Hiking boots

[bmilla35]

Alright all you wilderness junkies, please help me pick out a nice pair of hiking boots! I plan on doing a decent bit of hiking and fishing this summer and want to invest in a decent pair of hiking shoes. I would prefer they be low, but it isn't a must. I really don't know anything about them or what to look for. I'm familiar with Gore-Tex as a material and it's reputation, but what about other materials? Do I go leather, suede, or some sort of artificial?

As of now I've been checking out Sierra Trading Post because they seem to have decent prices and are currently offering 20% off. So, a boot offered by them would be nice but it isn't necessary (Cabela's would be my second choice since I have a credit card). Here is a link to the STP website which should would limited to the size I need (13).

Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks everyone

 

[22-rimfire]

Last year I was looking at hiking boots/shoes and settled on a pair of Merrell Moab Ventilators. I chose them in part because they sell them in wide widths and the are under $100. My one foot is a tad wider and to be comforable, I need a wider shoe as a result. These work for me. Also have a pair of Timberland leather hiking boots that I wear a lot that were a little cheaper but are higher. As a result they tend to give me better support if I am out tramping around versus strickly hiking. I just saw them in a store and tried them on. They fit well and the price was right.

 

[NateReed]

I have had Redheads in the $100 range the past couple times I've bought boots. First pair I bought Dec 2011. I just got a new pair a month ago, but the old pair is still holding up

 

[fmajor007]

Vasque has a good line-up of boots in the larger sizes (or they used to anyway...).

With hiking boots "fit is *it*", though from what I gathered in the OP, these will not be for backpacking which require a stiffer sole/mid-sole for weight carrying. I've had a number of Merrell products over the years and you find everything from "tennis-shoes" to actual good, solid trail shoes, but I will not be shopping that brand again - too much model variation year to year.

 

[pinnah]

Two considerations: fit and function.

Fit is very personal. Most companies have lasts (fake model feet) that are particular to them. You get the best fit in a boot that starts off close to your foot shape. What fits you will b e different than what fits me.

Function depends on where you hike, how much you carry and your own preference for support. Generally the rockier and rougher the terrain and the heavier the loads, the more supportive the boot. Usually. Some people like less supportive boots.

Tell us more about where you are hiking and how much you will carry n

 

[bmilla35]

Thanks for the replies..

Last year I was looking at hiking boots/shoes and settled on a pair of Merrell Moab Ventilators. I chose them in part because they sell them in wide widths and the are under $100. My one foot is a tad wider and to be comforable, I need a wider shoe as a result. These work for me. Also have a pair of Timberland leather hiking boots that I wear a lot that were a little cheaper but are higher. As a result they tend to give me better support if I am out tramping around versus strickly hiking. I just saw them in a store and tried them on. They fit well and the price was right.

Merrell has just soooo many different models, as mentioned by someone else. I don't think I should buy a pair without trying them on first.

I have had Redheads in the $100 range the past couple times I've bought boots. First pair I bought Dec 2011. I just got a new pair a month ago, but the old pair is still holding up

I never considered Redhead, probably because of my Cabela's loyalty. I'll check out the other large outdoor chain stores, though.

Vasque has a good line-up of boots in the larger sizes (or they used to anyway...).

With hiking boots "fit is *it*", though from what I gathered in the OP, these will not be for backpacking which require a stiffer sole/mid-sole for weight carrying. I've had a number of Merrell products over the years and you find everything from "tennis-shoes" to actual good, solid trail shoes, but I will not be shopping that brand again - too much model variation year to year.

I did read that fit is it on a web search, which would mean Sierra Trading Post is out. That being said, you are right. I won't be carrying much more than snacks and water (when hiking) or a tackle box and fishing rod (when fishing).

 

[bmilla35]

Two considerations: fit and function.

Fit is very personal. Most companies have lasts (fake model feet) that are particular to them. You get the best fit in a boot that starts off close to your foot shape. What fits you will b e different than what fits me.

