Disappointed with my hiking shoes

[GerryDel]

The stability of NB is really their strong point. And they have a wide toe which cuts down on blisters. Everyone has their favorite but before you decide you really ought to give them a trial run.

I think you misunderstood my post. I was saying that New Balance is what I usually have, and I love them. I am going with Merrell for the Camino, which are okay, but would prefer to have New Balance.

 

[teda]

I feel like I'm shouting into a gale force wind. TRY New Balance. You may not like them, but try them! I tried Merrell and DIDN'T like them!

Thanks, but I don't know New Balance. What is it ?

 

[teda]

Thanks, but I don't know New Balance. What is it ?

OK I see

 

[Gypsy2015]

Hello all, just returned from a walk and wanted to vent (wishing my shoes would do the same).
Bought a "good" pair of Merrell moabs gortex hiking shoes only to find out my feet get too hot. I always wear two pair of socks and have moved down to the lightest pairs but still there's a furnace in my shoes. Sucks. Need to look for something new. Any suggestions?
I'm going to walk Camino Frances in Sept so I still have time to break in something new and "airy".
Thanks

I've been wearing Hi-Tec Altitude IV all-leather , gortex lined, waterproof boots for 13 years. I wear poly liners with 100% merino wool socks and I have never had a "heat" problem in my boots. I live in the mid-atlantic with very hot humid summers - no problems. I just recently switched to the water proof Moabs and again, zero heat problems. It has to be a personal physical thing I would guess.

 

[teda]

I've been wearing Hi-Tec Altitude IV all-leather , gortex lined, waterproof boots for 13 years. I wear poly liners with 100% merino wool socks and I have never had a "heat" problem in my boots. I live in the mid-atlantic with very hot humid summers - no problems. I just recently switched to the water proof Moabs and again, zero heat problems. It has to be a personal physical thing I would guess.

Hi, thanks for your tips, I will look for that, It may be only one problem , I live in Poland and probably it isn't possible to get this shoes but I will seek... Best regards - Teda

 

[indyinmaine]

Hi, thanks for your tips, I will look for that, It may be only one problem , I live in Poland and probably it isn't possible to get this shoes but I will seek... Best regards - Teda

Teda,
Does this help? They obviously don't have the same selection but the sole is the same and I think it's Goretex.
http://www.amazon.de/New-Balance-WW959-Wanderschuhe-Mehrfarbig/dp/B007IRZU4O/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1404434100&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=New Balance Wandershue

 

[Marianne2011]

Hello all, just returned from a walk and wanted to vent (wishing my shoes would do the same).
Bought a "good" pair of Merrell moabs gortex hiking shoes only to find out my feet get too hot. I always wear two pair of socks and have moved down to the lightest pairs but still there's a furnace in my shoes. Sucks. Need to look for something new. Any suggestions?
I'm going to walk Camino Frances in Sept so I still have time to break in something new and "airy".
Thanks

 

[Marianne2011]

Keen Owyhee
Comfortable toe guard sandles. Had another shoe merrell for beginning of trek. Changed to Keens no problems at all

 

[Tia Valeria]

Hi, thanks for your tips, I will look for that, It may be only one problem , I live in Poland and probably it isn't possible to get this shoes but I will seek... Best regards - Teda

If you look on the Hi-Tec website you will see that Poland is listed and the link works OK. We too have worn Hi-Tec leather boots and have found them the best for us. If the Altitude IV is not available in a ladies fit then it might be worth trying a man's one, or one of the other leather ones that they make with the same specification.
Happy boot hunting.

 

[sriyantra]

View attachment 11231

Here are my Meindl Borneo full boot with calf leather inners, after +/- 1000kms of camino walking in between May and July 2012...couldn't fault them! But it's all in the preparation - bedding in and then good management of your feet; and not forgetting your socks! Liner and thicker sock, stop EVERY two hours religiously, remove, air and change if necessary, after a dousing of Fungasol foot powder....simple and NOT one blister in over 1000kms!

Buen camino!

Thanks for the "bedding in". I have trained about 800km in my boots and bought a new pair when they were on special a couple of months ago. I was tossing up whether I should start wearing the new ones in for our September Camino but the ones I have been wearing just seem to have moulded to my feet so I understood the "bedding in" idea. Thank you I was meant to see this.

 

[Metropolly]

Before you set out on your Camino you must establish what kind of terrain it covers. If doing the Frances, the answer is: mainly hard roads. Therefore tough hiking boots are not appropriate. The mistake many of us make is thinking 'hike' when we should be thinking 'marathon'. Heavy Goretex jackets, bulky fleeces, specialist walking pants are all great for day hikes, but through years of trial and error I've found that running gear is better for our camino marathon - with a few lightweight merino pieces to mix in, so as to avoid looking like a Lycra freak in the cafes and bars along the way!

