Dr. Dennis Claire's Favorite Footwear for Hiking

My favorite sock is INJINJI. They are wicking fiber-toe socks. They help cut down on blisters between toes, help mobilize toes and engage intrinsic musculature while wearing. I’ve had good luck keeping patients with Raynauds syndrome comfortable in these, in combination with shoes with a wide-toe box.  They make everything from very thick to thin socks, no-shows, and even compression socks!

I have not used a hiking boot in decades. Instead, I use trail running shoes. I find the flexibility and weight perfect. I have never had an issue with blisters or any other issues. I even summited snow-capped peaks in the Tetons this spring in trail runners with gaiters and crampons! 

In the wintertime, I almost exclusively use alpine touring boots as all winter hikes end in a ski for me! I have had issues with blisters in these but find that a short period of adaptation helps significantly. 

It is usually a hard heel counter that causes blisters. Blisters on the toes would mean that the shoe wear is ill-fitting. If someone is not using wicking fiber socks they also may develop blisters. moleskin padding and offloading strategies can help reduce the chance of blisters.

Dennis Claire, DPM