Why Most Thru-hikers DON'T Use BOOTS On The Appalachian Trail (Footwear, Socks, Camp Shoes, Gaiters)

Full Appalachian Trail Basics Video: • How To Hike The Appala...
00:00 Hey Y'all
00:43 Boots vs Trail Runners
02:20 My Experience
04:25 Proper Fit
06:23 Stack Height and Drop
09:51 Replacing Footwear
10:30 Goretex
13:12 Sandals
14:26 Insoles
17:09 Camp Shoes
18:33 SOCKS
23:09 Gaiters
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[@jackiemarie1990]

I wore boots my entire hike and it worked well for me. I stepped around water, was mindful of when I hiked in the rain, and used flip flops for river crossings. What I liked most was the support for my feet and ankles and how warm and waterproof they were. In my experience with wearing boots I didn’t ever sprain my ankle like many do without boots. I’ve worn many type of shoes from chacós to trail runners and I have had success with all of them, but mostly boots and trail runners. I wore 1 pair of boots for my hike which cost me $109. Where as hikers go through around 4 pairs of trail runners on the A.T. which can cost between $300-$400 for a thru-hike.

[@audiosaurus6511]

Did you hike the AT with boots? I am interested because I really like my low Iowa Renegade GTX, but it takes 3 days to dry when they get wet. How did you manage hiking in rain?

[@climbtibet]

Your wisdom, experience and expertise really shows in a wonderfully light hearted way. Great video and smart smart advice. 👍

[@josephdolinsky8668]

Trail shoes make my feet sore - particularly hiking in New Hampshire’s White Mountains on muddy trails and a lot of granite boulders and slick wet roots/branches. I wear boots - often a lighter hiking boot - but I need a firm sole and better support than I can get with a trail shoe. That’s what works for me.

[@jimihenrik11]

I have been using heavy leather boots on all my outdoor endeavors for over 20 years. Hiking, camping, working, bush crafting, scouting, winter survival... They offer superior protecting, longevity and comfort. I also never had any problems with overheating. I find the current trend of putting weight first in every aspect of the outdoor gear industry very disturbing. Many good mountain guides will not take you up a mountain if you aren't wearing proper boots. That being said I absolutely think that footwear is an individual choice and everybody shall use what he likes most. I just don't think that the extreme popularity of trailrunners over boots (that I believe is caused by the industry) is beneficial to the majority of hikers.

[@danpedersen3311]

The boots I had for the last 20 years were about double the weight of my new ones - and the new ones are better in many ways. Most thru-hikers are pretty close to ultralite so their packs are 10-20lbs at most, trail runners may work for most of them. Most weekend hikers are going to have 25-40lb packs which is where boots are probably a better option. I use hiking shoes for day hikes, they are great with a 6lb pack but boots for backpacking. No matter what, your sock system is critical to not getting blisters - I haven't had one in over 20 years using a liner sock inner and a thick wool sock outer.

[@farstrider79]

I think if your sticking to trails trying to go 20 miles a day, then trail runners are great. If you spend any amount of time off trail bushwhacking and exploring rougher terrains then you really should wear boots.

[@overlookedundead8711]

Boots (or any Hightop shoes) upset my tendons something mad, but my mom swears by them!

[@meltdownman1]

@@danpedersen3311 I've tried liner socks and what I noticed is that there is some "slippage" or movement between the inner and outer socks. Especially while going downhill. My toes don't touch the front of the toe box but what ends up happening is that the inner sock causes my foot/toes to slip forward to where the outer sock stops the forward movement. It feels like my toes are hitting the toe box, but they aren't. Have you come across this issue and if so, what did you do to correct the problem?

[@six3r]

@@meltdownman1 just a guess but maybe your wool sock may not be sized properly if you have that much room between the liner and the sock.

[@stitch3163]

This has been a great series, Dixie. Well thought out, comprehensive and well put together.

[@Flashahol]

The top piece of advice I heard only once - and it took a really honest and patient salesman to admit it - is; the only way to find the right shoe or boot is to try everything in the store. That's what I've been doing ever since. Takes a while, but I haven't had any problems since.

