularly, try to notice where you get them. If there are a few places where they always seem to be, try covering that area with moleskin before you start hiking. Also, if your socks tend to ruck on you, stop and smooth them as soon as they do (and consider whether the socks are a size too large.)

I agree with Glenn. My sock system hasn't mattered much since I switched to low cut, breathable trail runners. Blisters are caused by heat, moisture, and friction which are the MO for big clunky waterproof boots that people used to think they needed. You can still bang up your toes pretty well hiking down hills (smashing in to the front of your shoes). Having a good fit and lacing techniques help, as does walking poles and a lighter pack.

The most important thing is to let your feet breath and treat any hotspots (with blister pads or moleskin) before they become a problem.

By the way, my Oboz trail shoes have a WPB liner (not Gore-Tex, but their proprietary "BDry" product), and I haven't had problems with overheating or blisters even on hot summer days here in southwestern Ohio.

Yes. This works well. I find that thin nylon 'dress' socks are very cheap, nearly indestructible and work just as well as more expensive socks sold as liners. Just get them as plain as possible. No patterning, just flat weave.

The suggestion of switching to trail running shoes is also an excellent one, but not everyone wants to switch away from boots. I did switch and I will happily stay with trail runners for the future. But the thin liner/thicker & more padded outer sock combo helps prevent blisters no matter what kind of footwear you choose.

I will try the two sock method. As for the shoes. That was all my fault I had an old pair of running shoes and they were Ill suited for hiking. I have since switched to keens. I am using those because I have a very wide foot. So far no issues with them. The exact model escapes me.

I stay away from waterproof liners and only use very breathable shoes with one pair of thick Mountaineering Smartwool socks. Never had a blister with that setup but I do use orthopedic inserts in the Oboz shoes.