Them things that go on yer feets

[Jim Damico]

 From experience and knowing lots of people who have hiked the Appalachian
Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, etc, it's very important to have 'camp' shoes,
something other than your main 'hiking' shoes/boots.  You wouldn't wear the
same clothes 24 hours a day, so neither should your feet. <smile>

Other things that might help, especially in hot and/or wet conditions:
Every couple of hours, or at least once a day, stop and take, not only your
boots off, but your socks too.  Let both air out.  Or even change into a
fresh pair of socks.  Take advantage of any streams or other water source to
soak your feet in, or just let your toes relax in the shade.  When you rest,
elevate your feet.  And if you do "start to develop" blisters, slow down
and/or reduce your mileage.  You body is trying to get you to Santiago, so
save a little energy from your forward momentum so your body can use it to
heal and repair itself.  Remember to drink lots of fluids and take a vitamin
supplement.  A healthy body will get you there just as fast and in a much
more enjoyable fashion.

Jim Damico of Kansas City, MO
2160-mile Appalachian Trail in1998

----- Original Message -----
From: Diana Reid <diana.reidaBEA.COM>
To: <GOCAMINOaPETE.URI.EDU>
Sent: Thursday, June 13, 2002 7:16 PM
Subject: Re: Them things that go on yer feets


...At the very least, get one great pair of boots and bring some flip flops
or something to give you feet a break at night.