[@gregcoldewey7724]

Love my Salomon boots. Not much heavier than trail runners and I don’t spend all day dumping pebbles out of my shoes and I just feel more stable.

[@brimstone33]

Too narrow.

[@4potslite169]

When I started hiking (a long long time ago) I chose boots because I was always rolling my ankles and figured I needed the extra protection….even w the rigid boots I ended up severely rolling an ankle and headed to a sports Dr. He gave me advice that changed my life. Instead of using the heavy boots which caused a huge amt of foot, ankle, and leg fatigue which then led to falls and strains, he told me to try trail runners, increase my hiking time very gradually and build up the natural physical support and strength I lacked in my ankles. Since that epiphany, I have only rolled an ankle once in 10 yrs (when I slipped on wet rocks.) The ONLY time I put on heavy boots now is to do mountain summits where temp is an issue. BTW….everything you said in this video was SPOT ON! All you beginning hikers….pay attention and listen!

[@russell7489]

or..... you could have built up gradually STILL WEARING BOOTS and ended up with stronger muscles AND protection of boots to prevent rolling. As you HAVE an inherent issue you shoul be taking MAXIMUM care. So says someone who didn't and had to ice their feet and ankles for over 20 yrs after accumulated injury and stress led to crippling pain - issue, weak ankles, ie, foot rolling over

[@daven.7685]

Dixie, this was one of the most helpful videos on trail footwear I’ve watched. I am returning to hiking after a 40-year absence, and my 60-year old dogs are barkin’! After about 3.5 hours, the balls of my feet feel every pebble and I have to leave the trail. The information about stack height was really helpful! In ages past I wore the traditional leather and rigid Vibram boot and remembered all the problems I had with blisters, etc. Today’s footwear options are amazing! I now have to dial-in the right shoe for me so I can get in more time on the trail. Many thanks!

[@garyleibitzke4166]

A LONG time ago when I still backpacked it was almost "required" that you needed heavy 5 lb boots or you'd break an ankle. One year I'd crashed my bike a week before a backpacking trip and had sever road rash on my shin going down to near the top of my foot. Needless to say I couldn't wear the boots. I got a pair of low cut hiking shoes and they worked so well I never went back to boots.

[@JadeAkelaONeal]

The more ankle support there is the higher the probability of a break because it reduces flexibility and gives the bone something to break against. Like breaking a long stick is far easier against your knee than by holding the two ends and using muscle 💪

[@Brabdog]

I still have those 5 pound boots! Raichle - built like tanks and just as heavy. On the upside, you can walk rocky trails with impunity.

[@sonora108]

Thanks Dixie, great info. People should really listen to her I have been a fan every since she pulled off the 60 + miles in 24 hours on the PCT.

[@What_If_We_Tried]

Dixie, your real world insights are invaluable. Thanks so much!

[@donb6070]

In mountaineering classes, we discussed footwear, because if your feet don't move well you don't move well. Prior to a long outing, go hiking in inclement weather (rain, snow, wind) to learn what gear performs best, and learn how your body responds to different conditions.

[@JoeZUGOOLA]

I bought some B2 boots for the Scottish winter and have only wore them once since i bought them in April. It's like wearing ice skates on regular ground but need to break them in some what. 😅

[@Bobtree6853]

Dixie, great video. I started with boots. You are so right about boot being durable. But when they get wet from sweat or rain they suck. They will not dry out to be on the trail the next day. I switched to Altra lone peak and last year the Olympus. Love them. They dry easy. And they are comfortable and perform well. I switched to them partly because of bunions. I have not done a thru hike yet. Howev, I have done plenty of ten to 15 milers. And a couple 50+ milers. Performed great. Also, right again. Don't be cheap on socks.

[@PapaRocks]

Based on your excellent advice, my wife (Grammy) switched to trail runners. She has never looked back. She is more willing to go hiking since. Thanks Ms. Dixie!!

