Foot Care…

Wow, how the time flies! I’m really wanting to get my 73-year old body acclimated to longer walks, so in the last week I’ve done 6.5, 8, 9 and 10.5 mile days. I found some shoes that seem to be really good, and I’m learning about double-socking, using a thin inner liner and a heavier top sock. Seems to really help. My friend Steve has walked much of the Pacific Crest Trail and knows all about foot care. It was helpful to get his advice.

So if you plan on joining us on the Walk (especially those of you who plan on walking one or more days), Bob and I recommend that you:

1. Wear comfortable shoes that are already broken in, offer good support, and that you know are kind to your feet.

2. Choose socks that discourage blisters and wick moisture away. (I’m using a thin inner liner sock and a merino wool outer sock.) Cotton socks are often considered a poor choice.

3. Immediately treat any “hot spots” you might feel and cover those areas with blister pads or athletic tape.

4. Remove your shoes and allow your feet to cool off and dry out whenever you take a long break.

5. Soak your beloved feet in cold water after a long day of walking.

All of these bits of advice are second nature to Bob, who has been a long-distance runner all his life and is completely at home with heart-pumping walks, but walking longer distances for 9 days in a row is new to me. If I can keep my feet in good shape I won’t have to have Bob carry me very far...

Don’t forget to let us know if you are going to join us on the walk. Just click on
WALK SIGNUP at the top of the page.