[wildernessed]

With the myth of heavy hiking boots being discredited what are your favorite light hikers ? I know personally I have suffered physically from heavy, stiff, unbreatheable footwear and was a slow learner when it came to adopting ultralight foot wear. My hesitation was both believing the marketing and the fear of turning an ankle (hypersupination). I have been a runner for 40 years and sprained my ankle several times requiring casting that gave me a pause, but eventually I thought I am running on a trail with trail runners so shouldn't I be able to hike with trail runners ? So I am now. More substantial boots have a place in difficult off trail terrain, but I think it may be more efficient to carry them until I need them. I am currently hiking in Hokaa One Speed Hikers, Speed Goats, and have used Brooks Cascadias. I am waiting to see how the Hoka One Challenger 3's look and feel. What are you wearing, or waiting for in 2017 ? How Stuff Works Ultralight Hiking Shoes Video

[awilsondc]

I posted this thread last year and went with the Salomon Speedcross 4. I just love them. From the moment I put them on they fit so perfectly and were so comfortable, I was sold. I took them on several trips last year including scrambling in the Teanaway and backpacking and peak bagging in the Goat Rocks and they were awesome. The only think they don't do well is side hill edging and smearing but they are perfect for the trail, the cushioning is awesome, and they scramble well. I haven't tested them in snow, but if I'm expecting sustained snow I'd pick different footwear. Anyhow, I love them and will probably get a second pair since they seem to fit my foot so perfectly.

[mike]

I've been using these Asolos for a few years. Plus: less than 2 lbs/pr, some ankle support which makes moderate off-trail/side-hill doable. Lace to toe. Suitable with light pack. Have worn microspikes in a pinch (but not recommended). Only $85 with coupon. Minus: goretex (YMMV), very thin sole which may be too thin for some but I prefer it. FWIW I added black superfeet. And I picked up a pair of the Keen Durands for shoulder season/rough use. Like 'em fine. 2½lbs/pr. Appear to be getting discontinued so maybe some deals.

[wildernessed]

[wildernessed]

[HitTheTrail]

Experience makes me agree that weight on the foot is unequal to that on the back. My several pair of heavy full grain leather boots are used to support old feet/ankles but I just got a pair of much lighter Hoka Tor Techs. Also, I have been spending all winter breaking in a stiff pair of Asolo Fugitives because they are lighter than the full-weight 520's. On a somewhat related matter in your post... I cannot agree with gear the "Clever Hiker" is reviewing as top 10. Especially in the hammock and tent categories. He's either never used the items much or is taking sponsorship money.

[Riverside Laker]

A study I saw claimed 1 lb on your feet is equivalent to 6.2 lbs on your back, in terms of energy used. Also 1 lb in your hands equivalent to 1.9 lbs on your back. So save weight on the feet and hands.

[Chief Joseph]

I had some Asics Gel Trail Attacks a few years ago, super light and comfortable and had a rock plate sole. I still will not wear light hikers exclusively, like when I am in rough, rocky terrain and in changing conditions like while backpacking. I know this has been discussed ad naseum, however, I still don't think trail runners are good for everyone and also trail condition dependent. I like the look at those Soloman speedcross 4's...wonder if REI carries them? I know online prices are usually way lower, but buying shoes online is too risky, given all the variables.

[DIYSteve]

[Jaberwock]

I've been happy with Altra Lone Peaks and Inov8 Roclites.

[Ski]

Went with a pair of these a couple years ago: New Balance "Minimus" Got the "Vivo Ultra Pure" on Steve's recommendation, and they're great for padding around camp. I don't think they'd be worth a damn on a trail. The "New Balance Minimus" were fine for walking on (and off) trail with no pack. I really doubt they'd hold up under any kind of real load. (* Looking at the REI site it appears they no longer carry that model, but now offer a different model.) YMMV

[williswall]

I have had good luck with Inov8s, different models, in most conditions. However, I agree with Steve on his observations.

[DIYSteve]

[Snuffy]

I have worn the NB Minimus, Vivobarefoot Trail Freak and Altra Lone Peaks the last 5 years and Altras are my favorite. I've put 100s of miles in on them and they make my feet happy, especially on long backpacking trips. Just tried the Neo version and they have been great this winter, even when postholing (with gaiters, of course). Luna or Xero sandals are another favorite on dayhikes.

[wildernessed]

I wore the Hokaa One Speed Hiker mids on a lot of hikes last year including off trail peakbagging. I also wore them backpacking on overnight trips with off trail scrambling. I was using a complete UL setup so my total pack wt. Including food and water was 13 - 15 lb. It really feels liberating when you combine ul footwear with ul equipment. I hope to drop 2 more lb. from my total pack weight this summer - fall.