[@PapaRocks]

Also, is there any stats on folks who have done the AT barefoot?

[@JoeMandell-]

This videos deserves a 5-star rating! ☆☆☆☆☆ Great information! 👍

[@garywood702]

Great content! I used to wear a low cut walking shoe/trail runner but discovered that after about 10 miles of walking that I develop blisters in the Achilles tendon area and switched over to mid height shoe/boot which seems to have solved that problem. So, as you suggest, go with what works for you. Everyone is different and there is no one solution. I've been using the Superfeet insoles for many years now, but will be trying the Dr. Scholl's and see how they compare. Yes to the Crocs for camp shoes!! As for socks, I've tried many different manufacturers for wool socks and only recently started wearing Silverlight socks. For me, these socks have been the best invention since the shoe. They are pricey, but for me and my feet, they are worth every penny. They are made for right and left feet so one has to pay attention to the toe box when putting them on to make sure the right sock is going on the right foot. ;-) I'd be curious to know if you or any of your subscribers have tried these socks and if so, what was their experience.

[@TimShelnut]

Love my Altra's! I've been ultra running in Ultras marathons for long while and even when hiking wear the Altra's. The mids you mentioned are really awesome shoes specially in sandy areas with a gater. You hit on all the points really great video to guide someone in the right direction for shoes.

[@amariyah12]

Thank you for sharing your experiences and insight with us! This is most helpful

[@Neil-ii3dp]

This video is pure gold; fantastic information

[@jonboatwright7777]

Queen Dixie, you make the best videos. Thanks.

[@christahiggs]

I always thought I needed hiking boots and that's what I used for a long time. It wasn't until seeing you talking about trail runners that I realized I didn't HAVE to wear big old boots. My trail runners are the best hiking purchase I've ever made!

[@lindacondray7918]

My 82yo mom works at REI (yes oldest employee in company). I sent her this video. Very well put together and discussion!

[@michaelkent2203]

You're just so real. Love ya, Dixie!

[@bruceflyingsolo3977]

Excellent information. Thanks for sharing.

[@susanKWithAnE]

Awesome! I had realized about a year ago I did not like my boots. Getting older and I was tripping up on them. And my feet would sweat, leading to blisters. I use hiking shoes now, I still like the harder sole. But it’s so great to know I wasn’t alone on this! Hanging up the boots for now 😀

[@montyollie]

I loved it when you said, "Ask me how I know" lol! All the best lessons are learned the hard way, sadly.

[@petermccall8975]

Good info, well presented. And charming accent!

[@Nejjidragon]

I just did a weekend on the AT in PA and man, I don't know how people make it through there without boots!

[@Rose-co3cp]

I used to hike in boots but I switched to trail runners about five years ago. What a difference it made I felt so much lighter. As for socks I used to wear smart wool but I tried darn tough and Farm to feet. I'm with you Dixie about Farm to Feet socks. I really like them. One thing you did not mention was "Waterproof socks". Pacifier was hiking the trail this year. She tried the Randy Sun Waterproof socks and they worked well keeping her feet dry and warm. The socks were cheaper than the named brands. I know one thing is not to hang them by the fire to dry. Darwin on the trail melted his when he hiked the PCT.

[@vincentvega5686]

I met quite a few newbies on the trails in the last 2 yrs. Many of them were using trail runners and trekking poles because that's what youtubers told them to do. Another thing, companies should start making hiking boots without GTX again. It is almost impossible to find boots without GTX or other waterproof liner. WTF?!!

[@alexwyler4570]

Thank You so so so much for sharing your extensive experience with us. 2? years ago i tried Altra and Topos on your recommendation. Nobody else recommendation, all you. I keep the topos for the gym ( a bit overkill) but the Altras!!! hiking heck walking had become difficult with 13 years of Achilles tendonitis. Well, just completed 25 days of walking around 12 miles a day with elevation. The first few days shoulders, thighs ( from the weight of the backpack) everything was hurting except my feet! Dixie, YOU gave me back walking without pain for as long as i want. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! 😘😘😘Altra should sponsor you.

