I'd also like to chime in about John Vonhof's fantastic reference on the care of your feet. Every serious (or even not serious) hiker would do well to own a copy of this book. I also recommend subscribing to John's free footcare e-zine. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FixingYourFeetEzine/ John, I have just six words for you; thank you, thank you, thank you! Lee Rossman Portland OR Class of '02