Thanks for doing a "one size does not fit all" explanation. For those of us in remote areas where most of the hiking involves no trails and wet, abrasive terrain, the common advice to just buy trail runners doesn't hold up, and neither do the shoes
This hits home. I spent a lot of money trying to find something that didn't cover my feet in blisters after only a few miles. I finally tried the Altra Lone Peaks, and they were a game changer for me. No blisters, tons of miles. It's different for everyone, and that's just what worked for me, but Altras have some great reviews.
I gave up on boots over breathable trail runners years ago. I would constantly role my ankles with boots since they don't allow the foot to naturally flex when going over uneven surfaces. The trail runners are good for all terrain including snow fields and river crossings.
Just spent a week hiking and camping across Madeira using Saucony Peregrines and Drymax trail running socks. @109km and 7000vm over 7 days with @22kg pack - of course I could have packed slightly lighter (buying lighter gear wasn't worth it - pack etc, or making do without good coffee) but wouldn't have been as comfortable and I used almost everything. I experienced all weather from heavy rain, cold and wind in the mountains to hot dry dusty coastal trails. Non GTX trail runners was definitely the right choice for me. Best investment was a €10 micro umbrella from Decathlon which was enough for many of the shorter lighter rain showers and meant not getting sweaty in a poncho or rain jacket, I would consider a more windproof longer handled umbrella for future hiking! (so can maybe attach to shoulder straps...)
Walking in the hills and mountains in Scotland my feet get wet after a few hours no matter what I wear. If I have winter boots and gaiters on i get sweaty feet. For long summer days trail shoes and lightweight gaiters work best for me, along with good wool hiking socks.
I'm the same also in Scotland but I've always struggled to get away from the classic hiking boot for the more serious stuff but I think he might be right - I rip my ankle all the time with the bigger boots. Do you have any recommendations for particular shoes. Can't beat a good sock - it's as much about them as the shoe.🙂
@@Ballbagsaggins I'm fond of my Merrells and a pair of waterproof Meindl shoes, but I do have broad feet so probably it depends whether your feet are narrow. The small ankle length gaiters are a game changer for me.
I've only just become aware of ankle gaiters and almost immediately wrote them off because I thought they sounded like fair weather items. Might have to give them a look. 🙂 I've really bad for carrying traditional (knee high) gaiters for hundreds of miles and then never using them. I'm the same with waterproof trousers- by the time I decide to use them I'm already wet.😉🤣🤣
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, I enjoyed your video. I too often feel more sure of my footing wearing a lowcut. Unless the trek is slow, cold and wet, I don't ever break out the mid boots. Good journey to you!
Great video! I use waterproof Mishmi Takin hiking boots that use an eVent membrane which is more breathable than GORTEX and my feet stay dry and cool even in warm humid summer weather. Someone tried to convince me trail runners would be better but if you step in one mud hole or even walk through wet grass with TR’s your feet are instantly wet/muddy. But everyone has to find what they like best.
Good tips. I feel I have strong ankles as I’m a past time roller hockey skater. & love hike climbing. But I hike in hot weather but through wet terrain with potentially snakes & other critters. I’d like a breathable low cut boot of 6” but protective.
Altra Long Peak + darn good brand socks have changed my hike! The Altra has room for my very wide forefoot, zero drop, and is lightweight. I finally caved in this year and bought a pair. I wish I had bought them sooner.
AKUs are made in Serbia, Italien company long tradition. Britisch Military Standard . Good tip buy military versions their cheap but are just as robust as the commercial versions. The German military uses Meindls and other worthy brands. The Schuh you shown costs about 100 to 120 euros or Lbs in UK same for Germany.
here is the thing i dont hear people talk about ,, trail running shoes are made for running, they grip when you apply poressure.... i dont hike fast, so i wonder if i am missing out on traction.
I have/had major foot issues. I ran marathons from the late 1980's until around 2,000. I started have the foot issues about that time and I tried everything, especially orthotics. Orthotics suck; all of them. I was on vacations and saw a guy with a pair of weird as hell looking shoes. After talking to him, I bought a pair that day. After a few years of not running, I was back on the road. Now that I love hiking, I like Altras and Hoka's, but the one shoe that supports, cushions, and protects my feet the best are Hoka Stinson's. They have a high stack height, so on rough trails I have to be cognizant of my foot placement. It's truly not much of an issue anymore now that I've gotten used to them. The Stinson's are harder to find than Speedgoats, but they are a step up in every way! I like the Altra Olympus a lot, but Altra needs to step up the quality as to how long their shoes last on trail. It sucks to wear a shoe that falls apart so quickly.
I hear so many people saying Gore-Tex isn’t breathable in hot weather, that it’ll make your feet hot & sweaty, etc. My experience is the opposite. I wore 2 kinds of boots when I was in Saudi Arabia & Iraq back in 90-91 - jungle boots and Danner Ft Lewis boots with Gore-Tex and Thinsulate. Jungle boots, if you’re not familiar with them, have a leather vamp and heel cap but the rest of the boot is canvas/nylon. There are screened drains in the leather at the arch so water will drain out. Very quick drying, no fabric lining so there’s nothing for your sock to chafe against. Their drawback in the desert was that sand got in through the drains. My Danners kept my feet as dry as my jungle boots did in the up to 130F temps we saw, and were more comfortable in the rainy season when it dropped as low as 30F. I also wore my Danners in Korea, which was as hot & humid as the southeast US in the summer and bitterly cold & snowy in the winter. So I’d say it depends on the person. My feet do sweat pretty heavily just like the rest of me, and on my 30 minute drive home at a previous job my feet would start off sweaty from my work boots and be dry in my Fugitives by the time I got home. I have found that actual Gore-Tex breathes better than proprietary brands like Keen.Dry or Oboz’s BDry. Vasque’s UltraDry does a good job of keeping my feet sweat-free while winter hiking or snowshoeing, too.
