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manoll said:With a light pack (11-18 lbs (4.9-8.1 Kg.) boots become redundant. A well fitted pair of hiking shoes with a good tread work so much better, with the benefit of never having blisters -at least that is what happened to me when I switched. What is your opinion of the Inov8 Roclite 286 and the 295? Do you know of other hiking shoes that are lighter and would work on the Camino?
Ultreia!
Mary
manoll said:With a light pack (11-18 lbs (4.9-8.1 Kg.) boots become redundant. A well fitted pair of hiking shoes with a good tread work so much better, with the benefit of never having blisters -at least that is what happened to me when I switched. What is your opinion of the Inov8 Roclite 286 and the 295? Do you know of other hiking shoes that are lighter and would work on the Camino?
Ultreia!
Mary
Susannafromsweden said:I would not want to walk in a pair of minimalistic trailrunners on asphalt.
Sojourner47 said:Susannafromsweden said:I would not want to walk in a pair of minimalistic trailrunners on asphalt.
Not all trail running shoes are "minimalistic". I have walked plenty of kms on hot tarmac in the afternoon without problems - dare I say the weight of the walker also needs to be taken into consideration, after all it's the total weight supported by the shoes/boots which causes the wear.
Sojourner47, on the Camino the weight of my pack and what I will have on for clothes together will be about 4.9 kg. It's when I backpack in the mountains and I carry a tent, a little stove, a pot, a sleeping pad, dehydrated food for 10 days, and a water purifier -in addition to the sleeping bag, clothes, etc. that my pack weighs closer to 8 kg.Wow, you reckon 4.9 - 8.1 kgs is LIGHT?????
Regarding the best shoes, I recommend New Balance trail runners, 573 or 610, plain or goretex.
CaminoGen, you sound like a tough pilgrim who can tolerate pain! Ouch! Why would you think that by wearing hiking boots you are safe and could not get tendonitis? There are so many factors that contribute to tendonitis and it certainly is not because of the trail shoes. For example, the weight of your pack and your own weight, lack of stretching and strengthening your calf muscles. Not taking breaks every hour, and when there is pain and swelling not stopping as soon as possible to immerse your feet in cool water, and resting.Shoe or boot... Most people (including me) who had blisters wore boots. However, most people I met with tendinitis wore shoes. I'll take the blisters anytime.
manoll said:One very important fact that Greg has mentioned is the size of your shoes, if you are going to be doing long distance walking, buy them a half a size larger!
I don't think that the mere coincidence of it not raining for a few days while a particular individual is walking should be taken as a sound basis for general advice of this nature. Greg's individual good luck might be wonderful for him, but won't necessarily be repeated.gregdedman said:Oh and for mid may and june gore-tex won't really be needed. I'm walking a section of the Camino Catalan from Monday and it's 23 degrees and pure sunshineand this is only mid April.
Well that's good manoll, I thought for a while you were teasing caminogen. :wink:manoll said:OMG! No Susanna I don't think it's new! I discovered Compeed more than 20 years ago when I was dumb enough to walk in high-heel (hell :twisted: ) shoes in Spain, and I would get blisters! Because at that time I was still backpacking wearing boots and definitely getting blisters I purchased a few little cases of Compeed. A few years later something similar to Compeed showed up here in the U.S. but the adhesive left a lot to be desired, and still does! The only reason I suggested it was because CaminoGen mentioned his feet and I thought that not everyone is aware that the Compeed in Europe is the best. Also in mentioning Compeed, my thought was to help new hikers who don't have much information on this issue. That's all!
Mary
Why doesn't someone contact the manufacturer of your veils and suggests a covering/wrapping on that metal edge? Or maybe changing the metal to a plastic? I bet they's probably be willing to help, don't you think? After all you are their customerSisters use it to cover the sharp metal edge on the crown of our veils. Without it, your ears get cut and super sore .
Hi Fatima, I just saw your post and depending on how much weight you will carry, those are some heavy duty boots to backpack in the mountains with a heavy pack. If you will carry about 10-12 pounds (4.5-5.4 Kg) you would not need to wear boots, but a good pair of trail shoes, even with weak ankles! Have you thought about using hiking poles? They are a savior for your knees and ankles, they help you going down hill and crossing streams, and make hiking so much easier, really they do! Do you need Gor-Tex? I don´t think so because you do not want your feet to get hot and sweaty. If you wear rain gear that usually is enough to protect you. If you haven´t bought the boots, take a look at some good trail shoes with good traction, and that´s all you´ll need, I promiseI intend to leave at the beginning of May. I am not a fit woman with 49 yo, even with 164cm/ 64 kg , I am not fit an I have weak ankles, but I will take very careful, cause I have time. if I can I walk 20 to 30 km a day ok, if not, no problem, I will let my body talk. I am without much preparations, I only walk everyday around 10 to 15 km. My rush to do the Camino this year are if I can not do now, will be difficult in another time. I've being postpone more than 23 years this trip cause others persons and family issue. I am not regret, but if I can not do now seems will be hard in the future. I really need to strengthen my faith, take time just for me and more importantly to feel closer to God in this journey.
Well sorry for any inconvenience , any tips or advice will be very appreciate .thanks a lot .
Utreia.
manoll said:If you will carry about 10-12 pounds (4.5-5.4 Kg) you would not need to wear boots, but a good pair of trail shoes, even with weak ankles! Have you thought about using hiking poles? They are a savior for your knees and ankles, they help you going down hill and crossing streams, and make hiking so much easier, really they do!
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Tia Valeria said:Hola Fatima,
If you live in Austria you might be able to buy the Italian made GriSport brand. They make lightweight boots as well as shoe types. I found the men's Quatro' fit my feet best. Buying in a good shop will give you help with the fit. You need to be able to push your toes to the end of the toe-box and then get a finger in behind your heel with your intended walking socks on. Then when tied proprly you will have wiggle room for your toes.
