[pct-l] Sheepskin for Blisters

["Joanne Lennox" <goforth@cio.net>]

Don't overlook sheepskin for blisters

I used to keep the moleskin people in business all by myself. Then I
discovers sheepskin

It comes in very shorthair versions like persian lamb, to a short fuzz
version with the hair about 1/2 to 1 inch, to the versions with 3-4 inch
hair.  It is incredibly versatile, lasts forever and can be washed, absorbs
moisture, is soft and cushioning as well as protective, can be cut into
large or small chunks, and needs no adhesive, is cheap( my 50 year supply
of the long stuff I got for a dime at a yard sale, also look for fur
collars or liners, etc.  Can find at leather stores, or hospital supply -
they use it for bed sores).

For the heel blisters, I just position it between two socks(liner and
outer) and it stays in place, or just put it next to your skin hair side to
the skin.  on toe blisters, I just position and put the sock on and it seem
to stay in place (mysteries, mysteries!).  I have also wrapped a few long
strands around strategic toes to keep it in place for hard downhill, but am
not so sure it was necessary. A larger piece can be used like a insert to
change the biomechanics of the foot strike, but of course you have to know
what you are doing here.  It can also be used like or in combination with 
various shoe lacing techniques to seat your foot differently in the shoe or
boot - for instance if you put a large piece over the instep, it pushes the
heel back into the back of the boot and relieves toe pressure.  This is
especially helpful when the is boot laced tight but there is still too much
play in some part.  A piece(s) of sheepskin can almost be used like an
extra pair of socks, to add cushining and decrease space in certain areas. 
I discovered sheepkin when I was about to cut off the front of a pair of
socks because I wanted more cushioning at my heel but not more bulk at my
toes. It can also used it for a lot of other things(potholder, add
insulation in my hat, the softest part of my pillow, etc)

Give it a try

Goforth
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