I mean that's why you have two pairs of wool socks. I have never had a problem with a Gore Tex boot in any conditions that I have worn them in. Light wool socks in summer, heavy wool socks in the winter. That's about the extent of my footwear decisions.
Met an Australian trekker forty years ago who never wore anything but canvas gym/tennis shoes, that he could pick up anywhere - from Indonesia to America, and wore them in everything but deep snow, of course. I wear Chacos all year here in the midwest - watching where I put my toesies, and Keen hikers when it’s colder than socks can cope with - I’m not climbing around in the mountains anymore though.
Appreciate the thorough discussion. I frequently battle blisters on my heels, and have tried various footwear. Man, nothing can slow down a hike like loaing your wheels. So I'm always looking for options.
I’d recommend applying Leukotape (or my favorite, StrengthTape brand) to your heels before heading out. Use benzoin tincture on the area to really stick the tape adhesive to your heel, and trim the tape so there are no corners.
Another option, other than what Phil suggested, is to wear a sock liner. If I'm planning on many miles, I'll put a lightweight sock liner inside of my Merino wool sock and virtually eliminate blister risk.
I find a bodyglide stick (like triathletes often use) works well for me against blisters, chafing anywhere, for hiking, running, biking and ski touring... my wife swears by hikers wool (lambs wool) and blister plasters if a hotspot develops.
I used some Adidas Terrex gtx low cut trailrunning shoes in every weather condition and tbh I never thought about anything. Crossed the alps with them, and crossed them fast. The snow was a problem, but other than that, even might climbing was no problem
Did a high elevation hike wearing On sneakers. 😂. The other guys had Nike sneakers and gum boots. It reminds me of how the off road test roads in many RUclips videos are what we call roads in Uganda and toyota corollas go through them no problem.
Shoes are so specific to the person. I’m strange. I’ve worn steel toe shoes for work for 30 years. I can not stand light shoes. They have to have a certain amount of heft to them or I just lose my mind. I know it’s odd but it is what it is.
Boots or low cut shoes is a question of terrain but mainly of your fitness / muscles / tendons / flexibility. I use my boots in 10-20% of my hikes, mainly in colder wer weather higher up in the mountains with lots of gravel but I mainly use low cut shoes. I just would hesitate to recommend it to beginners who are only used to sidewalks and city running trails. Be careful with your ankles. And: a game changer is the right socks.
I like Merrell Moab 3 non-waterproof, hiking shoes with Dr Scholl's Heavy Duty Work insoles, instead of the Merrell insoles they come with. They fit true to size, need no break-in and they're light and very comfortable. They also dry out faster than waterproof footwear, that always gets wet anyway.
Thanks very much for this great video. I learned a lot about hiking shoes just now. I recently got married and for our honeymoon, my husband and I are going for a month long hiking trip in some of the great national parks (Yellowston, Glacier, The Badlands, Grand Canyon and more). We will do this from mid-June to mid-July. Any recommendations you can give us regarding what shoes we should pack would be greatly appreciated.
I live in the Pacific NW and hike mostly in the Coast Range and Cascades. More often than not it's raining or the conditions are wet, so mesh shoes aren't a good choice for me.
Ive been wearing the new vans high gore tex ultra range forest green and theirr really nice but a tad to flat and they’re not the skate version either . I live in the Canadian Rockies
Good footwear lineup Those of us who have wide feet have a much harder time in finding footwear that actually fits, because the vast majority of "wide" shoes are D-width (medium). I wear a size 10, 4E and "wide" Keen shoes don't fit me, but Merrill Moab 3 shoes do.
I don't think high-tops help prevent a rolled ankle. I do think that they help protect from impacts to the inside and outsides knobs of your ankle bones. They do keep: dirt, stickers, thorns, awns, pebbles, puddle water, and snow out of your shoes.
2 questions. 1) do those type shoes come in wide fit? I have flat wide hobbit like feet, and most shoes are tight on me. 2) would the gortex shoe or the Merrill running/ trail shoe be better for Alabama humid hot moist weather?
Great video, lots of useful information for finding the right shoe for the right situation. I use Saucony Peregrines and Merrell Moab Vents for all my hiking needs.
Thanks for this video! In April 2024 hopefully I'll be making my first ever hiking trip! It'll be one of the shorter Camino de Santiago trails, just to test the waters. I'm already exploring all of these clothing and footwear options. Very informative!
What would you recommend for a disc golfer? Lots of trekking through wild terrain - woods, swamps, steep hills (often going into the thickest overgrowth to retrieve a disc) etc. So shoe must be durable, but (the tricky part) also allow you to move athletically (footwork in disc golf is way more important than in regular golf). Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for video! Never heard of approach shoes before. Do you think approach shoes is a best choice for hiking in mountain areas (no rocks climbing & easy tracks )? Are they breathable enough to wear in hot climate?
I sent my 4 year old Merrell moab goretex (in good condition) back to a Goretex certified repairer to test because it lost it's waterproofing, Goretex offered to replace the shoes for me. Will always choose to buy goretex for the customer protection they offer. But note: waterproof shoes are horrible as everyday shoes, it's a stinky toasty oven in there if used as everyday shoes.
I am confused about the shoes you use to walk through water ( the shoes next to the sandal). If you have to wear socks with them your socks are going to get wet and so regardless if shoes are quick drying, socks aren’t. Is there a quick dry sock you wear on trips like that to make it more comfortable so you’re not hiking around in wet socks for a long time?
Most shoes, except the 1st boots (i think those aku are cat B/C) and the approach shoes, are trail runners of sort, so they are actually only meant and useful for a certain type of terrain. You entirerly missed cat C and D boots with more stiff and completely stiff soles which allow for mounting of crampons and that stiffness is needed on alpine terrain. So, it really depends on what kind of terrain people plan to hike. Also the drop and cushion is important, experienced hikers prefer less drop and less cushion etc etc.
