[pct-l] Boots! And thx

[Bob Bankhead]

You may want to try a running shoe with a rock plate in the sole to protect
your forefoot. Parts of the PCT are quite rocky for long distances and the
super-light, super-flexible runners don't handle that too well. The Merrell
Moab Ventilator is one of those - great for trails, deserts, and
intermittent rock. Long distances over a lot of rock, not so good (on my
feet anyway).

For sandals, consider those with a toe cap to protect you from abrasions. If
you step on the front of a stick with your leading foot, it can rise up at
the other end and spear your following foot before you know it. Keen
sandals, while heavier than most, are very good in preventing this, plus
have a heavy enough sole to take the rocks and stream crossings with ease.
Their sole trades off traction for protection so watch your foot placement
in muddy or slippery conditions.