SMS wrote:
On 31/03/10 3:03 PM, Geoff Berrow wrote:

snip

I have had both. I prefer the Goretex lined ones. Very useful when
walking through wet grass.

Wet grass?! I wouldn't hesitate to wear non-waterproof boots in wet
grass, it's hiking in the rain, across streams, and on rough trails with
a lot of puddles that you really want boots with a GoreTex (or some
other brand) of breathable membrane.


Again you evidently have different uses for your shoes than I do.
I find wet grass has much more of a wetting potential than the
occasional (or even fairly frequent) dip into water. Then, again, I'm
often off established trails.

Again, because I'm often on the go for several days at a time, I find
quick drying more important than keeping out every last bit of moisture.

And, again, when my feet do get seriously wet, it's from water or snow
coming in through the top. Your "miracle membrane" won't stop that and
will take *much* longer to dry.

There is no one-size-fits-all. Your mindless preaching about Gore-Tex
shoes being ideal for everyone and in all situations really is becoming
ridiculous.

On Thu, 01 Apr 2010 08:19:21 +0200, Christopher Loffredo
wrote:

There is no one-size-fits-all. Your mindless preaching about Gore-Tex
shoes being ideal for everyone and in all situations really is becoming
ridiculous.

I agree. I'm happy with membranes because as I've got older my feet
don't sweat as much. Not everyone is the same.
--
Geoff Berrow (Put thecat out to email)
It's only Usenet, no one dies.
My opinions, not the committee's, mine.
Simple RFDs www.4theweb.co.uk/rfdmaker

On 31/03/10 11:19 PM, Christopher Loffredo wrote:

snip

And, again, when my feet do get seriously wet, it's from water or snow
coming in through the top.

In the U.S. we use gaiters to prevent snow or water from coming in over
the top. Also, in areas where you'd likely be stepping into puddles or
streams it's best to get a higher boot.

You can learn about them here
"http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/gaiters.html".

SMS wrote:
On 31/03/10 11:19 PM, Christopher Loffredo wrote:

snip

And, again, when my feet do get seriously wet, it's from water or snow
coming in through the top.

In the U.S. we use gaiters to prevent snow or water from coming in over
the top. Also, in areas where you'd likely be stepping into puddles or
streams it's best to get a higher boot.

You can learn about them here
"http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/gaiters.html".

Well, in these more backward parts of the planet, we also have gaiters.

Problem is, primitive people like myself sometimes tend to postpone
putting them on until it's a bit too late...

On 01/04/2010 16:36, SMS wrote:


In the U.S. we use gaiters to prevent snow or water from coming in over
the top. Also, in areas where you'd likely be stepping into puddles or
streams it's best to get a higher boot.



And thus having an already waterproof boot as in dressed leather
absolutely negates any advantage in having a membrane lining!

On 01/04/10 9:54 AM, Gordon wrote:
On 01/04/2010 16:36, SMS wrote:


In the U.S. we use gaiters to prevent snow or water from coming in over
the top. Also, in areas where you'd likely be stepping into puddles or
streams it's best to get a higher boot.



And thus having an already waterproof boot as in dressed leather
absolutely negates any advantage in having a membrane lining!

Yes if you're getting a full-grain leather boot and using Sno-Seal or
other wax product, then the boots are essentially waterproof without the
need for a membrane.

For better or for worse, not many people spend the money on full grain
leather hiking boots or hiking shoes. Part of it may be weight related.
The waterproof-breathable membrane, GoreTex or other, is necessary on
boots and shoes that are not sealed, full grain leather. However
remember that not everyone seals full grain leather because it affects
the breathability. That's why higher end full-grain leather hiking boots
still usually have a GoreTex membrane.

Just look at what the military specifies, as I referenced in an earlier
post. They aren't looking to save a few bucks, they want the best
product for the job. That's why you see them using a GoreTex membrane in
boots.