Reddit mentions: The best outdoor shoes for men

Oh hi Techfoxninja,

I have a few things I'd recommend, I'm a hiker and jogger myself. My first two recommendations? Good shoes and good socks. I personally do most of my running on roads but for hiking I use Keens yes they seem pricey but I bought a pair used at an REI garage sale and they're still kicking, before that I had a pair last three years with no issues.

Smart wool makes awesome socks, I'd actually suggest going to real store and looking at them, hence the lack of a useful link. I have a pair of running socks by them that I swear by.

If you're doing day hikes it's always important to carry a small pack and plenty of water. The North Face Jester is both a good hiking bag and even a good school bag, and is another item that will last for a few good years.

If you get a decent bag, a Platypus will fit nicely into it, and you'll stay hydrated well into your walks.

It's been brought up before, but yes, headlamps are really important, I also have a Nebo light that works really well and can clip on to most bags.

Next? A good yet light jacket, for interment weather. North Face does OK, but Marmot, Columbia and Patagonia are good brands as well.

I don't know how big your gift card is, and you may be hesitant to blow it on one expensive item, but trust me, as I get older my camping/hiking supplies just grow, and a lot of this stuff has a longer life span than you'd expect.

I'm confused, are you planning to ride with hiking boots? Or just looking for something to hike in, and using your experience as a cyclist for reference?

I wear trail runners (Merrell Moabs) all year round until there's snow on the ground. At which point I switch to hiking boots (Asolo Neutron GTX). I find the Asolo boots too warm and too stiff for most of the year, but once there's snow on the ground they're much better since they're much stiffer and allow better traction. I use them snowshoeing as well.

> Wouldn't winte boots because of their insulation be better?

If I'm not planning on moving around much (thus not generating much heat) I wear Sorel pac boots since they're much better insulated. However, they're not great hiking boots since they're too soft and hard to get traction... I've put in a pair of Sole Inserts which stiffen the boot so they're not too bad for short hikes.

I've also got a few pairs of mountaineering boots. The Lowa Civetta plastic boots have a nice thick liner like ski boots. These are warm and nice for vertical ice, but are a real pain to hike around in since they're inflexible and heavy. I also have a pair of La Sportiva Lhotse which are more like backpacking boots (but much burlier)... they're not as warm as the plastic shell boots, but so much nicer to hike around in.

So the best insulated boots may not necessarily be the best, depends on the situation.

> Are hiking/winter boots have a tendency to be windproof?

In the winter, if there's going to be a high wind chill, I'll throw on a pair of gaiters, they make a difference. If those aren't enough, Mountain Tools sells Super Insulated Gaiters... been thinking of picking up a pair for my wife since she's always cold.

> might be nice to also have something WATERproof which I know hiking boots are but do'nt know if winter boots are?

I prefer my year round hiking shoes not waterproof. Waterproof tends to keep water out for a while, but if they get overwhelmed, the lining keeps the shoes from drying out. Non-waterproof shoes will dry out as you walk but lined shoes will remain wet, which isn't good for your feet. Also, the lining only lasts so long, put a lot of miles on your shoes and you'll find they leak and then don't dry.


Hope that helps.

Good news! Your boots are definitely legit. These were a limited collaboration between Timberland and Pendleton in 2015, they're called the Mt. Heston WP Hiker. The style number for your shoe is located right under the size, 8705B. Here's a current retailer listing

Now on to your questions.

1. Not all Timberland boots use the same laces as the 6" Premium. In fact almost none of the Hikers will use the taslan/nylon lace from the original boots. These should be traditional plastic aglets on the ends of this style as it is a more fashion oriented hiker.
   
   
2. Scratches and dents on leather shoes being shipped across country is not only common, it's almost unavoidable, especially with this type of unfinished oiled leather. To keep them looking good, do not use alcohol pads or any harsh/abrasive cleaners. You're only damaging the boots you paid good money for. All you need to do is apply your favorite brand of neutral reconditioning cream every so often to remove scratches and scuffs. This will also help relieve some of the "color loss" you experienced, but it may not return back to normal perfectly, as once again these boots are a "raw" oiled finish and will always have marks and scratches and wrinkles.
   
