I am planning on hiking the JMT, starting in mid june. Just wanted to get some opinions on footwear. Boots or gym shoes, right now im planning on using asic gym shoes. I will also be using trekking poles. What do you guys think? Ive never hiked in Cali, particlly the section between yosmite and sierra.
:)thanks
Luke
Boots may be an overkill, but gym shoes are probably not enough support where the trail gets rocky. Trail runners may be the answer, but if has to be a choice between gym shoes or boots, I’d pick boots. More weight but less chance of a leg injury.
booger
I’ve hiked many sections of the JMT over the past 10-15 years. Some parts of the trail are very smooth due to the high level of traffic, but there are many segments that are rocky and uneven. I know that many backpackers are now starting to trend to low-rise trial shoes. But for my two cents worth, a good pair of lightweight boots, while a bit heavier, provide the combination of good protection and stability for your ankles on the uneven surfaces. For whatever it’s worth, I’ve worn Asolo Highland GTX’s for the past three years (all trips covering portions of the JMT) and they are fabulous for both on the trail and for off-trail scrambling. Although this may be a bit old fashioned (I’m slow to change) but I hope this helps. Good hiking to you.
Sherpa Steve
Whenever the debate between trail runners and traditional boots arises, the greatest con against the low-rise contenders is the perceived lack of ankle support they provide. But factor this into your next discussion. At least two authors (Chris Townsend “The Backpacker’s Handbook” and Ryel Kestenbaum “The Ultralight Backpacker”) claim that the ankle-support argument is a myth. They contend that ankle support stems almost entirely from proper arch and heel support - qualities that have absolutely nothing to do with the height of a shoe’s collar.
– BookBurner
BookBurner
Gym shoes or running shoes work best as part of an integrated lightweight system. Your base packweight should be under 20 lbs. before you consider using running shoes.
ponytail
I agree with BookBurner, Chris and Ryel and from personal experience. It has more to do with the strength of your ankles than the material of the boot. Your ankles will become stronger if you train in running shoes versus boots because the extra “support” of the boots will hinder the muscle development. Just like relying on an ankle brace. If the brace does the work of the muscles, they do not need to develop further because they aren’t being trained.
It does help to have pack weights under 20 pounds, but with properly trained ankles, quality running shoes (I use Montrail Hardrocks) and good foot beds (I use SmartFeet) you can wear trail running shoes and carry loads above 20 pounds.
David Neumann
Correction to my previous post. I use Superfeet insoles not smartfeet. I looked this morning when I was putting on my shoes before running. I bought mine at REI at the clerk’s suggestion and they have been one of the best purchases I’ve made for my feet.
Idahomtman aka David Neumann