Surviving RASP: The Crucial Role of Foot Care

Surviving RASP: The Crucial Role of Foot Care

When it comes to the grueling challenges of the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP), one often-overlooked factor can make or break a candidate's success: foot care. The intense physical demands of RASP can wreak havoc on your feet, with blisters becoming a potential career-ender for even the toughest soldiers.

While I was in RASP, I had a fellow candidate who didn't make it due to severe blisters. The skin on half of his left foot peeled off, causing excruciating pain that persisted for weeks. Despite his determination, the relentless marching and running eventually forced him to drop out.

However, not everyone suffers the same fate. I personally managed to complete the program without a single blister, thanks to a carefully crafted foot care strategy. The secret? A combination of high-quality socks and foot powder that kept my feet dry and minimized friction.

The cornerstone of my blister-prevention strategy was investing in top-notch socks. While the price tag may seem steep, spending over 20$ on premium wool socks from Darn Tough proved to be a game-changer. These socks, combined with Injinji five-finger sock liners, create a powerful defense against friction and moisture.

The Injinji liners work by eliminating friction between toes and boots, while the Darn Tough socks provide superior moisture-wicking and cushioning. This winning combination not only got me through RASP but also served me well in Ranger School. And funny enough I just realized as I am writing this, that I am currently wearing one pair of the Injinji sock liners that I used 4 years ago while I was going through RASP. They really are great socks, even outside of RASP.

Another crucial element in the fight against blisters is foot powder. By reducing moisture, a key contributor to blister formation, regular application of foot powder can significantly decrease your risk of developing these debilitating sores.

Lastly, always keep a pair of dry socks on hand. In both RASP and Ranger School, having the ability to change into dry socks can provide immense relief and help maintain foot health during long, grueling days.

Remember, in RASP, every advantage counts. By prioritizing foot care and investing in the right gear, you'll be taking a significant step towards achieving your goal of becoming a U.S. Army Ranger.