Cross Training Questions

hiking boots?

I'm going hiking next weekend for the first time in years. We're doing a day-long hike, not too difficult, all on trails. I'm thinking I can just use my running/cross-training shoes, which are already broken in. A few people have told me to use hiking boots, though. I can buy some, but I think that maybe breaking in hiking boots on a day-long hike might be a bad idea. What do people advise? Buy some boots, and break 'em in, or wear the sneakers? I'm in good shape. I just haven't hiked.

Public Comments

1. on trails, without much load, running shoes should be fine if you plan on starting to do much hiking, buy some boots and start breaking them in Have L.L. Bean leather boots that took awhile to break in fabric / suede boots by L.L. Bean, Vasque, and HiTechs didn't take nearly as long the Vasque really didn't need breaking in
2. You definitly want a pair of hiking boots. Preferably with 8 inch uppers. That way they will protect your heel and lower part of your shin. Plus they have better traction, IF you buy boots with lugs. Definitly break them in as much as you can. The more the better. The better they are broken in, the safer you will be from injury. Also think about buying Gortex boots. They are waterproof and they breathe very well. Just for an example, my friend wore sneakers on an 8 mile round trip hike. He was miserable. He kept on slipping and falling on rocks and exposed roots which I'm pretty sure you will encounter on your trail. PLEASE BUY BOOTS. Be sure you wear the socks you will be wearing on your hike when you try them on and break them in.
3. get a pair of good hiking boots, or just a pair of (american-style) lace-up work boots. they are cheaper and have very good grip and they are comfortable and do not move around very easily. good luck and have fun. wish i had more time for things like that :-)
4. You definitely want to use your running/cross training shoes, unless you want needless blisters. Also, no matter what you wear, you need good wick-dry socks. Most serious hikers have ditched their heavy boots for low cut hiking shoes. I hiked the Grand Canyon in low cut shoes. Go on line and search light weight backpacking and look at the footwear they recommend. No matter what you wear, make sure it has good traction on dirt, and rock. Otherwise you'll slide. If you are prone to sprained ankles, I suggest you bring hiking poles, to prevent falling.