[pct-l] feet!

[Dennis Phelan]

Being a NW hiker, my section hikes have lead me to use a slightly different
shoe choice than have been suggested.  I totally agree about the size.  one
half to one full size bigger will stop blisters (at least it did for me - I
also use a two layer sock).  I use a low cut trail running shoe (I like
Vasque, but that is my preference after having tried several others)  I do
use a Goretex waterproof shoe and desert gaiters (low cut gaiters)  I added
the gaiters because when hiking on dusty trails you get tons of dirt in you
shoe and socks.  The gaiters stop (minimize) that.  I first tried the
gaiters with a pair of shoes that were "breathable" and the first night
when I took my shoes off I broke out laughing; my heels and ankles were
lily white, but my toes and central part of my foot were black with dirt.
Breathable shoes breath dirt too.  I switched to a Goretex shoe and now I
have cleaner feet.  I agree that the Goretex shoes don't breath as well,
but up here in the NW that has not been a problem and in fact it is a plus
because many times the foliage is wet enough you would have seriously wet
feet without them.   For stream crossings I use my camp Crog type shoes.

Dennis