Recommendations for Foot Glide to Prevent Blisters During Camino Walk

[auburnfive]

On my last Camino I used something called Sport Shield on my feet - a roll on foot glide, and for the first time was blister free! It was not specific for feet. Now that it has been used up I’m looking for something similar. Can anyone recommend a brand that has worked for them? I could just stick with the same, but thought I’d consult with the experts here.

 

[Phoenix]

Body Glide Foot Glide

I use it every time I'm on a walk or hike longer than 3 miles. Widely used by runners. Great stuff.

 

[SabsP]

For me nothing beats this German brand.

GEHWOL Foot Care: Professional Solutions for Healthy feet.

Pamper your feet with GEHWOL Foot Care Products. Professional-grade solutions cater to all your foot care needs.

www.gehwolfootcare.com

Before walking :

Foot Cream Extra - Gehwol Footcare

Universal foot cream with a broad spectrum of action. For daily intensive care. Massage cream into the feet including in between the toes. Apply twice a day. Ingredients: Lanolin, oil of rosemary, eucalyptus, lavender and thyme, camphor, chloroxylenol. Gluten Free Suitable for diabetics...

www.gehwolfootcare.com

After walking :

Blue - Gehwol Footcare

Intensive moisturizing cream for dry, rough, and tired feet. Ingredients: Skin friendly emollient emulsion, lanolin, glycerin, urea, rosemary oil, mountain pine oil, lavender oil, camphor. Application Massage the cream into the feet or the targeted area twice a day for the treatment of dry...

www.gehwolfootcare.com

 

[CAJohn]

I used Gold Bond Friction Defense. It was inexpensive and effective. It can also be used to prevent chafing, just like Body Glide. It comes like a stick antiperspirant

 

[trecile]

I used Gold Bond Friction Defense. It was inexpensive and effective. It can also be used to prevent chafing, just like Body Glide. It comes like a stick antiperspirant

I used Gold Bond Friction Defense too. But I don't see a need for @auburnfive to switch to something different since they found something that worked well in the past.

 

[henrythedog]

I used Gold Bond Friction Defense too. But I don't see a need for @auburnfive to switch to something different since they found something that worked well in the past.

Gold bond’s fine, as is Body Glide (although the miniature versions are tremendously poor value for money). They, and their ilk, are pretty much the same except for the marketing. Buy whichever’s cheapest where you live.

Because I believe every word that @SabineP and @Kathar1na say I’ve ordered the German product referenced above.

 

[chinacat]

@henrythedog

It’s good stuff … at least, the ‘before’ one is. I’ve never used the blue one.

 

[chinacat]

Because I believe every word that @SabineP and @Kathar1na say I’ve ordered the German

What if they both told you that RFID works?

 

[trecile]

I bought some "regular" Gehwol foot cream a few years ago. I haven't used it much, nor brought it on the Camino though. It seems that it's the one to use to prevent blisters based on the directions.

Apply GEHWOL Footcare 1mm thick onto feet before walking, hiking and other sports.

Foot Cream - Gehwol Footcare

Protects exhausted skin and prevents aching feet, sores, blisters and chafing. Ingredients: Medicated soap, vaseline, lanolin, talcum, essential oils of eucalyptus, rosemary, lavender, thyme, chloroxylenol, camphor. Apply GEHWOL Footcare 1mm thick onto feet before walking, hiking and other...

www.gehwolfootcare.com

 

[Walkerooni]

In Canada I buy Body Glide at Mountain Equipment Co-op. Available at other sport stores as well. I read about people saying how expensive it is, but I didn’t find it so. Especially when the trade-off is no blisters, not having to buy any Compeed, tape, bandages... Sorry—edited for price because they did not show up: $7.95 for small (10g) and $13.95 for medium (42g) which I don’t think I would use up in 2000 km! For me it precluded the need for anything else, as I was completely blister-Free for 796k. So not only cheap, but priceless!

 

[simply B]

BodyGlide worked for my feet on the CF in Fall 2012. Midway through the same route in Spring 2014, a new tube was discarded in favor of Vaseline because the former was simply NOT working. (No idea why...)

I have used Vaseline ever since.... a pea-sized dab rubbed onto each foot after applying paper tape to those spots on toes and ball of foot and heel where I typically expect 'hot spots'.

And, despite my (and yours, likely) misgivings , it did not make the socks hard to clean up. I honestly found no difference in cleanup from the use of BodyGlide.

YMMV

B

 

[C clearly]

Apply GEHWOL Footcare 1mm thick onto feet before walking, hiking and other sports.

Yikes! That seems excessive!

 

[henrythedog]

What if they both told you that RFID works?

Oh you’re good! I’ll remember that!

Happy New Year.

 

[SabsP]

I bought some "regular" Gehwol foot cream a few years ago. I haven't used it much, nor brought it on the Camino though. It seems that it's the one to use to prevent blisters based on the directions.

Apply GEHWOL Footcare 1mm thick onto feet before walking, hiking and other sports.

Foot Cream - Gehwol Footcare

Protects exhausted skin and prevents aching feet, sores, blisters and chafing. Ingredients: Medicated soap, vaseline, lanolin, talcum, essential oils of eucalyptus, rosemary, lavender, thyme, chloroxylenol, camphor. Apply GEHWOL Footcare 1mm thick onto feet before walking, hiking and other...

www.gehwolfootcare.com

That one I only use here in colder climates.

@C clearly : that was my first thought too when I bought it but acutally the 1 mm works well. Not a sticky mess at all.

 

[davebugg]

Out of all the concoctions that are available, 2Toms Sport Shield is my preference, so my suggestion is to stick with it. It is very persistent and a little goes a long way, as you've probably been aware. I might also suggest Engo Patches. Below is a review I wrote up a while back.

--------------------------------
Due to word count limits, this is posted in two parts. Part Two appears below as a separate post in this thread.

PART ONE

Engo is a company which has created a line of friction-reducing products related to various health and safety concerns. One of these products are known as “Engo Blister Patches”. This is what I will be talking about in this posted review.

I will also note that there have been a few Forum members who have successfully used this product, are enthusiastic about the Patches, and who have also posted information about Engo Blister Patches on the Forum for all to read. I mention this so that Forum readers can also seek out those postings using the Search Engine.

Let me underscore the fact that I have no vested interest in any Engo products, including the Blister Patches. I have never been in contact with the company that manufactures the product, nor do I have any wholesale or retail or stock market, etc. connections which will earn me cash if someone purchases this product.

Conclusion and Bottom Line:

When applied properly, and as a part of one’s blister prevention strategy, Engo Blister Patches can be remarkably effective at preventing or reducing the incidence of blisters. There are a few things to consider when purchasing Engo Blister Patches, including the permanence of installation, and varied experiences of this product’s usable longevity. Those concerns will be addressed.

