In case you're curious - here's what I rock on the trails. Full disclosure, I actually don't encourage you to buy what I'm wearing UNLESS it fits you. This requires you to go to an actual store and talk to a human (scary I know). So no - I didn't even get greedy and include affiliate links. Boots: Lowa Light GTX. I recommend ANY Lowa boot. These have been my go-to for over 15 years. They are quality, durable, and fit well if you have a wider toe box. Hiking Shoes: Sawtooth II waterproof. Admittedly (and unfortunately) these don't fit me all that well anymore. Pregnancy changed my feet and these didn't make the cut. But they are reliable and durable. Oboz has a great shoe finder tool that helps you narrow a few things down from an overwhelming selection. Trail Runners: New Balance. I honestly don't remember what specific shoe they are annnnd they've re-designed everything. I have loved this pair (almost) to death. I would just AVOID HOKAs. They are HORRIBLE with their durability - I had a pair of SpeedGoats that didn't even last a season. And by season I mean I was running 2 miles a week post-partum on a very mellow gravel trail. They were toast after 4 months (gross). I'm still on the hunt for a great trail runner that works for my current output.
Thank you! All I hear is about how I “need to wear trail runners” like that is the only option. I have known weak ankles and roll them on a flat sidewalk but I always catch flak for wearing my boots. Some companies make some very lightweight waterproof boots that offer great support and really cradle the foot. Get what fits your hiking style and personal comfort level. Great video!
Don't get me wrong, I love my trail runners. But feet are like fingerprints - so unique! So it would be stupid to think just because I can wear them, everyone can. Glad you enjoyed the video and even more happy you've got hiking footwear you love!
Nice video, my only gripe here is the idea that a trail runner will last you "3 seasons". If you do any amount of hiking you should replace them yearly. The cushioning on them long expires before the grips wear down.
Eh. I really think that depends on the shoe. Some brands (ahem Hoka ahem) just aren't built to last. But if you can still put down miles in them and you aren't experiencing discomfort then you can still wear them. I trail run 13k' peaks every week, tackle some of the toughest backpacking routes in desolate desert environments, and frequently hike with a toddler on my back. If I still feel like I've got the comfort/support I need, then I'll keep wearing them. Sure it's not the same as brand new but nothing would be. Replacing a shoe every season is pretty wasteful IMO.
In case you're curious - here's what I rock on the trails.
Full disclosure, I actually don't encourage you to buy what I'm wearing UNLESS it fits you. This requires you to go to an actual store and talk to a human (scary I know). So no - I didn't even get greedy and include affiliate links.
Boots: Lowa Light GTX. I recommend ANY Lowa boot. These have been my go-to for over 15 years. They are quality, durable, and fit well if you have a wider toe box.
Hiking Shoes: Sawtooth II waterproof. Admittedly (and unfortunately) these don't fit me all that well anymore. Pregnancy changed my feet and these didn't make the cut. But they are reliable and durable. Oboz has a great shoe finder tool that helps you narrow a few things down from an overwhelming selection.
Trail Runners: New Balance. I honestly don't remember what specific shoe they are annnnd they've re-designed everything. I have loved this pair (almost) to death. I would just AVOID HOKAs. They are HORRIBLE with their durability - I had a pair of SpeedGoats that didn't even last a season. And by season I mean I was running 2 miles a week post-partum on a very mellow gravel trail. They were toast after 4 months (gross). I'm still on the hunt for a great trail runner that works for my current output.
Helpful breakdown of an overwhelming topic. Well done!
Glad it was helpful!
great video!!
Thank you!!
Thank you! All I hear is about how I “need to wear trail runners” like that is the only option. I have known weak ankles and roll them on a flat sidewalk but I always catch flak for wearing my boots. Some companies make some very lightweight waterproof boots that offer great support and really cradle the foot. Get what fits your hiking style and personal comfort level. Great video!
Don't get me wrong, I love my trail runners. But feet are like fingerprints - so unique! So it would be stupid to think just because I can wear them, everyone can. Glad you enjoyed the video and even more happy you've got hiking footwear you love!
Nice video, my only gripe here is the idea that a trail runner will last you "3 seasons". If you do any amount of hiking you should replace them yearly. The cushioning on them long expires before the grips wear down.
Eh. I really think that depends on the shoe. Some brands (ahem Hoka ahem) just aren't built to last. But if you can still put down miles in them and you aren't experiencing discomfort then you can still wear them.
I trail run 13k' peaks every week, tackle some of the toughest backpacking routes in desolate desert environments, and frequently hike with a toddler on my back. If I still feel like I've got the comfort/support I need, then I'll keep wearing them. Sure it's not the same as brand new but nothing would be. Replacing a shoe every season is pretty wasteful IMO.
Nice video. Thanks for sharing. 👍2
Thanks!