   
3. Gore-tex. So let's take a second and talk about what Gore-tex really is. It's a thin nylon fabric that's used as a sock liner to help make boots waterproof. It should feel slightly scratchy to the touch, as it is porous. There's 9 million little cones in every square inch that letter water out (e.g. sweat), without letting water in to the shoe. There will almost never be an interior signifier on almost any Timberland shoe interior that calls out Gore-tex. That almost certainly 100% looks like Gore-tex to me from your pics. If you want to test it out run the boot under a faucet and put your hand in. If it's dry, you're good to go!
   
   Hopefully that helps!
   
   
   
   

I hike the mountains in MT multiple times a month. Mostly day hikes but I also do 1-5 day trips whenever possible. I prefer the cold so my gear is oriented to that. I won’t give full descriptions but I’ll link you what I use very comfortably. You can check the items out up/downgrade as needed. At least you’ll have an idea of what can work.


Also, the bulk of my gear money is spent on comfort clothing, not the main items I list below. All wool. Head to toe. Can score nice wool at the good will/thrift store sometimes. Good luck!


Tent – 110.00 got mine on sale for 75.00 so look for deals


sleeping bag – ICW 84.95. I’m certain I paid less so shop around


backpack – Tenzig 2220. 149.95. Most comfortable pack I’ve owned. Currently year 2 of using it. I think I paid 200 so this might be a good deal


Boots – for day hike I use Field Blazer – 100ish bucks for above 0, and Woody Elite – 200ish bucks for below 0.


For multi day trips with no snow I use Ventilator – About 100ish bucks. They have low and mid. I own both but prefer the low.



My kit is always evolving but these are some things I always carry no matter what -


--My knife + ferrocerium rod. (I put hundreds of dollars into my knives - but you can carry a mora for 10.00)

--A lifestraw. (10 bucks?)

--My own medkit (pieced together based on needs over the years) (10-25ish bucks?)

--Extra socks. (Good wool socks - 6-15 bucks)

--Day hike - plastic military canteen. (buck or two at thrift) Multi day - Stainless steel cup/bottle system (40-80+ bucks, or can go aluminum for short term and half the price)

--Paracord + tarp. (15 bucks or less for both and in good weather + fire the tent isn't even necessary with these. If the bears are out I always use a tent though)

--Pocket fishing kit I made with extra fishing line. (5 bucks)


What's in my pocket - Bic lighter, phone, compass, chapstick, whistle, hand warmer packx3, instant coffee.


This is for me, solo hiking in the mountains. I often carry much more depending on what i'm out to do, but these are items that in my experience will never leave my pack. I also always carry my Alaskan.

Waht type of budget are you looking at?

There isn't much that goes into cleaning airsoft guns. A cleaning rod, some microfiber cloths, and a bit of rubbing alcohol is all it really takes for an AEG. For GBBs (I assume his G19 will be GBB) he might need a valve key to disassmeble the mags.

Maybe a gun rack or gun case



Patches are always a good gift

Comfy socks, like Darn Tough, are awesome.

If he uses midcap mags (No winding wheel on the bottom) he might like an Odin Sidewinder. It's an amazing speedloader. They've announced an updated version but I don't know when it's coming out. If he already has a Sidewinder there's a sound dampening thingy for it.

Edit: On a $250 budget you can get him some nice stuff:

Vortex Crossfire II 1-4x24 scope is an incredible scope. I know I'd be ecstatic to get one if I didn't already have one.

Salomon boots are awesome boots. Peoples feet can vary a lot so boots might not be a great gift but Amazon does have a good return policy

A Dye i5
or i4 are great masks. Again, preferences may vary. He might prefer goggles and separate lower face protection.