[@robinsmith9734]

There we go again with your invaluable insights/tested/considerations, to the gear you should consider, yes, and why. All to which you offer bolstering grand advice, Dixie. My change will definitely come with footwear, as a tramper mountaineer from the 60's, boots have always been drummed in! For the last 30-35 yrs, I have used many types of trail hikers. Many should not have been marketed. Rubbish. Lack of willingness to adapt to people's individual differences, and needs. NO, service. That IS bleak. The Pressure for the $ however has a change in attitude! Thanks, DIXIE, you are just wonderful..............

[@alanwatts5445]

Great Video. I'm making sure my wife and granddaughters see this. I have been backpacking since the 1970's as a Boy Scout. Spent several years in the Army (where they called it something else). In my 60's I'm still hiking and backpacking with my family. I have used Army surplus gear, Army gear, and garage sale gear. THE ONE THING I DON'T SKIMP ON IS FOOTWARE! I prefer thin, white wicking socks next to my feet with wool socks over them. Rarely have an issue with blisters or other problems. I am a "tenderfoot" with weak ankles so I prefer boots. But my wife prefers rugged trail runners. But she also does the 2 pair of socks method.

[@montyollie]

I love how you talk about what works for you but fully acknowledge how all bodies are different. I could never hike in shorts like you do... I sunburn so easily and bug bites get me down. I'm MUCH happier in full length pants. Same with no show socks... too much opportunity for something to get in my shoe, so I go with crew. We all HYOH though and everyone is happy. I am very lucky in that Altras worked SO well for me out of the gate, I didn't struggle with blisters or plantar facsiitis or anything. You can get knock off Lock Laces from Ali Express for about a buck a pair. I have STOCKED UP although I have recently learned about lock lacing with that extra hole on the runner and it's a game changer for normal laces.

[@eliyadunskyy9185]

simply answered all my questions. thanks!

[@peterrobinson270]

Bought a pair of Altra Lone Peak 3.0’s after watching your PCT vids. I have foot problems, and these were a game changer. Just picked up the 6.0’s. 👍

[@valeriee3039]

Great job Dixie. Recommendation: Try the Tuli Heel Cups - my Dr recommended them for planter fasciitis and they really help.

[@ThanatosWings]

I tried trail runners based on Dixie's advice many years ago. I'm 5 pairs in and never looked back. Great videos, solid advice.

[@Squick99]

Which ones do you like? I'm completely overwhelmed with all the options!

[@happyhome41]

This is wonderful. Compact with useful information. About boots, I too grew up thinking one MUST have boots for anything outside the office. And I had problems. And there was such a mental dissonance - "can't be" I thought. And sure enough, came to the same realization. Oh to have seen you thirty years ago. Alas, timing is everything in life.

[@28105wsking]

My Oboz were the best thing I've ever worn for really rocky trails because Im 76 now and the pudgy pudge on the bottoms of my feet is gone. The bottoms of my feet now bruise really easily, and my ankles are weaker now too, so the Oboz just covered both those issues really well. I haven't worn 'em since, but can't bear to get rid of them. So comfy! Big toe box. Purchased at the hiking store beside the RR tracks in Black Mountain, NC. Great little store, BTW !! if you're in that neck of the woods.

[@davidglazener7921]

Excellent video. Thank you.

[@keithsnow]

great video...being someone who intends to do alot more hiking, maybe even on the these tips are welcomed. I always thought boots were the only way to go..but I will give some of these trail shoes a shot...and the socks...womeding what tents you use ?

[@CrimeVid]

One thing I notice is the disappearance of the “fell boot”, once very popular in Europe. A really good reason for high top styles like this is protecting your ankle bones,a miserable injury amongst the rocks.

[@not-a-raccoon]

Having hiked in Norway, I wouldn't do it in anything but boots unless I was on a well groomed trail. Too many sharp rocks that can injure your feet.

