Wearing the wrong shoes on the trek will rub you wrong and that means foot pain and blisters.
Remember, your toes need room to expand, because your feet will swell a full shoe size as you walk on the trek. So be sure to bring only comfy trekking shoes.
Running shoes are the best bet for trekkers because they are specifically designed for cushioning, motion control, and support.
Keep in mind that hiking boots do not provide motion control features that many people need, and may be inflexible and heavy. Be sure to hike several times in your boots prior to trek so they are broken in!
Wearing double socks, a thin lightweight liner with a wool or synthetic sock on top is ideal to prevent blistering.
Since you know that you will be trekking soon, try to do a couple of walks with your trekking shoes and a light backpack. If, or when you feel hot spots forming, stop! Go home, rub your feet with rubbing alcohol and let them dry out. This should allow you to form calluses that can protect you on the trek.
To physically prepare yourself for the trek, here are some general guidelines:
Walk 4-5 times per week
For 2-3 times per week, walk 2-3 miles, and 2 times a week, walk 4-5 miles
About 4 times before the actual Trek, walk longer periods of time up hill.
If you are able to complete 4 miles in 1 hour we feel confident that the trek will be challenging but not too much for you to handle. This is a recommendation, but not a mandatory requirement. We will not be trekking this fast with the handcarts, but it is a good reference while you are personally preparing.
