In this episode of “Head to Toe with Coach Jeff,” Team Injinji Athlete and ultra running coach Jeff Browning walks through everything he did to keep his feet feeling fresh on the Colorado Trail while setting the Fastest Known Time. From Durango to Denver, Colorado, Jeff ran the 490-mile trail in 7 days, 9 hours, 37 minutes, and 53 seconds. Battling through the brutal August heat and dusty, rocky terrain, Jeff proved his endurance, skill, and meticulous planning, all while putting his Injinji socks to the test. Jeff walked away with a new FKT and zero blisters!
Tune in to hear the breakdown of how he kept his feet completely blister-free, mile after mile!
Pre-tape Any ‘Trouble’ Spots
If you’ve ever trained for long distance efforts, you know that certain parts of your feet may be prone to hotspots, and pre-taping these known problem areas is a proactive approach to blister prevention. For high-mileage races, this extra step can be crucial, especially on terrain where feet experience added strain. Jeff recommends paying attention to these areas, to minimize the risk of irritation, blisters, or general discomfort. “I had some hot spots (areas that I’ve had trouble with in prior 200+ races) that I pre-taped.” A popular choice among runners is KT Tape.
Wear Injinji Socks
From his record-setting wins in iconic races like Moab 240 and Sedona 125, Jeff has trusted Injinji Toesocks for years. “The only socks I wore were Injinji Toesocks. [These socks] dry fast when it’s wet, so that’s what I used exclusively for seven days, seven nights. I got zero blisters. I wore the Artist Designed socks since I wanted a little flare on the trail.”
Sprinkle Powder in Your Socks
Using a foot powder provides an extra layer of defense against blisters, by reducing moisture and friction within the sock. Jeff explains that “powder acts as a lubricant” to further prevent blisters and helps to keep feet dry. “I used a powder by 2Toms called Blister Shield. I put it in my Injinjis and shake the sock around to coat the inside of the sock. It's simple, easy to use in the field, and easy for crew to do because it comes with a little scooper.”
Swap Out Your Socks
It’s important to keep feet feeling fresh, which is why many runners change out their socks during longer distance efforts. Frequent sock changes are an effective way to keep feet dry and blister-free and, prevent any irritation on the trail. “I changed my socks probably about every 40-50 miles,” Jeff explains. This simple task makes the world of a difference while attempting something like an FKT!
“I had rain and heat for 490 miles. I was able to get through the whole Colorado Trail without any blisters! Giddy up!”
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Congrats, Jeff, on your incredibly impressive FKT! Curious about what causes blisters or how to treat them? Check out this blog to learn more about preventing blisters!
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Photography Credit and a big thanks to Derrick Lytle