 

[bystander]

I have Merrell Moab Ventilator mid-boots and shoes and bearing other people's tales of blisters etc I am seriously considering trying Altra Olympus zero drop shoes.
The problem, here in the UK, is the scarcity of shops stocking them so difficult to go and try them on.
Next, a question. When people talk about buying shoes a size or a size and a half larger than their normal shoe size, is this because your feet increase in width and a longer shoe will be more likely to accommodate that increase width or are we talking about the foot increasing in both width and length?
One of the reasons I am asking is that the Altra shoe already has a wide toe-box which could accommodate that increase and, if so, would I need to go a whole size larger?
Opinions, advice please.

 

[mspath]

This is not an ad but a personal comment.

Most of my kit comes from Decathlon, a medium priced sporting goods store throughout Europe; here are my boots . Lightweight, water proof and sturdy; each pair lasts
at least two caminos. Wearing these I have never had a blister!

However, since no journey is fool-proof I have suffered broken glasses, a cyclopean black eye and a twisted knee after falling on ice; all due to my own foolishness.

MM

 

[pjlopey]

I've tried a few pair - still walking started with Merrel boots. No blisters but a bit heavy/ clunky. Moves to my Keen sandals but got annoyed with stones. Moved to my Kroton mesh walking shoes. Not wide enough especially on descents. Foot pain around my outer upper foot bones. So I bought a pair of runners in Burgos. €23. Bright pink . Loved them. They were super comfy and my feet were singing. For me almost to Ponferrada where they stayed in the hotel room bin - pretty much worn out. Back to my Merrels. Best thing for the miserable rainy day into Ponferrada and comfy now. I think whatever you have it's lovely to take them off at the end of the day!!!

 

[xin loi]

Just finished two weeks ago. My Novias expensive walking shoes started falling apart near Asturga. She bought a pair of generic sneakers in Asturga and finished the hike with no problems. I wore no name--off the shelve sneakers for the entire walk from SJPDP with no problems at all. Young woman wearing flip flops made the entire walk from SJPDP also. Noticed others wearing Teva type sandals with socks everyday. In general I would say that about 85% of walkers wore boots. But after a week or so, you sure see a lot of boots tied to backpacks instead of being worn.

 

[Jo Ann Rademacher]

I have both Merrell Moab Gortex and Keen Targhee II mid (Gortex) and I find the Merrells are much warmer than the Keens. But I also fine that the Merrells feel like they have better cushioning than the Keens. The Keens have more toe room; my toes were starting to get tight with Merrells after a longer walk. So I will probably be going with the Keens and add some cushioning.

 

[Marianne2011]

Keen Owyhee
Comfortable toe guard sandles. Had another shoe merrell for beginning of trek. Changed to Keens no problems at all

Go to the zappos website or the keen website. Maybe you can get them there.

 

[NualaOC]

Our experience is that it's very hard to predict in advance the type of footwear that you need for the Camino. Everyone's feet are different and unless you train in an identical climate and terrain, you won't really know how much your feet will swell etc. For anyone who ends up with foot/shoe troubles mid way through the Camino, I can wholeheartedly recommend Yordas Sports in Leon. We (my husband and I) changed from goretex boots to lighter hiking shoes (Berghaus and Salomon). The guy in the shop spent a very long time with us and also advised us against wearing liner socks. He recommended wearing one pair of synthetic Lurbel socks, which worked a treat. Since coming home, I've discovered that these socks are also great for running, so I wish I'd bought a few more pairs. The lighter shoes and synthetic socks were perfect for us and we'll wear them again next time. However, other people we met were very happy and blister-free in their boots and smartwool socks - so who knows!

 

[PhillyPeregrinita]

Meindl boots are the best in my opinion! I out them on out if the box and they already felt broken in. I ordered 5 pairs of the most recommended boots off zappos including all the merrell versions Moab etc and non of them compared to the feel of the meindls I ordered off cabelas.com also from another recommendation I found on the forum. Also the sizing was do off on the merrells. I ordered all the boots in a 9.5 but different models were up to an inch difference in length!!! Don't go by size go by fit. The meindl's have a lot if toe room and are goretex and leather so they bend and flex but have great traction. I ordered the meindl grand junction women's hiker AND they were only $120! They have men's boots on cabelas.com as well. Cheers!

 

[adrianflude]

Thanks for the "bedding in". I have trained about 800km in my boots and bought a new pair when they were on special a couple of months ago. I was tossing up whether I should start wearing the new ones in for our September Camino but the ones I have been wearing just seem to have moulded to my feet so I understood the "bedding in" idea. Thank you I was meant to see this.

The bedding in is one thing, but I have seen so many peregrinos sitting resting for 20 mins+ with their boots on! IMHO crazy! If you're going to stop for anymore than 15 minutes, my main comment is that the rest/air/ change sock routine is vital. If you're not going to change at that specific rest break at least air your feet out....Buen Camino!