Background

As I have mentioned in previous posted reviews, many Forum members are aware that I have been employed by various backpacking gear, footwear, and clothing manufacturers to test their products for quality assurance, usability, and the workability of modifications and prototypes. As a contracted gear tester, my reports only go to the company that has hired me for their internal use; I do not publish those reports for public consumption as reviews of those items, or to provide public recommendations. I make mention of this because as an experienced professional gear tester, I feel I have the skill set and objectivity to cut through Engo’s claims in order to examine the Blister Patches’ actual effectiveness at blister prevention.

Engo did not hire me to test their product. Nor did I inform Engo of my intentions to review their Blister Patch products. I purchased the Engo Blister Patches myself, from an online vendor.

Rationale and Motivation for the review

Blister prevention is a primary interest to Forum members, as it is to the general backpacking community. I wanted to know for myself if Engo Blister Prevention Patches effectively implements blister prevention. I also wanted to provide increased knowledge to Forum members about this product, especially if the Patches perform as marketed.

A second aspect of Engo Blister Prevention Patches grabbed my attention: They act in a manner that, if they ARE effective, replaces the need to incorporate liner or dual socks as a strategy for blister prevention. Engo Patches would perform the same function. This would be good because dual sock systems add extra heat retention to the foot which can be largely eliminated. It also removes the need of keeping track of the increased blister risk of having more sock material which can ruck and rub against the skin of the foot, sometimes undetected until it is too late.

The Manufacturers Explanation of How the Engo Blister Patch Works

On its website, Engo’s explanations of how and why the Blister Patch works appears consistent with my understanding of the known facts of how blister formation occurs, and how the risk for blistering can be reduced. In looking at the published opinions of training specialists and blister prevention experts, there is much positive regard for the Engo Blister Patch products.

There is no specific mention of how Engo manufactures the Blister Patch, or the formula for producing the product’s slick top coating. I did not research whether the Engo Blister Patch ‘ingredients’ are proprietary and patented, or whether this a new use for an existing formula.

How does Engo claim that its Blister Patches prevent blistering?


It provides a surface which is slippery to sock material. This is attached to individual problem areas of a shoe. Some people may find that they only need to apply them to one area in the shoe; others may find that they need several of the Patches installed.

The slippery surface of the Patch allows the sock to slide over the surface of that Patch. This keeps the sock in place against the foot, thereby keeping it from sliding against the skin. This eliminates the shear friction from the sock that creates a blister.


Engo Blister Patch: Testing

Note: I do not usually blister. The appearance or absence of blisters is not important for the purposes of this testing. What is important is the ability to determine if the Engo Blister Patches function to reduce shear force friction, and the long-term durability of that effectiveness.

The test began September 2018 during training hikes then continued during a pilgrimage on Camino Frances. The testing continued after returning back home and was completed on June 5, 2019. Now, in June 2021, I have spent the last 17 days reviewing this review by testing a new batch of Engo Stuff, looking for any significant changes outside of some new sizes, and determining if the 2019 review needs any 'freshening'.

Not so surprisingly, very little has changed as to the functionality of Engo Patches and as to how they work to help prevent blisters. I feel that the first posted review is still valid as to my findings, and so is posted as it was initially written.

There were three primary reasons for my deciding to conduct this length of testing:

• To allow me adequate time to make direct comparisons using identical insoles in the same shoes – one insole with an Engo Patch, the other without a Patch. The insoles would be swapped out every third day.
• To allow adequate time to determine the durability of the Patches.
• To find and test an easy and effective method for extending both the effectiveness and the longevity of the Engo Blister Patches.

The shoe I used throughout the testing period was the Hoka One One Bondi v6. I consider the materials used in the construction of the ‘upper’ part of these shoes to be like that of most trail or running-style shoes.

The insoles I used were the Timberland Pro Men's Anti-Fatigue Technology Replacement Insole. I would expect that any shoe or insole combination would have produced similar results.

The socks I wore were primarily Smartwool’s PhD light padded crew socks. I also tried socks made of various synthetics, and cotton (I do NOT advocate or recommend cotton socks for distance walking) for brief periods in order to compare their performance with the Engo Blister Patches to my Smartwool socks.

Note: Although I found that all the sock materials that I wore for the test performed as intended with the Engo Blister Patches, cotton-heavy sock fabrics would become a bit ‘grabbier’ when they became wet with either sweat or water. Wool socks and synthetic blend socks performed the best under wet conditions.

Normally, the socks I purchase and use fit snug, but not horribly tight, on my feet. This keeps the socks in place, reducing or eliminating their movement on my feet, which dramatically reduces a sock’s ability to create the shear force friction which causes blisters. As part of the test I purchased socks which were purposefully much larger than what I like to wear. I wanted socks that were very loose on my foot and would be noticeable if they slid around while walking. Why?

To help me determine the limits of the Engo Blister Patch’s effectiveness, wearing the baggy socks for a period of time during the testing was an important evaluation tool. I had to observe IF the Engo Blister Patch could prevent poorly fitting socks from sliding around over the skin on the foot and therefore still prevent blistering.

Placement of the Engo Blister Patches was just below where the tips of my toes sit at the front of the insole, to the point on the insole where the arch of the foot begins. In other words, a large portion of the forefoot area.

The Engo Blister Patches were installed about two weeks prior to leaving for Camino. I began using them on training and workout and recreation day hikes and backpacking. Conditions included dry and dusty trails, rain and wet shoes, steep uphill grades and downhill grades, rocky and rutted trails, pavement, sand, and grassy paths.

On Camino Frances, I began in St. Jean Pied de Port and ended in Santiago de Compostela. My son, Caleb, joined me in Leon and brought me a new pair of Hoka One One Bondi v6 shoes. I mailed the old pair back home. (The old shoes are far from worn out, and I am currently wearing them when I go out on day hikes).

I kept the same insoles, with the attached Engo Blister Patches, and continue to wear them the rest of the Camino. I began daily training day hikes again in March, using the same insoles with the same Patches, until just a few days ago.


Findings

Installation

Installing the Engo Patches was straight forward. I found it easy to refine the shape of the Patch for the proper fit by using scissors. The backing that covers the adhesive on the Patch was easy to remove.

I did add one additional step to the Engo instructions. I used a rag, lightly dampened with alcohol, to wipe the area of the new insoles where I would apply a Patch. I wanted to make sure that any left-over oily residue from manufacturing and handling was removed. The area was then allowed to thoroughly dry, which did not take long.

Once I positioned the Patch and pressed it into place, I made sure that I applied firm pressure to the installed Patch from the center to the outside to reduce any trapped air bubbles. Then I applied additional pressure all around the edges, as well as the center.

