What type of shoes would be adequate for varied terrains over a period of months?

I wear and love Keen's. My wife and I discovered them last year. Before that, we were pretty big into Merrell's.

I grew up in the back woods of Northern Ontario and pretty much spent my time outdoors hiking, camping, canoeing, backpacking, swimming, etc. Given that is the terrain you are talking about (think boreal), I would totally go with Keen's.

When you are going to be spending a lot of time hiking in a pair of boots, here are the things that I am particularly interested in.

1. First and foremost is build quality. If you are going to be investing in a great pair of outdoor shoes, don't skimp. You only have one pair of feet.

2. Second is weight. You think you're a champ right now, but when you've been hiking all day, nothing stinks worse than extra weight on your feet. Finding a balance between durable build quality and weight can be tricky business.

3. Coverage. Let's face it. Where I grew up in Northern Ontario (north of Sault Ste. Marie) the mosquito might as well be the provincial bird. Between them and black flies, you definitely want to be covered up. Bug bites on your feet are second only to around or inside of your ears. Make sure your gear protects you as best as it can from bugs.

4. Good in water. Make sure you get shoes that are good at wicking out moisture to help keep your feet dry. The weight thing plays in here too in the event that you need to swim in your shoes.

5. Arch and ankle support. Pay for it. Your feet and ankles will thank you.

6. Weather appropriate. Few things are more miserable than not being appropriately dressed for the weather. Remember, no one cares how you look if you are dead in the bush. Fashion plays second fiddle to functionality. If you are going to be doing this in the winter, don't wear shoes. Get a pair of good boots like Sorels. I wore Alpha Pacs all growing up and love the heck out of them. If you are going in the fall or spring, make sure your footwear is waterproof and rides a reasonable distance up your calf.

All my American friends from college had this idea that Canadians were somehow made for inclement weather. Truth is, when you are doing things outdoors you need to dress for the weather. Hope that helps.

posted almost 12 years ago

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