I am a duct tape advocate (did you know colored duct tape is available?) but balk at the idea of using it to prevent blisters. It doesnt breathe (which is fine for killing warts) and typically leaves residue (Oh, Pumbaa darling, before we Feel the love tonight will you rub some of this Goo Gone on my heels?)
Having participated in the Disney Marathon, I thought some ideas from the running world could prove effective in taking care of your dogs:
Shoes : Find a store that specializes in running gear and get fitted by a true professional (search for Specialty Running Stores at
www.RunnersWorld.com). You rarely find real pros at the malls. Let them know your needs and budget (they may even have some options on the clearance shelf but thats not a place to start).
You will likely find yourself sized up a half- or whole-size larger. This is a good thing especially with regards to getting more room in the toe box of your shoe.
Also, this is not a time to get hung up on fashion. You will get more admiring glances by waiting in line with happy feet than you might ever achieve by being trendy.
Socks : In a theme park, 100% cotton socks are not your friends. Once wet, they tend to stay wet. I am a big fan of the double-layer, blister-free running socks. These are typically a polypro blend and allow the outer layer to contact the shoe lining while your foot is protected by the inner layer. Both layers are relatively thin so the socks are not bulky at all.
You will also find these at the running store and let the shoe folks know thats what youll be wearing. They do shrink after washing and drying cycles so get larger sizes here, too.
If possible, change socks at mid-day if possible (carry a pair in a zip-loc and seal up the dank ones). Polypro responds well to sink washes with shampoo at the hotel but the socks will not hang-dry in just one night.
I find it helps to take a couple regular aspirin before and during the day. I enjoy a little caffeine boost so I tend to opt for it in beverages throughout the day.