Lets Talk Boots/Shoes/Socks

[dogwood]

Back in November, I went hiking from the Cheaha Trailhead north to 431 with a guy who was wearing the Vibram "Five Fingers"(toes?).  He walked on rocky ground around the Blue Mtn Shelter, and never complained once, the whole trip.  He said they were fairly comfortable...

[Jdevil]

Good luck to anyone finding the new KSO Trek, KSO, or Flow in Black on Black size 41 (10.5) until May.  I've looked and called around everywhere from Birmingham on north. Everyone is pretty much out of them until then! If you happen to find someone who has 'em, could you post the find and if they have anymore? Much appreciated! 

[erjack]

Keens almost exclusively...
If I have to wear boots, I wear Smartwools and Montrail boots.

[erjack]

E-mail from my Wife this morning...
She bought some new Keen's from Sierra Trading Post.com this morning.

"I am the bargain queen!!!!!!!!!!  I thought to check http://www.retailmenot.com before I finished checking out and found a coupon code for another 20% off (which also knocked the shipping cost down since it is based on your
total!!)  2 pairs of keens for what I paid for my first pair!"

[trailtigger]

Socks: Smartwool;  boots, used to be Vasque, but I won a pair of Timberland Cadions from Backpacker.com and love them.

[Rigormortis]

Montrail Hurricane Ridge (Stretch) for long backpacking trips.
Merrell Chameleon Wrap GTX XCR (Stretch) for overnight or two or three days.
Thorlo Socks, Smartwool sometime.
Croc's

[Pathfinder]

For all terrain, Blue Suede Shoes!

<a href="http://www.youtube.com/v/SUNcZqZq2QM&rel=0" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/v/SUNcZqZq2QM&rel=0</a>

[sam4msu]

I wore Keen Targee II's with green Superfeet for years.  I just replaced them with a pair of Salomon XT Wings with black, low volume, Superfeet.  I have just worn them around the neighborhood so far but hope to get a few miles on them shortly.  My only complaint so far is that they are a LOUD orange color!!!

[SmokeDiver]

Hey SmokeDiver.

I've been thinking about trying the Vibram Five Fingers... Was thinking about using them as a combo kayaking and lite hiking shoe.  Have you tried them over ground that is a little rocky or with gravel???  Just wondering how they protect from rocks, gravel, and sticks???

Thanks.

Sorry I took so long to get back to you. Back in February I hiked with them on FS209 from the Sipsey Rec area to Fall Creek, then used them to walk up the stream a good ways. No problems. I have since hiked many miles without a pack in them and I have had no problems save for one- pavement. Definitely keep yourself on softer ground with the Five Fingers shoes, I have chronic back problems if I'm not careful and the stress from walking on pavement in these caused a flare up of spasms. For people without back problems you may be fine on pavement, I just need a little more padding than these provide. As far as rocks, you will feel them but after a few miles you get used to being aware of where your foot is going. You will learn to soft step around obstacles. As far as using them for water sports, I've been very pleased. You will forget you are wearing them in the water, but the protection they provide is invaluable.

[Cuffs]

If you find the five-fingers in your size, get them!  All dealers are on back order til May!

[PastorLarryT]

If you find the five-fingers in your size, get them!  All dealers are on back order til May!

I am finding that to be a very true statement.  No luck in finding anyone in this area with a stock thus far.  Haven't checked in the Atlanta area yet...

[SmokeDiver]

I measured my foot according to the Five Fingers web site instructions and ordered my KSO's off the internet, can't remember where. I wear the largest size, I got lucky on the fit I guess. I hear Sikes and Kohn on HWY 231 in between Montgomery and Troy has some, I have no idea what brands. I haven't seen anyone in the Wiregrass wearing them. Had lot's of inquiries about where I got mine though. I think they will end up being the new "Croc's" fad.

[PastorLarryT]

Unfortunately Sikes & Kohn are out of men's FiveFingers - they may get a shipment in May.  Kinnucans has not received their shipment and is not expecting any until October.  AO in Montgomery is also out...

I've thought about on-line order from REI, but I'm hesitant to order shoes that way.  I much prefer to try them on.