Alpaca wool for runners and marathons
Blisters, sore heels and chafing are part of running for many people, especially as the kilometres build towards a half or full marathon. With a tuft of alpaca wool you run more comfortably, with nothing to stick on.
Why runners choose alpaca wool
Running puts a lot of force and repetition on your feet. Your foot moves inside the shoe, gets warm and damp, and blisters and chafing form on those same regular spots. Alpaca wool – also called runner’s wool, foot wool or anti-pressure wool – adds a soft, springy layer between your skin and your sock and reduces friction and pressure on that spot.
The wool is naturally lightweight, water-repellent and lanolin-free (without wool grease). You hardly feel the tuft, even in a snug running shoe. And because you use the wool dry, with no sticking or washing, you avoid sticky plasters or tape that come loose as you sweat.
How to apply alpaca wool before a run
Take a small tuft of alpaca wool, smaller than you think: a tuft the size of a fingertip is often enough for one spot.
Put the wool directly on the spot that rubs or presses while running, such as the heel, the ball of the foot or between the toes.
Pull your usual (seamless) running sock over it. The wool clings to the sock, does not shift and you hardly feel it as you run.
- Weak spots for runners: heel, ball of the foot, big toe and between the toes
- When: before your training or race, as prevention
- Comfort: reduces friction and pressure so you run more relaxed
Which amount suits your training plan?
- 10 grams of alpaca wool (€10.99): for one or two regular spots, ideal to try out.
- 20 grams of alpaca wool (€18.50): for heels, big toes and several training sessions.
- 40 grams of alpaca wool (€29.99): a generous supply for a whole marathon training block.
We ship with PostNL within the Netherlands (€4.95, usually within 1 to 3 working days), or you can collect the wool in Malden by appointment. Not sure which size? Read the buying guide on which alpaca wool you need.
Test the wool during training
Never try new materials for the first time during a race. Order the wool well before your marathon or running event and run a few training sessions with it, so you know exactly how much you want and where. That way you reach the start line with feet you know. For longer, multi-day walks, read more about alpaca wool for the Camino and pilgrimage.
Questions about alpaca wool and running
Does alpaca wool help against blisters when running?
Alpaca wool adds a soft layer between your skin and your sock and reduces friction on a sensitive spot. Runners mainly use it preventively, on spots that often trouble them. It is a natural aid for comfort, not a medicine.
Does the wool stay in place while running?
Yes. The fine alpaca fibres hook into your sock and barely shift, even with the repeated motion of running. Do test it first on a training run, so you know how much wool feels right for you.
How much alpaca wool do I need as a runner?
For a couple of regular spots a bag of 10 grams of alpaca wool (€10.99) is enough. If you run more often or in several places, choose 20 grams of alpaca wool (€18.50). Training for a marathon? Then 40 grams of alpaca wool (€29.99) gives you a generous supply.
Is alpaca wool suitable for sweaty feet?
Alpaca wool is naturally water-repellent and moisture-regulating, so it feels pleasant even on warm, sweaty feet. Do change your socks in good time during or after training; a dry foot is less prone to blisters.
Ready for a comfortable run?
Choose a bag of 10, 20 or 40 grams in the alpaca wool shop. Pay online straight away with iDEAL, Wero, Google Pay or Apple Pay.