[@-_-_415]

​@@not-a-raccoonnot to mention bugs going into low top shoes. After watching this video it's solidified my opinion that boots are the best footwear for all occasions 😁

[@Erik_The_Viking]

I've been going to trail runners just for the weight. I remember an old rule that "every pound on your foot is worth 5 pounds in your pack". I used to have those heavy Goretex boots and after dealing with blisters and other issues, it's trail runners for me. I've been a fan of Altra and on my second pair. Merino wool socks are awesome for reducing blisters and keeping my feet cool. I've had good luck with Smartwool.

[@Scott-J]

Adding to your comments on heel drop - I love low stack, zero drop shoes for walking and hiking. When I started running on pavement, I bought similar running shoes. I had a lot of tendon and calf problems. I took a chance on a pair of high drop shoes. Fixed those problems immediately. Point is, just because one shoe profile works for one activity doesn't mean it works for others.

[@kennyshepherd8311]

Thanks for the info!

[@Babel7078]

Great , thanks! Choose whatever media you like, you will be great, it's a talent!

[@caseysmith544]

Odd thing is there are some hybrid trail runner/low cut hiker or high top runners that people use. If my brother could run and not have a rather bad Asthma for life, due to his big body size and foot shape he would use Merrill Moab Low cut hikers first designed for the Moab 240 running race originally with the more leather version before trail runners were able to have mesh hold up better in regular trail shoes. My brother using the wide but the more mesh lite/light versions of still made more for hiking since he uses the High Top version Merril Moab Hiker II for everyday use and has a low top/II as a standard shoe he wears less. Depending on the terrain and season I would use either some old trail runner shoes all Brooks Cascadia models no longer good for running but for other less high impact for hiking due to the rock plate or my Timberland model of shoes but only if winter due to the upper being all leather so the cold can't get in yet have both my chain, Ice Chains from Yak Track and no brand higher quality spiked slip on traction. Xero Shoes has some super minimal that the least durable trail models including trail running shoes and sport shoes will last enough to go from LA California to DC and some can go LA California to DC and back to LA in distance due to the type of rubber used with no midsole at all just a sock-liner that can be replaced/removed.

[@distaff2935]

Good info. Thanks.

[@bernardlanguillier7970]

Very good points!

[@mikekenney8362]

Great job of addressing a crucial and individual issue. My experience on the AT is that it may depend on what segment you’re on. Horses for courses. Sometimes the deciding issue is socks. Mundane, but consequential

[@jungggledave]

Another thumbs up for Dr Scholls plantar fascitis insoles. Cured my PF, really comfortable and supportive.

[@ATPOZ]

Very thorough! Thx

[@inquisitivewanderer2536]

Glad to see shots of your Topos: best shoe ever for wide feet!! Hey - have you ever tried BodyGlide to eliminate chafing between toes & on the Achilles? I find it helpful especially with long-distance running, and is equally applicable for hiking.

[@charliejg]

I had always used typical hiking shoes but my feet were never as comfortable as I wanted. I like a shoe that feels wider. After watching many videos I gave Altra shoes a try because of the wide toe box. Because I live in Pennsylvania and am older, I also wanted a decent stack to give some protection from all the pesky rocks. Eventually, I got a pair of Olympus 4 shoes. Wow! I couldn't believe how good they felt. The only problem with them is the price!! LOL! Great video Dixie, have a rockin day!

[@adventureseeker9800]

Very cool info.

[@robertligas250]

Because of you I am trying TOPO shoes because of the vibrant soul. I do love my ultra lone peaks though. My first seven years of the AT I went through 7 pair of boots they tore my feet up it wasn’t until I start using ultras that my feet got better.this is my 13 year 268 mile to go.😁 thanks for great info

[@funyunmaker3182]

You are so right for me after multiple broken toes an ankle and a foot for me boots are the only thing I will wear hiking but that is me, each person is different only you knows what you're feet need.

[@NanaPiper]

So helpful!

[@TangoOscarMikeN3WS]

Great info. I swear by Dr Scholls for Plantar Fasciitis. I had to wear special boots when I sleep that stretch your foot, but after I started using the inserts I've had zero issues. Toe socks are great too.

