Re: [pct-l] Dry Feet

[John Vonhof <vonhof@pacbell.net>]

Jim Batdorff asked

> At some point most hiking shoes leak.  Though there are socks that repel
moisture they are fairly heavy.  Does any one know if there are 'foot
baggies' available to put on over your socks?

There are several options available. REI makes their REI/Gortex Oversocks
that are very similar to the Dupont SealSkinz Waterproof MVT Socks. Each is
a multi-layer sock that uses either Gortex or MVT to keep water out of the
sock while wicking moisture off the foot. I personally like the SealSkinz
sock with their Coolmax liner. They also do not have a seam as do ther REI
socks. They come in a calf-high version and an insulated version.

The weak side of these socks are the cuffs. If water runs down your legs it
can enter the socks. If you walk through a stream where the water goes above
the sock top, again the water can get inside. A pair of tights or fleece
pulled down over the sock top will help. These socks work well but require
care when pulling on the feet. Too much pressure could rupture the membrane
between the inner and outer layers. This is more possible with the Sealskinz
that with the Goretex socks.

Seirus Innovative Accessories makes several versions of closed-cell
insulation Neo-Socks that can work well for hiking. These have nylon on
either side of the four-way stretch neophrene with breathable macroporous
technology that allows moisture to pass through. One version is lined with
fleece. Both versions I have seen have seams.

Certainly worth looking at. Cost is from 20.00 to 35.00 per pair.

John Vonhof
vonhof@pacbell.net
FIXING YOUR FEET: Preventive Maintenance and Treatments for Foot Problems of
Runners, Hikers, and Adventure Racers
http://www.footworkpub.com/feet

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