on where you’re hiking MULTI-DAY BACKPACKING, A DAY TRIP UP THE ESCARPMENT, A PORTAGE . . .
BY KATHLEEN WILKER I bought my first hiking boots after heading up Tuck-
erman’s Ravine in New Hampshire’s White Mountains in sneakers. The ground was dry at the parking lot, but half way into our ascent, ankle-deep, wet snow covered the trail and my feet were soon cold and wet. This was Day One of a three-day camping trip with full packs, so we had to do something about my soggy feet.
First, back to the trailhead, then a
drive to the gear store in Gorham, N.H., and a happy ending. I’ve had the Solomon boots I bought there for more than 10 years. Cracks in the leather uppers make them far from waterproof these days, but the sturdy soles and deep treads still serve for day hikes. Carrying the canoe on a portage, these boots boost your confidence over rocks and roots, and down slopes to the water’s edge. When I was carrying small
children in front slings or backpacks, the Solomons could be counted on for grip over wet and uneven terrain. Despite many adventures and sweaty feet, these old boots aren’t even too smelly. I won’t let them into the tent, even in a rainstorm, but they don’t stink up the vestibule. All the same, it’s time to retire
them. So what’s on offer that’s waterproof, offers the same excellent grip as the Solomons, doesn’t stink and isn’t too heavy? Fortunately there are plenty of choices.
14 ottawaoutdoors
HIKING SANDALS Keen Newport H2 These airy sandals offer a protect-
ed toe which means high breathabil- ity without the mashed feet. They’re perfect for day trips, “hiking” around town and in and out of water. Quick-dry nylon straps and an anti-microbial finish in the foot bed and lining are helpful if you’re in and out of the wet. My husband
brought these on a rainy paddling
adventure and kept his feet warm in these sandals over wool socks. Not dry, just warm. The non-marking outsole
(the kind you want in a gym or on a tennis court so you don’t leave black scuff marks everywhere) with multi-terrain tread will help you keep your grip on trail. But without ankle support, I wouldn’t count on sandals if you’re planning to portage the canoe or are backpacking significant weight.
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The ‘right’ boot choice depends Keens come in men’s, women’s and
children’s styles and sizes. If you can stomach paying $85 on a pair of kid’s shoes, these will keep a little hiker happy at parks around town and on trip.
DAY HIKING BOOTS Scarpa Kailash Gore-Tex day- hiking boots To Gore-Tex or not to Gore-tex?
Waterproof and breathable, Gore-Tex is a great choice for spring and fall hiking or in wet weather. Limita- tions? Summer hikers may find them too warm. And if you wear your boots right into the ground with seasons of use, the Gore-Tex will eventually stop being waterproof and breathable. Still, the Scarpa Kailash day-hiking boots are loved by all who wear them. Great ankle support and solid grip make this boot dependable in tricky terrain or shouldering a mid- weight pack or canoe. The outsoles are shock-absorbing, and at $200 a pair they’re worth it.
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