This might sound stupid and isn't really airsoft related, but I got a label maker and it's been awesome.

> You will NOT find those being worn by racers

You'll also find racers wearing tight leather onesies...I'm not gonna hike in those. I love the subtle knock on "bad ass" image riders. Plenty of us ride for pleasure and don't race, which is why Engineer boots are popular among many motorcyclists - whatever their riding style. The will keep our feet and ankles protected in a slide.

> Ok, you want a citation from me, so where is yours?

I provided you with 2.

>why do service members carry so much gear, even special forces?

Yeah, military is a good example. I think they are going to be in a a lot worse terrain than I'll ever experience on an approach. I have the choice to stay out of the muddy ditch...they don't. I agree if you are going to see ground like those guys maybe rethink trail-runners. It looks like quite a few operators like mid-hikers like the Merrell Moab which looks more like a hybrid approach/hiking shoe.

Military also does a lot of dumb shit for....reasons. I know...I was in for 9 years. The issued boots were pretty mediocre and most of us favored the jungle boot which provided very little ankle support. Holy shit, if I could have worn approach shoes I would have for every patrol.


> Your body will adapt

Exactly. In my 2nd source you see that the ankle support can actually cause the body to adapt and rely on the artificial support weakening the ligaments in the ankle and making you more susceptible to ankle injuries. I'd also like to think about the extra 5 lbs of water/food/supplies I could carry shedding a pound off my foot.


EDIT: Here's an operator wearing a low top shoe

(http://www.amazon.com/Danner-Mountain-Light-II-Outdoor/dp/B002OSY04S/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8)

This is a highly recommended hiking boot. A few of the reviews on amazon say how these run wide, and that when normally they are 4E, a 2E with thick socks fits great. They are marked down to $232, and there is a 30% off code (GRNMON14 ) that you can use. Pretty good deal.

Another option I know of would be some hunting boots. Brands like Rocky, Wolverine, and Irish Setter all make multiple widths and have a range of price points. They are usually a higher boot, and insulated, which might be better for the snow too. Most sporting good stores (Dicks, Bass Pro Shop, Gander Mountain) carry a bunch of these.

This looks pretty nice (I filtered by 4E and this came up):
(http://www.shoebuy.com/rocky-9-cornstalker-600g-rkys087/715730/1472179)

> I wear Keen shoes, specifically because they fit wide feet better.

Yes sir! Me too! And they last for a while and don't hurt my feet at all from the shape. When they do finally break down, they break down good. But up until that point, they are a tank of a shoe. I actively bike/hike in the foothills of Colorado in those shoes, plus I literally wear it for everything else too. I have taken these shoes into some really bad environments and these shoes don't fail me. For someone with problematic feet, I can't find a better shoe on the market.

I will be going on my third pair of these in the fall: https://www.amazon.com/KEEN-Targhee-Hiking-Gargoyle-Midnight/dp/B005D4U04Y/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2CSA7YWPESHXM&keywords=keen+targhee+ii+mens&qid=1557687574&s=gateway&sprefix=keen+targhee%2Caps%2C211&sr=8-1

And the only reason I am replacing them is because the were burned by accident and don't look as nice, but not because they are failing. As long as Keen keeps making these shoes, I will never buy another pair.

If I can get the shape, style, construction, reliability in a SPD pedal, I would virtually never take the shoes off but to sleep.

Keen's sandal hasn't gotten good reviews at all, and they might have even discontinued them: https://www.amazon.com/KEEN-Commuter-Cycling-Sandal-Gargoyle/product-reviews/B00RLY8Z6Y/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_hist_1?pageNumber=1&filterByStar=one_star

And the Keen Newports look like a similar shape and style of the soul: https://www.amazon.com/Keen-Mens-Newport-Sandal-Black/dp/B0006FSKF6/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=Keen&qid=1557687868&s=gateway&sr=8-2

So I would probably just do the Newports in the Summer and the Targhee's the rest of the time, but I need to clip in at this point. What I need is for Keen to make the Newports in an SPD pedal, but I don't think they will do that just for me ;)

If it wasn't for knee problems and the need to clip in at this point, I would just keep using Keen shoes and find a good sandal and just keep riding on platform pedals which I like better anyway.