I choose to forgo the hair dryer option, as accidentally over-doing the heat with the dryer can harm or degrade the material of the Patch, as well as the adhesive’s holding power. I used the friction of rubbing the material with my fingers to do the job of heating the adhesive, instead.

END OF PART ONE

 

[davebugg]

PART TWO

Performance: Blister Prevention

The primary test was how the Engo Blister Patch performed with loose (baggy) socks. If the loose sock material rubbed against the skin of my feet, then that would create the conditions for Shear Force Friction, which is the key factor for blister formation.

I started out the testing period with brand new insoles, one which had the Engo Blister Patches applied, and a pair which did not have the Patches (Plain).

For the first 14 days, during hiking conditions mentioned above, I wore baggy socks. During the first 5 days, I first established how the baggy socks moved on my feet while wearing the ‘plain’ insoles - - the insoles without the Engo Blister Patches installed. To prevent blistering, I applied Leukotape P to my feet whenever ‘hot spotting’ became noticeable.

It was quickly clear that the was significant movement of the sock as I hiked and walked using the plain insoles. The insole material ‘grabbed’ the extra material, forcing it to move. I would tighten my shoe’s laces and use various lacing patterns during the 14-day period to try and reduce that sock movement, with varying results. I found that however I tied the shoes, the loose-fitting socks would move against the skin.

Hot spotting would occur every time I hiked or walked during this testing period.

After I had established the baseline for sock movement over that first 5-day period, I swapped out the ‘plain’ insoles for the insoles which had the Engo Blister Patches applied. Other than swapping the insoles, everything else remained the same: same shoes, same loose/baggy socks, same shoelace tying patterns and tightness or looseness.

The difference in the movement of the socks against the feet was quickly noticed. There was a pronounced decrease in sock movements where the Engo Blister Patches were applied. There was still some small amount of sock movement. However, the amount of movement was not significant enough to create nearly the same level and number of hot spots on the feet. The next 9 days were spent trying to force as much movement from the socks as possible.

Even with the loose/baggy socks, it became obvious that the most decrease in sock movement happened when the shoes were tied a bit looser. This makes sense because has been known for a while now that the tighter a shoe is tied, the more likely that the insole of the shoe will force the sock to move against the foot. So even with the horribly loose/baggy socks, the combination of the Engo Blister Patches with a looser tension to the laces could eliminate blister causing hot spotting.

I found this same phenomenon with temporary applications of Engo Blister Patches to the heel and back collar areas of the shoes and replicating large amounts of heel movement. The blister prevention aspects were extremely positive.

Performance: Durability and Longevity

The cost of equipment is more than the purchase price. I evaluate the money value of my gear and clothing based on how many miles/kilometers it will last, not on its initial purchase price.

For example: I can buy a $60.00 backpack which works and feels adequate, but not great. It ends up nagging at me for the 600 miles it is usable before it breaks down. The real price of the backpack: 10 cents per mile.

Instead, I spend $225.00 on a higher-grade backpack. Better materials and construction. It feels great, it fits great, it is lighter, and it lasts me 5200 miles (about three years of use). Even though the initial purchase is greater, that backpack ends up being cheaper at .04 cents per mile.

For me, the same issue applies to Engo Blister Patches. Engo Blister Patches are not cheap. If they must be frequently replaced, the amount of money spent would really add up to a chunk of cash. So, part of what I wanted to learn from testing was how long would one Engo Patch last under the hard conditions that I put my footwear through.

For assessing durability and longevity, the tools I used consisted of visual inspections, how the Patches felt to the touch, and how quickly their effectiveness degraded.

In order to effectively spot changes to the Engo Blister Patches, I would visually and tactilely (run my fingers over them) inspect them every 5th day of wear . . . a more frequent exam would have made it difficult to discern marked changes. Using a flashlight, I would look for wear patterns. I would then feel the material for roughness and wear, and for reductions in the Patch’s lubricity or ‘slipperiness’.

The enemy to the Engo Blister Patch is what I call a ‘Scrubbing Action’. The scrubbing action occurs with each step as the sock material rubs against the Patch. The sock material itself is an extremely light abrasive, but it is the particles of micro dust, dirt, and other debris which naturally gets into the footwear and embedded into the sock fibers, that accelerates the ‘scrubbing’ action.

Engo states that the Blister Patches will last up to 300 miles. At an average cost of $2.50 usd per patch, that makes the real cost about 0.8 cents per mile. What I found for MY usage is that a Patch would remain noticeably effective for about half that stated mileage. . . 125 to 150 miles. I found this to be the case before Camino and DURING Camino. That makes the real cost of the Engo Blister Patch to me of 2 cents per mile.

I have described the test conditions which I used for the Engo Blister Patches. Others will experience differences in the products longevity due to their own unique usage patterns. Factors, such as the overall weight of the person, will affect the lifespan of the product. But overall, the cost of the Engo Blister Patches is not out-of-line when compared to some other commonly used consumable anti-blister products . . .many of which do not work well unless very frequently applied to the feet, if even then.

Modification to Engo Blister Patches

When I was at the point for replacing my Engo Blister Patches for the second time from when I had started testing them, I was taking a two-day layover in Leon. I had walked from St Jean Pied de Port, and I was waiting in Leon for my son, Caleb, to join me.

I used the lodging’s hair dryer in the bathroom to gently heat up the old Patches in order to soften the adhesive for easier removal. I slowly peeled up the old Patch so that it didn’t tear the fabric of the insole. I then used a small amount of alcohol-based hand sanitizer on a cloth to gently remove any excess, old adhesive on the insole that was left behind. It was during this chore that I started thinking of ways to improve the longevity of the Patches, and perhaps their effectiveness a bit.

I decided that trying an application of an anti-chafing/anti-blister agent to the top of the Engo Blister Patches was worth a go. The problem was, what kind? Whatever was added must work in concert with the Patches, not replace the action of the Patches. The modification would also need to be harmless to the adhesive holding the Patches in place. The last major concern was that the modification not damage the ‘slipperiness’ of the top layer of the Patch.

After I found some Body Glide, and a Compeed Blister Stick at a local outdoor store, I had four different products to consider for the modification.

• Compeed Blister Stick
• Body Glide
• Hiker Goo
• 2Toms Sports Shield

Body Glide, Compeed Blister Stick, and Hiker Goo are products which act as a coating to the skin. The coating is supposed to reduced friction between the skin and the sock to prevent shear force friction and blisters. For a variety of reasons, I do not like these types of products for anti-blister prevention. They are, however, an anti-friction product worth considering for this test.