Function depends on where you hike, how much you carry and your own preference for support. Generally the rockier and rougher the terrain and the heavier the loads, the more supportive the boot. Usually. Some people like less supportive boots.

Tell us more about where you are hiking and how much you will carry n

Thanks for the reply!

I won't be carrying much at all. A small backpack with only essentials. The majority of the trails are dirt with random large boulders.

 

[tobii3]

I plan on doing a decent bit of hiking and fishing this summer and want to invest in a decent pair of hiking shoes. I would prefer they be low, but it isn't a must. I really don't know anything about them or what to look for.

Thousands of choices, brother...only one thing I will beg and plead with you to do BEFORE you go out hiking in them...BREAK THEM IN!!

Even the holy grail of hiking boot will chew your feet up and spit them out if you don't break 'em in first.

 

[bmilla35]

Thousands of choices, brother...only one thing I will beg and plead with you to do BEFORE you go out hiking in them...BREAK THEM IN!!

Even the holy grail of hiking boot will chew your feet up and spit them out if you don't break 'em in first.

Oh i'll break em in real good!


How do these look? A little higher than i'd prefer, but like the looks and they get good reviews. I'm starting to worry about sweating a ton..

 

[tobii3]

Only downside I have with Asolo is the narrow toebox...because I have wide feet. Other than that, an excellent choice.

The height is another personal choice, condidering you mentioned "large boulders" on your hikes, they should be more than adequate protection and support for your ankles...now, if you're doing the "scree scramble", you might want a taller boot.

Sweating? Nothing to worry about. Cotton socks and change 'em frequently. The waterproof is always a plus for those "stealth" puddles!

 

[22-rimfire]

I tried mine on in the store and bought what I thought fit right. I am very shy about ordering online unless you know the correct size. I have wasted more money on improperly fitting shoes on line than I care to mention. I HATE to ship shoes back. Size also depends on your typical socks. Not very comfortable to have your feet stuffed into a pair of boots/shoes because you like a particular thicker sock and didn't plan for it.

 

[pinnah]

I won't be carrying much at all. A small backpack with only essentials. The majority of the trails are dirt with random large boulders.

Knowing this helps tremendously.

IMO, you could get by with:
a) Low cut fabric hiking/trail running shoes
b) Mid height fabric hiking boots
c) Mid height, lightweight leather hiking boots (with running shoe style soles)

IME, GoreTex is for jackets, not boots. GoreTex requires a good deal of heat to drive sweat out and my feet don't get that hot. GoreTex is also prone to failing after repeated flexing (as in the toes of a boot). As a result, any GoreTex boot makes my feet wet either from sweat or from outright leakage.

All 3 of the suggestions I made are what I consider to be "sneaker boots". The insoles are like sneakers on steroids. Very comfy and very light but on the lower end of support, (which you don't need since you aren't carrying a heavy pack).

I prefer leather hikers. Brands and models change from year to year. The Timberland Conway and Hi-Tec Altitude are both examples of this type of boot. I prefer the look of leather for everyday use and the leather will accept some amount of waterproofing grease if I expect wet weather.

For hotter, drier conditions, similar boots with fabric uppers will be lighter and cooler. Some folks I trust swear by GoreTex oversocks (Seal Skinz) for the occasional wet weather.

For socks, I prefer wool blend socks. Fewer blisters.

I would buy on fit and price for this style of boot. Like sneakers, boots of this style are somewhat disposable. The uppers eventually give out and they can't be resoled in a cost effective manner. But they are super comfortable and light and very versatile.

The next step up from this would be true hiking boots. The primary difference will be the addition of a stiff shank in the boot sole. Expect to pay north of $150 for boots of this kind. If you weigh more than 250lbs and are having problems with your feet, you may consider going this route. The shank will make a big difference. Like you, I have big (14) feet and IME, when you have larger feet you sometimes need more supportive boots. The same construction that works for a tiny size 9 can buckle when stretched out to a size 13. Asolo, Vasque, Merrill are a few of the names that make boots in this category. Buy on fit, fit and fit in this category.

