Walking Boots
Q. Hi
I'm thinking of doing the West Highland Way in the Summer and will need new walking boots.
I always get blisters on the soles of my feet including my arches even on short easy walks. I want to buy the boots from a shop that gives good advice and information with time to talk to customers.
Are there any recommendations?
Thanks
Kirsty Mcphee, London
A. See Buying New Walking Boots
Hope this helps
Mike (Editor)
A. I've walked the West Highland Way 3 times with never a blister.
Buying new boots, if summer walking is all you are buying for then get a 2 season boot which will be lighter and cheaper. Go to the best outdoor shop near you during the week the staff will have more time to advise on what you require.
To avoid sore toes take the insole out and stand full weight on it with your heel into the cup on the insole, you should have about 12mm clear in front of your toes to the insole.
Finally wear 2 pairs of socks 1 very thin pair next to your skin then normal walking socks.
Blisters are caused by friction and wearing 2 pair of socks [may] prevent hot spots. A smear of petroleum jelly on the feet [may] help as well.
Good luck
Walk long and safe.
Sandy Mitchell, Falkirk
A. Hi, I've just got back from walking the West Highland Way.
I did it over 5 days. The boots I wore were North Face - Cedar Ridge and some Brasher hiking socks.
The boots were excellent (no blisters or sores). I bought them from Blacks, who were very helpful.
I hope this helps?
Matt Ladd, Camberley
A. Hi I live in North Wales - I haven't walked The West Highland Way yet but I do climb Snowdon on a regular basis.
As for boots I suggest you go to a decent shop for them - I wear Karrimor KSB's. I find them really good and they also make walking boots especially for women.
When trying them on make sure you wear two pairs of socks. I used to suffer with blisters on the balls of my feet and I found that gel inserts are great - I have never had a blister since.
Steven Latham, Rhyl
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