When you don't want to have different boots for different circumstances...

[twochordcool]

I'd like to get a new set of really good hiking / backpacking boots.

I currently do more backpacking than hiking.

But I'd rather not have to buy 2 differents sets of boots - one for simply hiking, and another for backpacking.

Can you recommend a great boot that is versatile enough for both - light and flexible enough for rugged day hikes yet rigid and solid enough for backpacking?

Thanks in advance.

[redhawk]

I really don't see any different need in boots between the two, dayhiking or backpacking. Unless you;re figuring that "backpacking" boots would be lighter then "hiking" boots.

Now, the type of terrain you are going to be on might make a difference, as would weather. Only thing I have different boots for is winter, and the other 3 seasons. The winter boots being insulated ad having a more aggressive tread then my 3 seasons.

That said, I don't have a particular brand, it depends on the best value or "deal" available at the time. My last three pairs of 3 seasons boots have all been different brands. All have been lightweight and waterproof and all have been under $100.00. All have lasted me for a reasonable period of time, been comfortable, supported my ankles well and have been lightweight, waterproof and breathable. I have been able to hike 'out of the box" with each pair without experiencing any discomfort or getting blisters.

I have had Merill, Hi-Tech and currently Danners and all 3 pair were less then $100.00, the latest being $70.00. When it comes to feet, and backpacking walking, running, hiking, etc, I think the more important thing is the proper socks.

Hawk

[chairrock]

I agree with Hawk. I like my Vasque Sundowners very much for both hiking and backpacking.They are a bit more than $100 but have held up for years.
The new ones are made in China,less expensive than the original Italian ones, but they seem to be holding up just as well.They are all leather with goretex.Do a gooogle .( and good wool socks as hawk says)I got two pairs of a medium cut Vasque on sale for $75 a pair,wish I had bought them all....They are heavier than a sneaker but too light for backpacking..and not all leather so they haven't held up as well but are equally comfortable,If I find a boot that is comfortable I tend to stock up if I can!

[twochordcool]

Thanks Redhawk and Chairock.

Redhawk, I just recently took notice of the Danner boots - they seem to make some really nice boots - some are a little pricey.

Chairock, I have noticed that the Sundowners have been EXTREMELY popular over the years and were abandoned by a lot of people, perhaps irrationally and unfairly, once they were starting to be made in China instead of Italy.

Asolo seem to make some excellent boots and I noticed at outdoor review that the LL Bean Cresta Hikers are giving the 520's a run for their money.

[Justin]

I use a pair of Gore-Tex "Rocky Timberwolf Pro-Hunter" boots with 800 grams thinsulate that I bought at "Dicks" about 3 years ago. I can't remember what I paid for them. $150 maybe. I ONLY wear them when day-hiking or backpacking during Spring, Summer, and Fall. They're very light weight compared to most hunting boots. I've never had a problem with them 'till recently. The leather is just now starting to breakdown and letting in some water, so I'll probably get new boots before spring.

I hear great things about "Cabela's" boots, and I wear a pair of them when snowshoeing, and my feet have never been cold or wet. --Justin

[twochordcool]

Yeah Justin, Cabelas make some good boots as well - I was overwhelmed by the choices while looking over the boots at their website and their catalog.

And Rocky seem to make some nice boots also.

I think that's my problem - I'm overwhelmed by so many choices and it makes me TOTALLY indecisive - I'm paralyzed and can't "pull the trigger" on any of them until I feel sure about my selection! I'm looking to find a way to have a few stand out from the pack...and then I'll choose.

[Judgeh]

I've hiked and backpacked with Danner Explorers for sometime now. I'm tall and heavy and motor with one artificial knee so I require more support than most folks. They're a heavy boot and not stylish at all, but they work for me. The doc says I should get new ones every year and this reminds me it's that time!

[Bill I.]

Like everyone else, I've never seen or even thought of the need for different hiking/backpacking boots. They are all the same. I could never order boots from a catalog or online--this is the type of thing I have to go into a store for. I want to try them on before I hand over my credit card. This also narrows down my choices to whatever the store happens to have in stock.

Also, I've never been too choosy about brands and models. Even if I bought a pair that I absolutely loved, it probably won't be available two years later when I'm shopping around again.

Just my two cents.

[redhawk]

I've hiked and backpacked with Danner Explorers for sometime now. I'm tall and heavy and motor with one artificial knee so I require more support than most folks. They're a heavy boot and not stylish at all, but they work for me. The doc says I should get new ones every year and this reminds me it's that time!

You Motor?? Is that what you call whatever that pace you keep is?

Hawk

[Volte]

I have been sporting Vasque Alpine's (no longer made) for the past 7 years. I really abuse them out in the bush, but take the time to clean and dress them properly when I get back home. I only wore them around "town" to break them in, otherwise dirt, mud, snow and water and snow are the only thing they tread on.

The Vasques are starting to show signs of the past abuse so I got a new pair of "breakin" boots. Montrails, just like Hawk said, less than $100.00.

If you want to shop online; try Zappos.com..... no charge for shipping, both directions.... order 3 sizes, keep the one that fits and send the other 2 pair back.

[Judgeh]

You Motor?? Is that what you call whatever that pace you keep is?

Hawk

O.K. you're right. "Shamble" is probably more accurate on the uphill. "Plunge" on the downhill.

[James_W]

The Dunham Waffle Stompers were great for backpacking and hiking, they fit well even with crampons. La Sportiva Trango EVO boots are fantastic for pretty much anything.