[@lindaselover2536]

For the JMT, I wore boots --Asolos, which I loved. I never felt the rocks, I had a nice solid base for walking. I had had years suffering from plantar fasciatis, and I am rather heavy, so the firm sole worked great for me. I have worn trail runners on day hikes, but the sole was just too flexible for me to feel good. Now that my feet have lengthened a bit, and I developed a bunion (wearing Birkenstocks to stand up in all day at work), I am having real trouble finding some boots and shoes to fit. I am so sad that my Asolos are now too short for me. It is very individual. Thanks for the run down. ps. Wearing boots, I did not kick up very much dirt onto the backs of my legs.

[@flowrpwr789]

I have bunions and Asolos and recently had my boots stretched out in the forefoot by a leather repair place. It could be option for you! Mine are way more roomy in the forefoot now.

[@wspmjw]

Valuable suggestions Dixie. One more to add to the fitting footwear section. Try on your footwear late in the afternoon. Your foot will expand up to one full size from the morning until the afternoon. I worked in an outdoor outfitter and had many a customer arrive in the shop wearing flip-flops at 10:00 am wanting a new pair of boots/shoes for a hike that afternoon. Another tip is to bring the socks you intend to wear with your footwear while trying them on.

[@farstrider79]

Yeah, this is true. I'm a construction worker, so I can go 6-7 hours at a time without sitting. I've noticed my shoes rub in spots in the afternoon that weren't rubbing in the morning.

[@susanf3110]

Zero drop shoes were the ONLY shoes that helped with my PF. Love my Altras.

[@skipandcherieadventures116]

Like your Glacier National Park black top…..good information too!

[@airic499]

Many decades and hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of miles in boots. Never any problems and as others have said, it was just gospel that is what you did. When I first decided to section the AT, I saw your AT Through Hike video and read up on trail runners. I tried the Altra Lone Peaks the first section. I knew with what you everyone said I was onto something. Unfortunately with the extreme u-shaped wear of the early parts of the trail I rolled my ankles incessantly, although fortunately never badly. So I tried the Altra Lone Peak Mids the next section and have never looked back. That shoe is just fantastic! My wife loses toenails if she hikes anything with any significant altitude loss. I bought her a pair of the Mids and we hiked the climb up to the Harding Ice Fields in Alaska. Coming back down is guaranteed toenail death if you are subject to that. Not even a hint of an issue and she is now hooked as well. So boots for cold weather camping and snake country bushwhacking, but trail runners for serious hiking from now on.

[@annebarch7751]

Dixie , since watching you I have been planning my AT hike. I start April 1st. I think it was your buddy Perk who said “if you can walk and quit your shitty job for 6 months you can do it “ that’s all it took for me to hear and now it’s time

[@jonalynreynolds8122]

I am a fan of altra trail runners. Light. Comforter. Quick drying.

[@davemacdonald7928]

I hurt both my Achilles tendons with zero drop shoes. Took about 6 months to develop but had to switch back to trail shoes to get the heel stack back. Was hoping they'd work but... oh well. Words to the wise, break in to zero drop slowly .

[@rickgault5349]

I started the AT this year with Salomon hiking boots. I’ve worn these or similar brands of boots for years on long day hikes(east coast, west coast and Colorado Rockies). Never had an issue. However, on the AT, hiking multiple days with a out 30 lbs on my back, the boots were less than optimal. My feet grew, not so much length-wise. My boot size was a full size longer than my normal street walkers. My feet grew out., making the boots difficult to wear. Plus, the heavier weight of the boots definitely wore me out at the end of the day. In Hot Springs, the outfitter suggested a pair of Altra Lone Peak 6’s. For some time, I loved them. So much lighter and comfortable now with my middle earth feet. However, the less cushioning on the bottom wore on me, as did the reduced protection around the toe box. Rocks and roots were my constant nemesis. This dynamic was made worse by the toe infection in the nail bed of my big toe. This was, according to the doctor I saw, caused by the constant banging of my toe against those rocks and roots. The pain became excruciating, at times. After yet another trip to urgent care, the doctor removed part of my toenail to relieve the pressure. I believe I need a compromise between the heavier boots and the lightweight runners. I haven’t done any further research to find that unicorn.

