From my military days, whatever you choose, take a pair of ultra-lightweight flips flops. Giving your feet air, and or allowing your footware and socks to dry and air while you knock around your camp site in flip flops is a good call. I had two pairs of REEFS in Afghanistan and they saved my feet.
This, I might get some flak for this, but Crocs. Whenever I am even coming close to submerging my feet I stop, tie my boots on to my bag, pop my set of Crocs on and wade in those. Far less sketchy than fording barefoot (to me, I hate being barefoot). And as you say, good for relaxing in
One guarantee if you are in the field is that water will get into your footwear. I've been an infantryman for 25 years and I learned early on that lightweight breathable footwear was the way to go. We would use nylon "jungle boots" which had drain vents and dried quickl. When things got really bad, I would use a set of Rocky Goretex socks over fresh dry socks and walk for a while until the boots dried out, then take off the goretex socks. Worked well and I still use that today. Just something to think about.
I backpack in the Canadian Rockies. I’m middle aged and generally wear crocs on overnight hikes logging up to 30 km per day. If the weather turns or the trail gets rough I reluctantly put on my hiking boots. Crocs are comfortable, durable, light weight, and work for me.
We met a guy on the Colorado Trail who hiked the trail in modified Crocs. He added Velcro to the back of the Crocs to attached his Dirty Girl Gaiters. He was having a great time, and experienced no foot issues.
Best trail show (for me) is the Salomon Sense 7. Best trail shoe on sale today. Climbed Kilimanjaro in them (when most opted for heavy 'hiking' boots), ran multiple Ultra's in them, ran the UTMB, Gobi March and MDS in them. Awesome. I do however concur with one commenter below, make sure to air your feet at the end of the day with a pair of sandals. :)
A great budget option I used a lot and found online for ~$50 is the Saucony Peregrine 8! Amazing grip and super lightweight for hiking and trail running.
Love hiking in Chacos! Get wet and dry quickly, obviously breathe great. Soles are tough, durable, and surprisingly stable. Probably the best aspect of Chaco hiking is the sweet tan lines!
How to dry goretex shoe reasonably fast and well - carry 2 bags of silica gel (they are those mysterious tiny bags in boxes from electronics). Dry your shoe with a paper towel, toilet paper, napkin... whatever... to get the bulk of the water out and put in the silica gel bag. It will absorb most of the moisture over night.
I own a pair of Merrell MOABs and I love them! I don't think that I have the Ventilator model. I found out that you can reach your hand in and pull out the attached "sock" so it sticks out of the boot and then it is exposed to the sun and wind. They will dry out in an hour or two! Love those boots! Great videos! Keep up the good work!
I prefer the Keen Targhee I, my personal preference. What I enjoy most about your videos, your not pushing a product, only stating what works for you by personal experience. You hit the nail on the head when you mentioned comfort being number 1,
Yes! I used to work as an archaeologist in the jungles of Belize and waterproof is not a great idea. Even with the blistering heat waterproof shoes won't dry out for a week after they get wet. By that point they would smell like death and your feet are sore from being damp.
You hit the nail on the head...squarely and perfectly! Comfort and breathability. I have three pairs of hiking shoes and one pair of hiking boots (winter hikes) varying in price from $29 (Walmart Ozark Trails for daily excursions and mowing my lawn) to $120 Merrell Moab 2. The boots were bought at Target for $35. Every pair is comfortable and all breathe well. I bought the Merrells to replace my Salomon's as after 5 years I wore those babies out. The Moab's are super comfortable and with a pair of Wigwam Coolmax liners and Darn Tough socks it's as though I float on the trail and not one blister in the past three years of hiking and camping. I find that proper sock wear is a huge key to comfort regardless of what hiking shoe or boot I wear. I still stock moleskin and leuko tape in my first aid kit but usually end up providing them to fellow hikers who develop blisters. Your Altra Lone shoes look pretty cool and I thought about buying a pair on Amazon but I'm so leery of buying shoes and clothes online. I prefer to try them on before buying. I love your videos as you offer sound advice...your opinion, yes, but I agree. P.S. I know you moved to the Southwest and I spent a lot of my military years in SoCal and AZ. If you haven't already done so there are numerous incredible trails around Mammoth, June Lake Loop, off Hwy 395. On Hwy 18, between Lake Gregory, Lake Arrowhead all the way to Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains down to Silverwood Lake there are vistas you would not believe. There's a RUclipsr out there and I think he calls himself Pharoah (don't quote me on that). He has some wonderful videos to check out. Best wishes to you and your wife. Take care.
I just finished the Grand Canyon South Kaibab to Phantom Ranch up Bright Angel one day trek. I used Merrell FST because I wanted a jogging shoe upper and a beefy Vibram soul. They worked fine and I have no complaints. I used the Keen Targhee II on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and they were perfect except you must get a whole size longer. I got the recommended one half size larger and although my toes did not hit the end of the shoe, I did feel a bit cramped. Still they are extremely comfortable and rugged. I used the Merrell Thermo 6 for Mt. Kilimanjaro because it gets really cold there. My feet stayed dry and warm so they did their job. However, they are not as comfortable as the Keen Targhee II. Happy feet!
