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walking boots-- which are good?
Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a
good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. |
walking boots-- which are good?
On Feb 19, 10:58*pm, "john bently" wrote:
Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? *Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? *Thanks for any advice. John First step would be to think about the style of walking you're interested in doing. Maybe starting out you would be more likely to go on shorter walks on good tracks in National Parks or other well maintained bush tracks, generally in better weather. At that end you could even start with sand shoes, or like hikers. Mid hikers would be more suitable for slightly harder walks,and then there are a variety of "full" boots for the really serious walker John r |
walking boots-- which are good?
john bently wrote:
Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. Reviews are of little use beyond telling you what conditions a certain pair can be expected to handle. And they are of little use (and anecdotes of goodness of little use alongside them) because the absolutely crucial point is fit. There is a lot more to a shoe-size as to how well a boot fits as feet are complex 3 dimensional shapes and so are boots. it doesn't matter if they're lasted and stitched by God's Own Right Hand if they're a different shape to your feet. For example, my wife and I have quite different foot shapes: I like Scarpa and Teva, she doesn't like either. So I'd suggest you find a good shop that knows its boot-fitting (tell us where you are and suggestions can be made). Also, don't assume you need boots. I do most of my walking in shoes and sandals because they're lighter and have less stuff to rub, so more comfort, less tiring to walk in and less chance of rubbing (and blisters). Folk go on and on about ankle support being necessary, but the fact is that human ankles are perfectly adequate for walking and shouldn't need any extra propping up most of the time. Some things, like edging skis or standing on your toes on a tiny hold or carrying outsize loads ankles haven't evolved to carry, do benefit from extra ankle support, but /walking/ is actually harder as your foot is more restricted from normal flexing. Some boots benefit from being stiffer, for example to take crampons or walking over very rough stone paths, but in other places again they just prevent your foot from conforming naturally to the terrain and make walking more tiring. In summary, try on a good selection with a good fitter (who can do things like add volume adjusters and short-cut to models/brands suitable for you foot-shape) and depending on where and what you have in mind don't assume you particularly need boots. 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/ |
walking boots-- which are good?
In message , john bently
writes Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. I have some very good walking shoes by Merrill. They are like trainers only heavier and are waterproof as well as being warm. they are lighter than the leather boots I have for walking and give a good support. The cost was around 70GBP but they may have gone up in price a little since 2008, when I bought mine. HTH -- June Hughes |
walking boots-- which are good?
"john bently" wrote ... Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. There are some excellent makes out there, I myself use a pair of old Zamberlan Civetta classic leather boots but also have a pair of Meindl approach shoes for the better weather, actually bought them after a fall on Exmoor made it impossible to wear my boots for nearly two years due to Achillies Heel damage. The important thing is do they fit and feel comfortable and have they got a good grippy sole. (Vibram is THE sole make) Look for a shop that will allow you to try the boots on for some time and walk around in them, some even have slopes etc for you to walk on to make sure they fit and don't hurt your toes on downward slopes etc. Some even allow you change the boots provided you haven't walked outside in them so you can walk around at home for some time to ensure they stay comfortable over time. Make sure you take your thick walking socks and liners with you and don't be precious about the size, comfortable fit is the only consideration. If you are spending £130+ on good leather boots to last most of a lifetime you have to get it right, approach shoes cost about £60 but are not all-weather. http://www.zamberlan.uk.com/ http://www.meindl.de/english/index.html -- Regards Bob Hobden W.of London. UK |
walking boots-- which are good?
On Fri, 19 Feb 2010 11:58:52 -0000, "john bently"
wrote: Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. After you've got the boots, don't forget that it's virtually illegal nowadays to walk outside the house without the use of Nordic Walking Sticks, even if you're just popping round the corner for a paper. -- (¯`·. ®óñ© © ²°¹° .·´¯) |
walking boots-- which are good?
Bob Hobden wrote:
If you are spending £130+ on good leather boots to last most of a lifetime you have to get it right, approach shoes cost about £60 but are not all-weather. What weather aren't they? 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/ |
walking boots-- which are good?
