boots , trail runners, sandals

[Russ Irwin]

I wore Rockport Alamosas (not sure of the spelling) with 3rd party insoles that had a good arch
support. They are a high quality, low cut, hiking shoe. While many others were getting blisters upon
blisters, I never got even the slighest trace of a blister. My back, however, became a different
problem because of an ill fitting backpack, and I had to call it quits after Belorado. I'm still
making plans on picking up the Camino from there in the future.

Russ

On Tue, 22 Jan 2002 15:09:54 -0800, you wrote:

>I initially thought of taking a pair of midweight boots (Vasque Sundowner
>MX). (About 3 lbs. 7 oz.) . However, after getting your message I began to
>reconsider. Last summer I worked with a geology field group up along
>American Ridge and over by the PC Trail in the southern Washington Cascades.
>I wore a pair of low cut Lowe Tempest trail runners and they were fine. (2
>lbs.) We did a lot of rock scrambling, climbing and cross-country as well as
>trail walking. They held up real well; though the previous year I ruined a
>similar part on jagged basalt and talus.
>
>My pack will weigh little more than 16 lb., if that. I read you loud and
>clear about the mud, however, it was suggested that I take a pair of
>gaiters. Not a bad idea, I think. My remaining concern is durability. Do you
>think a good pair of trail runners will last 500 miles?
>