Foot Care Tips You Can't Miss When Walking the Camino

Keeping your body in top form before and during your Camino journey is essential to finishing with a smile. Foot care is one of the most important aspects of this, especially on a trek that can take anywhere from one week to several months.

Imagine this: you’ve spent months preparing for your Camino route. You’ve been training both physically and mentally, and you’ve worked hard to minimise the weight of your backpack. But just as you begin, a painful blister stops you in your tracks.

To make sure that something as small as a blister doesn’t ruin your Camino, we’ve put together four essential foot care tips that will save your adventure.

Choose the Right Footwear

Choosing the right walking boots is crucial: blisters don’t need to be part of your Camino.

Blisters are often caused by poor-quality or uncomfortable footwear. If your boots are too rigid, your feet will have to work harder, and this extra effort can lead to blisters. Make sure your walking boots are high quality and take the time to break them in for a few months before your Camino. Your feet will thank you.

Pick the Right Socks

There’s a theory about the perfect sock for every Camino pilgrim. Some will swear by wool socks, while others recommend wearing two pairs of synthetic socks. Whatever you choose, keep the following points in mind:

• Moisture-wicking: Blisters often form due to dampness. Your socks should help keep your feet dry without being completely insulating.

• Thick enough: Walking a few kilometres is very different from trekking for several days. Choose socks that are thick enough to withstand the constant rubbing from your boots.

• Long enough: Avoid short socks that expose the skin if you’re wearing high or calf-length boots. Even if they don't need to reach your knee, make sure they protect all areas your boots might rub against.

Listen to Your Feet

Pay attention to any small issues during your training and while on the Camino. They might seem minor, but pushing yourself through 20 more kilometres with a small blister can lead to much bigger problems. Listening to your feet and addressing issues early can make all the difference.

It is important to care for your feet during your walk.

Pamper Your Feet Daily

Alongside having the right footwear, your feet need some pampering. After each day's walk, give your feet a reward—soak them in water, give them a massage, apply moisturising cream, and tend to any problems. Wearing open footwear during rest periods also helps blisters and minor injuries recover faster and lets your feet breathe.

Don’t hesitate to share your foot care tips with other pilgrims. Helping each other out is part of the Camino spirit and makes the journey more enjoyable for everyone.

Key Takeaways

1. Break in your walking boots well before the Camino.

2. Choose moisture-wicking and thick socks that are long enough to prevent rubbing.

3. Pay attention to your feet and address issues before they get worse.

4. Pamper your feet daily—soak, massage, and moisturise.

5. Wear open footwear during rest to help your feet recover.