I have never thought about "practicing" stream crossings. If there is a stream, I cross it. I suppose there is value in learning what to expect when your feet get wet, what socks/shoes drain well and don't... Also, knowing what you need to do to prevent blisters is important, so wet feet might be a good test of your blister prevention. Not sure that's what you are looking for... If you have a race coming up, it is good to do as much as you can (reasonably) to mimic the conditions for the race. If there are stream crossings on the race course, then you might want to have experienced running with wet feet before race day. Good luck, Lynn B

"If you said jump in the river I would because it would probably be a good idea." --Sinead O'Connor. In short, I say go for it!

well on a particular route I have there is a nice stream alongside the road and I get really tempted to jump the guardrail and hit it but think that's a bit nuts but looks like sooo much fun.

sounds like your running the road, not the trails ! Oh my! I actually love the stream crossings, especially on a warm day, it really cools off the feet and cleans the shoes . And since i got my Injinji toe socks bl,isters haven't been a problem (knock on wood!!).

is there a good technique for this? should I practice these in my long runs?

Plunge in and go, but look out for slippery rocks which can take you down or turn an ankle. I have worn all kinds of shoes running through streams, some drain well, some don't...I've even known runners who after crossing the stream lie down with their feet up on a tree to let their shoes drain...I just squish, squish and eventually it dries up. Listen to Lynn....wet feet does cause blisters! When I run 100's, i will always have a spare pair of socks in my hydration pack and some in every drop bag.