Yes sir. I've recently been checking out the new version of the shoe "Moab FST", which are a lighter/more breathable version. Thanks for Watching! Hike On, Darwin
Spot on wisdom. Lighter and smaller is the way to go. I have done the appalachian. You want some cushion but there are two major reasons for me that I simply chose an inexpensive running shoe. Firsr, for cleaning and drying quickly as you shared. Secondly, it's the only way to prevent the majority of blisters. You still may get one or two blisters depending on your feet and how well your shoes fit, but all in all, light weight trail or running shoes will cancel out much of the unwelcome friction for fast pace walking or jogging. Great tips Darwin!👍
I saw a podiatrist the other day. I dont have feet issues but just wanted to be sure before i do the AT my feet are in peak condition. He is also a marathon runner. i explained the terrain to him and he said to make sure your shoes have a rock plate in them.
For me, that's all they're worth Merrel shoes suck for my feet I've tried them before and never found a comfortable fit. Whatever works for you though.
I used to use the Merrill as well as Keen shoe on all my hikes until I put on a pair of saucony trail runners. They are supper light weight, dry real fast and the tread grip on rocks is amazing. Only time I will wear my keen or Merrill is if there is snow. Last hike I did in the rain found my Keen was slipping on the wet rocks. This rarely happens with the Saucony trail runners. Also the saucony trail runner breaths through the soul of the shoe bottom
I hv purchased Saucony Peregrine ISO(only $27,too much discount) for my upcoming trek.This is the first time I m trying Saucony as well as any trail running shoe.Your comment really gives me hope, 👍👍
Love this! I just hiked in some trail runners. Super comfy. Of course I decided to climb South Sister...too much volcanic sand/stone in shoes...but that was my choice. Hope to see you out and about.
I am giving my response as a wound care nurse who deals with foot and lower leg injuries a lot. You need a Ventilator style IMHO but for a guy like me I need that mid because my ankles are easily rolled. Great video. Take care of those get man!
Agree I only wear them in the snow or mud which I just don't want coming in through the mesh on a breathable shoe. All other times, including lots of water crossings, I prefer a shoe that breathes.
The only hiking boots I have found to actually be waterproof say Goretex on it. I only use them when the mercury is near or below freezing (which is at least half the year here in Alaska)
Jonathan not all year. In the summer you get your feet wet with sweat or step in a “little bit deeper than I thought it was” stream and swamp your goretex shoes, now your feet are wet and stay wet. Whereas with “desert” or well draining boots or shoes, your sweat and any other moisture can evaporate off on the drier parts of your hike. Wool socks make it feel like they’re not even wet. Of course, if you’re out in a rain storm this becomes more complicated.
Gore-tex needs some extra effort but it works really well when you do. Wear some simple gaiters to stop water coming in from the top and your feet will stay dry forever. It makes no sense to wear a fully waterproof shoe and not cover the giant hole on top and let water creep in. It's like wearing a hardshell raincoat without fastening the zippers and complain you get wet. If you keep your boots clean inside and outside they breathe quite well. Same thing for leather. I have sweaty feet but my Meindl leather + goretex boots never gave me any issues. I even used them in the dessert once, they felt like little ovens on my feet, but weren't sweaty.
I keep seeing reviews, mainly on amazon that the Moab is not made as robust as they used to be. people reporting that the quality has really went down compared to the older models. Any input on the most recent versions, or the ones being sold on Amazon Darwin ?
Bought a pair and liked them until I walked downhill. Realized I needed the extra wide. Bruised the toenails on both feet. Was in pain the rest of the day.
Isaac Fry I bought a pair a couple years ago that came apart after two months. They were marked as wide, but the widest part of my foot is where they started coming apart. The were also marked as waterproof, but soaked up the moisture from just wet grass on a trimmed lawn. REI took them back, but only after a good bit of condescension from the associate.
Yep, Ventilartors have been great and best fit of any trail shoe I've owned. Only complaint, for me, they wear a little "hard" (ie. no cushion at all). A little hard on the foot.
If you haven't tried them try the Oboz, I switched the bridgers after I wore moab's out after 6 months(3 pairs in 2 years). The old Moab's lasted but the newer ones I wear the back off, something changed there. The bridgers look like new on the inside after quite the beating.
I actually prefer hunting boots just because of the extra support. I've always needed a lot of support so the stiffer high top hunting boots tend to work better for me
If your day hiking on a budget, get a pair of Walmart's Ozark Trail hiking shoes for 20 bucks. I use a few different shoes on bigger hikes and use the Ozarks for shorter hikes. They are worth every penny for day hikes.
darwin! today I just got a pair of Altra Lone Peak 4.0's... they're on clearance at Roadrunner for $75... gonna try them out next weekend on a 14 mile hike to Mount Wilson. I've been using heavy hiking boots and heavy backpacks and both have been slowing me down on the trail. After watching your videos I got a Sawyer squeeze and now i can have a lighter pack since i can now filter water vs carry lots of it, and now with my new shoes, i'll have lighter footwear. Thanks for all the advice! Hike on!
My Vasque boots have lasted 30 years through White Mtns, Adirondaks, Smokies, Rockies, Cascades and Midwestern winters and are still going strong. Still I would use something lighter for PCT but also I want more durability than running shoes.
Some very good common sense points. I like non GORTEX boots also. Also I like ankle boots with canvas gaiters or wool putties over the 9 inch current military boots. I spent 29 years in the US ARMY Special Forces, and Black operations. If a foot gear works, then use it, even if it is non-traditional!🙂🙂👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸
I always wear hiking boots, because I don't really hurt my ankle a lot but when I do it's enough to take me of the trail because of an injury I had a few years ago
Those Merrill Moabs have a harder heel than I thought they would. The most comfortable shoes I have are New Balance marathon runners; their heels are great shock absorbers.
