Our Review of SportShield by Medi-Dyne
Stop the Chafe
We tested SportShield, a product from Medi-Dyne which eliminates the friction that causes chafing and blisters. It comes in a roll-on version and a towelette version. Both provide the same protection, it's just a matter of preference and the accessibility you need when choosing one over the other. The towelettes are great for getting in between your toes, while the roll-on works just about anywhere else. We've used the product on three separate occasions now. This is our review...
We've each had blisters in the past caused by chafing, so we know how annoying and painful they can be. At times they're so severe that they prevent any further activity for days or weeks. Ouch! We've tried numerous products over the years. Some work, some don't. When we had the opportunity to try something else in this department we were pretty excited.
Tom Lewis and Tom Judd, the team behind 2Toms (a brand owned by Medi-Dyne), are two serious hikers who came together in 2002 to form the company. Their first product, BlisterShield, was an instant success. After it they came out with SportShield, which is what we've been using these last couple of weeks. 2Toms’ mission has been to provide the best comfort and care to athletes by offering the most technologically advanced products available anywhere.
The packaging provides the following information:
- Eliminates the friction that causes chafing and blisters
- 24-hour protection with single application
- Waterproof, won't melt
- Non-staining, non-toxic, non-greasy
- Contains no animal products
- Contains: Dimethicone, Aloe Vera Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
Before hitting the trail to Poo Poo Point Stacy applied the product on her feet and in between her toes by using the towelettes. Brandon used the roll-on to apply it in and around his upper inner thighs. The product was odorless and went on smooth for the both of us.
The previous product Brandon used was a deodorant-like substance which came in a deodorant-like stick. Rubbing it in would yank and pull at the hair in the applied region. SportShield is a clear, liquid-like substance that is easily applied. A single roll over the area to be treated is all that it takes. No pulling on the hair. Stacy previously used thumbnail sized gel cushions for her toes. They were troublesome trying to apply them in the exact spot needed and keeping them there while putting on socks and boots. With SportShield towelettes it was simple and quick to apply without the added details of keeping everything in place.
While applying we could instantly feel the protection provided. It almost feels like ice gliding on ice. A kind of silkiness without being greasy at all. It's a pretty great feeling and gave us zero friction, which is the goal!
Applying SportShield at home before hitting the trail
We drove out to the trailhead, loaded up our gear, and began our hike. This was one of our longer hikes so we would normally use another anti-chaffing product or blister prevention material. We only used the 2Toms product this time. After reaching the top of the hike, and taking a break, we both felt great. No issues. When we returned, still no issues.
We gave the product another go while hiking Oyster Dome. It worked wonderfully. And we tried it once more in the morning after waking up in a cabin we rented for the night at Bay View State Park. This time Brandon tried the towelettes on his feet. Like we mentioned above, it's the same exact product. But the towelettes are loaded pretty well with the product so it does get all over the hands while applying. There's nothing terribly wrong with that as these are non-greasy but they did leave him with an uncomfortable feeling of having to wash his hands right away. And staying in the cabin that night, without any running water inside, made it a bit difficult to wash up. He used some wet wipes and a towel, all was well. The packaging does mention that it washes off with soap and water. It doesn't bother Stacy as much as she simply rubs it right into her hands and continues on.
After leaving the cabin we headed to Deception Pass State Park to do some more hiking and exploring. Again, no problems. The product works great and lasts throughout our entire days. No need to reapply. This has now replaced the previous products that we carried in our backpacks.
What we like:
- Simple, easy, and quick to apply
- Feels amazing, really!
- Towelettes are large and loaded with product
- Lightweight packaging
- No noticeable residue on socks or other clothing
- Scent free
- Water and sweat proof
- Works as advertised
A minor dislike:
- The wipes are a bit messy on hands while applying
2Toms offers a 100% guarantee and the product is made in the USA. You can purchase SportShield online or from a local retailer near you.
Disclosure of Material Connection: We received SportShield for free from Medi-Dyne as coordinated by Outdoor PR in consideration for review publication.
Follow along on our wanderings around the Pacific Northwest.
The only thing better would be being there yourself!
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