 

[Thomas1962]

The bedding in is one thing, but I have seen so many peregrinos sitting resting for 20 mins+ with their boots on! IMHO crazy! If you're going to stop for anymore than 15 minutes, my main comment is that the rest/air/ change sock routine is vital. If you're not going to change at that specific rest break at least air your feet out....Buen Camino!

This is so personal! I nearly never take out my shoes during the day because I just don't need it. My feet usually feel fine in my shoes, no need to bother them in and out my shoes.

 

[adrianflude]

On the far end of the purchase spectrum, I can tell you the hiking shoes most frequently abandoned along the trail halfway are overwhelmingly Merrells. Found another pair today!

Could be because they are a very popular choice due to price, availability etc. but I know what you mean!

 

[sriyantra]

The bedding in is one thing, but I have seen so many peregrinos sitting resting for 20 mins+ with their boots on! IMHO crazy! If you're going to stop for anymore than 15 minutes, my main comment is that the rest/air/ change sock routine is vital. If you're not going to change at that specific rest break at least air your feet out....Buen Camino!

As a result of my husband's spinal reconstruction last year - which means he can now walk - it also means that it is very difficult getting footwear on and off. We are planning on walking an average of 18km a day for 4 days then having a day's rest. At the moment we walk 13km 4 days a week - hill and straight walking, not taking footwear off. I do an additional 2km a day. I have read lots of people talking about taking boots/shoes off when resting. We will just have to take one day at a time. Thank you for the reminder. As I say every day "we are works in progress" !

 

[Daxzentzu]

Only Altberg Tethera for me.


Dax
In Pune, (a work in progress)

 

[Stefania13/14]

Hi everybody!
I'm 2 weeks back from the CF. Oh boy did my feet/lower legs have trouble. I started out with a leather and mess (with Gortex) Vasque hiking shoe. Third day out we had torrential rain and in 5 minutes my feet were soaked (water entered on top through mess near toes). Had to mail those to Ivar so I could return them to REI (so I don't have the name of the shoes - sorry). Bought a pair of Salomon waterproof shoes in Zubiri (new small hiking store). Later in the trek I got tendonitis in my Achilles and later still in my feet. In Leon I bought a pair of hiking sandals to take the pressure off the top of my feet (Ecco - can't remember name) at Mundo or maybe Mundi shoe store (by the Gaudi building) they had several choices and other brands too.
Ok, believe it or not ; ) I had only one blister the whole 6 weeks. I used Gerlachs Gehwol Extra foot cream (buy on amazon.com). Initially I wore toe sock liners (smartwool) and smartwool socks but when I had to buy new shoes I needed taller socks and bought Lorpen synthetic women's socks (more narrow heal and toe box) and continued to use my toe socks. Then when I got tendonitis in my Achilles I got these tubes that covered from just beyond my toes to about 2 inches above my ankle bones so I stopped wearing my toe socks. Then my ankles swelled so bad that when I got to Leon I also bought knee high runners compression socks to replace the tubes the doctor ordered. Those socks and my new sandals took me nearly the rest of the way to SDC (I switched back to shoes the last 2 days because of rain threat).
I believe the cream helped keep my feet safe from the water, heat, sweating type problems as everything else changed!
Also I would like to say a couple things about terrain. I walked on asphalt, concrete, dirt, stones that were flat, stones that were rounded, stones that were sharp and spiky, mud that was slippery, mud that stuck on your shoes and made you get taller, running water on top of any type surface, grass, shale, sand, and bricks. Probably there were other surfaces but those are off the top of my head. Do not underestimate all/any of those surfaces especially if you end up with feet problems (had none before the CF). Overwork/overuse is common on the CF as I found out in my case and with other pilgrims as well. The doctor told me to walk no more that 15 to 20 kms. per day and not to carry my backpack, and take 4 days off from walking (I followed both of these recommendations after my Leon rest. He said that this is what he recommends to avoid overuse problems which occur frequently on the CF. Most people also get non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to take orally but since I can't take them I used Voltaren Emugel that is over the counter in Spain.
I have written all this as a "good to know" for first timers. It's not easy, it's not all one surface or another and it is a marathon to the extreme. If you are not a long term hiker (I started training off and on due to knee problem 2 yrs. before my camino) make sure to train as much as possible with as much ups and downs as possible.
Good Luck to all who walk the camino!
Stefania

 

[Olivia Luna]

Before you set out on your Camino you must establish what kind of terrain it covers. If doing the Frances, the answer is: mainly hard roads. Therefore tough hiking boots are not appropriate. The mistake many of us make is thinking 'hike' when we should be thinking 'marathon'. Heavy Goretex jackets, bulky fleeces, specialist walking pants are all great for day hikes, but through years of trial and error I've found that running gear is better for our camino marathon - with a few lightweight merino pieces to mix in, so as to avoid looking like a Lycra freak in the cafes and bars along the way!

I have to totally agree.
I had no problems with my boots, no blisters, no shin splints, no swelling (I know freakish right?) except that I kept wishing I had running shoes instead of boots (ungrateful too LOL).

