Wet feet - Appalachian Trail

imported
#1

I’ve completely given up on boots since I tend to move better when my feet aren’t screaming and my toenails are still attached.Anyway I discovered last year while section hiking in Va. that I do much better when I wear my camp sandals.They’re Merrell’s-High Tide,meant to stick to rocks in the water so they ended up working GREAT.The only complaint is wet feet.Will I end up with foot funk if I walk for weeks at a time with soaking socks?Thought about trying out some “waterproof” socks.Any suggestions?Have seen some thru-hikers in sandals but never got to talk to any.Please let me know…

Pansy

#2

There was a recent thread where several of us shared experiences and ideas about hiking in sandals.

Thin socks dry extremely fast when you’re wearing sandals. So unless you’re hiking in constant rain, your feel will be dry most of the time. In fact, the near-universal problem with hiking in sandals is that feet get TOO dry and crack. Solutions are discussed in the other thread.

Eric

#3

Keen makes a great sandal that is very comfortable to hike in. The Newport H2 is the model I own and will be carrying on my thru hike this year. The soles are very similar to a hiking boot, meaning that the sole is grooved and is not set on a flat piece of rubber similar to what is found on some Tevas. Furthermore they have a toe guard to protect your little piggies against rocks, etc They are also designed for wadding through streams, etc They are a little heavier than a pair of Chaco’s but not by much and in my opinion a lot sturdier.

Big Slick

#4

Thanks Eric for the previous discussion you sent me to.Hadn’t thought of my feet drying out.Last year I decided that God was trying to drown me because no matter where I went or what I did it poured rain.(actually,we’re talking hail,sleet,thunderstorms,you name it)javascript:smile(’:oh’) Should have charged big money to go to drought ridden areas.Will be sure and invest in some salve before my next section hike. javascript:smile(’:girl’)

Pansy

#5

RoadRunnerSports.com carries a gortex sock liner which kept my feet dry. They are extremely thin and lightweight. Another good idea to keep from having problems with your feet is to wipe them down with alcohol wipes each night before bed.

Ladybug