2Toms is also a skin application product, but it is significantly different than Body Glide, Compeed, and Hiker Goo and other coating-type products. 2Toms Sports Shield is a liquid that applies wet, and then quickly dries to a very slick coating which is far more durable than the Body Glide-type products. Another significant difference is that while the Body-Glide type products have a waxy-type film which can hold onto dirt and dust particles, 2Toms has no such waxy layer.

I verified the dust and dirt capture of Compeed Blister Stick, Body Glide, and Hiker Goo by separately applying several rows of the four products on different sheets of paper. After allowing the 2Toms product to dry – as it is the only liquid – I dumped a layer of dirt onto each sheet of paper, pressed on the dirt, waited for 5 minutes, then shook each sheet of paper over the waste bucket.

Much of the dirt fell off each sheet of paper. Because each sheet keeps some of the dirt smudging, I had to try and carefully distinguish that expected dirt smudging from dirt being held by the products themselves. When all was said and done, the waxy products still retained a significant number of small particles, while I didn’t see the 2Toms trap anything.

With the new Engo Blister Patches attached to my insoles and allowing a bit of time for the adhesive to set, I applied 2Toms to the Patches. Because I carry an extra set of lightweight insoles (the ones that came with the shoes), I put those insoles into my shoes for the rest of the day’s sightseeing of Leon, and set aside the ‘walking’ insoles aside to allow the 2Toms to dry and set.

Performance: Modified Engo Blister Patch

Bottom Line: 2Toms increased the usable life of the Engo Blister Patches for me by at least 100 miles.

The wear and performance of the 2Toms modified Engo Blister Patches were evaluated as compared to the unmodified Engo Blister Patches while on the Camino Frances from Leon to Santiago de Compostela, and to the ending of the test at home on June 5, 2019.

There were two significant and interesting things that occurred with the modifications:

After the 2Toms application, I found the performance characteristics of the Engo Blister Patch lasted significantly more miles, and it also increased the desired performance for eliminating Shear Force Friction. Even though I was not wearing baggy socks but my usual Smartwool snug fitting socks, I found that I wanted to increase the tension to my shoelaces to make up for the socks sliding a bit more on the Engo Patches.

I do not know why, although I am sure the explanation is simple, but the application of the 2Toms induced a ‘squeaking’ noise when I would step off with my foot during walking. Or maybe it was just me

I began noticing a pattern to the squeaking which started occurring and started using it as a marker for when to reapply the 2Toms to the Engo Blister Patches. I made the connection - - which resulted in much laughter - - that when the ‘squeaking’ decreased in frequency, it was time to reapply 2Toms to the Patches. For me, an application would last for several days.

The very bottom line to this posted review: You are free to take from it what you will.

Last edited: Jun 7, 2021

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Yikes! That seems excessive!

I would be making an uneducated guess as to how thick was needed when applying it as I only measure in inches; 1 mm= .0394inch.
Could I use a dollop instead of measuring?

 

[Camino Chrissy]

@davebugg, this is just one example of your vast knowledge and understanding of all things related to long distance walking and hiking.
I did not read the information you've provided as I get little friction on my feet, but many reading your posts will appreciate those details.

 

[janejacobs]

BodyGlide worked for my feet on the CF in Fall 2012. Midway through the same route in Spring 2014, a new tube was discarded in favor of Vaseline because the former was simply NOT working. (No idea why...)

I have used Vaseline ever since.... a pea-sized dab rubbed onto each foot after applying paper tape to those spots on toes and ball of foot and heel where I typically expect 'hot spots'.

And, despite my (and yours, likely) misgivings , it did not make the socks hard to clean up. I honestly found no difference in cleanup from the use of BodyGlide.

YMMV

B

Vaseline is a simple and effective product to protect the feet against blisters + foot wool over bony areas. I have walked 2000km on Vaseline and wool with no blisters on very skinny feet.

 

[Larry Gordon]

I used it on the CF and was rewarded with great blister free results. I plan to use it on the Camino del Norte in May June 2022

 

[williamlittig]

Most stick deodorants will give you what Body glide, Compete and others provide. Throw away(recycle) all the plastic put it in a plastic bag. Buy two coffees with the savings.

 

[JeffParks]

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001FPYL8G/?tag=casaivar02-20

 

[Sue127]

PART TWO

Performance: Blister Prevention

The primary test was how the Engo Blister Patch performed with loose (baggy) socks. If the loose sock material rubbed against the skin of my feet, then that would create the conditions for Shear Force Friction, which is the key factor for blister formation.

I started out the testing period with brand new insoles, one which had the Engo Blister Patches applied, and a pair which did not have the Patches (Plain).

For the first 14 days, during hiking conditions mentioned above, I wore baggy socks. During the first 5 days, I first established how the baggy socks moved on my feet while wearing the ‘plain’ insoles - - the insoles without the Engo Blister Patches installed. To prevent blistering, I applied Leukotape P to my feet whenever ‘hot spotting’ became noticeable.

It was quickly clear that the was significant movement of the sock as I hiked and walked using the plain insoles. The insole material ‘grabbed’ the extra material, forcing it to move. I would tighten my shoe’s laces and use various lacing patterns during the 14-day period to try and reduce that sock movement, with varying results. I found that however I tied the shoes, the loose-fitting socks would move against the skin.

Hot spotting would occur every time I hiked or walked during this testing period.

After I had established the baseline for sock movement over that first 5-day period, I swapped out the ‘plain’ insoles for the insoles which had the Engo Blister Patches applied. Other than swapping the insoles, everything else remained the same: same shoes, same loose/baggy socks, same shoelace tying patterns and tightness or looseness.

The difference in the movement of the socks against the feet was quickly noticed. There was a pronounced decrease in sock movements where the Engo Blister Patches were applied. There was still some small amount of sock movement. However, the amount of movement was not significant enough to create nearly the same level and number of hot spots on the feet. The next 9 days were spent trying to force as much movement from the socks as possible.

Even with the loose/baggy socks, it became obvious that the most decrease in sock movement happened when the shoes were tied a bit looser. This makes sense because has been known for a while now that the tighter a shoe is tied, the more likely that the insole of the shoe will force the sock to move against the foot. So even with the horribly loose/baggy socks, the combination of the Engo Blister Patches with a looser tension to the laces could eliminate blister causing hot spotting.

I found this same phenomenon with temporary applications of Engo Blister Patches to the heel and back collar areas of the shoes and replicating large amounts of heel movement. The blister prevention aspects were extremely positive.

Performance: Durability and Longevity

The cost of equipment is more than the purchase price. I evaluate the money value of my gear and clothing based on how many miles/kilometers it will last, not on its initial purchase price.

For example: I can buy a $60.00 backpack which works and feels adequate, but not great. It ends up nagging at me for the 600 miles it is usable before it breaks down. The real price of the backpack: 10 cents per mile.

