Age old question of boots/shoes

[dollytz]

I'm in the very early stages of planning to walk the Camino Frances. My trusty walking shoes were stolen recently so I need to get new ones. The BIG problem is that, as I live in Tanzania, I won't be able to get them until July when I return to the UK for a holiday. Any recommendations for shops in the Manchester area? I regularly walk 10-15kms-well I did before the shoes were stolen, and I intend to build this up so that 20kms is within my comfort zone. Thanks for any advice By the way, should I take 1 pair or 2?

 

[Peter Fransiscus]

I'm in the very early stages of planning to walk the Camino Frances. My trusty walking shoes were stolen recently so I need to get new ones. The BIG problem is that, as I live in Tanzania, I won't be able to get them until July when I return to the UK for a holiday. Any recommendations for shops in the Manchester area? I regularly walk 10-15kms-well I did before the shoes were stolen, and I intend to build this up so that 20kms is within my comfort zone. Thanks for any advice By the way, should I take 1 pair or 2?

Hello , about the question 1pair or 2 , by 2pair. When something happens with one pair you have a good pair left. I can't help you with your other question , because I am from Holland. I wish you happy planning and a Buen Camino , Peter .

 

[Tincatinker]

Google reveals http://www.ellis-brigham.com/

1 pair of boots / shoes for walking and some Crocs / Reefs / insert favourite brand for evening wear / relief.

 

[Anniesantiago]

You will need one pair of shoes to walk in and a featherweight pair to put on in the evenings that you can also wear in the shower.
Most people like Crocs (get them cheap in Spain) or flip flops or Tevas. Something like that.

If you do not regularly wear boots, I suggest lightweight trail runners for the Camino.
The camino is a long walk, not a mountain hike.
There are maybe three short stretches that are steep. Use sticks there.
If you are USED to wearing hiking boots or have very weak ankles, fine.
But I have seen more people blister-hobbled by boots, both heels, toes, and ankles, than any other footwear.

 

[Mike Savage]

Welcome Dolly!

I too believe in one pair to walk in and crocs/sandals for the shower and relaxing.

 

[jmcarp]

Welcome Dolly!
I too believe in one pair to walk in and crocs/sandals for the shower and relaxing.

That seems to be the prevailing opinion, and is also my recommendation. No need to add the weight of a second pair of walking shoes/boots, and if something does happen to them, you get another pair in any of the larger towns along the Camino.

 

[scruffy1]

Boots-as in the "Sunsceen Song'' : 'be kind to your knees, you will miss them when they are gone'!

 

[CaminoDebrita]

I have been following boots / trail runners / crocs and teva's / Keens etc. discussions and trying to get a feel for my own feet in a major way. On all my longer hikes in the Cascade Mountains (Oregon) I've always worn boots, but I've noticed that there is a strong camp that opposes waterproof boots and shoes, as they seem to "hold in" the heat.

I'm going in very late September, and anticipate most of my walk to be in October and the second week of November. These are Vasque Talus Waterproof, and feel very comfortable on. I've walked in them on hikes--just up to 8 miles or so, and spent lots of time in them (considering I bought them eight weeks ago).

What do you think? too warm for November? too "boot like"? Can hardly wait for your seasoned opinions.

Deb

 

[Anemone del Camino]

I'm going in very late September, and anticipate most of my walk to be in October and the second week of November. These are Vasque Talus Waterproof, and feel very comfortable on. I've walked in them on hikes--just up to 8 miles or so, and spent lots of time in them (considering I bought them eight weeks ago).
What do you think? too warm for November? too "boot like"? Can hardly wait for your seasoned opinions.
Deb

You like them, they fit well, you know they are kind to your feet. Wear them. Many people wear such boots in summer. I prefer sandals, but that's just me ;0)

 

[C clearly]

I agree with

You like them, they fit well, you know they are kind to your feet. Wear them.

 

[marbuck]

I am from the boot school. Keeps your feet dry (it is going to rain), protects your ankles on downhill sections and a good pair of boots has a good sole to stop stone bruising. Sandals for when you stop for the day.

 

[LookingFor42]

I'm in the joggers school. I have tight calves and find boots dig into my Achilles. I've walked long treks carrying full pack (30kg) in joggers. They dry quickly when wet, they let my feet breathe, they provide protection to my soles (compared with bare feet) and they are lightweight. Wear what you are comfortable with.