Hi all,
Given what everyone’s been saying about how muddy/wet the trail is going to be this summer, would people reccommend lighter, non-waterproof trail shoes or heavier-duty (but still comfy), heavier, waterproof leather boots. I had originally been planning on the trail shoes until i started reading about this year’s conditions. the boots are definitly heavy but super waterproof. i’m hoping to do the jmt south-bound starting in mid-july.
thanks so much
-s
Sonia
The first half of the 100 mile wilderness trail was definately wet this year. I figure about ankle to knee deep water for some of every day I hiked. Don’t know how the JMT is. I use non-waterproof trail shoes. I use to prefer goretex water proof shoes, but have recently changed my mind. The problem with waterproof boots or shoes is when you finally put your foot down in something that comes over the tops of your shoes or boots. The same waterproof covering that protects you from getting wet, now prevents you from drying out.
If you are sure you can ALWAYS keep water from going over the top, then they can be OK. Otherwise, you need something capable of drying out while you hike.
Some people have problems with sweaty feet, and if you’re one of them, waterproof boots may not be a good idea either.
Bear Bag Hanger