Extras

[tphanson]

My wife and I are heading up in early September, we are having a discussion(argument)over extra shoes. We are planing on hiking from Rock Harbor to Windigo and she wants to know what people think about bringing extra shoes, I'm for having Crocs as camp shoes, she thinks she wants something she could wear on the trail in case she has a failure of her boots. Any thoughts

[paulbates]

The trails can be rocky and rough, however 2 pairs of trail worthy boots sounds heavy. I would make sure the primary boots are sturdy, broken in and trusted.

Another lightweight pair of shoes to shuffle around camp for sure, but if there isn't confidence in the primary boots; personally I would shop, buy and start breaking in the boots that are.

Paul

[thesneakymonkey]

1 pair of hiking shoes and 1 comfy pair of camp shoes. For me that is brooks cascadia 12s and crocs! I would not carry a second shoe for hiking. Way too heavy.

[Base654]

I destroyed a pair of Merrell Phaser peaks each of two years, so the idea of a breakdown is real. If you are going for a cheaper boot I would suggest a sturdier backup (although I have seen more than a couple people hiking in crocs) I now wear Asolo 520 and don't worry about it. my second shoe is a water shoe for water crossings or swimming.

[JerryB]

I always bring a very light pair of water/camp shoes. All it takes is to wade into the lake and to step on an old fish hook to ruin a trip.

I think a second pair of hiking shoes is a huge overkill. If you a truly concerned, pack a tube of shoe goo and some duck tape.

[paulbates]

I destroyed a pair of Merrell Phaser peaks each of two years, so the idea of a breakdown is real. ....

So that's discouraging news. I'm wearing a pair of those for an IR trip starting Saturday. I've had them a few years and they've been good all around. No foot problems, slipping, etc.

What specifically happened to yours that I should keep an eye out for?

Paul

[Base654]

The water proof lasted about two day (with gators) but the biggest problem I had with them was the soles getting really soft, almost like a comfy running shoe. After four or five days I could feel every rock I stepped on. There are many pointy pyramid shaped rocks on the trails. I had bruises on the bottoms of my feet. As the soaked boots dried over the next few days the padding inside expanded and tightened. I was able to loosen the laces, but I lost the stability ( my old runner ankles need some support). With all that said I like the boots, but one year is it for me.

I too have one pair that has been around for a few years and I use them for all around use, I bought new ones for Isle Royale just because and they just don't seem to last in that environment.

I would like to hear your views when you come back. It may just be me and my feet.

[paulbates]

I've been conditioning on a swampy, unimproved trail system here for a few months, so far they have stayed dry after more than a few dunkings in places where it can't be avoided . However, I've had mine for a few years and re-waterproof silicone treat them, including last week in preparation. I replaced the stock foam insoles, which were ok, with Timberland Pros given the rough conditions you described very well. They are supposed to help with the dampness and comfort for hard surfaces.. I'll find out. After hearing your story I will definitely stop on the trail to address dunkings and not let it go.

I'm glad its not physical structure failure problems. The construction looks good to me but I've always had my eye on those 2 outer, strapped-on lace points..good for fit and comfort, but I've wondered if one day they would pull off... but it hasn't remotely been an issue. My boots always have vibrams, almost liturgy, I've had those since an original pair of vasque alpinists.

I will report back on mine, after next week when I go. I appreciate the feedback, thank you.

Paul

[paulbates]

The water proof lasted about two day (with gators) but the biggest problem I had with them was the soles getting really soft, almost like a comfy running shoe. After four or five days I could feel every rock I stepped on. There are many pointy pyramid shaped rocks on the trails. I had bruises on the bottoms of my feet. As the soaked boots dried over the next few days the padding inside expanded and tightened. I was able to loosen the laces, but I lost the stability ( my old runner ankles need some support). With all that said I like the boots, but one year is it for me.

I too have one pair that has been around for a few years and I use them for all around use, I bought new ones for Isle Royale just because and they just don't seem to last in that environment.

I would like to hear your views when you come back. It may just be me and my feet.

My Phaser Peaks did ok. They got beat up on the Minong but took it well. Water never came through, but eventually came over the top on day 3. This happened on N Desor to Washington Creek, and the three beaver dam crossings. There was no way for them to stay dry when they are completely submerged. They were wet-to-damp the rest of the trip.. and I can't blame the boots for that. No swelling. We went on, wet / damp boots, to Hugginin Cove and back. They final dried out in the sun in the back yard yesterday during our post trip clean up.

I had a a spot on each big toe that always had a sensation in conditioning, and I moleskinned them.. no other problems.

Paul