 

[Steeltown Pilgrim]

Different styles and brands work well for some, not so much as others. The secret is: just take something you are used to wearing at home, be they runners, hikers or whatever. For most people, it is as simple as that. I walked 800k on the Frances, the Primitivo and the Sanabrese this spring without any foot issues, never touched my first aid kit. At home, I wear Merells, all the time, so that's what I bring on the camino. I can buy a new pair, any style, on the way to the airport and I'm good to go. If I were to try this with any other shoe brand, it would be disastrous--my feet are not the best. I would never buy or "try" an new brand just for the Camino.
Take a look by your front door-for many the answer may be right there.

 

[Kanga]

Different styles and brands work well for some, not so much as others. The secret is: just take something you are used to wearing at home, be they runners, hikers or whatever. For most people, it is as simple as that.....
Take a look by your front door-for many the answer may be right there.

Total agreement from me.

 

[xin loi]

I met a young woman yesterday who walked from SJPDP to Finisterre in July of 2012. I was surprised when she said that she met lots of young people walking barefoot for the entire walk! I saw a woman walk the whole way in flip flops in May & June of 2014, but never observed anyone walking barefoot. Wonder if it might be better walking barefoot than with flip flops. Our local Amish kids walk barefoot 6 months of the year and appear to do fine.

 

[obinjatoo]

Footware crisis - 8 months ago I decided I had to walk the Camino Frances.... hours and hours of research and days of shopping (I wasn't fit at all and was definitely not a regular hiker / walker) but had this need to set off mid May 2014. Living in Cape Town, South Africa, the choices available to us in terms of lightweight gear and great shoes has been a serious challenge - I'm 5ft11 with flippers for feet (one is a UK 8 1/2 the other a 8 and very broad, thanks mom) - so post hours of research and pilgrim workshops it becomes clear I need 1 1/2 size bigger than my normal size and 2 pairs of socks (a liner and a regular). Off I go shoe shopping - ladies shoes in SA are only available up to size 8 1/2 and narrow - so I try on men's shoes size 9 1/2 to 10's... trying them in the store isn't the same as taking them for a spin - I now have 7 pairs of shoes, from Salomon's, Merrells, Keens, New Balance - and finally... I thought I'd found the one...Merrell Moab Ventilators, they felt great in the store, I actually hugged the sales assistance - decided I needed to take them for a spin - 10km on Sunday, then another 8km (hills) yesterday - result, serious hot spots that were still throbbing this morning in 4 places. I have run out of shoe options - I leave in 2 months - have every item of my kit (total weight 6kg - 8% of body weight), imported Pacer Poles from the UK (dodgy knees), am swimming 25km and walking 35km a week and have taken 3 months off work to waddle the Camino my way... but at this point, have no shoes to walk in... any suggestions South African forum members? at this point I may need to do this in flip flops, the ones with bling on top

Definately go for the bling!

 

[rickster]

Just like there is no perfect camino fit for everyone, there is no perfect shoe for everyone. Try several until you find what works for you and yes, many times it's just the foot, not the shoe.

 

[Saint Mike II]

Hello --- this query worries me! I just purchased Gortex Merrell'. I've done two good walks in them (12 and 13km) and there may not be enough cushioning. I am training on Vancouver Island and Calgary, so perhaps similar terrain to the Norwegian pilgrim who previously replied. I won't train in serious heat until this summer, which will be too late to break anything in before I head out Sept. lst. I will definitely try the New Balance. How have you found them since your post? Has a difference in socks made a difference?

You are correct - the Merrell's are sadly lacking in sufficient cushioning. Change the ones they supplied for some extra thick commercial ones (maybe two thing ones if thick not available) and of course two pairs of socks - one thin / one thicker. Buen Camino!!

 

[Alyssa]

I've been training in Brooks Cascadia 8's and love them. They are roomy in the toe box and feel like slippers coming straight out of the box. Waiting for the UPS truck to deliver my second pair which I will use on the Camino this September after I give them a quick break in. Will continue to train in the ones I have now which currently consists of two longish (9 to ll) mile walks weekly plus 4 more days of 3 to 6 miles with 2/3 days at the gym. Will start with longer (12 plus) miles next week adding more ups and downs and getting that pack on my back. Couldn't be happier with these trail runners. No blisters or hot spots so far. Feel so much better than even a light low hiker like the Merrrill Moab which my husband is wearing. I'm a happy camper(walker).

They've been great on the Camino although they are definitely losing tread as I approach Santiago

 

[petitewalker]

They've been great on the Camino although they are definitely losing tread as I approach Santiago

Alyssa, glad they are working out for you. How much training e.i. miles on them did you have before you headed out on the Camino? Hopefully they will get you to the end of your trip. Buen Camino!!!

 

[Alyssa]

Alyssa, glad they are working out for you. How much training e.i. miles on them did you have before you headed out on the Camino? Hopefully they will get you to the end of your trip. Buen Camino!!!

