[Cdt-l] Footwear

[Patrick Beggan]

I wore running shoes in the sierra with an early june (june 4thish) entry two years in a row and had no trouble kicking steps. I never once felt boots would be a better option. But definitely, each person has their preference. I really wouldn't trouble yourself over having boots in spring-snow conditions to be honest, though.


On Feb 19, 2010, at 9:19 AM, Wayne Smith wrote:

> My preference for footwear is to start with hiking shoes and then switch to hiking boots when I get to the snowy sections.  On both of my PCT hikes I did this with the thought that I could always switch back to shoes after the Sierras, but both times I didn't bother because I just got used to the boots and didn't feel the need.
> Every hiker is going to have their own personal preference and I think it comes down more to what you are used to rather than what is better. 
> I could make a lot of arguments in favor of boots but that's because I wear them every day for work so it's what I'm familiar with.  Someone who wears shoes everyday will likely prefer shoes.
> When it comes to walking on snow though, I would try to convince someone that boots would be much better.  I've hiked with shoes on snow and also hiked with several other people who were wearing shoes on snow and although it can be done, it is much easier in sturdy boots that you can use to kick steps.  On the PCT I actually had to kick steps for other hikers I was with because they were in shoes and couldn't do it very well themselves.  On the CDT there will be far fewer hikers on the trail so the odds of you being the first person to have to cross a steep snow slope are much greater and I really think that boots will make it easier and safer.
> Of course there is always the option of taking lower routes where snow isn't as much of a problem, but with boots you could have more options.
>  
> Gretzky
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