But it's all about the knees now :(

I own these gloves. They aren't the warmest, but the fingers make using touchscreen/buttons a breeze.

I also swear by Merrell footware. I specifically use boots like these and love them. On less cold/snowy days, their waterpoof moabs like these are the best shoes I've ever worn. I can stand for 12 hours on them and still feel comfortable. All links are referral links.

The Salomon Quest 4D II GTX is an amazing boot. I've done Acadia, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Glacier, and countless state parks in these boots and they have held up impeccably after hundreds of miles of hiking. They're waterproof and nearly indestructible. They are about $230 at REI but can be found cheaper in certain sizes on Amazon and they come extremely well rated on Outdoor Gear Lab, winning the Editors' Choice. I love them and as soon as mine wear out (who knows when that will be) I will buy another pair without a second thought.

I walk 30+ miles a week, so maybe my experience will help a little.

Any walking shoe will eventually need to be replaced. 350-500 miles is typical for an athletic shoe, but if you only walk in them you should shoot for 500 miles. Now, the question is: what shoe will get you there? I've tried tons of different shoes and here's my honest opinion:

1. Any generic brand you can get at Walmart for $15 avoid like the plague. I've literally worn through the soles of some of these in a week.
   
   
2. Asics- great comfort but lousy soles. The soles are cheaply glued together and whole sections peel off after 30-40 miles. Asics is good about swapping them out if it happens, but they'll only do it once.
   
   
3. Nike- the toe cap always detaches. I've tried to use Shoe Goo but it never lasts. Had this happen on at least half a dozen pairs.
   
   
4. Sketchers walking shoes. Cheap cheap cheap. The soles wear out, the memory foam padding inside feels like cement after a week and they make my feet hurt.
   
   
5. Doc Martins (any). Feel like cement blocks tied to your feet and will give you blisters after a mile. They're not really walking shoes but I thought I'd give them a try.
   
   So what do I use? I'm really digging these Merrill Moab hiking shoes. After 100 miles they look almost new. Good stability, the padding around the ankle and in the footbed is still great and the soles show zero wear. They're Vibram soles, not sure what that means, I just know they're tough. Also, it's been about 90F outside this week and my feet were the only part that wasn't roasting.
   
   So, while not quite BIFL, I think these would get you to the 500 mile mark.
   
   https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LOYWQI/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apip_JLVtmjURsrQ4O

I've got these, and I can't recommend them enough. Had them for a couple months and they're super super comfortable, and have plenty of grip for whatever course. Another nice thing about them is that they're lighter than I expected, so they don't affect my play at all. Love these shoes.

• Surplus ESS LandOps Goggles (eBay) - Most important item, MilSpec far exceeds ANSI standards, and ridiculously cheap if you don't mind a used pair - $13.99
  
  
• Random Lower Face + Ears Mesh Mask (Airsoft GI) - Just say no to dental bills - $14.00
  
  
• Salomon Mid-Ankle Hiking Boots (Amazon) - Boots are one place where you can't find "Good" and "Cheap" at the same time, so get "Good" - $122.98
  
  
• CYMA CM040c AK-74M Replica (Airsoft GI) - Ridiculously good value workhorse replica, doesn't feel cheap like the CM028 series. Can be found on sale for cheaper if you look at the right time. Comes with a hi-cap, but not always a battery - $182.91
  
  
• Chinese Surplus Sling (eBay) - Dirt cheap leather and canvas deal, plenty strong, a bitch to get on, which means it won't come undone unless you damn well want it to - $6.59
  
  
• Turnigy 7.4v 1200mAh LiPoly Battery (HobbyKing AR) - Can't beat HobbyKing when it comes to batteries - $7.85
  
  
• IMAX B6 Balance Charger (HobbyKing AR) - Still can't beat HobbyKing when it comes to battery accessories - $28.41
  
  
• 5,000 ct. bottle of Elite Force 0.28g BIO BBs (Just Airsoft Ammo) - Can't beat JAA when it comes to BBs - $23.49
  
  
• GRAND TOTAL: $400.22 plus shipping for HobbyKing purchase - all other shipping is free. Clothes? Wear civvie stuff - jeans, a long-sleeved shirt, and work gloves - who cares if they're dayglo yellow, they'll save your fingernails.
  