Hope this helps.

 

[Average_joe101]

I am curious the same as the OP. I did some research and found the best thing to do is go to a shop and try them on. Fit is most important for hiking, then the rest can be decided after that... Ill be doing exactly the same so i want a sneaker type gore tex shoe. Hope this helps you out a bit!

 

[kvaughn]

I was a Merrell guy for years until I bought my first Keen's. I have 3 pair now. Really good if your feet tend to run a little wide.--KV

 

[RonSC]

The best suggestion is to visit a camping/hiking store that carries a good selection of quality hiking shoes/boots such as REI. Employees there are very knowledgable and can best guide you with your selection. You will be able to try various brands, styles etc. to select a boot that best fits your type of activity. One brand that I am impressed with is KEEN. I recently purchased a pair of Keen Targhee II mids and they are by far the most comfortable hikers I have EVER WORN. Practically no break-in period to speak of very comfortable toe box, wonderful support and are great for folks with wider feet. They do however tend to run short so most folks tend to need to up-size one half size.

 

[JayGoliath]

It depends on the terrain you will hike:

I will opt for Scarpa, Asolo, Alico if you plan to scale rocky terrain.
Altberg Jungle boot with panama sole is more my taste since i will be going around tropical jungle.
Also boot of choice by Ed Stafford who walked along the entire Amazon river.

Like most said, BREAK THEM IN. Your feet will not hate you as much. Tape the angle area with duct tape if you must for hot-spot free feet.

 

[phillipsted]

I've always relied on Raichle boots - for over 35 years. I've never had a bad or mediocre pair. And they do come in wide widths - the larger toe box is important for me too. Mammut bought Raichle in 2003 - but they still offer some of the Raichle models under the Mammut name.

But whatever you do... try them on and walk with them a bit before you pay for them (or before the return period is over). Don't be afraid to keep trying on boots until you find that pair that just makes you go "ahhhhhhh".

TedP

 

[bmilla35]

I tried mine on in the store and bought what I thought fit right. I am very shy about ordering online unless you know the correct size. I have wasted more money on improperly fitting shoes on line than I care to mention. I HATE to ship shoes back. Size also depends on your typical socks. Not very comfortable to have your feet stuffed into a pair of boots/shoes because you like a particular thicker sock and didn't plan for it.

I hate to ship anything back, but think I would if I had to. There isn't an REI or similar store around me, but there is back home in Pittsburgh (and a mighty big on at that!)

Knowing this helps tremendously.

IMO, you could get by with:
a) Low cut fabric hiking/trail running shoes
b) Mid height fabric hiking boots
c) Mid height, lightweight leather hiking boots (with running shoe style soles)

IME, GoreTex is for jackets, not boots. GoreTex requires a good deal of heat to drive sweat out and my feet don't get that hot. GoreTex is also prone to failing after repeated flexing (as in the toes of a boot). As a result, any GoreTex boot makes my feet wet either from sweat or from outright leakage.

All 3 of the suggestions I made are what I consider to be "sneaker boots". The insoles are like sneakers on steroids. Very comfy and very light but on the lower end of support, (which you don't need since you aren't carrying a heavy pack).

I prefer leather hikers. Brands and models change from year to year. The Timberland Conway and Hi-Tec Altitude are both examples of this type of boot. I prefer the look of leather for everyday use and the leather will accept some amount of waterproofing grease if I expect wet weather.

For hotter, drier conditions, similar boots with fabric uppers will be lighter and cooler. Some folks I trust swear by GoreTex oversocks (Seal Skinz) for the occasional wet weather.

For socks, I prefer wool blend socks. Fewer blisters.

