Looking For a New Pair of Shoes and/or Boots

JSMcustoms

JSMcustoms

Joined
Feb 2, 2012
Messages
1,792
It's finally come time that I have to get a new pair of shoes and/or boots for myself (something in between the two would be best). For the past year, I've been wearing a pair of Timberland shoes (size 10.5 M), but they just didn't quite do it for me and got uncomfortable pretty quickly on pavement etc (not to mention the hole in the left one). See the image below for what I've been wearing. What I'm looking for this go round is an all purpose shoe or boot that's going to be good for general outdoor use (walking in grass and light hiking in both wet and dry conditions) as well as doing a lot of walking around town and at work. Now here's the catch, looking for something in the $80 - $100 price range. Taking a fishing trip to see what you guys would recommend.


sgQvCja.jpg
 
Last edited:
I am in the same market. I need to replace a pair of New Balance walking shoes that have served quite well for every day wear including much outdoor "off road" use in hunting, fishing and camping. They have held up well for at least 6-7 years. I have considered Merrell Moabs as well as some Keens but have no prior experience with either brand.

I am considering another pair of New Balance but they no longer make the model I have. The current New Balance outdoor walkers are pretty expensive so I'm still looking and still wearing my old reliables.
 
Shoes are different for everyone. I really like Vasque. They fit and last for me. You can find them for less then $80 if you don't mind last years style. Google Vasque closeout.
 
I've worn all of the above, but in comparing new balance to merrell stick with new balance. I hated my merrell, very stiff and hurt my feet. New balance is a walking/running shoe so the feel is completely different. When it comes to shoes, ill shell out a little more cash to find the perfect shoe. I think you should try a bunch of different shoes at one spot, like rei, cabellas, or bass pro, what ever is closest.
 
XxdrpxX said:
I've worn all of the above, but in comparing new balance to merrell stick with new balance. I hated my merrell, very stiff and hurt my feet. New balance is a walking/running shoe so the feel is completely different. When it comes to shoes, ill shell out a little more cash to find the perfect shoe. I think you should try a bunch of different shoes at one spot, like rei, cabellas, or bass pro, what ever is closest.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the suggestion, we've a couple good local stores that will make your head spin if you go in there with out at least kind of knowing what you're looking for. In my case, that's something in between a work boot and a walking/running shoe.
 
I have tried Teva, Merrel, and am currently wearing Asolo. The Teva boots were a mid height and lasted nearly 7 years but were very loose. I bought them at a discount store for around $40. The Merrel shoes are low cut which I purchased for biking. They work great for this but the sole is very stiff. The Merrels were closer to $90 from their outlet store. Finally, I purchased a pair of Asolo on eBay for around $80 a few months ago. These are far superior to the other brands that I have worn.
 
Anyone had any experience with Bates? In particular their GX-4? It looks to be right in line with what I'm looking for and I've seen them around in my price range, but never really taken a good look at them in stores.
 
I have Asolo, Columbia and Hi-Tech. The Columbia gave me the best traction especially in the winter. The Asolo gave the worst winter traction. The Asolo is designed for hiking and scrambling and has the best construction. The sole on the Hi-Tech is wearing fairly rapidly and you can feel the ground under it (i.e. small rocks). The Columbia fits in between and it is one that I would recommend.
 
Keen offers several mode in that price range. I have found them to be equally comfortable around town, on a river bank, and on the trail.
 
I ended up getting a pair of Merrells that are by far the most comfortable shoes I gave a try earlier at my local store. It would be hard to beat the price either (clearance sale for about $50 / over half off).
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top