The optimal strategy for splitting Aces and Eights in blackjack is to always split them. When you split Aces, you create two hands, each starting with an Ace, which provides a strong opportunity to hit a ten-value card for a potential blackjack. Splitting Eights is also advisable because it transforms a weak hand (16) into two potentially stronger hands, increasing the chances of winning. In both cases, splitting maximizes the player's chances of achieving a better outcome compared to playing the original hand as is.