[at-l] Socks vs blisters

[hopefl%40juno%2Ecom]

I conducted a sock experiment this weekend on a day hike up Big Frog Mt.
in Big Frog/Cahutta Wilderness. I replaced my boots this spring because
they were too short for my right foot. Actually, walking down hill or
stumping my toe hurt both feet but the right foot was hurt the most. The
new boots fit my right foot great but are just a little big for my left.

My new boots will cause blisters if I don't armor plate my left heel with
mole skin or duck tape before heading out. As an alternate method I tried
wearing three socks on my left foot. Normally, I'm a two sock kind of
hiker. I had on a thin nylon "dress sock," a wool sock in the middle and
a thick nylon hiking sock over the other two.

The dress socks were left over from my daughter's wedding. This hike was
the first time since the wedding that I've found a use for tall, antique
beige, almost while socks. The socks worked well but the tux looked
terrible after just a few miles of the hike.

I chose the Big Frog Trail because I broke in my new boots on this trail.
I also got a blister doing it. On Saturday's hike, all went well. My feet
stayed in good condition so I was able to concentrate on important things
like the fall colors and enjoying the company of my good buddy, Plodder. 

Actually, I didn't enjoy Plodder's company. I made one off hand, silly
comment about color coordinated hiking socks and he never let me forget
it!!! Mile after mile he went on and on about my failed effort to make a
fashion statement with just one foot. I didn't have a failed effort.
Blisters are never in vogue. Maybe he was referring to the antique beige,
move and mustard yellow polka dots (large size). 

Next weekend my daughter and I are hiking the section between the Pigeon
River and Hot Springs. I'll try my three sock method on this longer hike
with a heavier pack. I'll keep the duck tape handy but I think the third
sock will work out well. I'll let ya know.  Hopeful
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