For a traditional butterfly stomper, look at LLBean Cresta hikers. Made in the EU on traditional lasts, totally different from the pacrim junk that so many other boots are. Much better arch support, and you can even wear them for the week then send them back for a full refund if you are not happy. That's LLBean's simple way of doing great business. Worn with good Wigwam normal wool hiking sox, goretex or not, they will stay comfortable even in the high 90's. Yes, wool. Whst you missed about Altra is their unique 'zero lift' footbed. No heel lift. That and their wide toe box are their unique features and for some of us they are incredibly better than anyone else.
Love the Altras. Unfortunately LLBean dropped the only reason I would buy anything from them ,.....the no questions return policy. Oh and also their shit ass politics. Id rather blow my nose on a dollar than give it to them.
not related to trail, but where i live sometimes rains a lot, so when the weather is bad i always carry a pair of rubber flip flops in my backpack when i go to school, cause if you get your shoe wet its horrible to spend all the school hours with your feet soaked inside the shoe, and if its cold it means youll get sick
I love the Under Armour Speedfit Hiker boots. They are super light and comfortable. They breath very well and give a little extra support on the ankle. They aren't the most durable boot though.
Legit information bro, love the Moab's. On a side note the Merrell Moab Ventilator's has sizes for folks who have Wide feet. Merrell is one of the few hiking shoe companies that make Wide sizes. Thanks for the vids. --JY
Just bought a pair of Moab Ventilator 2s but in size 13W... I was so glad I went to the wide version, they fit the moment I slipped them on. They were slightly taller in the ankle than my NorthFace runners.
My father in law bought me Merills 3 years in a row for x-mas. All 3 pairs gave me blisters and the traction on wet rock is the worst in the business (I fell several times and once I was in a very remote area and hit my head) . I’ll stick with Keen or Salewa.
I go for walking trainers, I like to jump and climb. The walking boots I like for walking on rocks in the rain but when you do a jump down from something the shock of the jump goes along the foot, trainers let the toes take all the shock followed by the knees then hands depending on the height you jump from, for a height over 6 foot add a roll. Walking boots are good for simply walking
You cannot hike the entire PCT with just one pair of heavy leather boots. I know because I tried in 07 and I barely made it thru California with them... ;-) I realized quite quickly that they aren’t that first choice due to their weight but I was too stubborn to ditch them. I had the Meindl Island Pro and they have a strong Vibram sole. And although the boots looked like new the sole was totally wrecked especially in the front and I tried to repair them along the way with some stuff some people recommended (shoe goo or similar) which didn’t really help very long. Besides that the boots were very comfortable and I didn’t have a single blister along the entire PCT along California. Plus my feet were always superclean - I loved that! Since 2007 was a very dry year I had no issues with stream crossings in the Sierras. I just hiked right thru the little streams and the boots kept my feet dry. After that I switched to some Merrell shoes for Oregon and Washington... On my 2nd PCT thru hike in 2014 I started with trail runners and eventually switched to the Merrell Moab Vents. Those can be recommended just because of the perfect customer service alone! Thank you for your Great videos and alway happy trails!
I have been using the Merrell Mid Moab here and love them... I have plantar fasciitis and have been able to hike only because the Merrells are butter...
I like the MOAB great shoe., good price breathable and instantly comfortable. However some terrain and areas they are not suited too. In Africa the Camel Thorn goes straight through the boot and into your foot. In that instance they were quite problematic problematic.
I would have thought you would get more miles out of the Merrills, which I wear for day hikes. I've also seen some people report that they wear different shoes along their AT thru-hike depending upon terrain and the change in seasons.
I totally get your take and experience with hiking shoes and has resonated with me. I am curious since you seem to prefer the light well ventilated trail runners and hiking shoes, what you do/wear in cold weather to keep your feet warm?
Wet feet? plastic bag on your foot then put the boot/shoe back on will it dry anything? No, but you'll have nice warm feet till you can dry out your kit. Standard Army/SAS ect method.
thanks alot! this helps quite a bit . I have foot problems and it's taken me off the trail. looking for a good shoe. love your videos. and thanks again.
...used to be a big Merrill fan...own 4 pairs...the black nubuck "leather" on the 8" Thermo's dried up and started to flake off along all the seams...after a few years, hardly used...yes I spray'd them with silicone...
My go to are LaSportiva Ultra Raptors and If I'm doing a short hike or small section hike like on the AT or in the ADKs I'm using the CoreHigh with Goretex, again from LaSportiva.
Ok. The guy who hiked in the choko sandals...was his "trail name" Chewie. Because I met a guy who was working at the Nantahala Outdoor Center who said he hiked in those.
hello sir, you mention youve used more than one pair for the entire AT, how does the new pair being used? no breaking in right from the package? any blister issues for it? thanks for the informative videos.
I have found that with trail runners you don't really need to break them in so long as you get a pair that fits. You should have a lot of room in the toe box and your toes shouldnt hit the front of the toe box under any circumstances.
After two heavily sprained ankles (both from football - the real one, not the runningeggball one) they never really recovered and I easily roll my ankles if I get unlucky so I need good boots. Don’t care about gore tex though...and yeah, dry feet and taking care of your feet is key.
