[pct-l] Boots?

[dan kayser]

I have been preparing for a PCT thru hike in 2011.  In part of my preparations I have attempted to hike the Colorado Trail (twice -2008 & 2010).  I tried trail running shoes (Invo 8) in 2008 and light hiking shoes with mold able inserts (Montrail AT) in 2010.  I thought I had the blister and swelling of feet licked after my first attempt but unfortunately the blisters and swelling were worse the second time (recovering as I write this)! I am feeling a little stressed as I do not have a lot of opportunities to try out different foot wear living in Iowa.  I do not have problems hiking 10 miles/day but once I hit 15-20+ miles/day problems start.  My pack weight shouldn't be an issue at 12 lbs base weight with a max weight of 26 lbs.  I considered a custom fitted boot with more sole support as I tend to develop blisters on the pads of my feet but there is an 18 month wait for Limmer boots.  My question is are there other boots out there that others have tried that worked or other remedies to prevent or prolong the development of blisters/swelling feet?  I have a short but wide foot and I weight 150 lbs.

Thanks,

Dan