Instead, I spend $225.00 on a higher-grade backpack. Better materials and construction. It feels great, it fits great, it is lighter, and it lasts me 5200 miles (about three years of use). Even though the initial purchase is greater, that backpack ends up being cheaper at .04 cents per mile.

For me, the same issue applies to Engo Blister Patches. Engo Blister Patches are not cheap. If they must be frequently replaced, the amount of money spent would really add up to a chunk of cash. So, part of what I wanted to learn from testing was how long would one Engo Patch last under the hard conditions that I put my footwear through.

For assessing durability and longevity, the tools I used consisted of visual inspections, how the Patches felt to the touch, and how quickly their effectiveness degraded.

In order to effectively spot changes to the Engo Blister Patches, I would visually and tactilely (run my fingers over them) inspect them every 5th day of wear . . . a more frequent exam would have made it difficult to discern marked changes. Using a flashlight, I would look for wear patterns. I would then feel the material for roughness and wear, and for reductions in the Patch’s lubricity or ‘slipperiness’.

The enemy to the Engo Blister Patch is what I call a ‘Scrubbing Action’. The scrubbing action occurs with each step as the sock material rubs against the Patch. The sock material itself is an extremely light abrasive, but it is the particles of micro dust, dirt, and other debris which naturally gets into the footwear and embedded into the sock fibers, that accelerates the ‘scrubbing’ action.

Engo states that the Blister Patches will last up to 300 miles. At an average cost of $2.50 usd per patch, that makes the real cost about 0.8 cents per mile. What I found for MY usage is that a Patch would remain noticeably effective for about half that stated mileage. . . 125 to 150 miles. I found this to be the case before Camino and DURING Camino. That makes the real cost of the Engo Blister Patch to me of 2 cents per mile.

I have described the test conditions which I used for the Engo Blister Patches. Others will experience differences in the products longevity due to their own unique usage patterns. Factors, such as the overall weight of the person, will affect the lifespan of the product. But overall, the cost of the Engo Blister Patches is not out-of-line when compared to some other commonly used consumable anti-blister products . . .many of which do not work well unless very frequently applied to the feet, if even then.

Modification to Engo Blister Patches

When I was at the point for replacing my Engo Blister Patches for the second time from when I had started testing them, I was taking a two-day layover in Leon. I had walked from St Jean Pied de Port, and I was waiting in Leon for my son, Caleb, to join me.

I used the lodging’s hair dryer in the bathroom to gently heat up the old Patches in order to soften the adhesive for easier removal. I slowly peeled up the old Patch so that it didn’t tear the fabric of the insole. I then used a small amount of alcohol-based hand sanitizer on a cloth to gently remove any excess, old adhesive on the insole that was left behind. It was during this chore that I started thinking of ways to improve the longevity of the Patches, and perhaps their effectiveness a bit.

I decided that trying an application of an anti-chafing/anti-blister agent to the top of the Engo Blister Patches was worth a go. The problem was, what kind? Whatever was added must work in concert with the Patches, not replace the action of the Patches. The modification would also need to be harmless to the adhesive holding the Patches in place. The last major concern was that the modification not damage the ‘slipperiness’ of the top layer of the Patch.

After I found some Body Glide, and a Compeed Blister Stick at a local outdoor store, I had four different products to consider for the modification.

• Compeed Blister Stick
• Body Glide
• Hiker Goo
• 2Toms Sports Shield

Body Glide, Compeed Blister Stick, and Hiker Goo are products which act as a coating to the skin. The coating is supposed to reduced friction between the skin and the sock to prevent shear force friction and blisters. For a variety of reasons, I do not like these types of products for anti-blister prevention. They are, however, an anti-friction product worth considering for this test.

2Toms is also a skin application product, but it is significantly different than Body Glide, Compeed, and Hiker Goo and other coating-type products. 2Toms Sports Shield is a liquid that applies wet, and then quickly dries to a very slick coating which is far more durable than the Body Glide-type products. Another significant difference is that while the Body-Glide type products have a waxy-type film which can hold onto dirt and dust particles, 2Toms has no such waxy layer.

I verified the dust and dirt capture of Compeed Blister Stick, Body Glide, and Hiker Goo by separately applying several rows of the four products on different sheets of paper. After allowing the 2Toms product to dry – as it is the only liquid – I dumped a layer of dirt onto each sheet of paper, pressed on the dirt, waited for 5 minutes, then shook each sheet of paper over the waste bucket.

Much of the dirt fell off each sheet of paper. Because each sheet keeps some of the dirt smudging, I had to try and carefully distinguish that expected dirt smudging from dirt being held by the products themselves. When all was said and done, the waxy products still retained a significant number of small particles, while I didn’t see the 2Toms trap anything.

With the new Engo Blister Patches attached to my insoles and allowing a bit of time for the adhesive to set, I applied 2Toms to the Patches. Because I carry an extra set of lightweight insoles (the ones that came with the shoes), I put those insoles into my shoes for the rest of the day’s sightseeing of Leon, and set aside the ‘walking’ insoles aside to allow the 2Toms to dry and set.

Performance: Modified Engo Blister Patch

Bottom Line: 2Toms increased the usable life of the Engo Blister Patches for me by at least 100 miles.

The wear and performance of the 2Toms modified Engo Blister Patches were evaluated as compared to the unmodified Engo Blister Patches while on the Camino Frances from Leon to Santiago de Compostela, and to the ending of the test at home on June 5, 2019.

There were two significant and interesting things that occurred with the modifications:

After the 2Toms application, I found the performance characteristics of the Engo Blister Patch lasted significantly more miles, and it also increased the desired performance for eliminating Shear Force Friction. Even though I was not wearing baggy socks but my usual Smartwool snug fitting socks, I found that I wanted to increase the tension to my shoelaces to make up for the socks sliding a bit more on the Engo Patches.

I do not know why, although I am sure the explanation is simple, but the application of the 2Toms induced a ‘squeaking’ noise when I would step off with my foot during walking. Or maybe it was just me

I began noticing a pattern to the squeaking which started occurring and started using it as a marker for when to reapply the 2Toms to the Engo Blister Patches. I made the connection - - which resulted in much laughter - - that when the ‘squeaking’ decreased in frequency, it was time to reapply 2Toms to the Patches. For me, an application would last for several days.

The very bottom line to this posted review: You are free to take from it what you will.

Last edited: Jun 7, 2021

An exceedingly detailed report, Thank you

 

[chinacat]

Oh you’re good! I’ll remember that!

Happy New Year.

You get a for that as well!