[@ItsEverythingElse]

Merino wool absolutely rocks. Darn Tough is the only sock I use now. I did wear a hole in one pair.

[@mosquitoeslovejohn]

Used leather hiking boots for years with a goretex liner as a construction/hiker boot. After trying trail runner lonepeak 3.5 I was hooked.., well , until I purchased the lonepeak 6.0 … Something in the shoe has dramatically changed. My ankles and the tops of my feet hurt some where b4 my feet were happy and raring to go hiking. I Dono, I still have my old lonepeak 3.5s that I use for loafing around the house or driving, but the new ones just aren’t the same……..

[@OutdoorsWithShawn]

I was told years ago "No shoe/boot is waterproof as long as they have a hole in the top of them." I used to own a pair or Goretex boots. My feet sweat profusely in them and I got rid of them fairly quickly.

[@christophersiano969]

Try the Columbia Montrail insoles. I used to get fancy Superfeet custom insoles and on a recommendation tried the Montrail and was pleasantly surprised at just how well they worked. At $35 they are not cheap, but I've done some long hikes with zero issues and they dry out pretty well. My favorite setup is now a Merrell Moab shoe (low vented in summer and high gore-tex in winter) with the Montrail insoles.

[@christophersiano969]

Camp shoes - Discovered Bedrock Sandals. Light, compact, and actually VERY comfortable with a good retention strap and tread. Dry super fact too. Perfect for a shower shoe that you just wear the rest of the night.

[@anthonysamuel143]

I have been scared to go to the trail runner from my gtx boots but I have fell in love with the Hoka Anacapa mid gtx boots. They weigh about 16oz per boot and they have a tremendous amount of cushion. Both me and my wife love them!

[@ChuckWillis610]

Well It occurred to me that my old boots were too heavy. Gotta get something new. I did some research. Listened to the pros and cons, including yours, Dixie. Went to my outdoor store... tried on a dozen different footwear products. I just couldn't convince myself that I would be more comfortable in trail runners. I like the protection and support that boots give me. I got a new pair of boots that are half the weight of my old boots, and went out and finished section hiking the Ouachita Trail. I love my boots. Now, full disclosure... I am eighty years old. Perhaps if I had 20 or 30-year-old ankles, I might like trail runners, too.

[@munstergirl25]

Personally for what I hike my leather boots I really like. They give me support and they allow me to comfortably navigate rocky Terrain, muggy or wet terrain. I don't need to do river crossings and while leather isn't the most breathable I have only once had wet feet from rain and that was my mistake because I let my trousers get drenched and didn't keep the wet trousers away from my socks. While the leather can lead to sweaty feet, I wear a breathable lining socks and Merino hiking socks and that mitigates the issue enough for what I Set out to do.

[@rkpreston2425]

Hiking shoes/boots midsoles can have different stiffness. The height mentioned can have some impact on stiffness (I guess). I have arthritis in my toes and having a stiff midsole really helps. I'm currently using an Oboz Firebrand II Stone Hiking shoe and it really helps. I do not feel all the rocks and roots along the trail.

[@rodolfomartinez7717]

I like my boots, the sense of protection. Currently testing out the hoka speedgoat a lower profile boot..

[@matthewhaley3320]

My go to footwear in the summer are a pair of Keen Newport sandles, over boots or walking shoes. They have good grip on rock and toe protection, the sole is cushioned so the extra weight of a rucksack is ok.

