Running without socks

For me it depends on the shoe construction, for example are there any seams or stitching on the shoe where the hot spot is occurs.  Sometimes the same model & generation of shoe have slight differences in sizing.  Until recently I was recently running in KSwiss Blade Run Lights and didn't have issue with 2 pair but the 3rd was just not fitting me the same and was always getting hotspots/blisters on my right heel..

I'll start doing sockless running about a month before I do a race to get the feet accustomed to the shoe.  I'll use some bodyglide on the areas where I may get a hotspot. For races I'll put a this small bandage and hotspot over it.

If you're not blistering try some bodyglide or similar to reduce the friction.

Why is it so important to you to run without socks?  If you are skipping runs because of blisters from running sockless, the easiest solution is to wear socks.  If you are concerned about the time socks cost you in a tri transition, you shouldn't be.  It is well under 10sec.

It depends on the shoe for me.  Some shoes no problem, others I just can't do without getting blisters.  It's almost always on the upper heal for me.

Do you use baby powder or as others have said body glide?   

I'm going to gut it out.  I ran last night with socks just to get a run in.  I don't hear a definitive answer so I'll keep running and build up the calluses.  It's uncomfortable but after a mile or two there are other parts that hurt more and I forget about my feet.