Hi mate. Obsessed with your channel and all the info I have been learning new. never enough to improve and have a better time. One thing I am curious and I couldn't find a video on is tips and experiences on how to set up campsite/tent in the pouring rain and how to take it down in that weather to attempt keeping gear as dry as possible :)
There ARE "tips 'n' tricks" to help boots/shoes fit better and/or to avoid/deal with blisters (i.e. taping, toe-socks, alternative lacing, blah-blah-blah), but the TRUTH is, a PROPERLY fitted pair of boots needs NO tips or tricks! My fav' boots are Keen, my current [summer] pair is very similar to your Merrill Ventilator, but it's ankle-high and the toe-box is WIDE. I don't have wide feet, but I prefer room in the toe for several reasons. That said, different brands fit differently, i.e. Merrill fits true but Keen fits wide (I call them "the Birkenstocks of hiking boots"). But the best advice starts with: - Wait until evening to PERSONALLY (don't buy online unless you already tried the size and brand you want!) try-on boots/shoes (your feet are more likely to be bigger in the evening than the morning), - Bring your liner socks, thick [wool] socks and any orthopedics/insoles. Plan on going UP a half or full size! (ladies, do NOT allow vanity to decide!!). - When you lace then up, be sure to lace FIRMLY before and above the heel and around the ankle, that will seat your heel firmly in the BACK of the the boot. - When you walk around the store, stop short, kick the toe of the boot into the floor, see if your toe touches the inside of the toe of the boot. If it does, you may need to go UP a half size (like I told you!), - I also like to bring a rock no bigger than a golf ball and step on it. It should not hurt or feel uncomfortable! If you anticipate relatively flat/even trails (i.e. distance hiking), within reason, just about any shoe/boot will do, but if you anticipate rocky trails, or even NO trails, you really SHOULD have a boot that covers and supports your ankles!!!
I don't care what anybody says. I wear my boots unless its a completely established trail (but even then I like to leave it frequently for excursion, so...) but I take along a pair of trail-gloves. Yeah it's more weight. But I'm never stuck or miserable in any condition, and minimalist trail shoes weigh so little these days it's worth the weight. Yup. My opinion. :)
I past by you on the AT Darwin. I can't recall if it was this year or last year (2018). You were traveling northbound around the Peter's Mountain shelter in Pennsylvania. I was traveling south. You were moving a lot faster than me.🤣😂🤣😂
I'd suggest just using regular boots/running shoes if you are beginning...build.up some.grit then go to a hiking made shoe and it's like you've been using a warm up weighted base Ball bat
i prefer barefoot shoes because i have plantar fascitis when i'm walking in barefoot shoes i feel no pain they are also very light and breath very well i use them in my everyday life and when i'm hiking. they are good for running too. it is nice to feel ground underneath you,but that is just what works for me.Vivo barefoot primus light is what i use.
From my military days, whatever you choose, take a pair of ultra-lightweight flips flops. Giving your feet air, and or allowing your footware and socks to dry and air while you knock around your camp site in flip flops is a good call. I had two pairs of REEFS in Afghanistan and they saved my feet.
The guy who came up with Reefs and the bottle opener sole, is a scuba instructor in LA. hell of a guy.
This, I might get some flak for this, but Crocs. Whenever I am even coming close to submerging my feet I stop, tie my boots on to my bag, pop my set of Crocs on and wade in those. Far less sketchy than fording barefoot (to me, I hate being barefoot). And as you say, good for relaxing in
CAElite Great shout, if it works you cannot knock it.
Yup I always do this backpacking it’s so nice, especially when you have to take a piss in the middle of the night
mwnciboo I hiked NY state in a pair of crocks - in hard rain and water - drys fast ! Same idea
One guarantee if you are in the field is that water will get into your footwear. I've been an infantryman for 25 years and I learned early on that lightweight breathable footwear was the way to go. We would use nylon "jungle boots" which had drain vents and dried quickl. When things got really bad, I would use a set of Rocky Goretex socks over fresh dry socks and walk for a while until the boots dried out, then take off the goretex socks. Worked well and I still use that today. Just something to think about.
I backpack in the Canadian Rockies. I’m middle aged and generally wear crocs on overnight hikes logging up to 30 km per day. If the weather turns or the trail gets rough I reluctantly put on my hiking boots. Crocs are comfortable, durable, light weight, and work for me.
We met a guy on the Colorado Trail who hiked the trail in modified Crocs. He added Velcro to the back of the Crocs to attached his Dirty Girl Gaiters. He was having a great time, and experienced no foot issues.
What model of Crocs was that?
Best trail show (for me) is the Salomon Sense 7. Best trail shoe on sale today. Climbed Kilimanjaro in them (when most opted for heavy 'hiking' boots), ran multiple Ultra's in them, ran the UTMB, Gobi March and MDS in them. Awesome. I do however concur with one commenter below, make sure to air your feet at the end of the day with a pair of sandals. :)
A great budget option I used a lot and found online for ~$50 is the Saucony Peregrine 8! Amazing grip and super lightweight for hiking and trail running.
I love how you talk about shoes like tires for a vehicle, I'm pushing 1,300 miles with my Vans = )
Love hiking in Chacos! Get wet and dry quickly, obviously breathe great. Soles are tough, durable, and surprisingly stable. Probably the best aspect of Chaco hiking is the sweet tan lines!
Travis Cole sandal hiking is vastly underrated
How to dry goretex shoe reasonably fast and well - carry 2 bags of silica gel (they are those mysterious tiny bags in boxes from electronics). Dry your shoe with a paper towel, toilet paper, napkin... whatever... to get the bulk of the water out and put in the silica gel bag. It will absorb most of the moisture over night.
I own a pair of Merrell MOABs and I love them! I don't think that I have the Ventilator model. I found out that you can reach your hand in and pull out the attached "sock" so it sticks out of the boot and then it is exposed to the sun and wind. They will dry out in an hour or two! Love those boots! Great videos! Keep up the good work!
