I’ve not ever done a long distance hike before so can anyone tell me typically how many pairs of trail shoes one wears out while on the trail? I would like to find a model that breaks in easily and fits my feet well then buy extras of that particular model before hand.
Dorkamungus
It depends on which shoes you get and how hard you are on your shoes. Some shoes will look okay, but break down internally after 500 miles or so. I wore the same pair of New Balance for 700 miles, switched to boots for the Sierras, bought a pair of Solomons at Castella that fell apart after a week. My husband’s running shoes were falling apart after two weeks. Others have done very well with both. I wore a pair of light boots for the last 1000 miles. My husband swtiched to Lowas that lasted over 1000 miles. YMMV
Ginny
Think about switching out after 500 miles. Some models last longer than others, with the New Balance line seeming to hold the edge in longevity. Some hikers start out with the plan to switch out quickly, but many end up pushing up to, and beyond, 1000 miles per pair.
Suge
I get about 500-600 miles out of one pair of shoes. Sometimes I push it to 700 miles. The outside wear will show long after the inside gives out. I would recommend about 500 miles per pair of running shoes. Your feet are the most important part of your hike. Treat them well and your knees, hips, back will be happy.
yogi
yogi
Thanks everyone! even though it is a few years away I jsut can’t stop thinking about it…I’ve dreamed about this practically since I learned how to walk. It’s constantly on my mind and now that I’ve “set a date” I just cant STOP thinking and talking about it. Believe me when I say even my friends are avoiding any subject matter relateing to hiking just so they won’t get me started ;)Yogi I for sure will grab a copy of your book. I followed allong with your online journals since you began your thru-hiking:nerd
Dorkamungus
Our local outfitter claims that you are going to spend roughly the same amount of footwear for a thru-hike. You can either go through one pair of expensive hiking boots, a couple of pairs of good hiking boots, or several pairs of trail running shoes.
(Myself, Solomon’s lasted from downtown Hanover to the Velvet Rock shelter before tearing out.)
Peaks