 

[JamesVT]

I used Gold Bond Friction Defense. It was inexpensive and effective. It can also be used to prevent chafing, just like Body Glide. It comes like a stick antiperspirant

I used Gold Bond also. Cheap, effective, easy to use.

 

[trecile]

I used it on the CF and was rewarded with great blister free results. I plan to use it on the Camino del Norte in May June 2022

What did you use??

 

[tpmchugh]

It doesnt come as a stick dispenser but I use Vick. It works fine

 

[Marbe2]

@davebugg Thank you for your analysis of engo blister patches. and 2Toms Sport Shield. Always good to be familiar with other products and possibilities!
I don’t think I currently have need-for Engo blister patches. I have used Hiking goo, and Vaseline on my feet in the past but may give 2 Toms a try. Hope you are doing well!

 

[Former member 91017]

In Canada I buy Body Glide at Mountain Equipment Co-op. Available at other sport stores as well. I read about people saying how expensive it is, but I didn’t find it so. Especially when the trade-off is no blisters, not having to buy any Compeed, tape, bandages... Sorry—edited for price because they did not show up: $7.95 for small (10g) and $13.95 for medium (42g) which I don’t think I would use up in 2000 km! For me it precluded the need for anything else, as I was completely blister-Free for 796k. So not only cheap, but priceless!

I usenthat too, and also get it from MEC… but for Canadians who don’t have the inclination to hit up MEC, Shopper’s Life brand Diabetic foot care stick is the same product and bit less expensive/more readily available.
For scent, my favorite is the Compeed stick equivalent, and I always pick it up in the EU Zane refill as needed. I also prefer it’s shape for when it comes to application time and getting between toes etc. The Compeed stick is much more narrow, almost like a lipstick.
At any rate, all good products.
All of them have led me to wonder though: what if I were just to use my antiperspirant stick for the feet as well?

 

[jmcarp]

I used Gold Bond Friction Defense. It was inexpensive and effective. It can also be used to prevent chafing, just like Body Glide. It comes like a stick antiperspirant

Ditto on the Gold Bond Friction Defense -- two Caminos, zero blisters. It's readily available at Amazon, Walmart, and most pharmacies in US and probably in other countries as well. I also wore Smartwool socks and L'eggs ankle highs borrowed from my wife's dresser drawer as liners.

 

[LBell4garden]

PART TWO

Performance: Blister Prevention

The primary test was how the Engo Blister Patch performed with loose (baggy) socks. If the loose sock material rubbed against the skin of my feet, then that would create the conditions for Shear Force Friction, which is the key factor for blister formation.

I started out the testing period with brand new insoles, one which had the Engo Blister Patches applied, and a pair which did not have the Patches (Plain).

For the first 14 days, during hiking conditions mentioned above, I wore baggy socks. During the first 5 days, I first established how the baggy socks moved on my feet while wearing the ‘plain’ insoles - - the insoles without the Engo Blister Patches installed. To prevent blistering, I applied Leukotape P to my feet whenever ‘hot spotting’ became noticeable.

It was quickly clear that the was significant movement of the sock as I hiked and walked using the plain insoles. The insole material ‘grabbed’ the extra material, forcing it to move. I would tighten my shoe’s laces and use various lacing patterns during the 14-day period to try and reduce that sock movement, with varying results. I found that however I tied the shoes, the loose-fitting socks would move against the skin.

Hot spotting would occur every time I hiked or walked during this testing period.

After I had established the baseline for sock movement over that first 5-day period, I swapped out the ‘plain’ insoles for the insoles which had the Engo Blister Patches applied. Other than swapping the insoles, everything else remained the same: same shoes, same loose/baggy socks, same shoelace tying patterns and tightness or looseness.

The difference in the movement of the socks against the feet was quickly noticed. There was a pronounced decrease in sock movements where the Engo Blister Patches were applied. There was still some small amount of sock movement. However, the amount of movement was not significant enough to create nearly the same level and number of hot spots on the feet. The next 9 days were spent trying to force as much movement from the socks as possible.

Even with the loose/baggy socks, it became obvious that the most decrease in sock movement happened when the shoes were tied a bit looser. This makes sense because has been known for a while now that the tighter a shoe is tied, the more likely that the insole of the shoe will force the sock to move against the foot. So even with the horribly loose/baggy socks, the combination of the Engo Blister Patches with a looser tension to the laces could eliminate blister causing hot spotting.

I found this same phenomenon with temporary applications of Engo Blister Patches to the heel and back collar areas of the shoes and replicating large amounts of heel movement. The blister prevention aspects were extremely positive.

Performance: Durability and Longevity

The cost of equipment is more than the purchase price. I evaluate the money value of my gear and clothing based on how many miles/kilometers it will last, not on its initial purchase price.

For example: I can buy a $60.00 backpack which works and feels adequate, but not great. It ends up nagging at me for the 600 miles it is usable before it breaks down. The real price of the backpack: 10 cents per mile.

Instead, I spend $225.00 on a higher-grade backpack. Better materials and construction. It feels great, it fits great, it is lighter, and it lasts me 5200 miles (about three years of use). Even though the initial purchase is greater, that backpack ends up being cheaper at .04 cents per mile.

For me, the same issue applies to Engo Blister Patches. Engo Blister Patches are not cheap. If they must be frequently replaced, the amount of money spent would really add up to a chunk of cash. So, part of what I wanted to learn from testing was how long would one Engo Patch last under the hard conditions that I put my footwear through.

For assessing durability and longevity, the tools I used consisted of visual inspections, how the Patches felt to the touch, and how quickly their effectiveness degraded.

In order to effectively spot changes to the Engo Blister Patches, I would visually and tactilely (run my fingers over them) inspect them every 5th day of wear . . . a more frequent exam would have made it difficult to discern marked changes. Using a flashlight, I would look for wear patterns. I would then feel the material for roughness and wear, and for reductions in the Patch’s lubricity or ‘slipperiness’.

The enemy to the Engo Blister Patch is what I call a ‘Scrubbing Action’. The scrubbing action occurs with each step as the sock material rubs against the Patch. The sock material itself is an extremely light abrasive, but it is the particles of micro dust, dirt, and other debris which naturally gets into the footwear and embedded into the sock fibers, that accelerates the ‘scrubbing’ action.

Engo states that the Blister Patches will last up to 300 miles. At an average cost of $2.50 usd per patch, that makes the real cost about 0.8 cents per mile. What I found for MY usage is that a Patch would remain noticeably effective for about half that stated mileage. . . 125 to 150 miles. I found this to be the case before Camino and DURING Camino. That makes the real cost of the Engo Blister Patch to me of 2 cents per mile.