I prefer the Keen Targhee I, my personal preference. What I enjoy most about your videos, your not pushing a product, only stating what works for you by personal experience. You hit the nail on the head when you mentioned comfort being number 1,
Yes! I used to work as an archaeologist in the jungles of Belize and waterproof is not a great idea. Even with the blistering heat waterproof shoes won't dry out for a week after they get wet. By that point they would smell like death and your feet are sore from being damp.
Solely your opinion. I see what you did there.
Pretty Good Right?... Thanks for Watching!
Hike On,
Darwin
what footwear for snow that you will sink into your calf?
Nicely baited.
That joke was laced with pun.
Joe that was pretty bad, which makes it great.
You hit the nail on the head...squarely and perfectly! Comfort and breathability. I have three pairs of hiking shoes and one pair of hiking boots (winter hikes) varying in price from $29 (Walmart Ozark Trails for daily excursions and mowing my lawn) to $120 Merrell Moab 2. The boots were bought at Target for $35. Every pair is comfortable and all breathe well. I bought the Merrells to replace my Salomon's as after 5 years I wore those babies out. The Moab's are super comfortable and with a pair of Wigwam Coolmax liners and Darn Tough socks it's as though I float on the trail and not one blister in the past three years of hiking and camping. I find that proper sock wear is a huge key to comfort regardless of what hiking shoe or boot I wear. I still stock moleskin and leuko tape in my first aid kit but usually end up providing them to fellow hikers who develop blisters. Your Altra Lone shoes look pretty cool and I thought about buying a pair on Amazon but I'm so leery of buying shoes and clothes online. I prefer to try them on before buying. I love your videos as you offer sound advice...your opinion, yes, but I agree. P.S. I know you moved to the Southwest and I spent a lot of my military years in SoCal and AZ. If you haven't already done so there are numerous incredible trails around Mammoth, June Lake Loop, off Hwy 395. On Hwy 18, between Lake Gregory, Lake Arrowhead all the way to Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains down to Silverwood Lake there are vistas you would not believe. There's a RUclipsr out there and I think he calls himself Pharoah (don't quote me on that). He has some wonderful videos to check out. Best wishes to you and your wife. Take care.
Those Redwings are beautiful
I just finished the Grand Canyon South Kaibab to Phantom Ranch up Bright Angel one day trek. I used Merrell FST because I wanted a jogging shoe upper and a beefy Vibram soul. They worked fine and I have no complaints. I used the Keen Targhee II on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and they were perfect except you must get a whole size longer. I got the recommended one half size larger and although my toes did not hit the end of the shoe, I did feel a bit cramped. Still they are extremely comfortable and rugged. I used the Merrell Thermo 6 for Mt. Kilimanjaro because it gets really cold there. My feet stayed dry and warm so they did their job. However, they are not as comfortable as the Keen Targhee II. Happy feet!
I love altra!! I have a pair of lone peaks. The wide footbox helps my toes spread out!!
That's the same reason I rock them! Super Comfy & Light Weight for sure!
Hike On,
Darwin
I have those and a waterproof mid pair depending on conditions. Merrell is the best price/quality blend for me.
Yes sir. I've recently been checking out the new version of the shoe "Moab FST", which are a lighter/more breathable version. Thanks for Watching!
Hike On,
Darwin
I might need one of those when I cross thr border.
Hahaha
Lmao they’re great! They worked for me when I crossed the border 😃
Spot on wisdom. Lighter and smaller is the way to go. I have done the appalachian. You want some cushion but there are two major reasons for me that I simply chose an inexpensive running shoe. Firsr, for cleaning and drying quickly as you shared. Secondly, it's the only way to prevent the majority of blisters. You still may get one or two blisters depending on your feet and how well your shoes fit, but all in all, light weight trail or running shoes will cancel out much of the unwelcome friction for fast pace walking or jogging. Great tips Darwin!👍
I saw a podiatrist the other day. I dont have feet issues but just wanted to be sure before i do the AT my feet are in peak condition. He is also a marathon runner. i explained the terrain to him and he said to make sure your shoes have a rock plate in them.
I just hiked 180+- miles in 6 days on the AT in my Brooks Cascadia and loved every second of it...
I was at goodwill and I bought a brand new pair of merrel moabs for only 8 dollars
Someone jizzed in em
For me, that's all they're worth Merrel shoes suck for my feet I've tried them before and never found a comfortable fit. Whatever works for you though.
Hayden Gutierrez nice score! I love Goodwill, as I love to recycle, reuse, repurpose... happy trails💜
You can have mine for free as well. It's a good shoe but the heel cup is too small and irritates my plantar.
sumting wong At eight dollars they can do what they like in them. I’d still buy them.
I used to use the Merrill as well as Keen shoe on all my hikes until I put on a pair of saucony trail runners. They are supper light weight, dry real fast and the tread grip on rocks is amazing. Only time I will wear my keen or Merrill is if there is snow. Last hike I did in the rain found my Keen was slipping on the wet rocks. This rarely happens with the Saucony trail runners. Also the saucony trail runner breaths through the soul of the shoe bottom
I hv purchased Saucony Peregrine ISO(only $27,too much discount) for my upcoming trek.This is the first time I m trying Saucony as well as any trail running shoe.Your comment really gives me hope, 👍👍
Which Keens were you using for snow?
AWESOME info dump - You touched on many aspects many people don't think of and it is ALL ABOUT comfort, on a trail happy feet happy hiker -
Thank you, it helped. I’m having a heck of a time picking my footwear for a thru hike. Decisions decisions.
