Running Socks to Prevent Blisters
Why Do I Get Blisters When Running?
Is it because my running socks is causing me blisters? If so, should i get one that prevents them?
I'm fit, young and healthy. I don't suffer from cellulitis or diabetes. I don't have any medical history of peripheral vascular disease but I still get blisters.
Although chances are you don't suffer from any of the above medical conditions, the blisters form mainly because of friction. When running, repeated movements between the skin and socks creates friction. This causes areas of fluid filled skin or blisters to form.
How To Avoid or Treat Blisters?
IN SUMMARY
There are other ways besides using better running socks. Other ways of avoiding blisters or giving them time to heal is:
- Applying lubricants
- Taping feet
- Adequate hydration - which can cause feet swelling worsening the problem
- Applying powder
How Do You Treat Blisters?
How To Prevent Foot Blisters From Forming?
Besides wearing good quality socks (that you will find below...), there are other ways in which you can prevent foot blisters from forming. Remember Prevention Is Better Than Cure!
Moleskin
Moleskin is a cost effective way of preventing foot blisters from forming. It is easy to source them and easy to apply. You just need to ensure that it is applied smoothly over your skin. The best way to apply moleskins to prevent foot blisters from forming is to put it over areas where it is "blister-proned" To identify these areas, it is usually at areas where your skin feels a bit chaffed or reddened after a run. It can be at your heels at the sides or the soles.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment
The good thing about this product is that it can be used for dry or cracked skin and not just areas where it is blister-proned. Aquaphor may be a little oily for some of you but it is an effective product that prevents foot blisters. This product comes in a variety of sizes for travelling purposes or sports use. So check it out!
BodyGlide Anti-Chaff Balm
For those of you who hate oil stuff or petroleum based stuff (which is no good anyway...) then the BodyGlide Anti-Chaff Balm is the product for you. It is hypoallergenic and it doesn't clog pores. It is effective in preventing blisters for long runs and has proven time and time again to be superior in preventing foot blisters from forming. It does not stain your socks after application either. For the best way to prevent foot blisters, this product is the BEST choice.
Toms Blister Shield Anti-Friction Powder
If you don't mind a little bit of mess, then powder is another great solution in preventing foot blisters. This powder product is great for preventing foot blisters from forming. I am not so much a fan of powders and would prefer using the BodyGlide Balm if I don't go for a blister preventing socks.
Get This Products to Prevent Foot Blisters!
What To Do When You Already Have A Foot Blister?
If you already have a foot blister, it is probably one of the most annoying things to happen to you. It is even more annoying when you are preparing for a marathon or a competition when everything comes down to how you'll treat your foot blister.
There are a few scenarios that might happen when you have a foot blister:
Foot Blister, But No Pain
If you are in this situation, you don't have to do anything. You will need to give it a day to rest or just do a short run. The important thing here is not to aggravate the foot blister by training too much.
Foot Blister, Painful
For most of us guys, we'll probably be in this situation and not the above. When you are faced with a big blister that is sore and is threatening to burst, you should burst the fluid with a hot needle. The needle just needs to be sterilised. It can be sterilised by placing it in hot, boiling water before used to pierce the blister. Once all the fluid is released, cover that area with Band-Aid to protect against infection. You can even use moleskins over your blister area. Just make sure that your moleskin is applied smoothly and evenly across the skin
"Check Out the Best Running Socks To Prevent Blisters Below"
Running Socks #1: WrightSock Double Layer Coolmesh Tab Sock
The Best Socks to Prevent Blisters ANYTIME!
That's right...
And the fact that ultramarathoners and triathletes recommend them is a testimony to its superior anti blister abilities.
These WrightSocks may not come cheap but is easily the only investment you will ever have to make in a lifetime unless you are one hardcore of a runner who may need a few pairs (nothing lasts forever....)
Any socks may come with technology to reduce friction or improve moisture but the fact that runners who run in hot and wintry environments without any problems with blisters also makes this socks really worth paying for.
They don't slip and whether you are cycling or running, they are really comfortable to wear.
If you have a friend or family member who absolutely loves running, get this pair of WrightSocks they will love you for it!
Check it out below
Running Socks #2 - injinji Performance Micro Toesocks
Injinji has a long list of great sports apparel to maximize athletes performance and minimize injury.
This Injinji Performance Micro Toesocks is no exception...
I've tried this on and it is quite possibly one of the most comfortable socks I wear during my runs. Compared to the Wrightsocks above, there isn't any difference in comfort. I would still personally prefer the WrightSocks as I don't quite like having my toes wrapped up individually in socks.
Otherwise, I've tried it on for my 20km and 41 km runs and it does it job really well rain or shine. You won't experience any issues with blisters and also manages moisture effectively.
Running Socks #3 - Thorlo Unisex Experia Running Sock
Great Anti Blister Socks for Men and Women!
The Thorlo Unisex Experia Running socks is the best anti blister socks for men and women. Besides preventing blisters, they have extra padding and cushion on the heels and balls of your feet. My niece tried this on and she loved it and much prefer it over the Injinji socks.
You can also get these socks in a whole bunch of colours. Perfect for those who want great comfort running while showing some style :)
Try it!
TAKE HOME MESSAGE ON BUYING SOCKS...
There are plenty of other good antiblister socks on the market. The key to finding the perfect socks for you is to try them and go with the most recommended ones and see if you like how it feels on your feet.
Just like the saying goes...."One man's meat is another man's poison"
Reasons Blisters Form While Running
Besides friction being the main reason below are more causes of blisters.
- Shoes that are too tight - Buy running shoes that have more a little more room but not too loose until it falls out.
- Your shoes might be tied too tight - Loosen it up. When you run, you foot swells so tie a lace that allows some foot movement.
- Inappropriate socks - Get the right ones! See below
- Athlete's foot - this is a fungal infection of the foot causing cracking, flaking and blisters on your skin. Seek medical attention if you have this!
Shop For Even MORE Running Socks to Prevent Blisters
Drymax Running Socks on eBay
Another great running socks that you can get are from Drymax.
Check out these eBay sellers and watch out for their offers