Boots vs hiking shoes

[Kathy Gower]

>
>I'd also like to ask Kathy whether she lost the toenails because of
>bad fitting boots/shoes?

Hi Russs,

I wore (and stil wear) Mephisto Hiking boots that were the proper size---however, I was carrying a bag that weighed about 30 pounds and the downhill from St. Jean into Roncesvalles set off some nasry blisters.  I think I'll still wear them this September, but will reduce my pack load significantly.  All that stuff wasn't really necessary and caused my arches to flatten out, thus the toe rubs.  I apreciated the ankle support (I have the identical walking shoes as well) but I've seen people walk in everything from flip flops to sneakers to military style heavy boots.

There is alot of up and down hills, flat roads on blacktop, fording streams and thick mud at times, even sharp stones.  No matter.  Go for comfort and kiss the ground every morning before you walk.