Mid/Low Hiking Boots

[Sonja Graser]

Hi all
I am a little stuck with my footwear choosing - high or low hiking shoes....

I know there are a lot of threads, forums and blogs on footwear, but somehow hearing from people with experience will help. I won't be getting trainers or sandals as it doesn't really work this side of the world for me for hiking. I am an avid hiker from South Africa and have only ever had high tops or mid high boots. Our terrain is more rugged, I don't have weak ankles.

My current shoes need an upgrade- planning on breaking them in on a 5 day hike with a heavy pack along with many more day hikes. Don't really just want to buy a pair of shoes suited only for the Camino.

The shoe in mind is Women's Chameleon 7 - waterproof (mesh breathable, nice soles and comfy for me - the same brand I have worn for the last 10 years and this particular shoe fits really well for me). The weight between the two is so minimal. The question is Mid/Low Hiking Boots: Pic of shoes

I am planing on doing only 14-16 days in September 2020, not the full route. More likely the Primitivo route. So is the high top overkill, or should I just get what works for me here at home and it should be fine for the Camino? That way it will be well worn in

Thanks in advance.

Link from the shoe if you are interested to see the details:

Chameleon 7

As adaptable as the reptile it's inspired by, this ventilated hiker features protection, stability, and ultra-lightweight construction.

www.merrell.com

Men's Chameleon Boots & Shoes | Merrell

Official Merrell site - Shop the full collection of Chameleon & find what you're looking for today. Free shipping on all orders!

www.merrell.com

 

[SabsP]

Wear what works for you. You do seem to have a pretty good idea already.

Personally I would opt for the mid-ones but I have weak ankles.

 

[Deleted member 43985]

If the fit is the same, either should do for that length of walk. Only issue may be that waterproof footwear that time of the year might make for very (uncomfortably) hot feet.

 

[Sonja Graser]

If the fit is the same, either should do for that length of walk. Only issue may be that waterproof footwear that time of the year might make for very (uncomfortably) hot feet.

Thanks Jozero. Mmh didn't think of that!! I don't recall having hot and sweaty feet with boots before. Now that puts a spanner in my plan.

 

[Sonja Graser]

Wear what works for you. You do seem to have a pretty good idea already.

Personally I would opt for the mid-ones but I have weak ankles.

Thanks so much! for your feedback!!

 

[Gwaihir]

I think the only way to really discover which ones are best, is to walk.

I've always preferred boots with ankle support versus lower ones, and then people tried to convince me to go for the lower ones (because they are more lightweight).

When my old boots capsized, I caved - but I was not happy at all. The low boots didn't give me any support and I literally felt "less strong" while standing on the ground.

Comfort is an important thing. What that means, only you know.

 

[Sonja Graser]

I think the only way to really discover which ones are best, is to walk.

I've always preferred boots with ankle support versus lower ones, and then people tried to convince me to go for the lower ones (because they are more lightweight).

When my old boots capsized, I caved - but I was not happy at all. The low boots didn't give me any support and I literally felt "less strong" while standing on the ground.

Comfort is an important thing. What that means, only you know.

Thanks so much for the valuable feedback - Thats what I am worried about, buying the low ones and regretting it. My budget doesn't allow for both! LOL. So far I am leaning more towards the mid boots because it works well in my home terrain, then I get to wear them and not buy another pair of shoes in the future They are the same model of shoes- just slightly more in weight, so a a few extra grams is ok for me.

 

[SabsP]

Thanks so much for the valuable feedback - Thats what I am worried about, buying the low ones and regretting it. My budget doesn't allow for both! LOL. So far I am leaning more towards the mid boots because it works well in my home terrain, then I get to wear them and not buy another pair of shoes in the future They are the same model of shoes- just slightly more in weight, so a a few extra grams is ok for me.

People worry too much IMHO about some extra weight for their pack and shoes ( the Camino weight police ). Comfort is much more important.

 

[Sonja Graser]

Wear what works for you. You do seem to have a pretty good idea already.

Personally I would opt for the mid-ones but I have weak ankles.

Thanks so much for your feedback. HAHA I will keep an eye out for the weight police I am steering towards the mid-ones just so I can use them more at home for other hikes.

 

[Gwaihir]

Agree. You're going to be fine. In my experience, as you walk you will discover what items you really need and which ones you don't - you might just decide to drop some weight elsewhere. My entire Camino was a re-arranging of my backpack.

Good luck!

 

[Sonja Graser]

Agree. You're going to be fine. In my experience, as you walk you will discover what items you really need and which ones you don't - you might just decide to drop some weight elsewhere. My entire Camino was a re-arranging of my backpack.

Good luck!

Thanks Gwaihir.

 

[elleley]

Hi all
I am a little stuck with my footwear choosing - high or low hiking shoes....