Love this! I just hiked in some trail runners. Super comfy. Of course I decided to climb South Sister...too much volcanic sand/stone in shoes...but that was my choice. Hope to see you out and about.
I am giving my response as a wound care nurse who deals with foot and lower leg injuries a lot. You need a Ventilator style IMHO but for a guy like me I need that mid because my ankles are easily rolled. Great video. Take care of those get man!
Goretex footwear is highly over marketed IMO. Maybe okay for cool to cold weather, but way too hot for warm weather. My dogs like to breath.
Medium Rick In the UK, cool to cold weather adequately describes 99% of the weather.
Agree I only wear them in the snow or mud which I just don't want coming in through the mesh on a breathable shoe. All other times, including lots of water crossings, I prefer a shoe that breathes.
The only hiking boots I have found to actually be waterproof say Goretex on it. I only use them when the mercury is near or below freezing (which is at least half the year here in Alaska)
Jonathan not all year. In the summer you get your feet wet with sweat or step in a “little bit deeper than I thought it was” stream and swamp your goretex shoes, now your feet are wet and stay wet. Whereas with “desert” or well draining boots or shoes, your sweat and any other moisture can evaporate off on the drier parts of your hike. Wool socks make it feel like they’re not even wet. Of course, if you’re out in a rain storm this becomes more complicated.
Gore-tex needs some extra effort but it works really well when you do.
Wear some simple gaiters to stop water coming in from the top and your feet will stay dry forever. It makes no sense to wear a fully waterproof shoe and not cover the giant hole on top and let water creep in. It's like wearing a hardshell raincoat without fastening the zippers and complain you get wet. If you keep your boots clean inside and outside they breathe quite well. Same thing for leather.
I have sweaty feet but my Meindl leather + goretex boots never gave me any issues. I even used them in the dessert once, they felt like little ovens on my feet, but weren't sweaty.
The Merrell Moab Ventilators have made my short list to strongly consider for the AT. Thanks for the video.
They are always my go to Shoes. Hard to beat em'. Thanks for Watching!
Hike On,
Darwin
I keep seeing reviews, mainly on amazon that the Moab is not made as robust as they used to be. people reporting that the quality has really went down compared to the older models. Any input on the most recent versions, or the ones being sold on Amazon Darwin ?
Bought a pair and liked them until I walked downhill. Realized I needed the extra wide. Bruised the toenails on both feet. Was in pain the rest of the day.
Isaac Fry I bought a pair a couple years ago that came apart after two months. They were marked as wide, but the widest part of my foot is where they started coming apart. The were also marked as waterproof, but soaked up the moisture from just wet grass on a trimmed lawn. REI took them back, but only after a good bit of condescension from the associate.
I have three pairs of Moab’s. 57 years backpacking and best answer yet. Spot on about not using gore Tex or waterproof. You can hike them dry.
Yep, Ventilartors have been great and best fit of any trail shoe I've owned. Only complaint, for me, they wear a little "hard" (ie. no cushion at all). A little hard on the foot.
If you haven't tried them try the Oboz, I switched the bridgers after I wore moab's out after 6 months(3 pairs in 2 years). The old Moab's lasted but the newer ones I wear the back off, something changed there. The bridgers look like new on the inside after quite the beating.
Another tip for drying shoes is either use newborn nappies or thick sanitary pads stuffed in your shoes.
I actually prefer hunting boots just because of the extra support. I've always needed a lot of support so the stiffer high top hunting boots tend to work better for me
One boot I use for hiking in Texas is the Under Armor Valsetz, they are super light weight, breathable, and feel like a tennis shoe.
Salomon, for years. Been wearing the same model for the past 5 years, they are my favorite go-to shoes in the world.
Which model is it?
Don't forget something to wear around camp. I love Croc flip flops.
The tire sandal guy must have been channeling his inner Viet Cong.
If your day hiking on a budget, get a pair of Walmart's Ozark Trail hiking shoes for 20 bucks. I use a few different shoes on bigger hikes and use the Ozarks for shorter hikes. They are worth every penny for day hikes.
also depends on the weight of pack you are carrying, and terrain - heavy pack == more foot support - rough rocky ground == more foot support
I live in Las Vegas and plan to start Hiking to get in shape. I want to do some trails at Red Rock and Mt. Charleston. So this Video really does help.
darwin! today I just got a pair of Altra Lone Peak 4.0's... they're on clearance at Roadrunner for $75... gonna try them out next weekend on a 14 mile hike to Mount Wilson. I've been using heavy hiking boots and heavy backpacks and both have been slowing me down on the trail. After watching your videos I got a Sawyer squeeze and now i can have a lighter pack since i can now filter water vs carry lots of it, and now with my new shoes, i'll have lighter footwear. Thanks for all the advice! Hike on!
My Vasque boots have lasted 30 years through White Mtns, Adirondaks, Smokies, Rockies, Cascades and Midwestern winters and are still going strong. Still I would use something lighter for PCT but also I want more durability than running shoes.
Great video! I hike in my neon pink pumas. lol lasted 5 years of hikes in Florida and still going. I may take them on my first through hike.
I've been wearing the Merrell Mohan just purchased my first pair of altras... wow the difference. I like them both in different ways.
Some very good common sense points. I like non GORTEX boots also. Also I like ankle boots with canvas gaiters or wool putties over the 9 inch current military boots. I spent 29 years in the US ARMY Special Forces, and Black operations. If a foot gear works, then use it, even if it is non-traditional!🙂🙂👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸
I always wear hiking boots, because I don't really hurt my ankle a lot but when I do it's enough to take me of the trail because of an injury I had a few years ago
Those Merrill Moabs have a harder heel than I thought they would. The most comfortable shoes I have are New Balance marathon runners; their heels are great shock absorbers.