I have described the test conditions which I used for the Engo Blister Patches. Others will experience differences in the products longevity due to their own unique usage patterns. Factors, such as the overall weight of the person, will affect the lifespan of the product. But overall, the cost of the Engo Blister Patches is not out-of-line when compared to some other commonly used consumable anti-blister products . . .many of which do not work well unless very frequently applied to the feet, if even then.

Modification to Engo Blister Patches

When I was at the point for replacing my Engo Blister Patches for the second time from when I had started testing them, I was taking a two-day layover in Leon. I had walked from St Jean Pied de Port, and I was waiting in Leon for my son, Caleb, to join me.

I used the lodging’s hair dryer in the bathroom to gently heat up the old Patches in order to soften the adhesive for easier removal. I slowly peeled up the old Patch so that it didn’t tear the fabric of the insole. I then used a small amount of alcohol-based hand sanitizer on a cloth to gently remove any excess, old adhesive on the insole that was left behind. It was during this chore that I started thinking of ways to improve the longevity of the Patches, and perhaps their effectiveness a bit.

I decided that trying an application of an anti-chafing/anti-blister agent to the top of the Engo Blister Patches was worth a go. The problem was, what kind? Whatever was added must work in concert with the Patches, not replace the action of the Patches. The modification would also need to be harmless to the adhesive holding the Patches in place. The last major concern was that the modification not damage the ‘slipperiness’ of the top layer of the Patch.

After I found some Body Glide, and a Compeed Blister Stick at a local outdoor store, I had four different products to consider for the modification.

• Compeed Blister Stick
• Body Glide
• Hiker Goo
• 2Toms Sports Shield

Body Glide, Compeed Blister Stick, and Hiker Goo are products which act as a coating to the skin. The coating is supposed to reduced friction between the skin and the sock to prevent shear force friction and blisters. For a variety of reasons, I do not like these types of products for anti-blister prevention. They are, however, an anti-friction product worth considering for this test.

2Toms is also a skin application product, but it is significantly different than Body Glide, Compeed, and Hiker Goo and other coating-type products. 2Toms Sports Shield is a liquid that applies wet, and then quickly dries to a very slick coating which is far more durable than the Body Glide-type products. Another significant difference is that while the Body-Glide type products have a waxy-type film which can hold onto dirt and dust particles, 2Toms has no such waxy layer.

I verified the dust and dirt capture of Compeed Blister Stick, Body Glide, and Hiker Goo by separately applying several rows of the four products on different sheets of paper. After allowing the 2Toms product to dry – as it is the only liquid – I dumped a layer of dirt onto each sheet of paper, pressed on the dirt, waited for 5 minutes, then shook each sheet of paper over the waste bucket.

Much of the dirt fell off each sheet of paper. Because each sheet keeps some of the dirt smudging, I had to try and carefully distinguish that expected dirt smudging from dirt being held by the products themselves. When all was said and done, the waxy products still retained a significant number of small particles, while I didn’t see the 2Toms trap anything.

With the new Engo Blister Patches attached to my insoles and allowing a bit of time for the adhesive to set, I applied 2Toms to the Patches. Because I carry an extra set of lightweight insoles (the ones that came with the shoes), I put those insoles into my shoes for the rest of the day’s sightseeing of Leon, and set aside the ‘walking’ insoles aside to allow the 2Toms to dry and set.

Performance: Modified Engo Blister Patch

Bottom Line: 2Toms increased the usable life of the Engo Blister Patches for me by at least 100 miles.

The wear and performance of the 2Toms modified Engo Blister Patches were evaluated as compared to the unmodified Engo Blister Patches while on the Camino Frances from Leon to Santiago de Compostela, and to the ending of the test at home on June 5, 2019.

There were two significant and interesting things that occurred with the modifications:

After the 2Toms application, I found the performance characteristics of the Engo Blister Patch lasted significantly more miles, and it also increased the desired performance for eliminating Shear Force Friction. Even though I was not wearing baggy socks but my usual Smartwool snug fitting socks, I found that I wanted to increase the tension to my shoelaces to make up for the socks sliding a bit more on the Engo Patches.

I do not know why, although I am sure the explanation is simple, but the application of the 2Toms induced a ‘squeaking’ noise when I would step off with my foot during walking. Or maybe it was just me

I began noticing a pattern to the squeaking which started occurring and started using it as a marker for when to reapply the 2Toms to the Engo Blister Patches. I made the connection - - which resulted in much laughter - - that when the ‘squeaking’ decreased in frequency, it was time to reapply 2Toms to the Patches. For me, an application would last for several days.

The very bottom line to this posted review: You are free to take from it what you will.

Last edited: Jun 7, 2021

Thank you! thank you! thank you! for this science based information. I plan on walking late summer into fall if the starts align and blisters are my nemesis on long hikes. Making notes ever step of the way from all you veteran walkers. I am beholding to you all for the wonderful knowledge you share.

 

[C clearly]

I only measure in inches; 1 mm= .0394inch

Yes - 4 hundredths of an inch, or 1/25th of an inch. So it would be about 2/3 of the 1/16th measure on your ruler. A dollop would not cover much of your foot to this depth.

(You are welcome! )

 

[Scott Baerman]

On my last Camino I used something called Sport Shield on my feet - a roll on foot glide, and for the first time was blister free! It was not specific for feet. Now that it has been used up I’m looking for something similar. Can anyone recommend a brand that has worked for them? I could just stick with the same, but thought I’d consult with the experts here.

I used BodyGlide on my Camino. No blisters. I only used it when I felt a “hot spot” starting. I washed my feet every night, used fresh clean socks everyday. I sometimes used Miracle foot cream. (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MWWZPM6/?tag=casaivar02-20) and rotated three different makes of socks, I had Smartwool, Wright, and Darn Tough socks. The Wright socks are double socks with built in liner. I think they’re my favorite long distance sock.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

A dollop would not cover much of your foot to this depth.

Maybe, but my dollops are huge.

 

[Mickblack]

BodyGlide worked for my feet on the CF in Fall 2012. Midway through the same route in Spring 2014, a new tube was discarded in favor of Vaseline because the former was simply NOT working. (No idea why...)

I have used Vaseline ever since.... a pea-sized dab rubbed onto each foot after applying paper tape to those spots on toes and ball of foot and heel where I typically expect 'hot spots'.

And, despite my (and yours, likely) misgivings , it did not make the socks hard to clean up. I honestly found no difference in cleanup from the use of BodyGlide.

YMMV

B

I think the problem with Vaseline is that it costs next to nothing and is tried ,tested and reliable - THE way to avoid blisters. Maybe they should rename the product and charge a fortune????

 

[Former member 91017]

I think the problem with Vaseline is that it costs next to nothing and is tried ,tested and reliable - THE way to avoid blisters. Maybe they should rename the product and charge a fortune????