I'll have to look at my blog to figure out when I bought them but I'm guessing they got at least 2 months of heavy duty hiking before starting the Camino. They have begun to rip with three days left to Santiago...

 

[petitewalker]

I'll have to look at my blog to figure out when I bought them but I'm guessing they got at least 2 months of heavy duty hiking before starting the Camino. They have begun to rip with three days left to Santiago...

Well, you can buy a pair of sandals to finish off the trip. Are you heading to the coast and how many days did it take to get to Santiago?

 

[leiper]

You are correct - the Merrell's are sadly lacking in sufficient cushioning. Change the ones they supplied for some extra thick commercial ones (maybe two thing ones if thick not available) and of course two pairs of socks - one thin / one thicker. Buen Camino!!

Hello Saint Mike. Thank you for your reply. After four different boots, and countless insoles, I have settled on yet another pair of Merrells. The big difference with this boot is that the soles are more like a runner. The foot motion is more heel to toe than flat-footed. I was ending up with all kinds of issues with the regular 'hiking boot', despite trying all kinds of insoles. These new boots seem to work great for me. Didn't even need breaking in. My husband thinks I should order another pair and he could ship then over to Spain if these don't hold up- they probably aren't as sturdy as a heavier boot. The right shoe has been the biggest issue.... happy with my pack, happy with the poles and "Wright" socks. September lst is getting close! very excited.

 

[naplesdon]

I walked in a pair of Merrell's this year. I bought them in November 2013. I replaced the inner soles with a pair of Dr. Scholl's work boot pads and did a moderate amount of time breaking them in. I have nueropathy in my right foot, so the support provided by a high top boot was totally required. The cushion of the soles was excellent and I had minimal problems with blisters which were all healed by the end of my trek. As you can see from the attached photo the boots were shredded inside after walking during June and July 2014 from SJPdP to Santiago, also a shoe lace broke and I found replacing the laces can be an extremely duanting task. daunting task. I have contacted Merrell and they have offered to replace the boots.

 

[burritobear9]

I walked last year in my beautiful Lowa Renegades, one tiny tiny blister from wearing incorrect socks, managed to stop it pretty quickly.
I wore these boots all year long, never had a problem.
I started my Camino in Ponferrada this year and I am ready to throw my beautiful red boots out. They have been awful, blister after blister, I think I am going to lose a toenail (quite frankly, I am afraid to look).
The biggest difference, carrying my backpack. 7kilos.

Lesson learned, and thanks to Eddy from England who passed along some lovely padding and tape for my feet, they are healing up quite nicely.

Cheryl


Sent from my iPad using Camino de Santiago Forum mobile app

 

[Dave2525]

I'm still struggling trying to get a good fit. I got pair of Dunham boots but the more I wear them the more heel slippage I seem to get. I have tried inserts and lock lacing but so far no joy. The fact that I have a narrow heel and massively wide fore-foot means it's hard to find something decent.

Off for more searching tomorrow.

 

[obinjatoo]

I'm going with the low top Salewa. "The what?" Yup ,that's what I said too. They are an old school mountaineering boot company that is breaking into the modern lightweight hiking shoe industry here in the U.S. They have a "No blister" guarantee. They are a breathable synthetic upper (no Gore Tex for me, too hot). I've been walking and hiking in everything from slimy slop, to boulder hopping. So far so good. I leave in 9 days so the Good Lord willin', they should work just fine.

 

[Dutch]

I'm still struggling trying to get a good fit. I got pair of Dunham boots but the more I wear them the more heel slippage I seem to get. I have tried inserts and lock lacing but so far no joy. The fact that I have a narrow heel and massively wide fore-foot means it's hard to find something decent.

Off for more searching tomorrow.

I've said it before and i'll say it again: also consider trying on other footwear besided boots. Maybe boots just aren't for you.

You say you've got heel slippage. The one thing worse then blisters ect on foot and toes is blisters and broken/open skin on your heel. You can (well, i could with a zillion blisters) walk with blisters on the front of your foot, but on the heel is very very painfull.

 

[LesBrass]

Hello... my thoughts, bearing in mind I'm a total novice and yet to walk!

I have struggled to find the right shoe... and sandal! I wear a UK ladies size 8 and I have a very wide foot. I listened to all the advice here and I bought shoes a size bigger... and I went for a mans shoe for extra wdith but the shoe always felt way too big. It's an expensive test because they felt great at home but going on a 15km walk they felt horrible... and then it was too late to return them.

I also bought a pair of flip-flop crocs... which gave me a blister between the toes, even thought I've worn flip flops for most of my life! I also bought a pair of Keen Newports... men's to get the extra width... comfy enough but too big really.

I have very little choice in the shops near where I live so we took a trip to Bordeaux - I bought a pair of Mammut boots after trying on lots. They are boots when I really wanted a shoe and they are a little heavier than I really wanted but... I've done about 100km in them and so far so good. The lady in the shop told me to go half a size up... so an 8.5. I wrote to Keens and they said the same... interestingly both also said only wear one sock not two but I do prefer walking with the liner sock.