Agree completely on the Gore Tex comment. Having shoes that can breath is important for good foot health.
I need a wide shoe; that has made it a bit more challenging for me....... I appreciate your review :)
Deb Smith’s
Where is the shoe wide? Toe? Arch? Heel?
For a traditional butterfly stomper, look at LLBean Cresta hikers. Made in the EU on traditional lasts, totally different from the pacrim junk that so many other boots are. Much better arch support, and you can even wear them for the week then send them back for a full refund if you are not happy. That's LLBean's simple way of doing great business.
Worn with good Wigwam normal wool hiking sox, goretex or not, they will stay comfortable even in the high 90's. Yes, wool.
Whst you missed about Altra is their unique 'zero lift' footbed. No heel lift. That and their wide toe box are their unique features and for some of us they are incredibly better than anyone else.
Love the Altras. Unfortunately LLBean dropped the only reason I would buy anything from them ,.....the no questions return policy. Oh and also their shit ass politics. Id rather blow my nose on a dollar than give it to them.
not related to trail, but where i live sometimes rains a lot, so when the weather is bad i always carry a pair of rubber flip flops in my backpack when i go to school, cause if you get your shoe wet its horrible to spend all the school hours with your feet soaked inside the shoe, and if its cold it means youll get sick
I love the Under Armour Speedfit Hiker boots. They are super light and comfortable. They breath very well and give a little extra support on the ankle. They aren't the most durable boot though.
3:58 "on the 2,189 miles" holy!! you are a serious hiker.
Legit information bro, love the Moab's. On a side note the Merrell Moab Ventilator's has sizes for folks who have Wide feet. Merrell is one of the few hiking shoe companies that make Wide sizes. Thanks for the vids. --JY
Yep, I wear a 11.5 Wide myself!... Love Merrell!
Hike On,
Darwin
Keen has rather wide shoes as well.
Just bought a pair of Moab Ventilator 2s but in size 13W... I was so glad I went to the wide version, they fit the moment I slipped them on. They were slightly taller in the ankle than my NorthFace runners.
My father in law bought me Merills 3 years in a row for x-mas. All 3 pairs gave me blisters and the traction on wet rock is the worst in the business (I fell several times and once I was in a very remote area and hit my head) . I’ll stick with Keen or Salewa.
I go for walking trainers, I like to jump and climb. The walking boots I like for walking on rocks in the rain but when you do a jump down from something the shock of the jump goes along the foot, trainers let the toes take all the shock followed by the knees then hands depending on the height you jump from, for a height over 6 foot add a roll. Walking boots are good for simply walking
glen bradford True, but walking sticks or poles will help with the shock bro.
You cannot hike the entire PCT with just one pair of heavy leather boots. I know because I tried in 07 and I barely made it thru California with them... ;-)
I realized quite quickly that they aren’t that first choice due to their weight but I was too stubborn to ditch them. I had the Meindl Island Pro and they have a strong Vibram sole. And although the boots looked like new the sole was totally wrecked especially in the front and I tried to repair them along the way with some stuff some people recommended (shoe goo or similar) which didn’t really help very long.
Besides that the boots were very comfortable and I didn’t have a single blister along the entire PCT along California. Plus my feet were always superclean - I loved that!
Since 2007 was a very dry year I had no issues with stream crossings in the Sierras. I just hiked right thru the little streams and the boots kept my feet dry.
After that I switched to some Merrell shoes for Oregon and Washington...
On my 2nd PCT thru hike in 2014 I started with trail runners and eventually switched to the Merrell Moab Vents. Those can be recommended just because of the perfect customer service alone!
Thank you for your Great videos and alway happy trails!
Chaco has a hiking sole available in custom for those who like to hike in sandals. Love your channel!
Did the Blanc Martel, Verdon Gorge, with Merrell Vent mids. Excellent, comfortable boot
I have been using the Merrell Mid Moab here and love them... I have plantar fasciitis and have been able to hike only because the Merrells are butter...
I use wrangler winter boots for winter and gore-tex trail running shoes for summer, autumn and spring.
I hiked NY state in a pair of crocks ! Comfy - no socks - drys so fast - I know sounds crazy but it worked
What model of Crocs?
@@7in1, I think he means literal crocodiles 🐊🐊
thanks Bach I have been hiking with rigger boots , just bought some trail runners... hope they will be bliss thanks man
I like the MOAB great shoe., good price breathable and instantly comfortable. However some terrain and areas they are not suited too. In Africa the Camel Thorn goes straight through the boot and into your foot. In that instance they were quite problematic problematic.
Helpful video. Surprised you didn't smile when you mentioned the tire shoes.
The Merrels I bought were heavy and klunky. I went to the Brooks. Light weight and breathable makes a deference at the end of the day.
Salomon speed lace hiking shoes. Speed laces make it easy to slip shoes off every time you take a break and ventilate your feet.
Dear Darwin, many thanks for such a simple and nice video. I am convinced.
I would have thought you would get more miles out of the Merrills, which I wear for day hikes. I've also seen some people report that they wear different shoes along their AT thru-hike depending upon terrain and the change in seasons.
I totally get your take and experience with hiking shoes and has resonated with me. I am curious since you seem to prefer the light well ventilated trail runners and hiking shoes, what you do/wear in cold weather to keep your feet warm?