I think the problem with Vaseline is that it's gross.
Others might love it... which is good and well, and grand...
But I hate how it feels, hate how it smells, hate the residue in my socks.

To amuse myself, I take courses in areas adjacent to my field, so I'm just finishing up an anthropology of food course, and in that I *just* learned that various armies used to spread Vaseline on toast as a butter substitute.

*so much yuk* . So much!

 

[JerryStroebele]

I use Foot Glide from REI all around my toes and bunion and also put Engo patches inside my boots and on the ensoles wherever I feel rubbing or see wear (on the ensoles). I understand Compeed has a foot "glide" product but was unable to find any between Pamplona and Burgos this past fall in the few farmacias I checked. Buen Camino

 

[jayree]

I had great success with Blue Steel Anti-Chafe cream (actually a “liquid powder”). It contains dimethacone which incorporates into the epidermal layer and prevents friction against the dermal layer, thus preventing blistering. It is available from Amazon in the US.

 

[Joe C]

I used BodyGlide on my Camino. No blisters. I only used it when I felt a “hot spot” starting. I washed my feet every night, used fresh clean socks everyday. I sometimes used Miracle foot cream. (https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Aloe-Moisturizes-Restores-Diabetic-Safe/dp/B08MWWZPM6/ref=sr_1_6?crid=3FRLA0RRXOHAL&keywords=miracle+foot+repair+cream&qid=1641231684&sprefix=Miracle+Foot+,aps,102&sr=8-6) and rotated three different makes of socks, I had Smartwool, Wright, and Darn Tough socks. The Wright socks are double socks with built in liner. I think they’re my favorite long distance sock.

I'm right there with you. Body Glide and Wright socks and (almost) 100% blister-free. Only problem with the Wright socks is that they do not dry quickly.

 

[chinacat]

I think the problem with Vaseline is that it's gross.
Others might love it... which is good and well, and grand...
But I hate how it feels, hate how it smells, hate the residue in my socks.

To amuse myself, I take courses in areas adjacent to my field, so I'm just finishing up an anthropology of food course, and in that I *just* learned that various armies used to spread Vaseline on toast as a butter substitute.

*so much yuk* . So much!

I’m with you on this …

but I wish I could ‘unsee’ it …

 

[Darby67]

I have a few friction fighting goos and sticks, but for long walks and especially the Camino I’m more a fan of prepping several small strips of K-tape. Put them in the usual spots and they’ll last for a couple to several days. As I use the strips for some other foot issues, I go for the heavy duty/swimmer tape. The only times I get blisters now is when hubris gets the better of me and I don’t put the small strips.

 

[VNwalking]

I only measure in inches

Have no fear, Chris.
Milimeters are like miniature kilometers. Once you get the hang of it you'll be glad you made the (mm-sized) effort.

I *just* learned that various armies used to spread Vaseline on toast as a butter substitute.

Euuuuwww.
Pass.

 

[Zoran K.]

On my last Camino I used something called Sport Shield on my feet - a roll on foot glide, and for the first time was blister free! It was not specific for feet. Now that it has been used up I’m looking for something similar. Can anyone recommend a brand that has worked for them? I could just stick with the same, but thought I’d consult with the experts here.

I use toe socks and regular Vaseline (2€) and on my 2 CF + 2 VF and Sct. Olavs trail I've never had a single blister. Toe socks are the answer as there is no friction between the toes, Injinji is the best brand https://www.injinji.com/
Of course the socks don't help on the heels but Vaseline does

 

[auburnfive]

Thank you for the replies, the suggestions are appreciated. What I used last time was Toms2, probably best just to stick with what works especially since that gets Dave Buggs and others seal of approval.

 

[Heal_to_toe]

On my last Camino I used something called Sport Shield on my feet - a roll on foot glide, and for the first time was blister free! It was not specific for feet. Now that it has been used up I’m looking for something similar. Can anyone recommend a brand that has worked for them? I could just stick with the same, but thought I’d consult with the experts here.

I tried Compeed

On my last Camino I used something called Sport Shield on my feet - a roll on foot glide, and for the first time was blister free! It was not specific for feet. Now that it has been used up I’m looking for something similar. Can anyone recommend a brand that has worked for them? I could just stick with the same, but thought I’d consult with the experts here.

I tried Compeed anti blister stick on my rather warm walk to Fisterra in '18. Rubbed it in when any part of my feet became too 'hot'. I would use it again. I once read that aftershave can alleviate sore feet. I have a feeling that this Compeed product works on the same principle. I use talc before I set off for the day sometimes but half of it ends up on the floor as you put it on! I agree with other writers about vaseline, unpleasantly greasy on the fingers and feels sticky on the feet. Not my cup of tea.

All the best

Patrick

 

[Heal_to_toe]

On my last Camino I used something called Sport Shield on my feet - a roll on foot glide, and for the first time was blister free! It was not specific for feet. Now that it has been used up I’m looking for something similar. Can anyone recommend a brand that has worked for them? I could just stick with the same, but thought I’d consult with the experts here.

Sorry Auburnfive, I meant antiperspirant, not aftershave!

Patrick

 

[C clearly]

Sorry Auburnfive, I meant antiperspirant, not aftershave!

Patrick

Well, it might be interesting to try! You should be able to edit your post if you want.

 

[henrythedog]

Sorry Auburnfive, I meant antiperspirant, not aftershave!

Patrick

If you’re having to shave your feet it may be that you’re a hobbit. Do you usually have two breakfasts?

 

[Walkalong]

2Toms and Engo blister patches worked well for me - Thanks Dave

I wonder what experience anyone had with Sportslick?

In addition to preventing blisters, chafing, rashes with waterproof (siliconized) moisturizer, it also contains an antibacterial (Triclosan) and antifungal (Tonaftate) to reduce the risk of infection, and unlike some adhesives, it is hypoallergenic.

 

[trecile]

I wonder what experience anyone had with Sportslick?

I searched the forum for "Sportslick," and got these results:

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/search/2191006/?q=Sportslick&o=date

 

[Walkalong]

Thanks Trecile.

 

[henrythedog]

Gold bond’s fine, as is Body Glide (although the miniature versions are tremendously poor value for money). They, and their ilk, are pretty much the same except for the marketing. Buy whichever’s cheapest where you live.

Because I believe every word that @SabineP and @Kathar1na say I’ve ordered the German product referenced above.

Well I’ve been using the Gehwol Extra for a week now, and I’m impressed. They cover all the angles from odor to stimulation and general foot health with a fairly extensive list of ingredients - and of course I haven’t done a comparison vs just rubbing and massaging in a neutral compound.

It confirms my faith in the source of the recommendation; but not with respect to RFID-proof wallets, of course.