The European Commission has recently released a document detailing the application of the word 'snow' within the European Union.
In the warm summer months, new shoes can often be a source of discomfort due to irritations caused by friction, heat, and moisture. To prevent blisters and enjoy your activities comfortably, Claudia Schulz, an expert from the German Shoe Institute, offers practical steps to follow.
Firstly, it's essential to invest in shoes that fit well. This eliminates unnecessary friction points, and getting professionally measured is recommended. It's also beneficial to try multiple brands to find the ideal fit for your foot shape and size.
Another effective strategy is to break in new shoes gradually. Wearing them for just a few hours at a time initially helps the shoe mold to your feet and reduces friction risk. You can break them in at home or on short trips before wearing them for extended periods.
Wearing moisture-wicking or double-layer socks can significantly lower blister risk. Specialized socks with inner slippery layers reduce friction on the skin, wick away moisture, and keep feet cooler and drier.
Keeping feet dry during use is also crucial. Taking breaks to remove shoes and socks allows feet to dry, while using foot powder or antiperspirants designed for feet can help control sweat.
Protective padding, such as moleskin, can be applied on pressure points inside the shoe to reduce friction directly on the skin. For sandals prone to causing blisters, silicone toe caps or similar barriers can provide an additional layer of protection.
If a blister does develop, it's important to clean the area gently with mild soap to prevent infection. If possible, leave the blister roof (skin over the fluid) intact to protect new skin underneath. Pad around the blister with a donut-shaped dressing or padding to relieve pressure and friction.
However, if the blister shows signs of infection such as spreading redness, increased pain, or swelling, seek medical care immediately. It's also advised never to prick small blisters as it increases the risk of infection.
Using baby powder to protect the feet is a simple, effective method, originally used by ballet dancers to protect their strained feet. Special blister plasters with hydrocolloid technology can help remove fluid from blisters, cushion pressure areas, and support the healing process. Gel pads or anti-blister sticks can also help relieve sensitive areas.
By implementing these practical steps, you can prevent blisters from new summer shoes and enjoy your activities comfortably and safely in warm weather.
In the realm of health-and-wellness, investing in well-fitting shoes for fitness-and-exercise is vital as it mitigates friction points, potentially causing discomfort and blisters. Additionally, incorporating moisture-wicking socks in your skin-care routine helps lower blister risks by reducing friction and keeping feet dry.