Wet feet? plastic bag on your foot then put the boot/shoe back on will it dry anything?
No, but you'll have nice warm feet till you can dry out your kit.
Standard Army/SAS ect method.
thanks alot! this helps quite a bit . I have foot problems and it's taken me off the trail. looking for a good shoe. love your videos. and thanks again.
Hello Darwin, has your taste changed being 2019 now???
...used to be a big Merrill fan...own 4 pairs...the black nubuck "leather" on the 8" Thermo's dried up and started to flake off along all the seams...after a few years, hardly used...yes I spray'd them with silicone...
My go to are LaSportiva Ultra Raptors and If I'm doing a short hike or small section hike like on the AT or in the ADKs I'm using the CoreHigh with Goretex, again from LaSportiva.
Ok. The guy who hiked in the choko sandals...was his "trail name" Chewie. Because I met a guy who was working at the Nantahala Outdoor Center who said he hiked in those.
hello sir, you mention youve used more than one pair for the entire AT, how does the new pair being used? no breaking in right from the package? any blister issues for it?
thanks for the informative videos.
I have found that with trail runners you don't really need to break them in so long as you get a pair that fits. You should have a lot of room in the toe box and your toes shouldnt hit the front of the toe box under any circumstances.
DO not spend toomuch money on Moab ventillator, Fila is exactly same and much better in price, I have been using it for years and I love it
I have 850 hard backpacking miles on my altra 2.5's!! Felt comfy from the beginning. Doing a 10 mile hike tomorrow with those same shoes. :)
After two heavily sprained ankles (both from football - the real one, not the runningeggball one) they never really recovered and I easily roll my ankles if I get unlucky so I need good boots.
Don’t care about gore tex though...and yeah, dry feet and taking care of your feet is key.
I like the mid top style to keep sand and rocks out of them more than any other reason.
Hi mate. Obsessed with your channel and all the info I have been learning new. never enough to improve and have a better time. One thing I am curious and I couldn't find a video on is tips and experiences on how to set up campsite/tent in the pouring rain and how to take it down in that weather to attempt keeping gear as dry as possible :)
I went with the adidas terrax free hiker, comfort and breathability !
leather hiking boots are for granit hiking.
Really good video. I work in a hiking store in Australia and learn a lot
Great video, love the moab ventilators.
Thank you once again for sharing your experience and insight!
you tried merrell moab my merrell are most comfortable I've found
I see you are planning to hike the PCT in 2018. I plan on going next year also. I hope to see you on the trail. You make great video's by the way.
My husband went up Whitney and the entire JMT 3 times in Teva sandals 🤨🤔😮Switched to Altra and loves them🤩
There ARE "tips 'n' tricks" to help boots/shoes fit better and/or to avoid/deal with blisters (i.e. taping, toe-socks, alternative lacing, blah-blah-blah), but the TRUTH is, a PROPERLY fitted pair of boots needs NO tips or tricks! My fav' boots are Keen, my current [summer] pair is very similar to your Merrill Ventilator, but it's ankle-high and the toe-box is WIDE. I don't have wide feet, but I prefer room in the toe for several reasons. That said, different brands fit differently, i.e. Merrill fits true but Keen fits wide (I call them "the Birkenstocks of hiking boots"). But the best advice starts with:
- Wait until evening to PERSONALLY (don't buy online unless you already tried the size and brand you want!) try-on boots/shoes (your feet are more likely to be bigger in the evening than the morning),
- Bring your liner socks, thick [wool] socks and any orthopedics/insoles. Plan on going UP a half or full size! (ladies, do NOT allow vanity to decide!!).
- When you lace then up, be sure to lace FIRMLY before and above the heel and around the ankle, that will seat your heel firmly in the BACK of the the boot.
- When you walk around the store, stop short, kick the toe of the boot into the floor, see if your toe touches the inside of the toe of the boot. If it does, you may need to go UP a half size (like I told you!),
- I also like to bring a rock no bigger than a golf ball and step on it. It should not hurt or feel uncomfortable!
If you anticipate relatively flat/even trails (i.e. distance hiking), within reason, just about any shoe/boot will do, but if you anticipate rocky trails, or even NO trails, you really SHOULD have a boot that covers and supports your ankles!!!
I don't care what anybody says. I wear my boots unless its a completely established trail (but even then I like to leave it frequently for excursion, so...) but I take along a pair of trail-gloves. Yeah it's more weight. But I'm never stuck or miserable in any condition, and minimalist trail shoes weigh so little these days it's worth the weight. Yup. My opinion. :)
I Love how casually you dropped "excursion."
No idea if that's facetious or no.
Boots makes it easier for you if you role an ankle and even lowers the chance of it being worse than with shoes would
I past by you on the AT Darwin. I can't recall if it was this year or last year (2018). You were traveling northbound around the Peter's Mountain shelter in Pennsylvania. I was traveling south. You were moving a lot faster than me.🤣😂🤣😂
Chacos are amazing TBH. The only issue is that they can get rocks in them and can be annoying to remove without taking off the whole sandal.
Good structured videos with sound reasoning. Subbed.
I'd suggest just using regular boots/running shoes if you are beginning...build.up some.grit then go to a hiking made shoe and it's like you've been using a warm up weighted base Ball bat
John Z won? That's an amazing coincidence.
i prefer barefoot shoes because i have plantar fascitis when i'm walking in barefoot shoes i feel no pain they are also very light and breath very well i use them in my everyday life and when i'm hiking. they are good for running too. it is nice to feel ground underneath you,but that is just what works for me.Vivo barefoot primus light is what i use.