I'm planning a hitchhiking trip across the country. I'll mostly be walking on pavement all day, but have to step into the brush at night and in the morning Got a suggestion for a mid range shoe that won't ruin my day/night if I step in a marsh or puddle and will be comfortable walking most of the day on pavement? Thanks.
Do a review on the Nike Wildhorse 8’s. I’ve been an Altra fanboy for years and have thousands of miles on them. I’ve also put many miles on Brooks Cascadias and Hoka Speedgoats but just picked up a pair of Wildhorses and I’m sold. They are amazing.
Interesting video, Eric. What are your thoughts about the need for arch support? I get the concept that lowcut features can help with ankle strength, but in hiking uneven terrain, I feel as though arch support is a must. Also, do you wear merino wool socks year 'round? I started doing that and I love it! Thanks for the great info!
Great video, and it's helping me make my decision that I have been embarrassingly obsessing over lately. What shoe or boot would you recommend for a trek in Nepal, specifically Langtang Valley in October? It's a well-maintained trail, dry trail, but has a couple day hikes up peaks that are snow-covered. I stopped wearing boots 20+ years ago, but haven't hiked somewhere with such high elevation. Also, for the last year, I've been battling Achilles tendonitis, so a shoe with a low drop is bad news for me. When Googled, the most common response is a boot like Salomon Quest 4 GTX, but it seems a light, breathable trail runner with the option for micro-spikes in the snow might be a lot better. I plan to go trekking every couple of years or so, since I live in Thailand, so maybe a more durable, snow-capable boot would be a better option. Google searches look like something ChatGPT would say, while diving into threads and forums, people seem to be in the know, and suggest running shoes or trail runners.
That's a nice run down of different footwear. But you didn't mention barefoot-style shoes at all? Have you tried any? What's your thoughts? They are very popular in ultralight and thru-hiking communities because they are lighter and generally promote better feet, ankle, knee and back health since they allow for natural posture and help developing good stabilizing muscles. Though they do require some getting used to so most hikers don't like them, especially if they were raised on high support boots
Start by going to a running store and get properly fitted. Then buy trail running shoes, not hiking shoes. Unless you plan to hike in a lot of snow that's all you'll ever need.
I could not agree with you more Mark. Hiking shops are not the best place to buy footwear for a trek. Go to running shops and discuss with them the trail you want to walk. They will suggest footwear to suit your trail and conditions.
@@johnhutchison2268 I’m pretty sure Mark is saying to go to a go to a running shop. He’s just specifying that people should get a trail runner over a road runner.
@@tofugardens2409 Hi Tufu, I support what he is saying about trainers rather than hiking boots. The actual type can be determined by the terrain. For example I did a walk up the North West of Scotland over mainly soft boggy ground and I wore Inov8 trainers designed for off road running. I have just completed the Camino Francés in Northern Spain. This involves a lot of walking over hard surfaces. For this I used the Suacony Triumphs which are Road runners. The terrain makes the choice . But I never walk in boots anymore
In the Pacific Northwest, you are definitely going to want boots, not shoes, even through most of the summer. Knee-high gaiters are essential, too. Unless you want trench foot. Trail runners are really not the universal solution.
I live in the Alberta Canada area, and all I've ever worn were the "dads hiking boots." I wonder how the other shoes you've mentioned would work in the Rockies?
How about for long mountain trail. Like 3-day hike and wet, probably muddy and pretty cold. Is it still advisable to have the gore tex yet heavy from Merrell or must have lightweight but non-waterproof?❤
Thank you. Subscribed! Like they ALWAYS told us in the Marine Corps, take care of those feet (and weapons of course) or you are going to be ineffective!!
Hey, I'm going to be doing the Everest Base Camp Trek during late September, whilst it's only really cold closer to the camp, am I better off getting a waterproof shoe that isn't warm and wearing a warmer sock later or just buying warmer waterproof shoe?
Can I wear trail running shoes while hiking? I tried the asics gel excite trail 2 in store and they felt more comfortable than any hiking shoe or boot I tried. So I'm kinda stuck in what to buy.
I bought new low to North Face hiking shoes but on a recent hike I had to clean out my shoes multiple times because of all the dirt that kept getting in. Is it static or are they crap?
I thought I was pretty savvy when it comes to choosing my hiking shoes, but hey, I learned something from this video, yay! Is it possible the "Unknown" Merrills are the Nova 3?? Thanks for sharing. 😁
Every time its time for footwear. I look at hiking shoes (cause who doesn't want a 10 ounce shoe.) Then I buy another pair of mid GTX boots, and wear them for another 1000 miles. I just don't trust anything but a boot.
@@EthanIzeta so you just keep hiking with wet socks or you just keep taking your socks off and back on each time you hit the water. okay, i'll give it a shot, but i'll bring extra pairs of socks just in case
@@damondo I don't know your specific use case for water shoes, the people I know that wear them use them for walking around the camp and when going in a lake/river. If you are in the water you obviously don't need them but so long as the socks are high quality wool, water isn't really a problem even if they get wet because they wick moisture and absorb water more slowly meaning they dry very quick and don't cause blisters. Definitely don't go hiking with cotton socks tho you will regret it and just in case have a dedicated foot care kit. Then again I don't know if you are the type of person who hikes for camping or the type of person that camps so that they can hike more miles.
You can buy neoprene socks if you are doing a lot of water crossings like canyons or walking through streams for long periods they will help to keep your feet warm and stop the friction. But if just water crossings I chuck my Tevas on (camp shoes) and I’m set. I prefer to hike in boots for the extra support and wool Socks
Trail runners are really not the universal solution everyone seems to be pushing these days. In the Pacific Northwest, you are definitely going to want boots, not shoes, even through most of the summer. Knee-high gaiters are essential, too. Unless you want trench foot because nothing dries here.