®óñ© © ²°¹° wrote:
After you've got the boots, don't forget that it's virtually illegal nowadays to walk outside the house without the use of Nordic Walking Sticks, even if you're just popping round the corner for a paper. Note that trekking poles and Nordic Walking sticks have some overlap but may be rather different. NW is an exercise regime and the poling technique is meant to burn energy. Use of trekking poles, like other walking sticks, is to give balance and spread load. NW poles often have glove-type grips, which are great for power transfer into the poles but a PITA on a walking stick because they're so awkward in and out. For more on trekking poles, see http://www.personal.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/poles.htm (I like them on a really big day, but for most walking I prefer to do without as they just get in the way.) 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/ |
walking boots-- which are good?
On Fri, 19 Feb 2010 11:58:52 -0000, john bently
wrote: Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. You may want to have a look at http://www.outdoorsmagic.com for reviews. If you are prepared to pay around 100/150ukp Scarpa do a very good range. -- rbel |
walking boots-- which are good?
In message , June Hughes
writes In message , john bently writes Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. I have some very good walking shoes by Merrill. They are like trainers only heavier and are waterproof as well as being warm. they are lighter than the leather boots I have for walking and give a good support. The cost was around 70GBP but they may have gone up in price a little since 2008, when I bought mine. HTH If it hasn't been mentioned before, there is a newsgroup for walkers which offers an FAQ on boots and walking footwear. May I suggest you subscribe and post to uk.rec.walking. The group is extremely knowledgeable and very helpful. -- Gopher .... I know my place! |
walking boots-- which are good?
rbel wrote:
You may want to have a look at http://www.outdoorsmagic.com for reviews. I'm an OM user and do reviews for the site from time to time... but I'd be very wary of them. Consumer reviews often polarise into "this is great" or "this sucks", as a way of underlining to oneself that you bought the Best Thing, or getting back at the purveyor of something perceived to have let you down. As the OM review writing guide notes, most gear /should/ be 3 star, but there's an outsize incidence of 5 start reviews... It's also the case that user-reviewers seldom have much to comparatively test against, and even if they did they'd rate a boot the right shape much higher than an otherwise identical built on a last that might better fit a prospective buyer. If you are prepared to pay around 100/150ukp Scarpa do a very good range. They're only good if they happen to be the right shape for you. They are for /me/, but I've friends and acquaintances that hate them with a passion. Similarly, La Sportiva are very nice... for some people other than me. 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/ |
walking boots-- which are good?
Peter Clinch wrote:
Also, don't assume you need boots. In fact, assume that you don't. Get a well fitting running shoe, or a lightweight trail shoe. Boots are overkill for most hiking. Lightweight shoes will allow you to use a more natural stride, and will be less effort to walk in. |
walking boots-- which are good?
In message , Gopher
writes In message , June Hughes writes In message , john bently writes Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. I have some very good walking shoes by Merrill. They are like trainers only heavier and are waterproof as well as being warm. they are lighter than the leather boots I have for walking and give a good support. The cost was around 70GBP but they may have gone up in price a little since 2008, when I bought mine. HTH If it hasn't been mentioned before, there is a newsgroup for walkers which offers an FAQ on boots and walking footwear. May I suggest you subscribe and post to uk.rec.walking. The group is extremely knowledgeable and very helpful. The op cross-posted to a selection of groups (including uk.rec.walking). Hence the whole selection of groups except this one being stripped out in my reply. If he is that interested, which I doubt, he will look here for an answer. -- June Hughes |
walking boots-- which are good?
On Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:45:42 +0000, Gopher wrote:
In message , June Hughes writes In message , john bently writes Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. I have some very good walking shoes by Merrill. They are like trainers only heavier and are waterproof as well as being warm. they are lighter than the leather boots I have for walking and give a good support. The cost was around 70GBP but they may have gone up in price a little since 2008, when I bought mine. HTH If it hasn't been mentioned before, there is a newsgroup for walkers which offers an FAQ on boots and walking footwear. May I suggest you subscribe and post to uk.rec.walking. The group is extremely knowledgeable and very helpful. May I point out that the original poster included uk.rec.walking in the submission of his query to several cross-posted groups. -- (¯`·. ®óñ© © ²°¹° .·´¯) |
walking boots-- which are good?
Scott Bryce wrote:
Peter Clinch wrote: Also, don't assume you need boots. In fact, assume that you don't. Get a well fitting running shoe, or a lightweight trail shoe. Boots are overkill for most hiking. Lightweight shoes will allow you to use a more natural stride, and will be less effort to walk in. Indeed. Worth noting with running shoes is that not all grip patterns are up to much off-road. You want some degree of cleats/studs/lugs to deal with mud, unless you like sitting down a lot... The more flexible the sole the more you'll get sore feet walking on hard and uneven surfaces, but the less effort you'll waste on soft and/or even ones. 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/ |
walking boots-- which are good?
On Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:08:45 -0700, Scott Bryce
wrote: Peter Clinch wrote: Also, don't assume you need boots. In fact, assume that you don't. Get a well fitting running shoe, or a lightweight trail shoe. Boots are overkill for most hiking. Lightweight shoes will allow you to use a more natural stride, and will be less effort to walk in. Yes, hiking in rocks and walking level terrain are different. I walked many miles a days some years ago and found that what shoes you wear make a huge difference. And price doesn't mean much. I found New Balance running shoes best. Can't remember the model, but they weren't expensive compared to others and hiking boots. Cushion is important when you're pounding your heels down mile after mile. I was lucky that a marathoner I knew recommended them. Saved me expensive trial and error. For putting on miles, it might be good to google what marathoners use. --Vic |
walking boots-- which are good?
"john bently" wrote in message
... Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. My choice : Skateboard trainers for dry conditions. (stiffish soles, good grip, no tread) Specialized Rockhoppers without SPD cleats for wet and muddy conditions (very stiff soles, lots of tread, slightly more water resistant) |
walking boots-- which are good?
Vic Smith wrote:
I found New Balance running shoes best. Can't remember the model, but they weren't expensive compared to others and hiking boots. Again, what works depends on your feet. I like NB in their 2E width fitting, but again it's down to individual feet. I also like Saucony, but not Adidas, others have different feet and different preferences. Cushion is important when you're pounding your heels down mile after mile. I was lucky that a marathoner I knew recommended them. The particular ground you're on makes a difference. Running on streets means a hard surface and exaggerated footfalls from running rather than walking. Also, different folk have a different strike, those with a heavy heel-plant probably need more cushioning than others. More cushioning means a higher shoe, which means less control of the foot: it's notable that fell-running shoes have practically no cushioning, partly as they're for soft ground where the ground does the cushioning, and partly to minimise the chances of turning an ankle getting nasty by providing extra leverage from the extra shoe height. Saved me expensive trial and error. For putting on miles, it might be good to google what marathoners use. Trail running shoes, which have more aggressive outsoles than street shoes and usually tougher uppers, may be a better place to look unless the OP is planning on walking around streets. 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/ |
walking boots-- which are good?
"Peter Clinch" wrote... Bob Hobden wrote: If you are spending £130+ on good leather boots to last most of a lifetime you have to get it right, approach shoes cost about £60 but are not all-weather. What weather aren't they? Like now when everywhere is inches under water/mud. Their soles also tend to be not so grippy as the full blown boot as I have found to my cost traversing a slope in a snow storm! Of course that may just be the ones I've got. -- Regards Bob Hobden W.of London. UK |
walking boots-- which are good?
