Hiking Shoes
Dec 30, 2018 16:28:08 #
It is essential to buy in a local store, where you can try on. Various brands of shoes are not comparable in sizing, just like clothes, and that includes width as well. Depending on brand, I wear a size 9 to a size 10 1/2. I know this is stupid, why not just have them all the same and keep trying on till you find one that fits, but my GF tells me that women's sizes are even more schizo, she wears anything from a XS to a M, which puts gift shopping in the very difficult category. For me, I have tried on Merrill, and I have never tried on a shoe as uncomfortable. I have a pair of colombia, purchased from a sporting goods store, maybe Sports Authority or slightly less likely Dicks or Gander Mtn, and a pair of Solomon, purchased on a locally owned outdoors shop. Both are quirt comfortable and have required minimal breaking in but haven't stretched out much at all.
Dec 30, 2018 16:34:06 #
SafariGuy wrote:
Davet...I’m sure you’ve gotten a lot if good sugge... (show quote)
I don't think those can be resoled - in which case your investment gets tossed when you've worn through the soles.
Dec 30, 2018 17:04:47 #
Unless you are already a wearer of a make and last, you should always try them on before you buy. Sizes are approximate and the proportions of length to width vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. I have a very narrow foot (for a man) A, it used to be AA but age helps a little. Usually only found in higher priced brands and never found in a department store (not many even have B). Does make for great buys sometimes if they have had them in stock for a while. There are few of us narrow shoe wearers. Most guys opt for a poor fit and affordable price.
Dec 30, 2018 17:33:17 #
Davet wrote:
I am asking for advice on brands of good quality hiking shoes for my photography excursions. The last pair I purchased were great, but too small. I got them on line and that was the problem. I could not try them on first and walk around. Any suggestions will be helpful.
Merrell all the way. Fit great and comfortable. I also get the waterproof ones.
Dec 30, 2018 18:13:59 #
Davet wrote:
I am asking for advice on brands of good quality hiking shoes for my photography excursions. The last pair I purchased were great, but too small. I got them on line and that was the problem. I could not try them on first and walk around. Any suggestions will be helpful.
FWIW, I swear by Timberland as did my husband. He switched over to Merrell because Timberland switched up the model he liked. My Timberlands have served me well on 5 continents and all sorts of conditions. I can’t seem to kill them!
As others have suggested, try on the brands/models you are considering.
Dec 30, 2018 18:25:57 #
I bought these for a hiking trip to Alaska, and was pleased with the purchase. Extremely lightweight, waterproof, easy to put on, capable of various tying configurations, and with a strong stiff sole that felt secure even on rocks. https://www.zappos.com/p/the-north-face-chilkat-nylon/product/8359540
Dec 30, 2018 18:28:52 #
bobforman wrote:
As I age I find having a boot with higher support aids stability, particularly on irregular surfaces. I'm on me second pair of boots from Cabela's that resemble my old jungle boots although of higher quality. A combo of leather and canvas, they lace up 3 inches above my ankle. The support is much better than my earlier hiking boots.
I need some like that too. Can you provide me with a catalog number and a picture? Thanks
Dec 30, 2018 19:04:17 #
Waterproof boots are a two-edged sword. On one hand, if you only walk in very shallow water, they can keep your feet dry. On the other hand, if you step in water over the top of the boots they fill with that water and the waterproofing keeps it inside until you take the boots off and drain them (and wring out or change your socks). Even then, any water you can't get out is trapped inside. Non-waterproof boots can dry faster.
Dec 30, 2018 19:59:47 #
I've been wearing Merrills for the last many years. They last well. My latest pair is 3 years old and I wear them every day. The best thing is THEY FIT! I put them on and go on a hike. No blisters, no rubbing, perfect arch support. I know there are more expensive brands, but Merrills fit me. You MUST try them on and walk around the store and do their rock thing.
Dec 30, 2018 21:00:12 #
Google Backpacker to read gear reviews, boots, packs, tents, sleeping bags, etc...REI, Cabelas, Bass Pro, Sierra Trading Post,,,etc...
Dec 30, 2018 22:37:25 #
I have Rockports, Timberland and Skecher boots, they are all water proof and comfortable. I find the Timberlands to be the most comfortable of the three.
Dec 30, 2018 22:47:45 #
Dec 30, 2018 23:11:15 #
MartyfromWNY
Loc: Rochester, NY
I've had a few Merrells that I've been pleased with. I've seen a few retailers mentioned here which I'd be fully comfortable buying from, such as Bass Pro, Cabela's, LL Bean, REI. I'd also feel good about Eastern Mountain Sports and Dick's.
Dec 30, 2018 23:16:44 #
latebloomer
Loc: Topeka, KS
Davet wrote:
I am asking for advice on brands of good quality hiking shoes for my photography excursions. The last pair I purchased were great, but too small. I got them on line and that was the problem. I could not try them on first and walk around. Any suggestions will be helpful.
New Balance. I take a 4E width. They have that.
Dec 31, 2018 01:46:52 #
Davet wrote:
I am asking for advice on brands of good quality hiking shoes for my photography excursions. The last pair I purchased were great, but too small. I got them on line and that was the problem. I could not try them on first and walk around. Any suggestions will be helpful.
Get Tyrol. I have had mine for 44 years, got them in grade 11, still going strong, 6-7 sets of Vibram soles, and plenty of treasured miles.
Which ever kind you get make sure the shell of the boot is just one piece of leather seamed at the back only.
Oh I should tell ya, I paid $55 back then, I'd bet they would be $500 or more now!
Good Luck
Swede
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