Use this runner’s hack to prevent blisters, even with dress shoes.
Blisters are the absolute worst and they seem to pop up at the least convenient time. If you have a pair of shoes that tend to cause blisters or will be doing lots of walking or standing like on vacation or at a convention, a bit of precaution could save you some pain.
Taping the area likely to blister like the back of your heel, toes or the ball of your foot ahead of time may be enough to prevent blisters. The kind of tape you use absolutely does matter. Tape that adheres well, has some stretch, allows the shoe to glide over the skin, and lets the skin breathe is best suited to this task. Read on to see our picks for preventing blisters.
Micropore Tape
3M Micropore Tape
2 rolls for $4.30
Micropore tape confirms to your skin and has good staying power. The smooth outer surface reduces the friction that causes blisters.
3M Micropore Tape 12 Roll Box
12 rolls for $9.53
If you want to stock up a 12 roll box is even cheaper. This tape is handy for covering skin or holding down the corners of medicated patches.
Kinesio Tape
Yet another use for Kinesio tape. The smooth surface on most kinesio tape combined with the stretch and good adhesion makes this a useful tape for avoiding blisters. Cut pieces to fit, give it a slight bit of stretch as you apply it, but don’t stretch the two end points. This works far better than products like moleskin.
OK Tape Roll
1 Roll Boxed $5.99https://amzn.to/3Dpbg2a
OK Tape comes in a variety of colors and neutrals that are easier to disguise on skin tones.
KT Tape Precut Blister Prevention
Box of 30 strips $8.84
KT Tape makes a version of their kinesio tape in easy-to-use precut 3.5 inch pieces, perfect for taping feet. The precut pieces are a great option for travel.