"john bently" wrote in message ... Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. I was in the same position about 5 years ago. I went to Milletts and bought a pair of Peter Storm lightweight walking boots for about £40. I tried on several, but these immediately felt almost comfortable enough to sleep in! Don't buy anything which you think will "wear in" - they either feel good straight away or they don't. I've had a lot of use out of them, and they are light enough to walk on road or off road in grotty weather, plus great grips. They gave away a couple of pairs of socks with them as well, which are still going strong. Decent socks are important, no ridges and providing a comfortable lining to the boot. Just go to somewhere like Millets and see how you get on! Barb |
walking boots-- which are good?
Barb wrote:
"john bently" wrote in message ... Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. I was in the same position about 5 years ago. I went to Milletts and bought a pair of Peter Storm lightweight walking boots for about £40. I tried on several, but these immediately felt almost comfortable enough to sleep in! Don't buy anything which you think will "wear in" - they either feel good straight away or they don't. Thats not right. My current boots were a tad tight over the top of the foot, but wore in fine and are by far the most comfortable for walking I have ever had. I've had a lot of use out of them, and they are light enough to walk on road or off road in grotty weather, plus great grips. They gave away a couple of pairs of socks with them as well, which are still going strong. Decent socks are important, no ridges and providing a comfortable lining to the boot. And its important to avoid pure synthetics too. Just go to somewhere like Millets and see how you get on! |
walking boots-- which are good?
On Fri, 19 Feb 2010 13:26:41 -0000, Bob Hobden wrote:
The important thing is do they fit and feel comfortable and have they got a good grippy sole. (Vibram is THE sole make) IME Vibram soles both skid easily and wear out rapidly. I'm interested in Haglofs boots with the Hypergrip sole - would it live up to its name? -- Peter. 2x4 - thick plank; 4x4 - two of 'em. |
walking boots-- which are good?
"PeterC" wrote... Bob Hobden wrote: The important thing is do they fit and feel comfortable and have they got a good grippy sole. (Vibram is THE sole make) IME Vibram soles both skid easily and wear out rapidly. Not in my experience, certainly not as bad as some others. Probably depends on the tread pattern. I'm interested in Haglofs boots with the Hypergrip sole - would it live up to its name? -- Regards Bob Hobden W.of London. UK |
walking boots-- which are good?
In message
Vic Smith wrote: On Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:08:45 -0700, Scott Bryce wrote: Peter Clinch wrote: Also, don't assume you need boots. In fact, assume that you don't. Get a well fitting running shoe, or a lightweight trail shoe. Boots are overkill for most hiking. Lightweight shoes will allow you to use a more natural stride, and will be less effort to walk in. Yes, hiking in rocks and walking level terrain are different. Solid level terrain is also different from giving level terrain and rocks. I wear boots (don't fancy picking my way along the top of the Scafells in shoes), and they're fine there, they're fine on level, good stony paths, and they knacker me on roads. -- Simon Challands |
walking boots-- which are good?
PeterC wrote in
IME Vibram soles both skid easily and wear out rapidly. My previous boots' leather gave up the ghost after nearly a quarter of a century. The vibram was still in perfectly adequate condition. Vibram can aquaplane, particularly on smooth stone surfaces. I haven't tested whether other materials and/or tread patterns are better or worse. |
walking boots-- which are good?
john bently wrote:
Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. Buying a hiking boot from a review is like buying a dog from a review. Fit is essential between your foot shape and your hiking boot choice. You can get a great boot that doesn't fit your feet, and pretend that you have made the best choice. Some people buy a dog based on how they and the dog get along together. That is probably a better match than a dog from a breed that experts like. The common wisdom being passed around today is that fit is most important. After that there are some other things like getting a rugged boot for rugged conditions, or not getting a boot with a sole that is slick when wet. Those are things that boot reviews can be good for. I bought a well known brand of boot that was slick as snail snot when wet, and threw them out after the second fall. A review might have helped me avoid that. Magazines aren't good places for gear reviews anymore, as publishers hate to give an advertiser a lousy review. That can be bad for the publication business. You might try http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/ They (backpackgeartest.com) accept samples from industry and volunteer/users provide reviews of the equipment. In addition, owners of gear have been known to submit their own reviews of equipment they have purchased. I have also heard of http://gearjunkie.com/ |
walking boots-- which are good?
