Hiked a few hours today in the Jura mountain on the Swiss side and I came back with my feet hurting badly. The terrain was pretty harsh and it wasn't an easy task to climb all the way up. I was wearing my everyday 5.11 "tactical" boots which are pretty comfortable normally but don't seem the be the best choice for hiking for hours on harsh terrain. I was wondering if hiking shoes would make a marginal difference over duty/urban boots? They seem a bit pricey so I wouldn't buy a pair if I wasn't sure they would not make a difference for me. I was thinking about some Meindl boots. How do you feel about this?
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Advantage of hiking boots/shoes over duty/work boots?
- Thread starter 4570
- Start date
I don't know why your present boots left your feet hurting, but I can tell you that I like the Meindl boots. I've used mainly the heavier models, designed for elk hunting and cold weather conditions. I think they are very well made and they certainly keep my feet comfortable in rough terrain.
In moderately cold weather I'd go with the 200g Thinsulate insulated models (Cabelas calls them "Canada Hunting" boots in the US). For serious cold, I like the 800g Thinsulate models. Unfortunately, I haven't tried their lighter boots or uninsulated boots.
Are you wearing really good socks---like the top-quality merino wool models? That can make a big difference.
DancesWithKnives
In moderately cold weather I'd go with the 200g Thinsulate insulated models (Cabelas calls them "Canada Hunting" boots in the US). For serious cold, I like the 800g Thinsulate models. Unfortunately, I haven't tried their lighter boots or uninsulated boots.
Are you wearing really good socks---like the top-quality merino wool models? That can make a big difference.
DancesWithKnives
Follow-up questions I forgot to ask: HOW were your feet hurting? Did you get rock bruises on the soles of your feet from an insufficiently thick midsole? Did you get blisters? This can sometimes happen because the boots weren't laced snugly enough and your feet were moving around inside the boot as you went over uneven terrain (less likely to happen on flat surfaces). Did you get sore toes and toenails from the front of the boots? Did you have heel abrasion problems?
This sort of info might help some of the folks here give you advice on the problem.
DancesWithKnives
This sort of info might help some of the folks here give you advice on the problem.
DancesWithKnives
TLR
Gold Member
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Good socks, boots and insoles will make a world of difference over work/duty boots.
If it is harsh terrain make sure that it has a good stay and stiff sole to provide plenty of support and protection over rocky areas as well as good ankle support for good load carrying or off trail excursions. There are many different options. Find a good retailer with good sales people and let them help you by suggesting the right boot or shoe for you. If they don't ask about terrain, body weight, temperature, humidity levels and chance for wet conditions they aren't good IMHO. If you can find one and want to buy from them do. Otherwise find what you need and check out sierra trading post (great deals and where I buy most of my stuff), rei, campmor, backcountry or one of the other online retailers.
If it is harsh terrain make sure that it has a good stay and stiff sole to provide plenty of support and protection over rocky areas as well as good ankle support for good load carrying or off trail excursions. There are many different options. Find a good retailer with good sales people and let them help you by suggesting the right boot or shoe for you. If they don't ask about terrain, body weight, temperature, humidity levels and chance for wet conditions they aren't good IMHO. If you can find one and want to buy from them do. Otherwise find what you need and check out sierra trading post (great deals and where I buy most of my stuff), rei, campmor, backcountry or one of the other online retailers.
I didn't get blisters but it felt like it. My feet were burning, they probably expanded in the shoe with the heat and it hurt really bad in the end. I had also problems with my ankle as there is no support from the boot. The worst thing was the burning but there were no blisters and when walking now I feel nothing. The midsole is thick enough and I don't feel rocks or anything. I lace the boots tightly and wear thick wool socks, but my feet started hurting only after three hours of walking.
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TLR,
Good recommendations, but I assume he's in Europe and that's why he's looking at the German Meindls---which I'm told are more widely available in Europe than the U.S. [I agree wholeheartedly about Sierra Trading Post for those of us in the U.S.---got a good deal on lightweight Asolo FSN 95 boots there.]
Very good point on insoles. I had a pair of mountaineering boots with rock-hard insoles and had to add some aftermarket Sorbothane gel insoles.
