[pct-l] hiking boots

[Jim & Jane Moody]

The O.P. asked about getting appropriate boots for his hike, not so much about trail runners.  My advice is to go to the nearest outfitter (local shop or chain like REI) and insist on being helped by the most experienced boot fitter there.  I asked the owner of our local outfitter who he would get to fit him, and then I asked for that guy, even though he didn't work in the shoe / boot dept anymore. 



If the clerk doesn't spend at least 15 minutes with you, measuring, watching you walk, noting your arch and angle of Achilles, etc. before putting the first boot on you, then he / she isn't doing his / her job.  Ask about the proper way to lace them to minimize (1) your foot sliding forward and (2) your heel rising up when you walk.  Try them on inclines; kick the floor with the toe down, to see if the foot slides forward.  Ask if the store will let you take a pair or three home to wear INSIDE, to see how they feel after an hour or so.  Note- if they get scuffed, you have to buy them.  Brand names don't mean anything.  A highly rated make might not fit you well, and a Wal-Mart cast-off might be just perfect for you.  But until you understand what features and shape your shoes should have, you can't shop intelligen tly.  You probably will want a stiff sole with a good bit of tread / lugs for teh JMT. 



Good luck. 



Mango 





 To: pct-l at backcountry.net 
> From: ryanoxie at mac.com 
> Date: Fri, 12 Feb 2010 14:33:39 -0800 
> Subject: [pct-l] hiking boots 
> 
> Now from what Ive read it seems that the majority of you long   
> distance hikers are trail runner wearing types.. Maybe I havnt   
> graduated to them yet (Ive never been out for more than a couple of   
> days) and will see the light once I get out for some longer mile days   
> and longer trips but Im not "mentally" ready to do a long trip in   
> them and I am trying to find lightweight mid hiking boots for my   
> upcoming John Muir Trail trip this summer. Something with ankle   
> support and rugged enough to make it the distance.  New boots have   
> been the biggest challenge of my gear gathering. Any tips and advice   
> would be very greatly appreciated. 
>