Yes, the trail runners aren't suitable on scree slopes, they don't allow mounting crampons and the sole isn't stiff enough to scramble in alpine environment.
Why are the ankles the only body part that don’t benefit from support? Weightlifters and people who lift/twist a lot at their jobs wear belts to protect the lower back. Elbows, wrists, knees, all benefit from braces or sleeves. Why not ankles?
@@philsmith2444 All examples you've mentioned are much more complex. I spent enough time in a powerlifting gym and was trained by powerlifters some of theme were physiotherapists. Powerlifters use belts only for their heaviest lifts. Braces can work in a place of the body that not supposed to be moving in the first place. So bodylifting weights have their usage for bracing the core muscles against the belt. It is not for "supporting the spine" but to allow more tension and thus limiting the changes of thernia. Tall shoes limit the movement of the angle and as such limit calf muscles to do their job. Ankle does not support the body, as like spine does. It supposed to move and balance the body so that the knees/spine does not have to. When wearing tall shoes knees take the hit, especially when going downhill. Check of people can do wearing Mountaneiring shoes have their place, especially on ice. Of course. There are people who use barefoot style shoes going through the mountains that were traditionally reserved for "heavy supportive shoes". Check out this guy: ruclips.net/video/02Ahz-Bc5Us/видео.html The only reason I have that knowledge is because I struggled with knee and shoulder pain that was fixed after some research.
@@philsmith2444 "Elbows, wrists, knees, all benefit from braces or sleeves. Why not ankles" Sleves allow full range of motion and simply add tension to the joint. I use these for lifting sometimes. Braces are usually used on parts of the body that we do not want to move. Like lower back. Ankles supposed to move while walking in their full range of motion. If they do not, one will pay for that in knee or back pain. I avoid tall boots to avoid knee pain during decent. Obviously heavy rain, mud, and snow makes things more complicated, but not because of the "support".
Up in the North East, we have mud season! It's in the spring, when snow is still melting up in the mountains, saturating the ground, so all trails are turned to muddy slick paths. We tend to avoid hiking in that period as to lessen the damage to the trail / environment.
Waterproof shoes are pointless when the vast majority of hikes that would supposedly require them, entails stepping in water more than ankle deep. They are a scam.
Man I don’t know how you’re wearing so many AKU shoes/Boots. They absolutely murder my feet and I figured they were secretly torture devices made to look like shoes.
Yeah he kinda blew it on that but what he meant was into not very breathable when hot out. Kinda like a rain coat. If wore goretex hiking shoes many times now I only use them when it is cold as the insulate better. Any other times I use nice lightweight trail runners. But damn I’m blowing a lot of money on my sweet solamons.
I find it very breathable. My feet are so sweaty when I change out of my work boots at the end of the day that they leave damp footprints on the shop floor. After maybe 1/2 hour in my worn-out Fugitives that I wear as everyday footwear my socks are almost dry. I’ve sworn by it over the last 35 years or so, from 130F-plus to well below 0F and from desert to the steamy southeast.
Thanks for doing a "one size does not fit all" explanation. For those of us in remote areas where most of the hiking involves no trails and wet, abrasive terrain, the common advice to just buy trail runners doesn't hold up, and neither do the shoes
I honestly just wear work boots
This hits home. I spent a lot of money trying to find something that didn't cover my feet in blisters after only a few miles. I finally tried the Altra Lone Peaks, and they were a game changer for me. No blisters, tons of miles. It's different for everyone, and that's just what worked for me, but Altras have some great reviews.
I gave up on boots over breathable trail runners years ago. I would constantly role my ankles with boots since they don't allow the foot to naturally flex when going over uneven surfaces. The trail runners are good for all terrain including snow fields and river crossings.
Thanks.That really helps.
Just spent a week hiking and camping across Madeira using Saucony Peregrines and Drymax trail running socks. @109km and 7000vm over 7 days with @22kg pack - of course I could have packed slightly lighter (buying lighter gear wasn't worth it - pack etc, or making do without good coffee) but wouldn't have been as comfortable and I used almost everything. I experienced all weather from heavy rain, cold and wind in the mountains to hot dry dusty coastal trails. Non GTX trail runners was definitely the right choice for me. Best investment was a €10 micro umbrella from Decathlon which was enough for many of the shorter lighter rain showers and meant not getting sweaty in a poncho or rain jacket, I would consider a more windproof longer handled umbrella for future hiking! (so can maybe attach to shoulder straps...)
Walking in the hills and mountains in Scotland my feet get wet after a few hours no matter what I wear. If I have winter boots and gaiters on i get sweaty feet. For long summer days trail shoes and lightweight gaiters work best for me, along with good wool hiking socks.
I'm the same also in Scotland but I've always struggled to get away from the classic hiking boot for the more serious stuff but I think he might be right - I rip my ankle all the time with the bigger boots.
Do you have any recommendations for particular shoes.
Can't beat a good sock - it's as much about them as the shoe.🙂
@@Ballbagsaggins I'm fond of my Merrells and a pair of waterproof Meindl shoes, but I do have broad feet so probably it depends whether your feet are narrow. The small ankle length gaiters are a game changer for me.
I've only just become aware of ankle gaiters and almost immediately wrote them off because I thought they sounded like fair weather items. Might have to give them a look. 🙂
I've really bad for carrying traditional (knee high) gaiters for hundreds of miles and then never using them. I'm the same with waterproof trousers- by the time I decide to use them I'm already wet.😉🤣🤣
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, I enjoyed your video. I too often feel more sure of my footing wearing a lowcut. Unless the trek is slow, cold and wet, I don't ever break out the mid boots. Good journey to you!
