Question about boots to wear

[dc9mm]

Hi all am a newbee here and plan on coming for the first time to the High peaks area(marcy,avalanch lake,Colden Lake) in late september for the fall color change. Plan on starting from Heart Lake. Wanted to know if boots with high uppers are needed or should i ask is there water crossing were a higher boot mite keep my feet dry compared to a lower upper boot. I have two sets of boots one with 8 inch uppers (8 inch height) and another set with 4 inch uppers. Both gortex lined. Kinda leaning toward the 4 inch upper boots as there lighter.

[Fitz]

Not exactly sure what 4" vs 8" involves. I personally like a boot that covers the ankles, both for support and protection. I see folks hiking in low cut shoes/boots all the time. I think the support and protection is worth the extra weight.

That time of year, unless there is a heavy rain, stream crossings should be relatively easy and dry, unless you fall in.

[Kevin]

Comfort has been key for me, so I found boots with support and a good fit. The boots I think you own now are more suited for function than form?

There have been times having a high ankle support has helped with water crossings, but generally if the crossing is extreme the only thing that will make a difference are gaiters.

[Dick]

Particularly when you get beyond Marcy Dam, mud will be an issue, so gaiters are a good idea.

[Boreal Chickadee]

Your 4 inch boots will be fine.

Only the Bradley Pond trail to the Santanoni's need higher boots, and for that you'd need hip boots to stay mud free

[dc9mm]

thanks

thanks everyone. I was hoping to use my lighter boots as there more comfortable too.

[JJW]

dc9mm wrote: 4" or 8" boots?

I choose depending on the trail, backpack load and sometimes temperature.

With my low shoes I tend to use gaiters, it keeps all the twigs, pebbles, dirt and most water from getting into my boot.

If it is hot I have nylon cloth gaiters.
With cooler weather I have been using a gaiter that is stretch neoprene (sp?)with velcro, with very good success (though in hot weather my ankles were sweating with them).

Have Fun,
John