pamela wrote
john bently wrote Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. Buying a hiking boot from a review is like buying a dog from a review. Nothing like in fact. Fit is essential between your foot shape and your hiking boot choice. Yes, but it does make sense to get a boot that has good reviews on its design detail and THEN make sure it fits well too. You can get a great boot that doesn't fit your feet, and pretend that you have made the best choice. Some people buy a dog based on how they and the dog get along together. Thats very difficult to do with very young puppys particularly. That is probably a better match than a dog from a breed that experts like. Or you could have enough of a clue to work out what breed you want from the breed characteristics and then work out which of the dogs that are available from the breed you like and then you will be more likely to end up with the sort of dog you want, given the behaviour that particular breed is known for etc. The common wisdom being passed around today is that fit is most important. Yes, but its is also important that the design is well done too and its well made etc as well. After that there are some other things like getting a rugged boot for rugged conditions, or not getting a boot with a sole that is slick when wet. Those are things that boot reviews can be good for. And for other things like how well it lasts and how well made it is etc. I bought a well known brand of boot that was slick as snail snot when wet, and threw them out after the second fall. A review might have helped me avoid that. It might indeed. Magazines aren't good places for gear reviews anymore, as publishers hate to give an advertiser a lousy review. That can be bad for the publication business. You might try http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/ They (backpackgeartest.com) accept samples from industry and volunteer/users provide reviews of the equipment. But its less clear how many of them are competant reviewers and whether they will use them the way you plan to etc. In addition, owners of gear have been known to submit their own reviews of equipment they have purchased. Trouble with those, they arent likely to have tried too many alternatives. I have also heard of http://gearjunkie.com/ |
walking boots-- which are good?
Not saying its right for you but I wear L.L.Bean Trail Model Hikers and I
find them very comfortable. If you have a store near you, you can always go in and try them out. They also have a great satisfaction guarantee. "john bently" wrote in message ... Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. --- news://freenews.netfront.net/ - complaints: --- |
walking boots-- which are good?
On 20/02/2010 17:44, Bob Hobden wrote:
"PeterC" wrote... Bob Hobden wrote: The important thing is do they fit and feel comfortable and have they got a good grippy sole. (Vibram is THE sole make) IME Vibram soles both skid easily and wear out rapidly. Not in my experience, certainly not as bad as some others. Probably depends on the tread pattern. There are numerous different flavours of Vibram soles, and not all are equal, but IME they do grip better than most of the alternatives. As far as boots go .. well I've destroyed or abandoned about 10 pairs now (3 still on the go) .. for best fit at full price (for MY feet) I like the commercial Alt-berg ones, since they come in 5 width fittings, and half sizes, although not all stockists stock all of them. My last pair lasted 1500 miles, and was comfy quite fast. If you want cheaper, then I'm quite happy with the Johncliffe Scafell boot, for about 1/3rd of the price - I got mine via Amazon. Hawkshead Lomer also used to be good (for me) but are now gone. Karrimor Skye/Orkney work well for deep stuff in winter, but are a bit high for real comfort, and take a long time to wear in. But as everyone has said - fit is most important, followed by a decent sole, and if you're out on mud / grass etc you need some =edges= .. rounded heels will dump you on the first slope you try to traverse.. -- GSV Three Minds in a Can 16,110 Km walked. 2,937 Km PROWs surveyed. 53.1% complete. |
walking boots-- which are good?
On Sun, 21 Feb 2010 00:05:14 GMT, Tom wrote:
PeterC wrote in IME Vibram soles both skid easily and wear out rapidly. My previous boots' leather gave up the ghost after nearly a quarter of a century. The vibram was still in perfectly adequate condition. Yes, my old boots are OK after a lot of walking, but the Scarpa soles were well worn after about a year and mainly flatt(ish) ground. They also skid on a clean, wet road (where my bike tyres are difficult to lock (well, rear wheel!) and last for 3,000 miles. Vibram can aquaplane, particularly on smooth stone surfaces. I haven't tested whether other materials and/or tread patterns are better or worse. It'd need a lot of water and speed to get those cleats to aquaplane! -- Peter. 2x4 - thick plank; 4x4 - two of 'em. |
walking boots-- which are good?