DancesWithKnives
Good recommendations, but I assume he's in Europe and that's why he's looking at the German Meindls---which I'm told are more widely available in Europe than the U.S. [I agree wholeheartedly about Sierra Trading Post for those of us in the U.S.---got a good deal on lightweight Asolo FSN 95 boots there.]
Very good point on insoles. I had a pair of mountaineering boots with rock-hard insoles and had to add some aftermarket Sorbothane gel insoles.
DancesWithKnives
4570,
Some people's feet run warmer than others. Have you had this problem in the past?
One suggestion is to use footpowder to keep your feet a bit drier and cooler. When I was hiking in New England humidity, an experienced local told me that he used Arm & Hammer baking powder spray anti-perspirant on his feet. I bought some and tried spraying my feet lightly before hikes. It seemed to keep them drier and cooler. [Not to mention smelling better!]
Sometimes heat build up can be from friction. Some guys reduce this by wearing a very thin silk, polypro or merino liner sock. The theory being that some part of the friction will occur between the sock layers, thereby reducing the friction and heat on your skin.
When I am doing all-day hikes, I usually stop every couple hours for a water and snack break. If conditions aren't too cold/miserable, I frequently take off my boots. I remove my socks, turn them inside out, and let them dry for the 10-20 min. break. If it's summer and I'm near water, I'll cool my feet in the water. It seems to keep my feet more comfortable.
DancesWithKnives
Some people's feet run warmer than others. Have you had this problem in the past?
One suggestion is to use footpowder to keep your feet a bit drier and cooler. When I was hiking in New England humidity, an experienced local told me that he used Arm & Hammer baking powder spray anti-perspirant on his feet. I bought some and tried spraying my feet lightly before hikes. It seemed to keep them drier and cooler. [Not to mention smelling better!]
Sometimes heat build up can be from friction. Some guys reduce this by wearing a very thin silk, polypro or merino liner sock. The theory being that some part of the friction will occur between the sock layers, thereby reducing the friction and heat on your skin.
When I am doing all-day hikes, I usually stop every couple hours for a water and snack break. If conditions aren't too cold/miserable, I frequently take off my boots. I remove my socks, turn them inside out, and let them dry for the 10-20 min. break. If it's summer and I'm near water, I'll cool my feet in the water. It seems to keep my feet more comfortable.
DancesWithKnives
DWK2 someone told me about the sock liner to help with friction but I didn't try it. I put adhesive bandages on sensible spots to avoid blisters and it's seems to work. I wear safety toe shoes at work all day and my feet keep cool, they don't get warm or cold regardless of the temperature. But then again, my work shoes are lighter than my boots. I could try the spray in the meantime when I hike with my boots, that could probably help.
Yes I'm in Europe but that's not why I'm looking at Meindl. They just seem to be a top manufacturer and I like their designs. But I never wore hiking boots and don't know what to expect. Apart from the ankle support are hiking boots really superior for hiking?
Yes I'm in Europe but that's not why I'm looking at Meindl. They just seem to be a top manufacturer and I like their designs. But I never wore hiking boots and don't know what to expect. Apart from the ankle support are hiking boots really superior for hiking?
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Good hiking boots are specifically designed for that application and I've found them generally preferable to other varieties of footwear for that purpose. Of course, there are scores of different varieties of hiking boots so (as TLR wisely pointed out) you need to match the boot to the most common terrain/conditions you expect to encounter.
I agree with TLR that you should visit a shop that sells several varieties of hiking boots and try some on. I'd explain your intended use(s) to the salespeople and see what they recommend. Most of the shorter, lightweight hiking boots (such as the Asolo FSN 95s) won't provide much serious ankle support. If that's a concern, you may need a somewhat taller boot with more substantial construction in the ankle area. Of course, if you hike a lot your ankles will probably strengthen considerably and that may no longer be a concern.
DancesWithKnives
I agree with TLR that you should visit a shop that sells several varieties of hiking boots and try some on. I'd explain your intended use(s) to the salespeople and see what they recommend. Most of the shorter, lightweight hiking boots (such as the Asolo FSN 95s) won't provide much serious ankle support. If that's a concern, you may need a somewhat taller boot with more substantial construction in the ankle area. Of course, if you hike a lot your ankles will probably strengthen considerably and that may no longer be a concern.