The biggest eye opener for me was this... I never knew that a mans 8 can be different in lenght to a womans 8!!! and often is! Teva (who I also wrote to) told me to measure my foot - it's 27cm long. That apparently is a UK ladies 7.5 and a mens 8.5... or it can be a UK ladies 8 and a mans 8.5... or sometimes they can be the same... and there is also something odd that happens with the sizing between and EU 41, 42 amd 43 and the UK size conversion... I found that looking at the sizing using the CM measurement rather than actual sizes was an eye opener.

I've now replaced the Keen Newport Mens with the Keen Whisper Ladies... what a difference! I am still not sure about my heavy Mammut's but they work, dont slip and are comfortable so I'm going to play it by ear for a week or two more.

So... after this long ramble... measure your foot and check with each manufacturer... and email them too for more information... they're quick to replay and offer good advice.

Good luck with the boots... I feel your pain!

 

[nalod]

Look at that for a lovely pair of feet !!!!! Don't use any lotion on my feet(I once used vaseline, it was like basting a turkey). Sometimes one pair socks, occasionally a liner pair. Most of my walking in the last two years I have used a strong pair of Lowa sterling gortex boots. One piece leather, can walk through streams and not get wet. I have done the Pyrenees with them, Apls, Provence, Via de La Plata and Le puy route. No problems no blisters. Big trick is my teva flip flops. The minute I stop the main walk of the day flip flops go on and total air on my feet.

 

[naplesdon]

This thread is so subjective. With my neuropathy issue I can no longer wear sandals or flip-flops because I have no control over the grasping muscles in my right foot, even an espadrille falls off my foot. Carefully select the foot wear that fits your personal needs and lifestyle and don't let price dictate your decision. I've seen Crocs, bare feet, sandals, flip-flops, street shoes without socks and people wearing gaiters on days when it was well over 30c.
I am a firm believer in Vaseline, silk liner socks, Merino wool socks which I change after walking each 4 hours; after 3 Caminos I have been pretty much blister free.

 

[edandjoan]

FWIW: Things I would suggest to consider when choosing shoes for walking the Camino:
Fit - Very important, obviously. You need to be comfortable and keep your feet from developing blisters. What causes blisters? Friction and heat. Need width? Wide shoes are out there but you have to hunt a little for them. A good shoe will fit correctly right out of the box. You shouldn't need a break in period.
Style - Shoes or boots? Not sure why you would need boots. Seems to me that would just be extra weight and heat.
Shoe Material - From what I read, it doesn't seem that many folks have the material as much of a priority in their selection process. Leather, nubuck, suede, etc. are recipes for very hot feet. I would recommend a mesh upper. Your feet can breathe better and should your shoes get wet, they have a better chance of drying out by the next day than those leather & nubuck shoes. Many will say "then use Goretex (or equivalent)". The problem with Goretex is that they are like wrapping your feet in plastic bags. That's more heat! Will they keep your feet dry? Only in the short term. If you are in steady rain for any serious length of time, they will become saturated and you will have wet feet anyway. IMO, Goretex is not a good option.
Soles - A middle of the road tread is probably a smart choice. How often will you need an aggressive tread pattern? Most of the walking on the Camino is on paths and hard surfaces. But you do need some tread. Vibram soles are known for being durable but there are others that are very good as well.
Weight - I'm sure many of you have read the study. It takes more energy to move weight on your feet than it does on your back. One pound of weight on your feet is like 10 pounds of weight on your back. So using a lighter weight shoe would seem to make walking the Camino much more enjoyable. Be diligent in choosing the make up of your shoe materials. Obviously mesh weighs less than leather, etc.

I'm no expert and these are just my opinions. There are other factors to consider (cushioning, motion control, medial posts, etc.) Shoes are your most important piece of equipment and their selection is a very personal choice. I have been on the Camino before and I chose to wear the Keen Ambler Mesh. It was a good shoe but when I was done I had worn out any support or cushion features. It was a relatively light shoe and the soles were good for the terrain. I am planning on returning to the Camino with my wife and we have chosen to go with trail running shoes this time. We think they will serve our needs well although we do have concerns about longevity. Can they go 500 miles? We believe so but if they don't, we can stop somewhere like Leon and "retread" ourselves.

When we walked the Camino two years ago, the most troubling image for me was pilgrims sitting in their bunks at night "operating" on their feet (looked quite painful). This image usually included a pair of large hiking boots sitting next to their bunk. So I encourage anyone who has not chosen their footwear for the CDS, do your research and explore the many options.
Buen Camino!

 

[Dave2525]

I've said it before and i'll say it again: also consider trying on other footwear besided boots. Maybe boots just aren't for you.

You say you've got heel slippage. The one thing worse then blisters ect on foot and toes is blisters and broken/open skin on your heel. You can (well, i could with a zillion blisters) walk with blisters on the front of your foot, but on the heel is very very painfull.