"Peter Clinch" wrote in message ... Scott Bryce wrote: Peter Clinch wrote: Also, don't assume you need boots. In fact, assume that you don't. Get a well fitting running shoe, or a lightweight trail shoe. Boots are overkill for most hiking. Lightweight shoes will allow you to use a more natural stride, and will be less effort to walk in. Indeed. Worth noting with running shoes is that not all grip patterns are up to much off-road. You want some degree of cleats/studs/lugs to deal with mud, unless you like sitting down a lot... The more flexible the sole the more you'll get sore feet walking on hard and uneven surfaces, but the less effort you'll waste on soft and/or even ones. Pete. FWIW, my preference for trail shoes would be Meindle(Scout). they are waterproof and very durable, oh yes- and comfortable. Bill |
walking boots-- which are good?
"®óñ© © ²°¹°" wrote in message ... On Fri, 19 Feb 2010 11:58:52 -0000, "john bently" wrote: Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. After you've got the boots, don't forget that it's virtually illegal nowadays to walk outside the house without the use of Nordic Walking Sticks, even if you're just popping round the corner for a paper. So I should be safe using my two hazel thumbsticks then :-) -- (¯`·. ®óñ© © ²°¹° .·´¯) |
walking boots-- which are good?
PeterC wrote in
: On Sun, 21 Feb 2010 00:05:14 GMT, Tom wrote: Vibram can aquaplane, particularly on smooth stone surfaces. I haven't tested whether other materials and/or tread patterns are better or worse. It'd need a lot of water and speed to get those cleats to aquaplane! :) Ah, but it only needs to aquaplane for the very short time until the balance is sufficiently upset. After that it doesn't matter whether the water has had time to be squeezed into the cleats, because the entire boot is nowhere the ground! |
walking boots-- which are good?
"Gopher" wrote in message ... In message , June Hughes writes In message , john bently writes Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? Thanks for any advice. I have some very good walking shoes by Merrill. They are like trainers only heavier and are waterproof as well as being warm. they are lighter than the leather boots I have for walking and give a good support. The cost was around 70GBP but they may have gone up in price a little since 2008, when I bought mine. HTH If it hasn't been mentioned before, there is a newsgroup for walkers which offers an FAQ on boots and walking footwear. May I suggest you subscribe and post to uk.rec.walking. The group is extremely knowledgeable and very helpful. I've only just noticed the coss posting. John's query has been addressed quite enthusiastically on uk.rec.walking. I admit to having failed to notice the cross posting. Bill |
walking boots-- which are good?