DancesWithKnives
Different conditions require different boots,I have found 3 season boots to be a good compromise.Good European brands include Scarpa,Salomon,Brasher and Zamberlan,the latter being my favourite.As above,you may want to change the insoles,Spenco are very well designed and inexpensive,also try Bridgedale socks.
Just to follow up on the socks, I've got 4 pair of Bridgedales and I agree they perform well. I use them where a moderate thickness sock is appropriate. I like the Smartwools a bit better when a thicker/warmer/more cushioned sock is called for.
DancesWithKnives
DancesWithKnives
Kohai999
Second Degree Cutter
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I know nothing about Meindl boots, but last year I went to Japan for two weeks and visited a lot of castles, which are only accessible by stairs.... a lot of stairs, like many thousands of feet of stairs. I took High Tec Magnums and a pair of Asolo Fugitive GTX hiking boots, and the comfort factor difference was vast. In the cities, stomping around at stores and train stations, the High Tec's were fine, but the first full day of temples and castles that I tried, my dogs were barkin'. The Asolo's are about $100.00 more retail, and worth every penny!
Magnums
Asolo Fugitive GTX
The difference between hiking boots and duty boots is not marginal, it is the difference between a four wheel drive truck and a HumVee.
Best Regards,
STeven Garsson
Kohai999
My 5.11 feel great for everyday walking also, but when I spend more than two hours on rough terrain, my feet start to scream. What do you think made such a great difference with the hiking boots? The way they fit around your feet and the support they give?
My 5.11 feel great for everyday walking also, but when I spend more than two hours on rough terrain, my feet start to scream. What do you think made such a great difference with the hiking boots? The way they fit around your feet and the support they give?
Kohai999
Second Degree Cutter
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- Jul 15, 2003
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The stiff outsole for starters....the Asolo boots CANNOT be bent in half....
The support on the boot is very firm, specifically ankle support, the insole holds the foot in place. The roomy toe box was a noticeable difference.
Don't get me wrong, my feet were still a bit sore at the end of the day, but the comfort lasted much longer with the Asolos, and the pain was greatly mitigated....I tried to alternate into running sneakers every other day.
I have neither hiked nor worn the Asolo boots since, but if you are into hiking, it should be worth the price.
Best Regards,
STeven Garsson
TLR
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Yeah I have those same Asolo Fugitives and my wife has a pair of FSN 85. The only warning that I will give about Asolo's is that their outsole is somewhat narrow and I found that even ordering wides (I wear a 14 EE) since they don't change the outsole (tread) on some of their models they can be IMO a little unstable. The Fugitives aren't bad and I wear them a lot but they aren't near as wide as my Vasque Sundowners.
Back on topic.
Kohai is correct the stiffness of the sole, the stay and the way that the footbed support is designed are probably some of the biggest factors between a work boot and a good backpacking boot. Generally as you move up in intensity the boot will get progressively stiffer and give more ankle support. That is how they decide what is an approach shoe or boot, hiking shoe or boot, backpacking boot and mountaneering boot in that general order with many variations in between. Obviously there are other differences as well but the stiffness & support are a good general rule.
I find that even backpacking in the mountains I have had no problem with my Fugitives and Sundowners with a heavy pack (50-60 lbs.) Even with one ankle without some specific ligaments. I have been hiking my whole life however so perhaps I have developed stiffer ankles over all.
4570- DWK has given you great advice. I have no idea the brands available to you although I have had a pair of Salomon and a pair of Raichle which were both good in their categories. Get to a knowledgeable shop which has a wide selection of boots and ask questions even if you feel like they are somewhat revealing of your experience and find what feels good IN SOCKS YOU INTEND TO WEAR. If you wear thin socks a boot that feels good in the store will likely be to restrictive with the proper socks. I don't know what insoles are available to you but I swear by Superfeet insoles and I don't go in the woods anymore with out Smartwool socks in whatever weight is appropriate.
I also thought about your burning, hurting feet issue. Make sure you don't lace your boots to tight. There is a fine line between "tight enough" and "to tight". My guess however is that your soles weren't stiff enough.
Good luck.
Back on topic.
