Tell me about moleskin...

[ZoZo]

I've never had this issue with the padded moleskin (is there another kind?).

There is Moleskin and also "Molefoam", which is much thicker. I find the regular thinner Moleskin works better. The this "Molefoam" doesn't bend around the countours of your foot as easily.

 

[orangefan15]

Moleskin is awesome. I tend to use if after a blister forms. Contrary to what some will say is advisable, I sterilize a needle and poke a small hole in the blister to drain it (in many years of doing this, have never had it cause an issue). Then I put moleskin directly over the blister and no more pain. Key to this plan is making sure not to cut off or in any way lose the skin over the blister as you wouldn't want to apply moleskin directly to the raw skin underneath.

 

[Pmctn]

A couple of tips for moleskin. Apply it as soon as you feel a hot spot developing. Better to stop then and there. Apply it larger than the specific spot. Getting a blister on you heel? Wrap the moleskin all the way around. You can even double up layers.

Use moisture wicking socks as already posted. NO COTTON. A slick inexpensive way to do this is cheap dress socks. Bring plenty of changes of socks on your trip. I always change socks midday. Merino wool is great, but any nylon, poly, or silk will do fine.

 

[Bellestreak]

I'm not really the biggest fan of mole skin either, but I have problems with many types of adhesive. And I find trying to stick it to my shoe a pain. I like Band Aid (their adhesives never bother me for some reason) blister cushions. They are thick padded and work really well. I don't have to cut them.They are very pricey though as you only get 6-10 in a box.