How to avoid blisters on long hikesFew things can ruin an otherwise brilliant hike faster than a blister. Shop for hiking boots later in the day, when your feet are naturally slightly swollen. Your socks matter more than you thinkCotton socks absorb sweat and stay damp, creating the perfect environment for blisters. Instead, choose hiking socks made from:Merino woolSynthetic moisture-wicking fibresDouble-layer hiking socks, which reduce friction by allowing the sock layers to move against each other instead of against your skin. If you know you always blister in the same spot, cover those areas with kinesiology tape, sports tape or specialised blister tape before setting off.