Great video! I use waterproof Mishmi Takin hiking boots that use an eVent membrane which is more breathable than GORTEX and my feet stay dry and cool even in warm humid summer weather.
Someone tried to convince me trail runners would be better but if you step in one mud hole or even walk through wet grass with TR’s your feet are instantly wet/muddy. But everyone has to find what they like best.
Good tips. I feel I have strong ankles as I’m a past time roller hockey skater. & love hike climbing. But I hike in hot weather but through wet terrain with potentially snakes & other critters. I’d like a breathable low cut boot of 6” but protective.
Altra Long Peak + darn good brand socks have changed my hike! The Altra has room for my very wide forefoot, zero drop, and is lightweight. I finally caved in this year and bought a pair. I wish I had bought them sooner.
altra lone peak
Darn Tough
AKUs are made in Serbia, Italien company long tradition. Britisch Military Standard . Good tip buy military versions their cheap but are just as robust as the commercial versions. The German military uses Meindls and other worthy brands.
The Schuh you shown costs about 100 to 120 euros or Lbs in UK same for Germany.
I honestly didn’t know anything about shoes at the time but the ones that I ended up getting where the Cascade 17 brooks
here is the thing i dont hear people talk about ,, trail running shoes are made for running, they grip when you apply poressure.... i dont hike fast, so i wonder if i am missing out on traction.
I have/had major foot issues. I ran marathons from the late 1980's until around 2,000. I started have the foot issues about that time and I tried everything, especially orthotics. Orthotics suck; all of them. I was on vacations and saw a guy with a pair of weird as hell looking shoes. After talking to him, I bought a pair that day. After a few years of not running, I was back on the road. Now that I love hiking, I like Altras and Hoka's, but the one shoe that supports, cushions, and protects my feet the best are Hoka Stinson's. They have a high stack height, so on rough trails I have to be cognizant of my foot placement. It's truly not much of an issue anymore now that I've gotten used to them. The Stinson's are harder to find than Speedgoats, but they are a step up in every way! I like the Altra Olympus a lot, but Altra needs to step up the quality as to how long their shoes last on trail. It sucks to wear a shoe that falls apart so quickly.
I hear so many people saying Gore-Tex isn’t breathable in hot weather, that it’ll make your feet hot & sweaty, etc. My experience is the opposite. I wore 2 kinds of boots when I was in Saudi Arabia & Iraq back in 90-91 - jungle boots and Danner Ft Lewis boots with Gore-Tex and Thinsulate. Jungle boots, if you’re not familiar with them, have a leather vamp and heel cap but the rest of the boot is canvas/nylon. There are screened drains in the leather at the arch so water will drain out. Very quick drying, no fabric lining so there’s nothing for your sock to chafe against. Their drawback in the desert was that sand got in through the drains. My Danners kept my feet as dry as my jungle boots did in the up to 130F temps we saw, and were more comfortable in the rainy season when it dropped as low as 30F.
I also wore my Danners in Korea, which was as hot & humid as the southeast US in the summer and bitterly cold & snowy in the winter.
So I’d say it depends on the person. My feet do sweat pretty heavily just like the rest of me, and on my 30 minute drive home at a previous job my feet would start off sweaty from my work boots and be dry in my Fugitives by the time I got home.
I have found that actual Gore-Tex breathes better than proprietary brands like Keen.Dry or Oboz’s BDry. Vasque’s UltraDry does a good job of keeping my feet sweat-free while winter hiking or snowshoeing, too.
I mean that's why you have two pairs of wool socks. I have never had a problem with a Gore Tex boot in any conditions that I have worn them in. Light wool socks in summer, heavy wool socks in the winter. That's about the extent of my footwear decisions.
Won't matter which shoe to keep dry. When brush is wet., not even raining. The water runs down your leg and your foot is soaked in no time.
Gaiters
Rain pants / poncho prevent that
I prefer shoes that dry quickly. I will always get them wet. It doesn't matter what the conditions are. I will always find a way to get them wet.
What shoes do you recommend?
@@InvictusRemaneoI misheard the suggestion and made the mistake of strapping gators to my legs. Now my friends call me "Stumpy"
Met an Australian trekker forty years ago who never wore anything but canvas gym/tennis shoes, that he could pick up anywhere - from Indonesia to America, and wore them in everything but deep snow, of course. I wear Chacos all year here in the midwest - watching where I put my toesies, and Keen hikers when it’s colder than socks can cope with - I’m not climbing around in the mountains anymore though.
Appreciate the thorough discussion. I frequently battle blisters on my heels, and have tried various footwear. Man, nothing can slow down a hike like loaing your wheels. So I'm always looking for options.
I’d recommend applying Leukotape (or my favorite, StrengthTape brand) to your heels before heading out. Use benzoin tincture on the area to really stick the tape adhesive to your heel, and trim the tape so there are no corners.
Another option, other than what Phil suggested, is to wear a sock liner. If I'm planning on many miles, I'll put a lightweight sock liner inside of my Merino wool sock and virtually eliminate blister risk.
Agree with Medicus here, life changer for sure
I find a bodyglide stick (like triathletes often use) works well for me against blisters, chafing anywhere, for hiking, running, biking and ski touring... my wife swears by hikers wool (lambs wool) and blister plasters if a hotspot develops.
I used some Adidas Terrex gtx low cut trailrunning shoes in every weather condition and tbh I never thought about anything. Crossed the alps with them, and crossed them fast. The snow was a problem, but other than that, even might climbing was no problem
Did a high elevation hike wearing On sneakers. 😂. The other guys had Nike sneakers and gum boots. It reminds me of how the off road test roads in many RUclips videos are what we call roads in Uganda and toyota corollas go through them no problem.
