Good hiking boots?

[aceO07]

What company makes good hiking boots? I'm going hiking this weekend and don't have anything to wear. I'm looking for something durable and comfortable.

Thanks for any suggestions.

 

[AmericasTeam]

Timberlands

 

[WinkOsmosis]

Merrell. http://www.merrellboot.com/catalog/gallery.asp?NavID=HIK

I have the Chameleon Stretch shoes.

 

[freebee]

Load or no load? This will affect what type of boots you need.

And it too late to buy the all-leathers at this point, as you wont have time to break them in. However, as a future purchase the classics are always a good bet, Vasque sundowners, llbean crestas, Asolo somethingorothers, etc. These are mostly for somewhat heavier loads needing more support.

Since its probably day hike, most types of mid-high top sneakers would be ok...make sure they have a deep enough tread pattern. As dedicated lightweight trail runners, montrail, merrell, la sportiva and even north face make some great shoes.

 

[aceO07]

It's going to be a simple hike, not planning on taking much supplies with me. Going to the White Mountains in NH.

 

[Kyteland]

Although most hiking shoes use newer synthetic materials that need little breakin time, it may be a little late to be buying shoes for this weekend. Also, unless you are expecting snow/mud I would recommend shoes instead of boots. If it was the summertime I would just say go in whatever walking shoes you wear every day, as long as they are comfortable. There are a few other considerations during the winter.

Take a look at this article for some tips. Page 5 has a bunch of shoes listed with reviews.
http://www.backpacker.com/gear/footwear/step1/0,5201,,00.html

Also take a look at this thread, and that forum in general. The people there can help you a lot.
http://forums.backpacker.com/thread.jsp?forum=20&thread=37062

Another thing to keep in mind is don't go with a shoe because you like it or it looks cool. It has to fit. Go to a store in your area that has trained shoe fitters. They can help you a lot.

Edit: My hiking boots are Asolo Cerro Torre and they are great, although heavy. The conventional wisdom is that every pound you carry on your feet is like 5 pounds on your back.

For everyday I have an old pair of Nike ACG midtop shoes that have lasted (amazingly) 4+ years. I used to wear them on dayhikes when they were new, but they are too worn out to do that now. Old worn out shoes are not good for hiking trips. They will leave your feet very sore.

 

[Don Vito Corleone]

I like Montrails.

 

[aceO07]

Thanks guys. I'll go shoe comparing today and buy tomorrow. There'll probably still be snow and ice this weekend. Also, my sneakers have a hole in the front toe area since I played tennis in them....

Thanks for the links, Kyteland.

 

[Kyteland]

Here is another link you should look in to. This guy goes around the country and trains store personel how to fit hiking shoes properly. I guarantee you will get a great fit if you go to a store that this guy has trained at. This page can give you a list of stores in your area.

http://fitsystembyphiloren.com/FITSYSTEMSITE1/wwwroot/consumer/ConDealers.html

I would have posted it earlier but I forgot the guys name.

 

[Entity]

Originally posted by: Don_Vito
I like Montrails.

Agreed. My Montrails lasted me ~1600mi when I was hiking the PCT.

Rob