Why do I get blisters from running?

david_swinstead
david_swinstead Posts: 271 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I just started running.

I've never been a strong runner, and aside from a few weeks last year I've never worked it into my training before, so I'm not used to it.

After a few training sessions I've got pretty bad blisters on the arches of both feet.

I do have some proper running shoes - Nike Darts. I've never had my gait tested though so I don't know if these shoes are right for me.

Could it be the fault of the shoes, or is it more likely to be just because my feet aren't used to it? Will my skin toughen up quite quickly or do I need to change my shoes?

Replies

  • Chopstheduck
    Chopstheduck Posts: 23 Member
    are you wearing proper running socks? I swear by Nike dri fit. If you wear cotton socks, it retains the moisture, and I've had blisters exactly how you describe.
  • kiwitechgirl
    kiwitechgirl Posts: 145 Member
    I'd say it's your shoes not fitting you properly. I've only ever had blisters on the arches of my feet when my shoes are at the end of their life.
  • david_swinstead
    david_swinstead Posts: 271 Member
    are you wearing proper running socks? I swear by Nike dri fit. If you wear cotton socks, it retains the moisture, and I've had blisters exactly how you describe.

    Running socks?? I didn't even know that was a thing!

    Do they really make much difference?
  • eldamiano
    eldamiano Posts: 2,667 Member
    To difficult to say. You can get blisters from any types of shoes, especially when you have only just started wearing them. Just wear a couple of plasters over the problem areas when you go on a few longer runs....
  • lacroyx
    lacroyx Posts: 5,754 Member
    are you wearing proper running socks? I swear by Nike dri fit. If you wear cotton socks, it retains the moisture, and I've had blisters exactly how you describe.

    Running socks?? I didn't even know that was a thing!

    Do they really make much difference?
    Yes they do.
  • MinimalistShoeAddict
    MinimalistShoeAddict Posts: 1,946 Member
    are you wearing proper running socks? I swear by Nike dri fit. If you wear cotton socks, it retains the moisture, and I've had blisters exactly how you describe.

    Running socks?? I didn't even know that was a thing!

    Do they really make much difference?
    Yes they do.

    I second this. Avoid cotton at all costs!
  • KristiRTT
    KristiRTT Posts: 346 Member
    Def the wrong shoes for your feet. I'm betting you aren't running very fad yet, since you say you just started, and I'll fitting shoes will cause friction and therefore blisters ! If you plan to stick with it, get professionally fitted and get good running socks that wick moisture.
  • david_swinstead
    david_swinstead Posts: 271 Member
    Thanks for the advice guys.

    I'll stick some plasters on until my current blisters heal. I'll get some running socks ASAP, and maybe get better shoes on payday.
  • lisaabenjamin
    lisaabenjamin Posts: 665 Member
    If you're getting blisters on the arches of your feet, it could be that your feet are slipping in your shoes (suggesting they are a little too big or not laced tightly enough), or perhaps that your shoes have padding in the wrong place(s) for your feet and are causing pressure points. It is always advisable to get your gait tested when buying running shoes as there are lots of different types, and everyone's feet/ankles are different. Also recommend running socks as they definitely do make a difference!
    .
  • LiveEnjoyEndure
    LiveEnjoyEndure Posts: 98 Member
    Ouch that sounds like no fun at all! My blisters have in the main been on my toes, and often resulted in losing a toe nail or two! I have the pictures if you want to see them ;)

    On payday, pop into your local running / sports shop and have your running gait assessed. I would avoid Nike, they are fashion shoes and all my Nikes have caused injuries. I'm an asics man, but avoid Nike at all costs.

    Blisters are obviously a point / area where your feet are rubbing, which means the insole is moving against your arch, if this continues after you have running socks and you have played around with lace tightness, then you have an ill fitting pair of shoes which are not supporting your arch properly.

    Could you swim, cycle or row till the blisters have healed, to keep fit, and let the swelling go down?
  • david_swinstead
    david_swinstead Posts: 271 Member
    Thanks for the help guys. I picked up some running socks last night and went for a little jog with them.

    My blisters from a couple of days ago are still a little sore but I could definitely feel how much comfier the running socks were.

    Guess I'll stick to rowing and cycling for a few days until my feet are fine and then hit the treadmill again.
  • MinimalistShoeAddict
    MinimalistShoeAddict Posts: 1,946 Member
    Thanks for the help guys. I picked up some running socks last night and went for a little jog with them.

    My blisters from a couple of days ago are still a little sore but I could definitely feel how much comfier the running socks were.

    Guess I'll stick to rowing and cycling for a few days until my feet are fine and then hit the treadmill again.

    Glad to hear the new socks helped! If you keep having problems definitely keep thinking about the possible shoe sizing/fit issue others raised above
  • hbrittingham
    hbrittingham Posts: 2,518 Member
    On payday, pop into your local running / sports shop and have your running gait assessed. I would avoid Nike, they are fashion shoes and all my Nikes have caused injuries. I'm an asics man, but avoid Nike at all costs.

    Actually, Nike makes a great running shoe. I wear them to run and have never had an injury or a blister.

    I do agree, get fitted with proper shoes and then purchase some decent running socks.
  • SonicDeathMonkey80
    SonicDeathMonkey80 Posts: 4,489 Member
    Heat, friction, and moisture - cotton socks makes all these factors worse. Get a pair of running socks (3 pack for about $12 and every brand makes them). Also, make sure your shoes are properly fitted and SIZED UP. I'd say socks are 51% and shoes 49% responsible for blisters.

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