Shoes are so specific to the person. I’m strange. I’ve worn steel toe shoes for work for 30 years. I can not stand light shoes. They have to have a certain amount of heft to them or I just lose my mind. I know it’s odd but it is what it is.
Boots or low cut shoes is a question of terrain but mainly of your fitness / muscles / tendons / flexibility.
I use my boots in 10-20% of my hikes, mainly in colder wer weather higher up in the mountains with lots of gravel but I mainly use low cut shoes. I just would hesitate to recommend it to beginners who are only used to sidewalks and city running trails. Be careful with your ankles.
And: a game changer is the right socks.
I like the idea of that water show as well for the hike in hot wet river bed in & out of creeks
I like Merrell Moab 3 non-waterproof, hiking shoes with Dr Scholl's Heavy Duty Work insoles, instead of the Merrell insoles they come with. They fit true to size, need no break-in and they're light and very comfortable. They also dry out faster than waterproof footwear, that always gets wet anyway.
Great video! Also, wear wool socks when hiking. I've slowly replaced all my socks with wool and love it
Approach shoes are also good for biking.
7:02 same. I rolled my ankle once per mile and got blisters between my toes until I went more barefoot style.
Thanks very much for this great video. I learned a lot about hiking shoes just now. I recently got married and for our honeymoon, my husband and I are going for a month long hiking trip in some of the great national parks (Yellowston, Glacier, The Badlands, Grand Canyon and more). We will do this from mid-June to mid-July. Any recommendations you can give us regarding what shoes we should pack would be greatly appreciated.
I live in the Pacific NW and hike mostly in the Coast Range and Cascades. More often than not it's raining or the conditions are wet, so mesh shoes aren't a good choice for me.
Ive been wearing the new vans high gore tex ultra range forest green and theirr really nice but a tad to flat and they’re not the skate version either . I live in the Canadian Rockies
Wolverine polar range boa system boots are the best winter boots I've ever had. Hands down. It's sad there website doesn't sell that anymore.
Good footwear lineup
Those of us who have wide feet have a much harder time in finding footwear that actually fits, because the vast majority of "wide" shoes are D-width (medium).
I wear a size 10, 4E and "wide" Keen shoes don't fit me, but Merrill Moab 3 shoes do.
I don't think high-tops help prevent a rolled ankle. I do think that they help protect from impacts to the inside and outsides knobs of your ankle bones. They do keep: dirt, stickers, thorns, awns, pebbles, puddle water, and snow out of your shoes.
2 questions.
1) do those type shoes come in wide fit? I have flat wide hobbit like feet, and most shoes are tight on me.
2) would the gortex shoe or the Merrill running/ trail shoe be better for Alabama humid hot moist weather?
You need to do your own research.
Saucony and New Balance both come in wide sizes. I prefer Saucony in 4E.
@@strangerous1313 he said we could ask questions. And asking questions is part of research. So I am doing that.
Great video, lots of useful information for finding the right shoe for the right situation. I use Saucony Peregrines and Merrell Moab Vents for all my hiking needs.
Thanks for this video! In April 2024 hopefully I'll be making my first ever hiking trip! It'll be one of the shorter Camino de Santiago trails, just to test the waters. I'm already exploring all of these clothing and footwear options. Very informative!
Its April 2024! I hope the plan is still going!
@@heldim92 Actually I just got back! Incredible experience... i hope to do it again soon!
do you wear water proof socks when you wet hike in your water shoes ??
What would you recommend for a disc golfer? Lots of trekking through wild terrain - woods, swamps, steep hills (often going into the thickest overgrowth to retrieve a disc) etc. So shoe must be durable, but (the tricky part) also allow you to move athletically (footwork in disc golf is way more important than in regular golf).
Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
What are you currently wearing? I usually disc in cross training shoes.
What your recommendation for Annapurna trail? full circuit?
Dry > Wet > Snow (3-4 days) > Wet > Dry
Thank you for video! Never heard of approach shoes before. Do you think approach shoes is a best choice for hiking in mountain areas (no rocks climbing & easy tracks )?
Are they breathable enough to wear in hot climate?
Nice informative vid, I learned more…as a slightly less newbie hiker. Thanks.
I sent my 4 year old Merrell moab goretex (in good condition) back to a Goretex certified repairer to test because it lost it's waterproofing, Goretex offered to replace the shoes for me.
Will always choose to buy goretex for the customer protection they offer.
But note: waterproof shoes are horrible as everyday shoes, it's a stinky toasty oven in there if used as everyday shoes.
Thank you very much🙏
I am confused about the shoes you use to walk through water ( the shoes next to the sandal). If you have to wear socks with them your socks are going to get wet and so regardless if shoes are quick drying, socks aren’t. Is there a quick dry sock you wear on trips like that to make it more comfortable so you’re not hiking around in wet socks for a long time?
Most shoes, except the 1st boots (i think those aku are cat B/C) and the approach shoes, are trail runners of sort, so they are actually only meant and useful for a certain type of terrain. You entirerly missed cat C and D boots with more stiff and completely stiff soles which allow for mounting of crampons and that stiffness is needed on alpine terrain. So, it really depends on what kind of terrain people plan to hike. Also the drop and cushion is important, experienced hikers prefer less drop and less cushion etc etc.
My Scarpa MESCALITO TRK PLANET GTX seem to keep the sweat in, and take a long time to dry.
I'm planning a hitchhiking trip across the country. I'll mostly be walking on pavement all day, but have to step into the brush at night and in the morning Got a suggestion for a mid range shoe that won't ruin my day/night if I step in a marsh or puddle and will be comfortable walking most of the day on pavement? Thanks.
Am I missing the list of these shoes? What brand and style? Cant find…
Do a review on the Nike Wildhorse 8’s. I’ve been an Altra fanboy for years and have thousands of miles on them. I’ve also put many miles on Brooks Cascadias and Hoka Speedgoats but just picked up a pair of Wildhorses and I’m sold. They are amazing.
