Boots again; wide and light boots sought

[Stephen Lord]

Hi, I'm early in the planning stages for a camino- even the route is not yet certain nor the mode of travel, as I have walked half the Via de la Plata and thought it begged to be bicycled. I don't mean to offend anyone by that remark and I shall be a considerate bike pilgrim if I ride the route.

But I am looking for lightweight boots, boots which would be suited for cycling in as well as walking. I don't want to wear my well broken in Raichle all-leather mountain boots, as they may be a bit heavy and hot for the camino, and the heels would be hard on the road sections that are all too numerous on the Via de la Plata. I'm thinking of perhaps the Raichle Sierra, a light (1300g/pair) boot, still with the unwanted Goretex lining, but a very good fit for my fit, which I think is the most important point for a long walk. I like a fairly supportive boot. Can anyone suggest anything else I should look at, or want to comment on the suitability of that boot? My concern would be that the boot doesn't deform or fall to bits on a long relentless walk.

Thanks,
Stephen Lord

 

[JustRob]

Trail Shoes

I've have good experience with the Merrell Reflex II Trail Shoe.

It's low cut, sturdy and is very stable. You still have to contend with the Gore Tex factor, though.

 

[Anonymous]

Guys - what is the problem with GoreTex lining? Do they wear wrong or break up? .... or..

 

[spursfan]

I bought a pair of Goretex lined walking shoes - and got horrible blisters (not sure if there was a join between different fabrics at back of the shoe)

The problem with walking in them in hot weather I understand is that they become too warm and sweaty

So I'm preferring to use ordinary walking shoes and, if rain, waterproof socks

 

[Anonymous]

Ah. I know it is not a good idea to buy boots without trying them on but I have really wide feet and always have a problem as walking boots are never wide enough for me. The cheapo boots I found in France before the pilgrimage were really wide, firm and comfortable. I still have them but they are on their last legs now - I just found a supplier in the States (Hurrah!)

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll? ... 0076541067

Hi-Tec Nova Lite 11 - and they are only about £21! (35 euros).