Boots?

[SA Friday]

I was there.

I agree with the comments above about trying until you find what fits you.
But durable is usually not cheap.

BP nailed the best brands on the first page.

I would add Lowa to the list too. The Renegade model is what I wear regularly, have done 13.5 miles to a 14er in one day with them. Pack was about 30 lbs. I've used them with way more weight and have used them in Iraq twice (I wore a lot of civilian clothes over there outside the wire in my old job.) This was wearing 70 lb kit and a couple of guns.

You absolutely MUST get a pair of boots that are made to fit your gait and foot shape. For example, the Nike and Oakley combat boots are horrible on me and give me shin splints. The Rocky and Bellville boots work fine. Also, get inserts for the boots, and spend the extra money for really good ones. It pays off in alleviating hot spots and blisters.

[Holger Danske]

Do we need a sticky on hiking boots? Seems like this comes up every couple of months.

[Ah Pook]

BP nailed the brands.

I would avoid Lowa like the plague. Sorry SA but I blew through a pair of Renegades and cross trainers in less than a year. Stitching failed. The inside padding was in pieces on both pairs. There are better boots on the market.

I have had a pair of Merrill Continuums for about four years now. Fit perfectly the day I bought them. Beat up but still in good shape. These are not water proof or resistant. These have taken the place of my heavier boots.

Vasque Sundowners will last a lifetime.

Like others have said, go to REI and try some on. The return policy is worth it when your dropping $200+ on a good pair of boots.

Don't forget good socks. Liner socks and woolies for long hikes. Take extras. Avoid Smartwool!

[Professor Frink]

Russell Moccasins

http://www.russellmoccasin.com/

Customized to your feet and your requirments. But spendy.

[Tim K]

Went to REI and Sportsman's and tried on everything. Nothing felt perfect, but the Speedfreaks were the best. They feel a little flimsy for use with a pack, but others report good success with them. They are also the gayest looking boot I tried, but I'm trying not to let that sway me.

Next stop is Mountain Chalet in COS.