I know there are a lot of threads, forums and blogs on footwear, but somehow hearing from people with experience will help. I won't be getting trainers or sandals as it doesn't really work this side of the world for me for hiking. I am an avid hiker from South Africa and have only ever had high tops or mid high boots. Our terrain is more rugged, I don't have weak ankles.

My current shoes need an upgrade- planning on breaking them in on a 5 day hike with a heavy pack along with many more day hikes. Don't really just want to buy a pair of shoes suited only for the Camino.

The shoe in mind is Women's Chameleon 7 - waterproof (mesh breathable, nice soles and comfy for me - the same brand I have worn for the last 10 years and this particular shoe fits really well for me). The weight between the two is so minimal. The question is Mid/Low Hiking Boots: Pic of shoes

I am planing on doing only 14-16 days in September 2020, not the full route. More likely the Primitivo route. So is the high top overkill, or should I just get what works for me here at home and it should be fine for the Camino? That way it will be well worn in

Thanks in advance.

Link from the shoe if you are interested to see the details:

Chameleon 7

As adaptable as the reptile it's inspired by, this ventilated hiker features protection, stability, and ultra-lightweight construction.

www.merrell.com

Men's Chameleon Boots & Shoes | Merrell

Official Merrell site - Shop the full collection of Chameleon & find what you're looking for today. Free shipping on all orders!

www.merrell.com

Hola Sonja!
Just back from the Primitivo (you are going to LOVE it!!) with my sister. She wore lows and I wore mids and we both did fine (better than fine...neither one of us had blisters, foot issues...) So, it really is a matter of which ones you feel more comfortable in. We walked the Hospitales route (which I highly recommend if the weather permits..)and I saw all kind of footwear on the other peregrinos. Enjoy y Buen Camino!
Ultreia, elle ❤

 

[Chris Gi]

Hi all
I am a little stuck with my footwear choosing - high or low hiking shoes....

I know there are a lot of threads, forums and blogs on footwear, but somehow hearing from people with experience will help. I won't be getting trainers or sandals as it doesn't really work this side of the world for me for hiking. I am an avid hiker from South Africa and have only ever had high tops or mid high boots. Our terrain is more rugged, I don't have weak ankles.

My current shoes need an upgrade- planning on breaking them in on a 5 day hike with a heavy pack along with many more day hikes. Don't really just want to buy a pair of shoes suited only for the Camino.

The shoe in mind is Women's Chameleon 7 - waterproof (mesh breathable, nice soles and comfy for me - the same brand I have worn for the last 10 years and this particular shoe fits really well for me). The weight between the two is so minimal. The question is Mid/Low Hiking Boots: Pic of shoes

I am planing on doing only 14-16 days in September 2020, not the full route. More likely the Primitivo route. So is the high top overkill, or should I just get what works for me here at home and it should be fine for the Camino? That way it will be well worn in

Thanks in advance.

Link from the shoe if you are interested to see the details:

Chameleon 7

As adaptable as the reptile it's inspired by, this ventilated hiker features protection, stability, and ultra-lightweight construction.

www.merrell.com

Men's Chameleon Boots & Shoes | Merrell

Official Merrell site - Shop the full collection of Chameleon & find what you're looking for today. Free shipping on all orders!

www.merrell.com

I love my Merrill Siren. Waterproof, breathable, lightweight, comfortable and almost pretty good looking.

 

[linda piso]

Hi all
I am a little stuck with my footwear choosing - high or low hiking shoes....

I know there are a lot of threads, forums and blogs on footwear, but somehow hearing from people with experience will help. I won't be getting trainers or sandals as it doesn't really work this side of the world for me for hiking. I am an avid hiker from South Africa and have only ever had high tops or mid high boots. Our terrain is more rugged, I don't have weak ankles.

My current shoes need an upgrade- planning on breaking them in on a 5 day hike with a heavy pack along with many more day hikes. Don't really just want to buy a pair of shoes suited only for the Camino.

The shoe in mind is Women's Chameleon 7 - waterproof (mesh breathable, nice soles and comfy for me - the same brand I have worn for the last 10 years and this particular shoe fits really well for me). The weight between the two is so minimal. The question is Mid/Low Hiking Boots: Pic of shoes

I am planing on doing only 14-16 days in September 2020, not the full route. More likely the Primitivo route. So is the high top overkill, or should I just get what works for me here at home and it should be fine for the Camino? That way it will be well worn in

Thanks in advance.

Link from the shoe if you are interested to see the details:

Chameleon 7

As adaptable as the reptile it's inspired by, this ventilated hiker features protection, stability, and ultra-lightweight construction.

www.merrell.com

Men's Chameleon Boots & Shoes | Merrell

Official Merrell site - Shop the full collection of Chameleon & find what you're looking for today. Free shipping on all orders!

www.merrell.com

Hi all
I am a little stuck with my footwear choosing - high or low hiking shoes....

