Treating Blisters

Before a blister gets so big that it breaks by itself, take a sterilized needle and prick the center. Squeeze out the fluid. If the first needle prick doesn't release all the fluid, make another. Cover with a band aide, which should be left on until it falls off by itself, giving the skin a chance to reattach. Moleskin can be put over the band aide for comfort.

Buying Hiking Boots: 2 Finger Rule

1. Shop at the end of an active day so that your feet are as swollen as they might get on a hike.
2. Stand and push your foot forward into the toe of the boot. Now check that you have room to insert 2 fingers into the boot behind your heel.
This extra space will prevent your toes from jamming into the front of the boot and injuring your nails causing the toenails eventually to turn black and fall off.