[pct-l] NBs' and other lightweight shoes

[fdumville at earthlink.net]

I used high and low versions of the Vasque Breeze for most of the trail.
These are a fairly lightweight well ventilated hiking shoes. They work well
for my problematic feet giving me a good balance between cushioning and
support. I switched to a mid-weight boot with a stiff sole for the Sierra
in June-July 2006. It helped when kicking steps in hard snow but I switched
back to the Breeze because the stiffer sole was too hard on my feet.
My 2006 experience with stream crossing was that there where way too many
to change shoes at each crossing. At times there was so much water on the
trail that fish were swimming up it . I also wanted to wear my sturdiest
shoes for the crossings. 
In August and September 2004 I could step over most streams without getting
my feet wet.

Snap

> [Original Message]
> From: RJ Lewis <karmagurl at rainierconnect.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] NBs' and other lightweight shoes
>
> I plan on a 3/4 lighter weight boot for the desert section, switching to 
> a full height boot for the Sierra north. My feet and ankles are worth 
> it. Been trying out some Merrell's just for fun, to see how they feel 
> and wear, and plan on the trusty Vasque's for my heavier duty work in 
> the mountains. Always did say that if you treat your feet right, they 
> will treat you right.....seems to hold true, especially on the long 
> trails. I'll leave the shoes to the youngins and trail runners with sub 
> 10 lb packs. While I don't want lead weights attached to my feet, I do 
> want stability and a good foundation under me. I'll carry the extra 
> weight of water sandals, and take the time to swap em at stream 
> crossings if I need to. After all , it's MY hike, right?
>