Hiking/Backpacking MB (shoes vs. boots)

[ismellbacon]

Thanks for the input everyone!


On a side note... I've taken up barefoot running. ...it's so easy, a caveman can do it

It has been said that the pun is simultaneously both the lowest and the highest form of humor. Therefore, sir, I congratulate you on a job well done.

RR

[WVBeaver05]

Look long enough & you can find some one that hikes successfully in crocs. Doesn't make it a good idea.

Heavy stiff boots & shoes are two ends of the spectrum. Neither is the best choice for the backpacking & skill level of your typical scout.

I agree.

Also, the best shoes for those that choose to use them are not the same as what most young Scouts will have.

For me, with my years of doing this, I'm sticking with my hiking boots.

YiS

[topshot]

Also, the best shoes for those that choose to use them are not the same as what most young Scouts will have.

I'd have thought most Scouts would have sneakers. My sons (5 and 14) just did an 18 mile trip and they wore shoes from Walmart. As they say, "hike your own hike".

[ismellbacon]

Just an update on my choices:

I started with the ole military boots... they were rugged and held up really well on any kind of terrain.

Then I tried some tennis shoes... they were MUCH lighter, and I didn't tire out as fast. But, I could really feel the trail (specifically the rocks!) underneath my feet.

So, I settled on a "hiking shoe" it is basically a tennis shoes on steriods (rubber and leather make up most of the shoe)... they are light, rugged, and my feet feel great after a hike.

We recently started the Backpacking MB and my hiking shoes were fantasic with the heavier load (from the pack) and still provided comfort from feeling the trails.

Just my two cents if anyone is tossing around the same question in their heads.

[FrankJ]

I just bought a pair of Keen Boots & put a pair of super feet insoles in them. The combination works really well with me, but at $180 I would not recommend it for some one with growing feet. I am 195 lbs & generally BP with 35-40 lb pack.

For youth a light boot with ankle protection & a stiff sole is the way to go. With sales & last years model can be had for $40-$80 dollars. Too small of anything is bad news. Since they will out grow them before they wear them out, they can be used everyday.