  The next $75 would be put towards the following (honestly, I'd skip a week and save my way to $500 to get these at the same time as all of the above):
  
  
• 5x G&P 30 Round 5.45x39mm Magazines, 150-Round MidCaps (Evike) - Mid-Caps are better - $56.25
  
  
• Surplus ChiCom Type 81 Chest Rig (eBay) - 4 mag pouches + two admin pouches (deadrag, stubby water bottle) - $15.99

I like my Merrell All Out Blazes, but those Keen sandals below look great too.

Edit, there's a version with thin mesh over the holes to keep debris out but would surely drain water well.

Thank you for your reply. I have a very good pair of boots that allowed me to survive an entire day walk in cadets and were very comfortable during my last airsoft game day. These are the Magnum Men's Panther Lace Up Boot < http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B003BFX6AC/ >. If anybody wants to take a look, do make a note that Amazon has free returns in the UK and I highly recommend it.

During the summers, I like the KEEN sandels. Pretty much all I wear. Winter, it's Merrell Moab's. When I mt. bike, I have found the Pearl Izumi's are pretty good. For work, Rockports are comfortable.

Yup, these Keen's are my festy shoes.

Being waterproof is nice for when it rains and everything turns to mud and there is a decent amount of tread so you've got good grip when you're spun cookies and/or walking on wet grass.

The rubber part that comes over the toes is especially nice for kicking logs around the campfire when you can't find the pokey stick or to help to protect you when stumbling wooks step on your feet.

No prob, and i actually agree with you on the TNF boots, they're not my cup of tea either but i included them to pad out my suggestions and visually they fit the bill. You never know, some MFAers might like them. Here is an example of the NB 710s in a tonal suede that might bring them into the fair-weather boot genre, and in 2010 there was a full-grain offering so they might still be available on Ebay.

Another option is the Vasque Sundowner in full-grain. I used to sell these in an outdoor sporting goods store and they are absolutely capable of double-duty in both casual and backpacking situations.

Depending on your boot size, the Salomon Quest 4D 2 GTX is a great value, at least in my opinion:

Men's Quest 4D 2 GTX

It's definitely my favorite boot I've ever owned.

I just picked up some Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX boots [link](Salomon Men's X Ultra Mid 2 GTX Multifunctional Hiking Boot, Black/Black/Aluminum, 9.5 M US https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KWKKJEK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.iDIzbMDK3152) and I can confidently say these are probably BIFL haha. Literally just bought them but you can tell the make, quality, and comfort of these shoes is remarkable and built to last. Been wearing them nonstop for about a week.

• Feet: Since you're wearing dress shoes I recommend you either a) pack galoshes or b) pack a pair of sandals or very lightweight shoes to change into when it rains. You can keep a pack towel in your bag to dry your feet when you get to work, or use paper towel from the bathroom.
  
• Legs: I have some Bellwether Aqua-NO Pants. They work great and are relatively inexpensive. There are ankle zips so you can put them on without removing your shoes and they don't take up much space in a bag. Are they the best? No. Is your commute two miles? Yup. Unless you're riding two miles up the side of a mountain I wouldn't worry about them making you overly sweaty. If you can't find the Bellwethers any other cycling specific rain pant with ankle zips should do. Stay away from hiking pants because they usually have too much material at the ankles and tend to get caught in your chain.