Interesting video, Eric. What are your thoughts about the need for arch support? I get the concept that lowcut features can help with ankle strength, but in hiking uneven terrain, I feel as though arch support is a must. Also, do you wear merino wool socks year 'round? I started doing that and I love it! Thanks for the great info!
Always creative with your video topics!
Thoughts on the Columbia Fire Camp boot?
agree i rolled my ankle in a six ankle boot haven't in my hiking shoes
Great video, and it's helping me make my decision that I have been embarrassingly obsessing over lately. What shoe or boot would you recommend for a trek in Nepal, specifically Langtang Valley in October? It's a well-maintained trail, dry trail, but has a couple day hikes up peaks that are snow-covered. I stopped wearing boots 20+ years ago, but haven't hiked somewhere with such high elevation. Also, for the last year, I've been battling Achilles tendonitis, so a shoe with a low drop is bad news for me. When Googled, the most common response is a boot like Salomon Quest 4 GTX, but it seems a light, breathable trail runner with the option for micro-spikes in the snow might be a lot better. I plan to go trekking every couple of years or so, since I live in Thailand, so maybe a more durable, snow-capable boot would be a better option. Google searches look like something ChatGPT would say, while diving into threads and forums, people seem to be in the know, and suggest running shoes or trail runners.
Hi, mate. Thx for the video. Could you tell please - what is the name of the Merrell shoes (with thin membrane) ?
That's a nice run down of different footwear. But you didn't mention barefoot-style shoes at all? Have you tried any? What's your thoughts? They are very popular in ultralight and thru-hiking communities because they are lighter and generally promote better feet, ankle, knee and back health since they allow for natural posture and help developing good stabilizing muscles. Though they do require some getting used to so most hikers don't like them, especially if they were raised on high support boots
Great video.
Which of these shoes do you wear socks with? Alsom, what type of socks?
I like non gortex . and where wool socks. Why once water gets inside gotex foot where it will take a long time to dry out. On a normal hike .
Hi I’m off to Sri Lanka for a holiday with a few basic hikes. What would you recommend
Thanks
waterproof high ankle shoe is a MUST for Himalayan Hiking. Quest/X Ultra type shoes are more suited than those breathable shoes.
Start by going to a running store and get properly fitted. Then buy trail running shoes, not hiking shoes. Unless you plan to hike in a lot of snow that's all you'll ever need.
I could not agree with you more Mark. Hiking shops are not the best place to buy footwear for a trek. Go to running shops and discuss with them the trail you want to walk. They will suggest footwear to suit your trail and conditions.
@@johnhutchison2268 I’m pretty sure Mark is saying to go to a go to a running shop. He’s just specifying that people should get a trail runner over a road runner.
@@tofugardens2409 Hi Tufu, I support what he is saying about trainers rather than hiking boots. The actual type can be determined by the terrain. For example I did a walk up the North West of Scotland over mainly soft boggy ground and I wore Inov8 trainers designed for off road running. I have just completed the Camino Francés in Northern Spain. This involves a lot of walking over hard surfaces. For this I used the Suacony Triumphs which are Road runners. The terrain makes the choice . But I never walk in boots anymore
In the Pacific Northwest, you are definitely going to want boots, not shoes, even through most of the summer. Knee-high gaiters are essential, too. Unless you want trench foot.
Trail runners are really not the universal solution.
I live in the Alberta Canada area, and all I've ever worn were the "dads hiking boots." I wonder how the other shoes you've mentioned would work in the Rockies?
Helpful. Thanx.😊
Need suggestions for K2
hello there! Is it worth spending money on Goretex boots, taking into account that the membrane starts to fail after about a year and a half?
are there any items you've come across that add extra back support?
How about for long mountain trail. Like 3-day hike and wet, probably muddy and pretty cold. Is it still advisable to have the gore tex yet heavy from Merrell or must have lightweight but non-waterproof?❤
I think the higher ankle support shoes weaken your ankle muscles and therefore cause injuries later on.
Marty from Perth Western Australia.
What is best for hiking something like Half Dome in Yosemite?
Merrel Moabs or really whatever looks you like.
Thank you. Subscribed! Like they ALWAYS told us in the Marine Corps, take care of those feet (and weapons of course) or you are going to be ineffective!!
Hey,
I'm going to be doing the Everest Base Camp Trek during late September, whilst it's only really cold closer to the camp, am I better off getting a waterproof shoe that isn't warm and wearing a warmer sock later or just buying warmer waterproof shoe?
Can I wear trail running shoes while hiking? I tried the asics gel excite trail 2 in store and they felt more comfortable than any hiking shoe or boot I tried. So I'm kinda stuck in what to buy.
I bought new low to North Face hiking shoes but on a recent hike I had to clean out my shoes multiple times because of all the dirt that kept getting in. Is it static or are they crap?
anyone know of an approach shoe that's also a water shoe?
i do alot of canyons that are full of water and involve alot of climbing
Chacos for the win with constant water crossing in my opinion
is there a shoe best for hike run and trek? all in one?
I hear good things about Adidas Terrex!
@@BackpackingTVwoah .. i should check it out
Gortex is breathable?
I thought I was pretty savvy when it comes to choosing my hiking shoes, but hey, I learned something from this video, yay!
Is it possible the "Unknown" Merrills are the Nova 3??
Thanks for sharing. 😁
It looks like the Merrells are these: www.google.com/search?q=merrell+mqm+flex
Do you use socks with water shoes?
Every time its time for footwear. I look at hiking shoes (cause who doesn't want a 10 ounce shoe.) Then I buy another pair of mid GTX boots, and wear them for another 1000 miles. I just don't trust anything but a boot.
when wearing water shoes while hiking, do you still wear socks?
