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[pct-l] Re: contacts and hiking boots



Todd,

Truly - shoes are very personal.  Because most PCT
thru-hikers keep their pack weight low (gotta get in
those big miles), they opt for lighter, less
supportive footwear than the typical hiker "boot,"
taking to practice the Jardine-esque belief that the
lighter your shoe, the less stress on your body over
the course of the day.  Running shoes and light hiking
shoes are very popular on the PCT.  

However, when I hiked southern California, I knew
several hikers who stuck with midweight hiking boots. 
I personally tried to wear running shoes on the trail,
but I suffered from severe foot pain, which led to
plantar fascitis.  When I switched back to my Asolo
520s, my feet immediately improved.  These are
midweight leather boots.  I never got hot in them, and
I was really glad to have them in the Sierras.  I
didn't notice any difference in the fatigue in my legs
when I wore the running shoes vs. the boots.  Perhaps
the foot pain masked any benefits of the shoe.

I'll be taking them along next year. 

I recommend experimenting....try the boots you have
and try running shoes.  Have both options available on
the trail (either carry them both or have one in the
mail to the next big town) until your body tells you
which type of shoe is best.  Or do some shakedown
hikes before the PCT.  Good luck!

Nocona



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