I would buy on fit and price for this style of boot. Like sneakers, boots of this style are somewhat disposable. The uppers eventually give out and they can't be resoled in a cost effective manner. But they are super comfortable and light and very versatile.

The next step up from this would be true hiking boots. The primary difference will be the addition of a stiff shank in the boot sole. Expect to pay north of $150 for boots of this kind. If you weigh more than 250lbs and are having problems with your feet, you may consider going this route. The shank will make a big difference. Like you, I have big (14) feet and IME, when you have larger feet you sometimes need more supportive boots. The same construction that works for a tiny size 9 can buckle when stretched out to a size 13. Asolo, Vasque, Merrill are a few of the names that make boots in this category. Buy on fit, fit and fit in this category.

Hope this helps.

Thanks for the post. I've shifted my search lately to that of trail running shoes on STP but am going to check out a little local outdoors store today, too.

I am curious the same as the OP. I did some research and found the best thing to do is go to a shop and try them on. Fit is most important for hiking, then the rest can be decided after that... Ill be doing exactly the same so i want a sneaker type gore tex shoe. Hope this helps you out a bit!

Good luck!

It depends on the terrain you will hike:

I will opt for Scarpa, Asolo, Alico if you plan to scale rocky terrain.
Altberg Jungle boot with panama sole is more my taste since i will be going around tropical jungle.
Also boot of choice by Ed Stafford who walked along the entire Amazon river.

Like most said, BREAK THEM IN. Your feet will not hate you as much. Tape the angle area with duct tape if you must for hot-spot free feet.[/QUOTE!

A majority of the trail is just dirt, the rocks are few and far between. Thanks for the suggestions. Anyone who walked the amazon river must be using quality boots!

I've always relied on Raichle boots - for over 35 years. I've never had a bad or mediocre pair. And they do come in wide widths - the larger toe box is important for me too. Mammut bought Raichle in 2003 - but they still offer some of the Raichle models under the Mammut name.

But whatever you do... try them on and walk with them a bit before you pay for them (or before the return period is over). Don't be afraid to keep trying on boots until you find that pair that just makes you go "ahhhhhhh".

TedP

Havent heard of that brand. I'll look into it!

 

[michaelm466]

For brand: Asolo, Merrel, Teva (just did a 9mile hike with a 25L pack in some and they very well), Vasque, Danner.

I have a Pair of Gortex lined Teva trail running shoes, that work well and are quite comfortable, and a pair of Columbia trail running shoes (both lower cut) and plan on getting some higher Asolos for the longer heavier hikes. I'd say go to some of the stores near you like REI and Cabela's stick with those brands try on as many as you can walk a loop around the store, if you feel ANY tiny little rub, multiply that by 25 or so, then once you find 1-3 models you like look their and online to find the best price (maybe you can find them at STP? I tried the Asolo Fugitives and FSN 95s both had excellent reviews all over the web, but the FSN 95s had a little bit of rub on the outside of my toe, but the Fugitives fit perfect (both at REI) but at STP they're both like $75 cheaper so unless REI has a coupon/sale soon I'll probably just get them from STP.

 

[sasha]

As was mentioned already check out REI. Most of the time you would pay full price unless they are having a sale.
Pros= Huge selection of good brands
great warranty if you buy them and don't like them 2 months later bring them back for a full refund ( done it twice with a boot that felt good in the store and hurt like hell after 7 mile hike and another that fell apart on me on the first day backpacking) right there I saved alot of money
There are people who know and can answer your questions at the store.
Con = you do pay full price, You do pay for some of the best service.
After you know what you like and how they fit you can look online for a better price, As Michaelm466 already said.
Go there toward the end of the day when your feet might be swollen. Make sure you have enough room for your toes to move in there. A shoe should not be a tight fit. On the first hike or any hike for that matter some duct tape around a pencile would be a life saver. For when you get hot spots. A good shoe is more important then your pack or anything else you would carry. This is the one and only item you should get the best you can afford.

Sasha