Look for a temperature rating or information about insulation. For example:

LL Bean Bean Boots 8" with Thinsulate

>Footbed is lined with Thinsulate™ Insulation olefin/polyester for extra warmth during cold snaps.

Kamik NationPlus

>Minus 40F Temperature rated

>200B Thinsulate insulation


Sorel Caribou

>UPPER: Waterproof nubuck leather upper. Seam sealed waterproof construction.

>INSULATION: Removable 9mm washable recycled felt inner boot with Sherpa Pile snow cuff.

>MIDSOLE: 2.5 mm bonded felt frost plug.

>OUTSOLE: Handcrafted waterproof vulcanized rubber shell with Sorel aero-trac non loading outsole.

>SOREL rated: -40° Fahrenheit / -40° Celsius

The North Face Chillkat 400

>This waterproof leather utility boot rated to -40F offers 400g of synthetic insulation for outstanding warmth and protection in the coldest conditions.

Have you tried superfeet? They really help with arch support and I'd say a majority of thru hikers use them.

100 miles is kind of ridiculous... That's less than a week even at a slow pace. I've had luck with Merrill ventilators and got about 1500 miles per pair. They're stiffer and heavier than running shoes which may be a plus for you.

My feet sweat pretty bad, so I would take a couple breaks per day to air out my feet and shoes and change into dry socks. Foot powder also really helps, as does taping up hot spots before they becomes blisters.

I use the Danner Crag Rat as my winter boot, and also for working outside. It's an absolute tank, and very comfortable as well. Fully waterproof, and GoreTex lining. Love them (even though I bought them under the assumption that they are MiUSA, which was wrong).

Merrell Moabs.

I love these.

Light. Good ankle support.

I can't speak to issue number 2 here - still, I'll see what I can find for issue 1.

As far as I can find, the Civettas are a plastic boot. As such, only the liner's really going to be "broken in" to any significant extent - the plastic shell really won't change at all. And from what I can see, the inner boot uses Duratherm and Thinsulate so you have a dry, warm foot - and in my experience, neither packs out to a huge extent. From what I know, the best way to break the liner in to any significant extent would be to wear it around as much as you can. Really. Whether that's hiking, or simply sitting on a couch, every bit helps.

Ninja edit: here's a few links to have a look at the Civetta

The ones you linked to look really hot to me. They're gore-tex, waterproof, right? So- probably not very breathable and slow to dry.

I prefer something like this:
http://www.amazon.com/Merrell-Mens-Moab-Ventilator-Hiking/dp/B00D7CHAEW

But you'll have the best luck if you go to the store, try some on, see what fits. Consider buying a size up so your toes don't crunch into the ends during descents.

I totally recommend Merrell boots. I have a pair similar to these that I've had for about five years now. They have been through two archaeology field schools, over a hand full of geology field schools, and countless hikes. I'm on the west coast as well and have worn them through different weather conditions. They are still in amazing shape.

Thanks for your input! I gather the general feel is to keep the two separate if at all possible. But what about these security boots:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/G-Force-Hi-Leg-Combat-Boots-Protection/dp/B00LZSRY1Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1410877113&sr=8-3&keywords=security+boot

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnum-Panther-54274-069-01/dp/B003BFX6AC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1410877126&sr=8-2&keywords=security+boot

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnum-Panther-54296-069-01/dp/B003OW62SU/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1410877126&sr=8-6&keywords=security+boot

Would they be a good medium?

Get a pair of [Salomon Quests] (https://www.amazon.com/Salomon-Quest-4D-Asphalt-Titanium/dp/B00KWK2JSE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465676047&sr=8-1&keywords=salomon+quest). They are GoreTex so they are waterproof but the water can get out. They are really comfortable. They work well in the snow and the heat. I got mine for a trip to New Zealand, ended up wearing them in Indonesia and Australia. I also used them for snowshoeing all winter. They were a little warm in the hot climates but never too cold. I'd suggest trying some on.

Personally I have been impressed with Kamik for their quality and low price.

