[pct-l] Shoes

[George]

Hi Matthew,
As said, it's an individual choice - but I used and would recommend boots. (particularly as you say that is what you already hike in)
For a thru-hike I took ice axe, crampons, and hiked without poles.
I definitely needed the ice axe, but only used the crampons once and could have got by with just the axe.
If you do use/need crampons then I would think you will find that boots will handle them better than shoes will.
I didn't miss using poles (because I never use them anyhow) and found the axe doubling ok as a sort of 'short' pole at times!
I didn't particularly find the desert areas too hot for boots and I kind of liked the idea of a bit of extra leather around my ankles after I'd met a few rattlers!  :^)
Boots give added ankle support, even if you intend using a light pack - a split second of inattention on rocky or uneven ground and you can sprain an ankle. I wouldn't like to risk an aborted attempt because of that.
Crossing creeks/rivers you'll get your boots wet, but you'd also get shoes wet. They'll dry out soon enough. Creek beds are usually unseen and very uneven so it's good to plunge across with a bit of ankle support in those cases. Just take your socks off and enjoy the security of a boot!  :^)
Just my 2c worth.
George



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