Kohai is correct the stiffness of the sole, the stay and the way that the footbed support is designed are probably some of the biggest factors between a work boot and a good backpacking boot. Generally as you move up in intensity the boot will get progressively stiffer and give more ankle support. That is how they decide what is an approach shoe or boot, hiking shoe or boot, backpacking boot and mountaneering boot in that general order with many variations in between. Obviously there are other differences as well but the stiffness & support are a good general rule.
I find that even backpacking in the mountains I have had no problem with my Fugitives and Sundowners with a heavy pack (50-60 lbs.) Even with one ankle without some specific ligaments. I have been hiking my whole life however so perhaps I have developed stiffer ankles over all.
4570- DWK has given you great advice. I have no idea the brands available to you although I have had a pair of Salomon and a pair of Raichle which were both good in their categories. Get to a knowledgeable shop which has a wide selection of boots and ask questions even if you feel like they are somewhat revealing of your experience and find what feels good IN SOCKS YOU INTEND TO WEAR. If you wear thin socks a boot that feels good in the store will likely be to restrictive with the proper socks. I don't know what insoles are available to you but I swear by Superfeet insoles and I don't go in the woods anymore with out Smartwool socks in whatever weight is appropriate.
I also thought about your burning, hurting feet issue. Make sure you don't lace your boots to tight. There is a fine line between "tight enough" and "to tight". My guess however is that your soles weren't stiff enough.
Good luck.
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Another item to remember is the fitting of different manufacture's boots to YOUR feet. One company's size 9 is anothers 10. Some boot companie's products just don't fit me well no matter what the model is. (I like Vasque or Montrail).I recommend getting professionally fitted at a good backpacking/gear shop to find what really suits you best.
Got to a store and found some Meindls, but all the models were on the light side, there were no boots, especially the ones that I'm looking for. I didn't try any shoe but I looked how they were made. They were clearly more rigid than my duty boots but not as much as I expected. The soles were pretty hard compared to the ones in my boots. I don't know if that would be positive when walking? Less movement and less friction? Didn't have time to try any but I'll go to another store tomorrow where the sellspeople seem a bit more informed about the products they sell. In the meantime I found a german site that carries the Meindl that got my attention. These are the Island pro mfs :
I still don't know if they're worth their +300 dollars. I also found a military style boot from Lowa that looks to be a classic hiking boot. They're around 230 dollars at retail, probably a bit more in euros.
I don't know what you guys think? The best thing would be to try them but around here there isn't much choice and it's cheaper to order from germany than buy from a local store.
I still don't know if they're worth their +300 dollars. I also found a military style boot from Lowa that looks to be a classic hiking boot. They're around 230 dollars at retail, probably a bit more in euros.
I don't know what you guys think? The best thing would be to try them but around here there isn't much choice and it's cheaper to order from germany than buy from a local store.
With hiking boots, fit is immensely important. I've ordered boots by mail but only when I was familiar with the fit of the brand from past experience and/or I knew the store had an open return policy. If you have to pay the shipping to try on more than one pair of boots from a German store, I wonder how much cheaper they would really be. Of course, if you are eventually able to try them locally and order the same exact boot from Germany, you wouldn't risk multiple shipping charges.
In the US, you can usually get a good pair of medium weight hiking boots for $100-150 if you shop around (more if you pay full retail price, of course). $230 for Lowas doesn't sound too bad for a Euro retail price. Meindls are expensive so the $300 tab doesn't surprise me.
I would just keep looking until you find exactly what you want. You may have a good pair of boots for many years so it's worth taking the time and spending the money to get it just right. [One of my hiking buddies is just putting his second resole on some Asolo FSN 95s. The interiors still look and fit great. He's had years of great service from them.]
Best of luck,
DancesWithKnives
In the US, you can usually get a good pair of medium weight hiking boots for $100-150 if you shop around (more if you pay full retail price, of course). $230 for Lowas doesn't sound too bad for a Euro retail price. Meindls are expensive so the $300 tab doesn't surprise me.
I would just keep looking until you find exactly what you want. You may have a good pair of boots for many years so it's worth taking the time and spending the money to get it just right. [One of my hiking buddies is just putting his second resole on some Asolo FSN 95s. The interiors still look and fit great. He's had years of great service from them.]
Best of luck,
DancesWithKnives