Currently rocking Nation Plus as my lace up snow boots. They get rated highly, often better than more expensive boots.

(EDIT: their slip on boots are awesome, cheap and at least partially made in US/Canada I believe)

It's cold but unless he's going to be spending a lot of time outside you don't need to get too crazy. For outside, a hat (or 180's to not ruin your hair), gloves & a peacoat or ski coat is fine. Maybe some Tingley Rubbers :) I either squeeze my regular coat over my suit jacket or carry the jacket (or better yet leave it in the office). For the office I'd suggest a merino v-neck sweater to wear over his dress shirt.

If you like the look of these Merrell Moabs they are amazing. Incredibly durable. I can cover just about any terrain with these and some nicer flip-flops. I wear my pair quite a bit, and I'm still on my 2nd pair after 15 years.

Thorogood 6" Moc

Just as good as my redwing 875's but with slightly softer leather to make the break-in process much less painful, and they come with speed-laces. American made. They have steel toe and plain toe also, come with composite shanks.

Edit: Oh, and they're under $200.

Highly recommend.

Edit#2: Saw your post where you were looking for a non-boot. Keens are great all around hiking/durable shoe. Look into those.

This pair of Merrell shoes are what I purchased at the beginning of the summer and they have been great. I don't think they are "waterproof", but I've stepped in quite a few puddles and I have yet to feel water get through. The soles and toes are also extremely durable. The right toe on my old shoes wore out pretty quick once I started playing regularly - the right toe on my Merrells is barely fazed.

I bought a pair of Merrell's about a year ago for around $80 that have held up well to a pretty solid beating (5-8 mile day hikes every 3 weeks or so). Comfortable, lightweight but with enough ankle support. $90 on amazon now, but one of those 20% off coupons might still work. Here's a link.

http://www.amazon.com/Merrell-Mens-Moab-Ventilator-Multisport/dp/B00D7CHAEW

did you use that for hiking?

doesnt really look like a hardcore hiking boot to me...(edit.. looks more like a casual day boot like a timberlan)

i have a pair similiar to these https://www.amazon.com/Merrell-Moab-Ventilator-Mid-Hiking/dp/B00D7CHBFU

very summer hiking geared, but i've used them in cold and snow and almost every type of climant and terrain

had them since 2012 and they are just starting to fall apart and rip open, not water resistant at all, but are still comfortable

i am looking for some pretty heavy duty stuff. mountaineering boots usually do the trick, i was just looking at logging/firefighting boots because i wanted something that i could wear all year and were not so specialized looking like mountaineering boots. what i bought this year and im hoping they will make it through the season. this is what my blocks usually look like, boots dont last very long.

I got these Danner Mountain 600s for my birthday. After I got them I decided I would destroy the finish very quickly, they are sued instead of smooth leather and they are just a little too "sporty" for me.

 

I am used to being able to abuse my Charcoal Iron Rangers and then easily clean/oil them and they look brand new. That being said...I need some brown boots, a not another pair of IRs. I will be using the credit from the Danner Boots that I'm returning ($140) and I'm willing to spend another $60-100 to get something better.

 

I'm thinking either Danner Bull Run Moc Toes , Thorogood Moc Toes, or stretching the budget and getting some Red Wing Moc Toes.


Is there a substantial drop in quality going from the $250 Red wings to the $175 Danner to the $160 Thorogoods? I will probably still wear my IRs more, but these will get a lot of use.

 

Any other suggestions in that range (on amazon ~$150-250)??

