If you’re like most hikers, you know that blisters are one of the most annoying things that can happen on a hike. Not only are they painful, but they can also slow you down and make it difficult to continue on your journey. Fortunately, there is a simple solution that can help prevent blisters from forming while hiking: duct tape! In this blog post, we will discuss how to use duct tape on blisters and how to keep your feet healthy and blister-free while hiking.
Does Duct Tape Help Blisters?
When it comes to preventing blisters, duct tape works wonders. This flexible tape has many different uses including repairing tents, fixing broken items in camp or on the trail, and more! It can also be used as a quick patch for holes in your clothing or shoes. The fact that it sticks so well makes it ideal for applying directly onto the skin without fear of falling off like bandages do when wet or sweaty.
Benefits of Duct Tape for Blisters
There are a few key benefits of using duct tape on blisters while hiking:
– Duct tape is easy to apply and has many uses besides blister protection.
– It is effective at preventing rubbing and stopping blisters from forming in the first place if your feet are pre-taped before your hike
– Duct tape is affordable and readily available compared to other blister products, making it a great choice for hikers who need a last-minute fix or don’t have moleskin on hand.
How to Use Duct Tape to Prevent Blisters
Now that we have discussed the benefits of using duct tape for blister prevention, let’s take a look at how you can use it effectively while hiking. Here are a few tips:
Apply Duct Tape Before Blisters Form
The best time to put duct tape on is before blisters form. If you start to develop a hot spot or feel burning on your feet, stop hiking, dry off the affected area from any sweat and apply a piece of tape larger than the hot spot to ensure the tape can stick.
Don’t Remove The Skin
If a blister has already developed, don’t remove the skin! Just cover the full blister with a piece of gauze (or nonstick bandage) before using tape and make sure your hiking boots are tightened properly. Never pop your blisters on the trail – this could lead to infection.
Apply Moleskin For Extra Padding
If you need extra padding on one part of your foot that’s prone to blistering, consider applying moleskin under the duct tape before hiking so that it stays in place better throughout your hike.
A Larger Piece is Better
Always use a larger piece of tape than you think you need to avoid the tape coming off due to friction
Can You Use Duct Tape on Blisters?
The short answer is yes… but no. You never want to apply duct tape directly to a small blister, larger blister, or popped blister. Basically if you are using duct tape to treat a blister, don’t put it directly on the affected skin. Instead, first place gauze or a non stick bandage over the blister, then duct tape the area to hold it in place.
How Duct Tape Compares With Other Blister Products
Duct tape for blisters has many advantages, but there are some drawbacks as well. Here are a few key differences between using duct tape versus other products like band-aids and moleskin:
– It can be difficult to remove once applied and may leave residue behind (especially if not removed properly). This means that while it might take longer than other options like moleskin to apply, it is less likely to fall off or move around during your hike.
– Duct tape is not as breathable as other products and can cause your feet to sweat more. If you are hiking in a hot climate, this might not be the best option for you.
– It is also less absorbent than bandages or moleskin, so if you have a blister that is oozing fluid, duct tape may not be the best solution. You could consider using gauze and applying duct tape over that.
Overall, duct tape is a great choice for hikers looking for an affordable and effective way to prevent blisters from forming on their feet while hiking. With a little bit of preparation before your hike (taping your feet beforehand), duct tape can help keep you moving comfortably throughout the day without worry about blisters forming! For more information on moleskin vs duct tape check out this post here!
Other Great Ways to Prevent Blisters:
Hiking Socks for Blisters
Hiking Sock Liners for Blisters
Cotton vs Merino Wool for Hiking Socks
0 Comments