On 19 Feb, 12:20, Peter Clinch wrote:
john bently wrote: Now i have retired I would like to start walking. Would anyone know of a good place to see some *critical* reviews of the different walking boots available please? *Apparently the last consumers association review was done way back in april 2006. Or would anyone know of some boots (preferably not too expensive) that are generally believed by many people to be a good buy? *Thanks for any advice. Reviews are of little use beyond telling you what conditions a certain pair can be expected to handle. And they are of little use (and anecdotes of goodness of little use alongside them) because the absolutely crucial point is fit. *There is a lot more to a shoe-size as to how well a boot fits as feet are complex 3 dimensional shapes and so are boots. *it doesn't matter if they're lasted and stitched by God's Own Right Hand if they're a different shape to your feet. *For example, my wife and I have quite different foot shapes: I like Scarpa and Teva, she doesn't like either. So I'd suggest you find a good shop that knows its boot-fitting (tell us where you are and suggestions can be made). Also, don't assume you need boots. *I do most of my walking in shoes and sandals because they're lighter and have less stuff to rub, so more comfort, less tiring to walk in and less chance of rubbing (and blisters). *Folk go on and on about ankle support being necessary, but the fact is that human ankles are perfectly adequate for walking and shouldn't need any extra propping up most of the time. *Some things, like edging skis or standing on your toes on a tiny hold or carrying outsize loads ankles haven't evolved to carry, do benefit from extra ankle support, but /walking/ is actually harder as your foot is more restricted from normal flexing. *Some boots benefit from being stiffer, for example to take crampons or walking over very rough stone paths, but in other places again they just prevent your foot from conforming naturally to the terrain and make walking more tiring. In summary, try on a good selection with a good fitter (who can do things like add volume adjusters and short-cut to models/brands suitable for you foot-shape) and depending on where and what you have in mind don't assume you particularly need boots. 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/ I'm not an Inov-8 salesman but south of the border I can't see the point in boots. For just trail stuff the f-lites are great, and as Pete suggested the mud-rocs have sufficient lugs to cope with mud, grass, etc. Hopefully, the old-fashioned view of must wear boots on the hill is diminishing? |
walking boots-- which are good?
On 20 Feb, 17:54, Simon Challands
wrote: In message * * * * * Vic Smith wrote: On Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:08:45 -0700, Scott Bryce wrote: Peter Clinch wrote: Also, don't assume you need boots. In fact, assume that you don't. Get a well fitting running shoe, or a lightweight trail shoe. Boots are overkill for most hiking. Lightweight shoes will allow you to use a more natural stride, and will be less effort to walk in. Yes, hiking in rocks and walking level terrain are different. Solid level terrain is also different from giving level terrain and rocks. I wear boots (don't fancy picking my way along the top of the Scafells in shoes), and they're fine there, they're fine on level, good stony paths, and they knacker me on roads. -- Simon Challands "(don't fancy picking my way along the top of the Scafells in shoes)" A light pair of Inov-8's will see you skipping across the rocks? ;-) |
walking boots-- which are good?
On Sun, 21 Feb 2010 12:34:33 -0800 (PST), FenlandRunner wrote:
ot an Inov-8 salesman but south of the border I can't see the point in boots. For just trail stuff the f-lites are great, and as Pete suggested the mud-rocs have sufficient lugs to cope with mud, grass, etc. Hopefully, the old-fashioned view of must wear boots on the hill is diminishing? Well, walking across fields yesterday, after the frost was going, would have been very messy in shoes! In several places the mud was half way up the boots and in others there were about 2 - 3" of icy water. Not too easy to avoid these when on footpaths near farms. -- Peter. 2x4 - thick plank; 4x4 - two of 'em. |
walking boots-- which are good?
In article ,
PeterC wrote: On Sun, 21 Feb 2010 12:34:33 -0800 (PST), FenlandRunner wrote: ot an Inov-8 salesman but south of the border I can't see the point in boots. For just trail stuff the f-lites are great, and as Pete suggested the mud-rocs have sufficient lugs to cope with mud, grass, etc. Hopefully, the old-fashioned view of must wear boots on the hill is diminishing? Well, walking across fields yesterday, after the frost was going, would have been very messy in shoes! In several places the mud was half way up the boots and in others there were about 2 - 3" of icy water. Not too easy to avoid these when on footpaths near farms. Heather is quite fun in shoes, too. Boot keep most of it out, and boots+gaiters are more-or-less proof against it. Also, the simple padding is quite important for rocky going; a clip on the ankle is enough to make it quite hard to walk. Regards, Nick Maclaren. |
walking boots-- which are good?
FenlandRunner wrote:
Hopefully, the old-fashioned view of must wear boots on the hill is diminishing? Depends on what is being done: One or two week treks with heavy packs, often in less than ideal seasons (my typical "hill" use, due to geographic reasons) would be pretty miserable without boots... Sometimes miserable with! ;-) (I've had boots go mouldy in Scotland!!!) |
walking boots-- which are good?
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