Footwear Index

Oh, those aching feet. Backcountry Skiers will anguish over whether to hike in their ski boots, or put said heavy boots on their backs and wear approach shoes. As a rule of thumb (which I often break), I switch to hiking boots when I expect to travel more than a mile or 1000 vertical feet to snow.

For summer hikes, I look for lightweight boots with enough support to carry a heavy pack (for overnights) or stiff trail runners (for dayhikes). Whatever your needs, the cardinal rule for footwear is break your boots in thoroughly before you go. Wear them to the grocery, around the block, and even in your home if you have to!