PDF Reprint - Hot and Bothered: Foot Care in the Heat

Catalog No. BPLV3BOTHERED

Description

Originally Published In: Issue 3, Winter 2006

PDF reprint of an article on Hot and Bothered: Foot Care in the Heat from Backpacking Light Magazine (Print Version).

• Title: Hot and Bothered: Foot Care in the Heat
• Author: John Vonhof
• Word Count: 982
• Images: 3 Photos

Abstract

Mention the word heat and most hikers do not think of how heat affects their feet. They think of how hot they get,how much they sweat,how much water they need to consume,and how miserable they are—longing for shade and cool temperatures. Hikers need to be aware of how their feet react to the heat. Forget this factor and you’ll end up with blisters,maceration,and skin breakdown.

Coping with the Heat
The use of breathable shoes is an important choice—especially in the extreme heat. Uppers with mesh allow feet to breathe and moisture to escape. Couple breathable shoes with moisture-wicking socks and you have a winning combination. If your toes are prone to blisters,check out the Injinji Tetrasok toe socks. In extreme heat, a thin Spenco flat insole underneath your regular insole can provide extra insulation. Be sure to allow space in your shoes for swelling feet and shoe modifications. Finally,any tape you use for blisters should be breathable.

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