Of course, unless you want to get blisters and fuck your feet up.
@@EthanIzeta so you just keep hiking with wet socks or you just keep taking your socks off and back on each time you hit the water. okay, i'll give it a shot, but i'll bring extra pairs of socks just in case
@@damondo I don't know your specific use case for water shoes, the people I know that wear them use them for walking around the camp and when going in a lake/river. If you are in the water you obviously don't need them but so long as the socks are high quality wool, water isn't really a problem even if they get wet because they wick moisture and absorb water more slowly meaning they dry very quick and don't cause blisters. Definitely don't go hiking with cotton socks tho you will regret it and just in case have a dedicated foot care kit. Then again I don't know if you are the type of person who hikes for camping or the type of person that camps so that they can hike more miles.
You can buy neoprene socks if you are doing a lot of water crossings like canyons or walking through streams for long periods they will help to keep your feet warm and stop the friction. But if just water crossings I chuck my Tevas on (camp shoes) and I’m set. I prefer to hike in boots for the extra support and wool
Socks
@@thirstymercfan thanks so much! that was super helpful😀... exactly what i was looking for
Trail runners are really not the universal solution everyone seems to be pushing these days.
In the Pacific Northwest, you are definitely going to want boots, not shoes, even through most of the summer. Knee-high gaiters are essential, too. Unless you want trench foot because nothing dries here.
Yes, the trail runners aren't suitable on scree slopes, they don't allow mounting crampons and the sole isn't stiff enough to scramble in alpine environment.
Appropriate resistance exercises strengthen the ancles. No boot will ever protect the ancle, it can destroy the knee instead.
Why are the ankles the only body part that don’t benefit from support? Weightlifters and people who lift/twist a lot at their jobs wear belts to protect the lower back. Elbows, wrists, knees, all benefit from braces or sleeves. Why not ankles?
@@philsmith2444
All examples you've mentioned are much more complex.
I spent enough time in a powerlifting gym and was trained by powerlifters some of theme were physiotherapists.
Powerlifters use belts only for their heaviest lifts.
Braces can work in a place of the body that not supposed to be moving in the first place. So bodylifting weights have their usage for bracing the core muscles against the belt. It is not for "supporting the spine" but to allow more tension and thus limiting the changes of thernia.
Tall shoes limit the movement of the angle and as such limit calf muscles to do their job. Ankle does not support the body, as like spine does. It supposed to move and balance the body so that the knees/spine does not have to.
When wearing tall shoes knees take the hit, especially when going downhill.
Check of people can do wearing
Mountaneiring shoes have their place, especially on ice. Of course.
There are people who use barefoot style shoes going through the mountains that were traditionally reserved for "heavy supportive shoes".
Check out this guy: ruclips.net/video/02Ahz-Bc5Us/видео.html
The only reason I have that knowledge is because I struggled with knee and shoulder pain that was fixed after some research.
@@philsmith2444
"Elbows, wrists, knees, all benefit from braces or sleeves. Why not ankles"
Sleves allow full range of motion and simply add tension to the joint. I use these for lifting sometimes.
Braces are usually used on parts of the body that we do not want to move. Like lower back.
Ankles supposed to move while walking in their full range of motion. If they do not, one will pay for that in knee or back pain.
I avoid tall boots to avoid knee pain during decent.
Obviously heavy rain, mud, and snow makes things more complicated, but not because of the "support".
Nike leather air Jordans (low) pretty much water repellent and comfy as..and will take you almost anywhere..
can you hike in Adidas ultraboost 22?
Yes, but may need great socks and tie them a bit tighter to prevent the foot sliding around in the shoes in rougher and uneven terrain.
What is 'shoulder season?' And are there any other 'seasons?'
Spring and fall are the shoulder seasons
Up in the North East, we have mud season! It's in the spring, when snow is still melting up in the mountains, saturating the ground, so all trails are turned to muddy slick paths. We tend to avoid hiking in that period as to lessen the damage to the trail / environment.
5:54 merrell mqm
Zero drop, 3mm, 5mm, 8mm ?
Waterproof shoes are pointless when the vast majority of hikes that would supposedly require them, entails stepping in water more than ankle deep.
They are a scam.
Man I don’t know how you’re wearing so many AKU shoes/Boots. They absolutely murder my feet and I figured they were secretly torture devices made to look like shoes.
Cattle Dog!!!
Gore-tex isn't breathable? You're off to a good start 👍🏿
They say it is but it’s not really . You don’t know what ur talking about if you say it is.
Yeah he kinda blew it on that but what he meant was into not very breathable when hot out. Kinda like a rain coat. If wore goretex hiking shoes many times now I only use them when it is cold as the insulate better. Any other times I use nice lightweight trail runners. But damn I’m blowing a lot of money on my sweet solamons.
He's absoultely right tho, they are contradicting properties and although they might sell you that goretex is breathable it really isn't.
I find it very breathable. My feet are so sweaty when I change out of my work boots at the end of the day that they leave damp footprints on the shop floor. After maybe 1/2 hour in my worn-out Fugitives that I wear as everyday footwear my socks are almost dry. I’ve sworn by it over the last 35 years or so, from 130F-plus to well below 0F and from desert to the steamy southeast.
Have you ever tried barefoot shoes?
After three bad boots in a row I’m a shoe hiker.
I'm more of a leather boot wearer myself
Not altras
😂😂😂 you have a lot of shoes 😅
Ultra Boost and Crocs these are all over engineered scams
🤦♂️
If you're getting blisters, either you chose your sandal/shoe poorly or you don't know how to wear them. Don't blame the sandal.
Asks for comments and questions and then doesn't reply to a single one? 👎
3:15 aka the Boomer Boot 😋
they have their place for serious hikes.