[pct-l] Montrails

[Mark Jernigan]

I agree that Montrail makes a good product.  Hiked in the Java GTX for quite a while and still have a new pair in the box.  I was also a footwear specialist (REI - 5 years) and could pretty much get any shoe I wanted back then.  What I remember is that while the Vitesse was a comfy shoe, the original model wasn't very durable.  Had tons of returns.
   
  In those days I never even tried the New Balance shoes.  Over the past year I took the leap and tried them     ...and I like them.  Stuck in a set of SuperFeet and I've never looked back.  Lightweight, airy and several models have rugged outsoles.
   
  Footslogger

Matt Bradley <mattbradley1 at gmail.com> wrote:
  Stamp Lady,
In my opinion (as an ultralight hiker and also an REI footwear
specialist) is that Montrail is one of the best and most innovative outdoor
shoe makers out there right now. That doesn't necessarily mean that you
should run out and buy some though. Here's my unsolicited footwear buying
advice.
1.Make fit your first priority. Your shoe must fit your individual foot to
be comfortable. All shoe manufacturers have a different shape to their
shoes that is derived from the last that it is built around. FWIW I think
that the last of the Merrell Chameleons is different from the last on a lot
of their other shoes.
2. Get the lightest footwear that will meet your needs. I am guessing that
you already have this figured out but a lot of hikers hike in shoes that are
too heavy duty for their purposes.
I guess what I's saying is that Montrail makes a great shoe but is may
not be a great shoe for you. As for me (since that was what you asked in
the first place) I love my Vitesse and I won't ever but a different hiking
shoe if I can help it. On the trail each pair lasts me anywhere from 400 to
600 miles. You will know when your shoes wear out because your knees or
hips or something will suddenly start hurting. The materials on the Vitesse
are great. The synthetic leather dries very quickly. I also like how
flexible they are. Unlike a lot of shoes (such as the Montrail Hardrock)
the Vitesse has almost no nylon shank in the sole. This makes it a very
soft sole to walk in. Finally, get some support in your shoes. I really
recommend Superfeet. They help align your whole body. Montrail also seels
some pretty decent insoles. Good luck.

On 2/7/07, diane brown wrote:
>
> Matt,
> Did the Montrails work out for you? I have a pair of
> Montrail Java's and Merrell Chamileon. I need to buy
> additional shoes and wondered how the Montrail did in the
> long haul?
>
> Thanks
> Stamp Lady
>



-- 
Matt Bradley
mattbradley1 at gmail.com
http://www.trailjournals.com/peaceandlove
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