Sweaty Feet Cures
Does Talc powder block the GoreTex membrane of my boots? And what are the best odor killers for GoreTex Boots?
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Question:
Does Talc powder block the GoreTex Membrane of my boots? And what is the best odor killers for GoreTex Boots?
Submitted by – Tomer, Kibbutz Ma’abarot
Answer:
Sounds like you’ve got sweaty foot syndrome. No, talc shouldn’t prevent your Gore-Tex boots from breathing, but if you’re feet are exceptionally sweaty, maybe you should try to make do with non-waterpoof boots, with no membrane at all. I’ve found that all-leather boots with no membranes like the Scarpa Nepal, used in conjunction with gaiters, are immune to everything short of standing in rivers.
Or, you could try a fabric/leather boot with an eVent membrane, like Kayland’s Vertigo High, which we gave an Editors’ Choice Award to in 2007 (largely because we found it so breathable).
Another technique that helps manage moisture for sweaty feet is to go old school: Try wearing a synthetic sock liner like the Wigwam Dry Foot Liner, along with your favorite hiking sock. Thin liners like these wick sweat away from your feet faster than plush socks, and they have the added benefit of reducing friction in your boots (to prevent blisters).
As for the second part of your question—de-stinking your current boots–try putting them in the freezer overnight to kill any existing bacteria. Then squirt the inside of your boots with McNett’s Odor Eliminator Spray to freshen them up.
—Kristin