Increasing the mileage on the soles?

Socks, people, socks. When I run races in the winter (which the ones I have done so far are all city races) I wear socks, because my feet are not used to running on that damn chip and seal and when it is cold, my soles conform even less. And I don't like to carry sandals either. And socks are closer to barefoot than sandals. Though, at some point during the race, holes do wear in the bottom of them. Next time I do this, I am bringing two pairs of socks. The soles don't just get tougher, they actually get thicker too. I never followed the 10% thing cuz it really depends on what kind of surface you are running on, for how long, and for how fast, and how good your form is -too many variables for me to deal with. I just did what felt good and that varied a lot per day initially. My "base" run has improved over time, but at it's own pace. I have been running barefoot for almost a year (in July) and my "base run" on pavement was at 3 miles for about the first 9 months, and is up to 4 miles now on both pavement and trails. My soles are distinctly thicker and trail running really made them thicker, faster. I will run through any water I can get my feet on.
 
Ditto, went out of my way to run through some puddles and mud today on a beautiful sunny day in the 'Peg

Damn Bob, in my end of town it was like rivers going down the street. I got caught about 2 miles out when the deluge hit. Going through some puddles that were like lakes. But good thing about it was that I had to make sure I was lifting my feet, other wise it was impossible to run through some of those puddles (lakes) that were between 6" and 12" deep in some spots. :)
 
You know, all this has me thinking that it's a probably good idea to vary not only distance but running surfaces. (Okay, I'm still new at this.)

Around my neighborhood, we have smooth asphalt, rough asphalt, and concrete sidewalks. (We have grass too, but the neighbors might get upset if I start running across their lawns).

Maybe, even throw in a minimalist shoe run on the first run after my long run, just to provide more recovery time. This would also let me get used to the shoes, in case my feet wear out during a race.
 
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My soles were still sensitive from my run Thursday so I ran in my Mins yesterday and added a little distance too it. I also jumped on the treadmill today for a 3 miler in my mins. Its just nasty outside here in RI and I also needed my knees to take a break! Feet feel better than they did but still sensitive! I appreciate all the replies to the OP.

Thanks
Shawn