[@walterlangston4484]

hope to get back on the A T soon for section hike may thru hike some day but most likley will just do section hike over A number of years into I do the who trail

[@michaelprice9377]

Thanks im going to do it

[@t.vanoosterhout233]

Rather in two minds about those altras. The zero drop has, I think, added to inflammations in my shins and achilles tendons. They enforce a different gait, with shorter and more frequent strides required for the same speed, so a higher energy consumption for the same distance. They wore out very quickly, fabric deteriorated noticeably within 200 kms, soles lost thread. But they were lightweight, airy, and (best thing about them) had a nice wide toebox. So, for me a sturdier trail shoe with a normal heel drop and the same wide toebox would be perfect.

[@lifewithlarsandsusie8315]

I like hiking in running shoes. But I bought boots for hunting and love them for off trail and snow/cold. I’m using them for my winter boots

[@HenrikWittenberg]

I recommend the "Xero Shoes Xcursion Fusion Hiking Boot" or the "Freet Leap 2" in combination with tabi socks.

[@straypacket]

Thank you for validating my camp shoe habit :) BTW - I would totally buy a couple of "I Lack Gnat Hacking" T-shirts... :)

[@jcalpha2717]

We were in NH on Washington Mountain years ago when a group of day trippers came along following the AT. I noted that the two girls were wearing sandals and the guys had on what looked like deck shoes. Mt. Washington is 6,288 ft. above sea level.

[@tommynikon2283]

I remember your first hike.....to a local park, and how scared, unsure you were of yourself. Ever since you've been crushing it! You've finished/completed the Big Three. It's insane to me what you've accomplished because I can (only) imagine how hard it all was. CONGRATS Dixie....you've earned it all.

[@Feintgames]

I have lightweight suede boots from Columbia that are broken in and awesome. I used them on gnarly trails in Colorado and Utah and was so glad I had them because there were a lot of ankle turner situations. They are heavier than my trail runners but offer more traction and mud abilities. But if I was on easy trails, I'd definitely go with trail runners.

[@allencrider]

I go with synthetic Darn Tough sox. They're called CoolMax and I think they're actually superior to wool sox.

[@wspmjw]

Curious if you've ever worn GRIP6 socks? They intrigue me and I appreciate the feedback.

[@themackguyverchannel7713]

I did a little over 100 miles along the Tn N.C. Border in 1974 before the tops of many of the mountains had been mined. We wore boots because nothing else was available. But I know can tell you everyday from about 3pm on everything we owned was soaking wet and muddy. Especially our shoes. A good quick drying show would have been really appreciated.

[@drasticbread249]

If I didn't hike with trekking poles, I'd probably need hiking boots because I tend to be incredibly clumsy hiking on rocky terrain and I've had a lot of close calls when I haven't brought at least one pole along.

[@drasticbread249]

​@Nooneinparticular987 The way those Vapor Gloves contour around your foot as you move seems to me like it would make a big difference. I've never used anything like those myself, I have Hoka Speedgoats though and I really prefer the high layer of padding at the bottom of them when I'm walking.

[@aheartfortraveling101]

I wear both , you inspired me in 2019 to get back out there. I HIKED Norway this summer!! U can find the Glacier hikes on my IG love your videos thanks for the inspiration.

[@JoeZUGOOLA]

For long walks in England/Wales/Scotland it was the trail runner wearing folk that suffered the most and the clod hopper boot guys who's feet lived to tell the tail.. trail runners are great for short summer trips with light arse packs and time to dry out if it gets wet..

[@miless.-d.782]

I used my german "Meindel" boots, full leather and really heavy. They lasted the whole 2200 miles of the AT and I never changed them.

[@justinuriahphoto]

Dang, I just stumbled upon this channel and watched this entire video about socks and shoes. Who knew? 🤷🏼‍♂️ 🤣

[@brianazmy3156]

Once I hit ROCKSILVANIA to KATAHDIN I switch to my old army jungle boots for the ankle support and the awesome tread grip that only those boots can give. Mostly a light cross country running shoe. Flops in campsite.

[@andrewksadventures]

I just recently switched to trail runners. Went to get boots but couldn't find any that fitted well or were not painful, due to my plantar fasciitis. Went to some Salomons and I'm happy. Don't think I'll go back to boots.