Thanks!

one cart would be a little hard to do..but im bored atm so I guess I can link stuff from head to toe lol

Head: Dye Mask + Beanie

Neck: Neck wrap thing

Chest: SS Lv119 Overt + SS Micro Flight

Back: Flatpack or Minimap

Hands: Gloves

Belt: Ronin or HSGI Slim

Sidearm: G19

Primary: Mp5

Boots: Merrell

Regulator: Dual or nothing

Tanks: Slim yet plenty of air

also not even going off your 1k budget lol. pick and choose what you want but this is one of my setups. can always buy knockoff versions if you like it

I see Danners on Amazon for 225ish all the time. Special sizes usually, but EE included. http://www.amazon.com/Danner-Mountain-Light-II-Outdoor/dp/B002OSY04S

Danner Lights are higher and offer more ankle support, if you're into that

My brother loves his Oboz. https://www.amazon.com/Oboz-Sawtooth-Light-Hiking-Pewter/dp/B00GGI3U34/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1481662863&sr=1-2&nodeID=679255011&keywords=oboz+sawtooth+hiking+shoes

I love my Keens.
https://www.amazon.com/KEEN-Targhee-Hiking-Gargoyle-Midnight/dp/B005D4U04Y/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1481662714&sr=1-2&nodeID=679255011&keywords=keen+targhee+ii

I had a pair of Merrills and the waterproofing failed right away and they were really heavy.

I have a pair of these and have been really happy with them. You could go more minimalist but I hike on very rocky terrain (just did a White Mountain Presidential traverse in them) and they are a good blend of tough, light, and comfy.

I love my merrell hiking shoe. I haven't worn boots since I gave up my 90s Doc Martin alternative phase

I have these

Love them. Almost zero break-in time needed!

At $60 I would much prefer this boot. They have great reviews and stand up to real winter. https://www.amazon.com/Kamik-Mens-Nationplus-Snow-Brown/dp/B00AZODAPI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481856765&sr=8-1&keywords=kamik%2Bnationplus%2Bboots&th=1&psc=1

Very happy with my Danner boots

I wouldn't go for any of those if you ever actually leave the confines of the city. The Vasque Sundowner is pretty timeless if you want the "I want to look ruggedly fashionable while actually hiking up a mountain" look.

Not a trail runner, but check these out: https://www.amazon.com/Merrell-Blaze-Sport-Hiking-Water/dp/B01HEAE716

"Merrell Men's All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe"

I like them a lot for hiking on mountainous trails with lots of water crossings.

My go-to shoes have been the Merrell Moab Ventilator shoes. My last pair lasted 4 years of pretty heavy use. They are not waterproof though.

I'd suggest looking at hiking boots. They're made for exactly the uses you've described, unlike the recommendations for workboots that have been offered so far. The Chippewas recommended don't have good arch support, and I just don't see them working well for what you've described. I'd check these out:

http://www.amazon.com/Merrell-Mens-Moab-Ventilator-Walnut/dp/B000LOYWQI/

http://www.amazon.com/Merrell-Moab-Waterproof-Hiking-Brown/dp/B004D3CFQW/

Patagonia makes some good ones too. I know these aren't that attractive, and aren't as fashionable as Chippewa, but they'll actually work.

Take a look at the Salomon Ultra Mid 2 GTX. I bought a pair in the fall and used them mostly for winter hiking, but mixed in some light trail running in them without any issues. Super light and comfortable.

Definitely thought about those. Do you know anything about these Timberland's?

I recommend the Merrell Moab Ventilator in all black. Especially if you have wide feet. Extremely comfy and never had an issue taking it to the club.

The problem is they both are called the same thing but are very different. Technical hiking boots actually made for hiking are something different from the heritage hiking-style boots that are in this inspo album. Nobody on MFA is going to recommend completing your look with a pair of Salomon Quest boots.

[The Moab Ventilator from Merrell.] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000LOYWQI/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1454007854&sr=8-2&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=merrell+shoes+for+men)

Seriously comfortable, and they stand up well to dirt/mud. The low cut also makes them more stylish than most hiking shoes.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000LOYWQI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466952419&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=merrell&dpPl=1&dpID=41yCvShTHvL&ref=plSrch#

Danner Mountain Lite II

Overshoes

I want go trekking in Nepal in March 2017, do I need waterproof boots? I already have those Boots but they're not waterproof.
And I'm not sure if I should go with a guide or if I should find other people to trek with.