On Thu, 01 Apr 2010 09:06:41 +0100, Geoff Berrow
wrote:

On Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:44:19 -0700, SMS
wrote:


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.

I was talking about trail shoes. I've never had boots without a
membrane and so can't tell you if they would be better or worse. I
limit my comments to situations where I have direct experience and
respect the fact that everyone's needs are different. I commend it to
you.

I have worn and tried many different types of boots, socks,
overtrouser and gaiter combinations over the years.

The very worst option is shorts and sealskinz socks in heavy rain.
Water runs down the legs and into the socks where it cannot escape.
Toes end up like prunes.

Waterproof trousers over gaiters is probably the best option in heavy
rain, but in snow the gaiters should be worn over the waterproof
trousers where there is a risk of a self-stabbing by crampon;
hopefully the tough fabric of the gaiter will prevent damage to
expensive waterproof trousers.

On 01/04/10 10:38 AM, Tom Crispin wrote:

Waterproof trousers over gaiters is probably the best option in heavy
rain, but in snow the gaiters should be worn over the waterproof
trousers where there is a risk of a self-stabbing by crampon;
hopefully the tough fabric of the gaiter will prevent damage to
expensive waterproof trousers.

For ice climbing this is the case, but for XC skiing the trousers won't
be damaged by anything. the classic knickers, with the gaiters over
them, is what used to be common for XC skiing before knickers went out
of fashion. Now with the plastic boots for back-country skiing there is
no need for waterproofing, but you still need gaiters. Some of the
higher end winter pants have integrated gaiters (along with a GoreTex
membrane of course).

SMS wrote:

For ice climbing this is the case, but for XC skiing the trousers won't
be damaged by anything

My XC skis have steel edges. Which I sharpen occasionally. They'll
carve up lightweight overtrousers easily enough.

Pete.
--
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

On Apr 21, 4:54*am, Peter Clinch wrote:
SMS wrote:
For ice climbing this is the case, but for XC skiing the trousers won't
be damaged by anything

My XC skis have steel edges. *Which I sharpen occasionally. *They'll
carve up lightweight overtrousers easily enough.

Heh. I just had a flash of ninja ski warriors, trekking through the
snow in their *white* ninja gear, with spring loaded knife edges
on their skis. And flame throwing ski poles. And avalanche tiggering
secret chants. And polar bear summoning. Oooh! Maybe a good
idea for a comic book.
Socks

On 21/04/10 1:54 AM, Peter Clinch wrote:
SMS wrote:

For ice climbing this is the case, but for XC skiing the trousers won't
be damaged by anything

My XC skis have steel edges. Which I sharpen occasionally. They'll
carve up lightweight overtrousers easily enough.

Ditto. Ditto.

What you're supposed to do is to keep the sharp steel edges against the
snow, not against your pants. I've mastered that skill, even while
telemarking. Apparently not everyone has.