[BillLator]

Besides the knee pain that started on my GC hike, I had two toenails turn black and blue on my right foot (Big toe and the one next to it).

This was also caused on the downhill hike.

There is no pain just kind of ugly looking. My guess is I was so worried about blisters (of which I only got a minor "hot spot") that I may have had a little to much sock on.

I may go with less sock next time or loosen that shoe a bit more. I have also read that you can buy gel inserts for the toe of a shoe from a dance store (ballerinas use them for toe dancing), but there may not be room.

Again, anyone with similar experiences or suggestions.....

The Beat up one,

Bill

[DoFear]

Usually that's from a boot with not enough room in the toe area. I have a book 1.5 sizes larger than my normal size. This is due to the thick socks and to allow clearance. I look like an idiot when I buy boots. I'm stomping around the store for about an hour with different pairs on.

[Daryl]

It's never happened to me, but I've heard the black and blue and subsequent falling off is caused because your toenails were too long. Did you clip them right before the hike? I cut mine down as short as I can get them before any significant hike. If nothing else, it's a lot more comfortable.

[Abe]

It's never happened to me, but I've heard the black and blue and subsequent falling off is caused because your toenails were too long. Did you clip them right before the hike? I cut mine down as short as I can get them before any significant hike. If nothing else, it's a lot more comfortable.

I heard of the same thing and I always cut my toenails, if they need 'em or not, before a hike. And when going down any steep trail for a long haul, toes will take a beating.

[glenntm]

I had that happen once after a long down hill . Mine happened because my hiking boots were to small. Purchased a new pair that were fitted at REI, and done the same trail 3 other times. No probelms since. I think I'd get new boots.

[hikngrl]

[quote="I had two toenails turn black and blue on my right foot (Big toe and the one next to it).[/quote]

I have one now. I have a double wammy to my poor little toes because if I am not on the trail I am on the racquetball court and that too is hard impact on the toes. All my shoes fit correctly I simply just gave my toe to big of a beating all in one day. I did an 8 mile hike then turned around and played r-ball for an hour and a half. I remember the spacific play that did the most damage even.

It doesn't appear that I'll actually loose this one cause it is a lovely redish peurple color rather than black but don't be too surprised if you loose yours.....

[bzachar]

A little practical advice for buying hiking boots:

-Buy boots that are bigger than your normal size. When you walk downhill you don't want your toes being crammed.

-Buy them at store where you can road test them before you buy (or they have a great return policy).

At Popular Outdoor Outfitters they have an inclined ramp, about 6 feet long, paved with rocks that they have you walk on (up AND DOWN) to make sure you have enough room in the toe area for the downhill. Bring a pair of thick hiking socks.

When I went shopping for boots the pair I initially picked out felt fine on the flats but when I walked downhill on the ramp they didn't work. I ended up buying different pair.

Bill

[BillLator]

You know.....I always keep my toenails short but the one time I kind of forget because I was in such a rush was the time I hike the Grand Canyon....lol

Yha I knew they were a bit long and meant to cut them and I had a brain fart I was so excited...

I don't think it is shoe size, I wear a 12 normally and my shoes (New Balance All Terrain) are 13's

Not a big deal there is no pain...but uuuuuuglyyy

Bill

[Kenny]

Hi Bill,
One other important thing...
When hiking down hill it is important to snug up the lower portion of your laces, this will prevent your toes from jamming against the front of the boot. The load will be absorbed by the top of your foot and not your toes, they will thank you for it. Boots do loosten up after a few miles, so keep checking them.
Black toe is very common among runners, caused by inadequate "toe box" room in a shoe.
Also, carry moleskin especially on long hikes, it will save you, or more inportant .... your hiking partner.

Happy feet = great hike.

Kenny