Boots, shoes or both................

[Rob]

I've been wondering what the trend is out on the trails these days as far as footwear is concerned. I used to wear boots all the time but have since gone to "trail shoes".
I am currently wearing Montrail XCR type. I like them because they fit my odd feet the best, I have a narrow heel, high instep and wide at the toes which can make for some very ill fitting footwear. So far they have proven to be durable and the Goretex provides adequite water repellancy for "normal" use of this type shoe. Any opinions on this subject?

[Rob]

Sorry folks, this post seems to parallel one that I just saw in the news/podcast post......not intentionally

[Joshua Szulecki]

For me it depends on the terrain. On a gravel or paved trail, on a very short trail, or when walking in streams during summer I tend towards sneakers or water shoe things, despite the risks. On all other terrain I am restricted to boots due to ankles. I have a weird tendancy to walk on the outsides of my feet, so bad that I observe tilting my shoes gradually over time. It means that my ankles tend to turn over on rocks, roots, or sudden unexpected falls. For me, hiking boots are a requirement anywhere I expect to encounter any uneven surfaces. In fact, I gently turned my ankle yesterday on quick "walk the dog" hike on Oak Mountain's Green Trail. I generally catch myself before I get hurt, but wearing sneakers, I tend to do it at least once or twice a week just walking, and triple or quadruple that number in old shoes. I also have to wear hocky skates for ice skating (no sissy rentals for me), and roller blading was never very fun for me...

If you ever see me hiking in sneakers, yell at me. I tend to forget my boots (and tripod, ARGH!) when I get out of the car. If I hike more than a mile in woods, I'll probably turn my ankle (and catch myself) a half dozen times. I once did it three times in one minute bushwhacking. Didn't get hurt, but I decided to go back because my boots (and tripod) were still in the car.

[Cuffs]

Ive been thru so many different brands and styles, I should buy stock in them!

I have strong ankles (years of rollerblades!)  but I just find the support of a boot so much more comfortable for me on any trail. 

And the quality varies even in the brand!  I own several pairs of Hi-Tecs... I have only found one that works for me!  (of course its the one that costs the most!)

Ive got low cut trail runners, but I just dont like them (both NB and Merrells)

My advise?  Try on everything to find what works best for you!