I'm not limiting myself to boots. I've lost track of the stores I've visited and the shoes I've tried on.

 

[theresairby]

Love hiking in New Balance shoes!!! One of only a few brands that are recommended for plantar fascitis....I also add "sofsoles" inserts ....happy feet!!

 

[Scott Sweeney]

Hello all, just returned from a walk and wanted to vent (wishing my shoes would do the same).
Bought a "good" pair of Merrell moabs gortex hiking shoes only to find out my feet get too hot. I always wear two pair of socks and have moved down to the lightest pairs but still there's a furnace in my shoes. Sucks. Need to look for something new. Any suggestions?
I'm going to walk Camino Frances in Sept so I still have time to break in something new and "airy".
Thanks

Walked my first Camino and added another ten months of local hiking on my Merrell Ventilator and had no issues at all. Just wore one pair of good wool socks, went with a half size larger boot and Vaseline'd my feet. I liked them be cause they were a light and rugged boot....I would give them an 8 out of 10.

Never cared for gortex but every foot is different I reckon.

 

[almostfamous73]

Hello all, just returned from a walk and wanted to vent (wishing my shoes would do the same).
Bought a "good" pair of Merrell moabs gortex hiking shoes only to find out my feet get too hot. I always wear two pair of socks and have moved down to the lightest pairs but still there's a furnace in my shoes. Sucks. Need to look for something new. Any suggestions?
I'm going to walk Camino Frances in Sept so I still have time to break in something new and "airy".
Thanks

90% of the camino you can do in sneakers. I saw quite a few do it in flip flops. the only time you may need more than sneakers if you feel uncomfortable going downhill

 

[cableseller]

My merrells got so soaked the last 3 days on the way to Santiago. Hated putting on wet boots. Ended up buying a pair in Santiago to save my feet!!!

 

[titasanz]

Hello all, just returned from a walk and wanted to vent (wishing my shoes would do the same).
Bought a "good" pair of Merrell moabs gortex hiking shoes only to find out my feet get too hot. I always wear two pair of socks and have moved down to the lightest pairs but still there's a furnace in my shoes. Sucks. Need to look for something new. Any suggestions?
I'm going to walk Camino Frances in Sept so I still have time to break in something new and "airy".
Thanks

Hi! in my opinion you should only wear boots in the winter in order to protect your feet from getting wet or cold. I can tell you about my own experience as I am very happy with my choices: I walked 900 kms from SJPP to Finisterre from Aug 14th to Sep 18 last year. I took a pair of hiking the north face shoes. Very light and airy and they dried very quickly when wet. I also took a pair of columbia hiking sandals which I wore every time I my feet very hot or walking downwards to avoid the toes hitting the front of the shoes (and thus losing the toenails). And one of the most important things, I wore columbia (dynamic cushioning)socks (just one pair, no need for more).Hope to have been of help. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you need some more comments on my own experience. Buen Camino!

 

[efdoucette]

Well, I initiated this thread way back in June 2011, since then I have walked 3 Caminos (different trails). I am still wearing my Merrell Gortex low cut shoes (well, on my second pair now) and swear by them. They are the right shoe for me (everyone has their own favorite I think). For me they are like wearing slippers. The Gortex part works for wet grass, very light rain. Heavy rain, your feet still get wet and the shoes become a little hard to dry, although not impossible, newspapers stuffed inside draws out the moisture. To be blister free is an art and there are tons of suggestions on this forum, for me it starts with a good pair of shoes, in my case, Merrells.
Happy trails!

 

[Aldy]

[QUOTE="
Any suggestions?
I'm going to walk Camino Frances in Sept so I still have time to break in something new and "airy".
Thanks[/QUOTE]

I wore these for my third Camino - I much prefer them to boots now. Salomon hikers

 

[greggfr]

Hello all, just returned from a walk and wanted to vent (wishing my shoes would do the same).
Bought a "good" pair of Merrell moabs gortex hiking shoes only to find out my feet get too hot. I always wear two pair of socks and have moved down to the lightest pairs but still there's a furnace in my shoes. Sucks. Need to look for something new. Any suggestions?
I'm going to walk Camino Frances in Sept so I still have time to break in something new and "airy".
Thanks

My moab ventilators were with me for 700 miles and i'm still wearing them... also bought a second pair for my next camino. superb with season 1 1000 miles socks, dont forget the vic.

 

[phillipthomason]

Hello all, just returned from a walk and wanted to vent (wishing my shoes would do the same).
Bought a "good" pair of Merrell moabs gortex hiking shoes only to find out my feet get too hot. I always wear two pair of socks and have moved down to the lightest pairs but still there's a furnace in my shoes. Sucks. Need to look for something new. Any suggestions?
I'm going to walk Camino Frances in Sept so I still have time to break in something new and "airy".
Thanks

Tevas top of the line worked for me after trying several other brands. Buying larger size always works better for me along with 1 pair of not so thick socks.

