boots

[dandekay]

Mary,
   Lightweight is the key, like everything else we carry.  So much of the
Camino is on well-packed paths that a light, comfortable (key word here!)
shoe or boot is all one needs.  It's been my experience that if one's feet
sweat much at all Goretex only serves to make them sweat more.
   Of course it's a very personal decision but I'd suggest staying away from
anything heavy.  If you're a runner you must have fairly strong ankles at
the least and 25 lbs isn't too much to put on your legs.   As for
waterproofing, you can coat your boots with an inexpensive spray or cream
that will prevent your feet getting soaked.  And of course there's always
the philosophy that if it's raining too hard it must be time for another
cafe con leche!
   Buen Camino,  and perhaps we'll meet up for I leave London on Sept. 19th
        Daniel
----- Original Message -----
From: "Mary Bolster" <BelizemcbaAOL.COM>
To: <GOCAMINOaPETE.URI.EDU>
Sent: Monday, July 28, 2003 2:48 PM
Subject: Re: boots


> I'm going to begin the Camino in late September, and am beginning to
gather
> my gear. I have never hiked anything close to this distance although I'm a
> runner and in good shape.
> My question to all of you is about boots. I tried on several types of
boots.
> The most comfortable was a lightweight hiker that was well ventilated but
not
> Gortex. I hesitated to buy it for two reasons: 1) it is below the ankle,
and
> while I'm not worried about support, I haven't carried 25# w/ a
lightweight
> low, boot; 2) it isn't waterproof, although the material wicks, and will
dry
> quickly. It is, by the way, the lightest weight of any boot I tried.  The
> "competition" is a hightop, Gortex boot that has a lot of support--but
feels
> constrictive consequently. So, it will keep out the rain, and protect my
ankles, but
> seems stiff.
> I'm interested in feedback from those of you who have walked the
> trail--especially those who are familiar w/ the walk in Fall.
> Thanks, Mary Catherine