People tend to get more exercise in the summer because they go on sightseeing vacations, go to the beach, and generally move around outside more. 

But, these activities can increase the risk of blisters, which is unfortunate. Constant rubbing between the skin and footwear (such as trainers or flip-flops) can cause the body to produce a subcutaneous reaction, filling the region under the skin with a protective fluid to protect against further injury. 

The good news is that taking precautions is easy. Here’s what to do to prevent blisters from forming this summer: 

Cover The Problem Area

Our first pro tip is to cover the area (or areas) where blisters are most likely to form. Placing something on top of the problem spot prevents rubbing and stops blisters from erupting. 

Here are some options: 

• Plasters – not the most attractive way to cover the skin, but highly effective if the problem area is out of sight. 
• Moleskin – a more visually pleasing option that you can cut to fit the affected area (such as the gap between the big and little toes when wearing flip-flops)
• Commercially branded products – products designed to cover the problem area and blend into the skin 
• Sports tape – suitable for people who want to avoid blisters forming during exercise, athletic events, or long hikes. 
• Bandages – simple in-the-field option for people who only have access to a first aid kit. 

Keep Your Feet Dry

Another powerful tactic is to keep your feet as dry as possible during movement. Removing the sweat from your body reduces how much your feet move and shift around in your footwear. 

One option is sweat-wicking socks (depending on your choice of footwear). These pull moisture from the skin’s surface into the fabric to keep you dry. 

Spraying your feet with antiperspirant can be even more effective. These products form plugs inside your feet’s sweat glands, preventing them from releasing moisture during activity. 

Talcum powder is a lower-tech (and slightly messy) option. The powder can soak up water and stop your feet from getting to the point where sweatiness puts you at risk of blisters. 

Lubricate Your Feet

Lubricating your feet to reduce the friction between the foot, sock and shoe is also an option. Cutting down on shearing forces makes blisters less likely by helping your skin slide against surfaces instead of rubbing. 

Here, you have several options, including: 

• Commercial products that reduce friction for athletes and people who exercise. These include SportShield, Hydropel, Sportslick, and Body Glide. 
• Petroleum Jelly. A cheap, readily available option for people who want a quick and easy fix. 
• A+D ointment. A diaper cream that works wonders at reducing friction and helping you feel more comfortable. 

Wear Socks

Socks are perhaps your best strategy against blisters (as long as your footwear is compatible with them) because, like bandages, they create a barrier between your feet and the shoe. This means the sock is the thing doing all the rubbing, not your skin. 

The most advanced option is double-layered socks. These have two pieces of fabric that slide over each other, keeping your foot secure.

Another option is to do what marathoners do and change your socks whenever your feet feel sweaty or wet. Putting on a fresh pair (as long as your shoe isn’t soaked) can reduce friction further. 

Thick and padded socks can also work. These have extra protection around the areas most prone to blisters. However, always ensure they fit your shoes. Too tight or loose and they won’t work. 

Toughen Up Your Feet

Toughening your feet up is one of the most innovative ways to prevent blisters. Activities that make them less pedicured and more leathered can help you withstand tougher conditions. 

For example, don’t remove calluses (unless they are causing you discomfort). A hard layer of skin on the heel and sole can be protective. 

You can also use tannic acid to create calluses. Long-distance runners often apply a 10% solution to the feet two to three times daily for a fortnight to create more leathery skin. If that doesn’t appeal to you, you can also try a tea soak (which also contains tannins). 

Choose The Right Shoes

Finally, ensuring you choose the right shoes before you do anything vigorous this summer can help you avoid blisters. Getting the fit reduces friction and keeps you comfortable. 

To make your shoes more comfortable, you can: 

• Change the insoles to an option that fits your feet snugly
• Buy shoes that are less cramped or loosen the laces around the tongue
• Spend a few days “breaking in” your shoes before going on a long hike by wearing them everywhere you go

So, there you have it: our advice for reducing the risk of blisters. Which of these strategies will you try?