How to Prepare Your Feet for an Unforgettable Trek.

At OutdoorIndex.cl, we understand the importance of a hike in nature, especially in iconic destinations like Torres del Paine or the Atacama Desert. To ensure you make the most of your outdoor adventure, we have gathered some essential tips to prepare your feet and guarantee a seamless experience.

1. Hiking vs. Trekking

Before embarking on your journey, it is crucial to differentiate between a short hike or hiking and a more extensive trekking. This will determine the intensity to which you will subject your feet. While hiking is limited to shorter distances with established trails, trekking can take you to challenging terrains and considerable distances, such as those offered by iconic places in Patagonia and Northern Chile. Adapt your equipment and footwear accordingly to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

2. Proper Footwear for your Tour

If you are about to undertake a serious multi-day hike in stunning places like the O Circuit of Torres del Paine, it is crucial to have the right footwear. Do not underestimate the importance of checking the size, width, depth, and flex zone of your shoes. Take training hikes in the weeks leading up to identify sensitive areas on your feet and make sure to properly break in those areas.

EXPERT TIP: NEVER come with new footwear. If you are going to buy new shoes, wear them a lot in your day-to-day to get used to them. ALSO, buy a size larger, as on descents the foot slides forward and it is very common to see that for this reason the rubbing with the shoe in the front damages the big toe and the nail, even many people lose the nail.

3. Try Different Sock Combinations

Socks are as important as the footwear itself. Experiment with different combinations before your trip, such as thin socks, thick socks, toe socks, two pairs, and wool or bamboo. At OutdoorIndex.cl, we recommend trying and finding the perfect combination to ensure the success and enjoyment of your hike in Patagonia.

4. Trim your Nails before your Patagonia Adventure

Make sure to trim your nails before your hike, preferably short. This is essential to avoid discomfort with each step and ensure that your feet are in the best condition for your journey through the best of Torres del Paine.

EXPERT TIP: if you are going to buy, choose a size larger than you always use. On long hikes, feet swell and the extra space helps accommodate the foot.

5. Prepare for Blisters on the Trek

Blisters can become a considerable pain during a long hike, especially if you have not prepared properly. Identify blister-prone areas and consult a podiatrist for preventive advice, such as patches and callus plasters that can prevent friction on the skin.

6. Address Aches and Pains Before Starting your Outdoor Tour

If you feel muscle fatigue or joint discomfort, address them before starting your tour. Even small discomforts can worsen with each kilometer walked. Consult a healthcare professional, follow their recommendations, and consider carrying bandages.

EXPERT TIP: include bandages or muscle support tapes.

7. Increase your Agility Levels

Physically prepare for your adventure in Patagonia by performing agility and flexibility exercises. Strengthen the muscles necessary for a demanding hike, including those in the feet, legs, and abdominal area. At OutdoorIndex.cl, we suggest exercises for plantar fascia release, heel raises, calf and hamstring stretches, low plank holds, among others. Contact our experts for further specialized guidance.

8. Learn to Stretch Correctly

Finally, learn to stretch properly before embarking on your journeys of over 12 kilometers. Warm up your muscles correctly to improve performance and reduce the risk of muscle pain or injuries. Incorporate calf, Achilles tendon, hamstring, hip, and shoulder stretches to improve flexibility and facilitate travel on difficult terrains.

EXPERT TIP: Lightweight backpack, happy hiker.
Pay CLOSE attention to the weight of your backpack. This will lighten the load on your ankles and feet.

Congratulations on reaching the end of our blog! You are ready to start your trekking journey. Now, you just have to choose your destination and pack your backpack. Outdoor Index, nature-based trips. Puerto Natales, Magallanes. We offer the widest variety of excursions in Patagonia. Your purchase directly supports local operators, contributing to sustainable development. Explore with us, follow @outdoorindex.cl or contact us at info@outdoorindex.cl. Discover more at Outdoor Index