I know there are a lot of threads, forums and blogs on footwear, but somehow hearing from people with experience will help. I won't be getting trainers or sandals as it doesn't really work this side of the world for me for hiking. I am an avid hiker from South Africa and have only ever had high tops or mid high boots. Our terrain is more rugged, I don't have weak ankles.

My current shoes need an upgrade- planning on breaking them in on a 5 day hike with a heavy pack along with many more day hikes. Don't really just want to buy a pair of shoes suited only for the Camino.

The shoe in mind is Women's Chameleon 7 - waterproof (mesh breathable, nice soles and comfy for me - the same brand I have worn for the last 10 years and this particular shoe fits really well for me). The weight between the two is so minimal. The question is Mid/Low Hiking Boots: Pic of shoes

I am planing on doing only 14-16 days in September 2020, not the full route. More likely the Primitivo route. So is the high top overkill, or should I just get what works for me here at home and it should be fine for the Camino? That way it will be well worn in

Thanks in advance.

Link from the shoe if you are interested to see the details:

Chameleon 7

As adaptable as the reptile it's inspired by, this ventilated hiker features protection, stability, and ultra-lightweight construction.

www.merrell.com

Men's Chameleon Boots & Shoes | Merrell

Official Merrell site - Shop the full collection of Chameleon & find what you're looking for today. Free shipping on all orders!

www.merrell.com

I am a Merrell girl myself. I have the ankle boots you mention and heat was not a problem for me, I did stop and take my shoes off when I rested, no blisters. I have now switched to Moab's high boots. I like the ankle support.

You know what you like so get what you know works for you.

 

[Tia Valeria]

Thanks so much for your feedback. HAHA I will keep an eye out for the weight police I am steering towards the mid-ones just so I can use them more at home for other hikes.

I would say wear what you are used to and can use most, rather than just for the Camino

 

[Jeff B]

IMHP, and speaking for just myself, high cut boots would be overkill and found that any extra support a higher cut boot would give was not necessary. There may be moments when it would be nice to have, but the weight and loss of flexibility in a high cut is not desirable.

 

[Shazenalan]

This a personal view, but I chose the mid boot because it gives more lacing options that can be used to tailor fit, reduce movement, and therefor blisters. I went for waterproof, walked in September, but offset any heat issues with merino fusion socks which I changed mid-walk each day. Result? No blisters, comfy feet, waterproof if needed. As an older walker, I also appreciated the additional protection for my ankles on steep downhill sections. This may be my own bias of course - but I did seem to see more people in low profile shoes/trainers with blisters, than people in boots. Good luck choosing... and using your footwear.

 

[Sonja Graser]

Hola Sonja!
Just back from the Primitivo (you are going to LOVE it!!) with my sister. She wore lows and I wore mids and we both did fine (better than fine...neither one of us had blisters, foot issues...) So, it really is a matter of which ones you feel more comfortable in. We walked the Hospitales route (which I highly recommend if the weather permits..)and I saw all kind of footwear on the other peregrinos. Enjoy y Buen Camino!
Ultreia, elle ❤

Wow thanks so much for the feedback and route info!!!

 

[Sonja Graser]

I am a Merrell girl myself. I have the ankle boots you mention and heat was not a problem for me, I did stop and take my shoes off when I rested, no blisters. I have now switched to Moab's high boots. I like the ankle support.

You know what you like so get what you know works for you.

Thanks so much!! Awesome feedback

 

[Sonja Graser]

I love my Merrill Siren. Waterproof, breathable, lightweight, comfortable and almost pretty good looking.

Yay another Merrill fan! Thanks for your feedback

 

[Sonja Graser]

I would say wear what you are used to and can use most, rather than just for the Camino

Great advice! Yes I don’t want to be the lady who has 4 different hiking shoes in my cupboard. thanks for the feedback

 

[Sonja Graser]

IMHP, and speaking for just myself, high cut boots would be overkill and found that any extra support a higher cut boot would give was not necessary. There may be moments when it would be nice to have, but the weight and loss of flexibility in a high cut is not desirable.

Great, thanks for the feedback!

 

[Sonja Graser]

This a personal view, but I chose the mid boot because it gives more lacing options that can be used to tailor fit, reduce movement, and therefor blisters. I went for waterproof, walked in September, but offset any heat issues with merino fusion socks which I changed mid-walk each day. Result? No blisters, comfy feet, waterproof if needed. As an older walker, I also appreciated the additional protection for my ankles on steep downhill sections. This may be my own bias of course - but I did seem to see more people in low profile shoes/trainers with blisters, than people in boots. Good luck choosing... and using your footwear.

Wow, this is great advice! Will totally do a sock change. The more I am going towards the mid boots, just more useable for other hikes too and the weight between the mid and shoe is sooooo little. The extra support and also sand/spiky twigs getting g into your shoe makes it one less worth. Thanks so much!!