 

[Rachael]

I adore my Merrell Moab mids, but I've been hiking in them for two years. With my Superfeet green inserts, I'm happy as a clam.

But folks are absolutely correct that no one shoe/boot is going to work for everybody. I don't like the feel/fit of Chacos nor Birkenstocks (for instance), and I know plenty of people who do very, very well with them.

I agree with the person who suggested Salomons. They make a really great boot.

 

[Iamherdingcats]

Last year I walked mid sept to mid oct, about 550km. Not one blister or were my feet wet. Wearing Blundstones ...
Bought hiking boots and they are hot and there are spots. Considering doing the Camino in the Blundstones again.

 

[esmess]

I wore pretty cheap one planet cobbler shoes two sizes too big! I thank the guy who urged me to buy them, and buy them two sizes bigger because I may be one of the few camino walkers who did not get a blister!! And the two sizes too big mesnt that going downhill didn't bother my toes either. Amazing really.
My boots were the very least of my problems on the Camino !!

 

[Robert Corcoran]

So, running shoes will be adequate to walk the camino? I have tried multiple pairs of hiking shoes/boots but they just do not provide the same support in the specific areas I need. My Brooks running shoes feel great.

Hey Erin, I am starting the CF on 9/9 in new balance 990s and bringing a pair of Teva sandels that have a lot of support. Befor I go I am returning my brand new hiking boots after reading all of the posts in this forum. Good luck deciding

 

[Sha-Ron]

Footware crisis - 8 months ago I decided I had to walk the Camino Frances.... hours and hours of research and days of shopping (I wasn't fit at all and was definitely not a regular hiker / walker) but had this need to set off mid May 2014. Living in Cape Town, South Africa, the choices available to us in terms of lightweight gear and great shoes has been a serious challenge - I'm 5ft11 with flippers for feet (one is a UK 8 1/2 the other a 8 and very broad, thanks mom) - so post hours of research and pilgrim workshops it becomes clear I need 1 1/2 size bigger than my normal size and 2 pairs of socks (a liner and a regular). Off I go shoe shopping - ladies shoes in SA are only available up to size 8 1/2 and narrow - so I try on men's shoes size 9 1/2 to 10's... trying them in the store isn't the same as taking them for a spin - I now have 7 pairs of shoes, from Salomon's, Merrells, Keens, New Balance - and finally... I thought I'd found the one...Merrell Moab Ventilators, they felt great in the store, I actually hugged the sales assistance - decided I needed to take them for a spin - 10km on Sunday, then another 8km (hills) yesterday - result, serious hot spots that were still throbbing this morning in 4 places. I have run out of shoe options - I leave in 2 months - have every item of my kit (total weight 6kg - 8% of body weight), imported Pacer Poles from the UK (dodgy knees), am swimming 25km and walking 35km a week and have taken 3 months off work to waddle the Camino my way... but at this point, have no shoes to walk in... any suggestions South African forum members? at this point I may need to do this in flip flops, the ones with bling on top

Hi Carla
I see youve done a few caminos and would be interested to know how you eventually solved your footwear crisis. Im planning to walk another summer camino and Im having trouble finding suitable shoes. I walked my first camino in Saucony running shoes . Not a bad option, but there were a few minor problems. Adidas shoes seem to be very narrow and Salomon goretex too hot. I tried a pair of Columbia ridgeways but ended up giving them away.
Sharonn

 

[Marianne2011]

Hello all, just returned from a walk and wanted to vent (wishing my shoes would do the same).
Bought a "good" pair of Merrell moabs gortex hiking shoes only to find out my feet get too hot. I always wear two pair of socks and have moved down to the lightest pairs but still there's a furnace in my shoes. Sucks. Need to look for something new. Any suggestions?
I'm going to walk Camino Frances in Sept so I still have time to break in something new and "airy".
Thanks

Try keen Newport. They're a hiking sandle

 

[Marianne2011]

Ted

Hi, thanks for your tips, I will look for that, It may be only one problem , I live in Poland and probably it isn't possible to get this shoes but I will seek... Best regards - Teda

How about coming to Spain a week early and get shoes

 

[Marianne2011]

Ted


How about coming to Spain a week early and get shoes

Have you tried online REI or Zappos?

 

[Sha-Ron]

Hello all, just returned from a walk and wanted to vent (wishing my shoes would do the same).
Bought a "good" pair of Merrell moabs gortex hiking shoes only to find out my feet get too hot. I always wear two pair of socks and have moved down to the lightest pairs but still there's a furnace in my shoes. Sucks. Need to look for something new. Any suggestions?
I'm going to walk Camino Frances in Sept so I still have time to break in something new and "airy".
Thanks

Hi
You have my sympathy. hope you find the perfect pair. I'm also looking for shoes. Decided on mid boots but now I'm thinking light and breathable may be better since we're planning to walk in July. I'm not sure yet but I think I'm going to try Asics or New balance Trail running shoes with good socks.