Another 'plus' for Grisport is that they do not take a lot of 'breaking in', so if you can find a pair they should be good for May.
Btw I've been admiring the signature photo you got (or avatar, or what it's called).
I don't know want it is, but it's beautiful.
I have tried them, and they do provide the protection between toes that would prevent blisters forming there. I don't think there is anything about their design that would prevent blisters forming elsewhere, like the soles, sides and heal of the foot.SisterSimon said:Has anyone tried the Injinji toe socks? They come in different weights and are made for long distance runners.Apparently the individual toes prevent blisters completely.
One of the most important layers typically removed is protection from intrusion by rocks, stones and other pointed objects. Harder soles provide this, or it might be provided by a 'rock plate' for shoes with thinner EVA mid-soles and soft rubber outer-soles. One of the shoes being heavily promoted here has omitted this entirely.
SisterSimon said:Thanks for your advice, Doug. I read your previous recommendations regarding shoes. Having pointed out the weaknesses of certain types, what kind of shoes would you recommend for the Camino?
Hello everyone ... happy new year to all. I have a question regarding footwear. Is there anyone out there who can recommend a brand of shoe/boot for a small but wide foot. I've tried Merrell and these were far too narrow .... I've also tried on a pair of Keen trail shoes. Felt great but no nothing of the brand. Just wondering if anyone out there with a foot like mine can recommend something? Cheers. Trish xxHi all,
I'm not quite sure why I havn't thought of this before but better late than never!
I'm a veteran of one Camino Frances in summer, one in winter. A Camino Muxia, a Camino Finistere and finally, imminently a Camino Catalan. When I'm not walking the Camino, I lead hikes in the mountains. When I'm not doing that, I work in an outdoor store in the UK fitting boots and socks all day long.
Having learnt what usually works when it comes to footwear combinations I can offer any advice, in the build up to 'Camino season', to those pondering on what to buy and how to make it all work.
There are lots of little tricks you can use to lace boots, deal with changes of temperatures during your walking day, how to prevent 'hot-spots' developing into blisters, taking space out of a pair of boots without compromising the fit, how best to layer your socks and what fabrics are best for different seasons.
Feel free to fire away
Buen Camino
Greg
Cool thanks for the advice .... I know by reading the forum that whether a shoe or a boot is used is personal choice .... but as a first timer just want to make the right decision. Would a trail shoe cut the mustard in September/October in your opinion?Keen is a well known quality brand used by many members on the forum. They are known for wide toe boxes like you require.
They make a wide range of models.
If you find a Keen that fits well I would advies going with iT.
Hi Lise .... great to hear from you. Thanks for all your info. Spending the morning struggling to get my feet into Merrells at R & R Sport was quite deflating to say the least! My jandals are looking good at this stage! I'll keep persevering and guess I'll know the right shoe when I find it. I'm flying into London 4th November and planning to get a flight to Pamplona on the 5th .... yes it is a bit of a battle coming from our side of the world! A long, long way sitting in that economy seat!Kia Ora Trish.
When my feet are measured length wise I am a 8.5. But becauses I have a classic kiwi wide foot I end up getting 10-11's so I can fit them. Yep...I have paddels.
I tried almost every thing before my second Camino. (Merrels, keen, soloman) I finally ended up going with the shoes I have worn for over 10 years for walking and tramping and on my previous 160km baby Camino (Brooks Addiction) I have used both leather and mesh versions on the camino. I preferred the leather for more lateral support. They never got hot (I walked aug-sept).
The Shoe clinic, athletes feet, and Smiths Sport shoes often stock all of the above.
But....I found that many of the sales people are runners or trampers and they just didnt understand that I needed a shoe/boot that could handle 30 plus days of walking. It was frustrating. ...and also because I am ...ummm "round"...I found people didnt take me seriously.
If you have wide feet like me...be careful about getting the "one size" bigger that is often recommended.
You may already have enough length to accomodate your width. Fortunately. ..I found this out on a training walk...I had got a shoe that was one full size bigger and I slopped around in it and ended up with the beginings of a blister on my soles due to the friction. It didnt matter what I did with the laces or doubling socks, my feet still slid around.
Socks will also help with the fit. That comes down to personal preference and what your feet like. Mine love a simple Thorlo running sock. I was using a thicker version but found it made my foot feel fat in the shoe.
I would say finding the right footwear and working out how to get from Auckland to StJean were the hardest part of my Camino. Even the decent into Zubiri was easier.....and I hated that.
Hi Lise .... great to hear from you. Thanks for all your info. Spending the morning struggling to get my feet into Merrells at R & R Sport was quite deflating to say the least! My jandals are looking good at this stage! I'll keep persevering and guess I'll know the right shoe when I find it. I'm flying into London 4th November and planning to get a flight to Pamplona on the 5th .... yes it is a bit of a battle coming from our side of the world! A long, long way sitting in that economy seat!xx
Oops 4th September ... not November ! xKia Ora Trish.
When my feet are measured length wise I am a 8.5. But becauses I have a classic kiwi wide foot I end up getting 10-11's so I can fit them. Yep...I have paddels.
I tried almost every thing before my second Camino. (Merrels, keen, soloman) I finally ended up going with the shoes I have worn for over 10 years for walking and tramping and on my previous 160km baby Camino (Brooks Addiction) I have used both leather and mesh versions on the camino. I preferred the leather for more lateral support. They never got hot (I walked aug-sept).
The Shoe clinic, athletes feet, and Smiths Sport shoes often stock all of the above.
But....I found that many of the sales people are runners or trampers and they just didnt understand that I needed a shoe/boot that could handle 30 plus days of walking. It was frustrating. ...and also because I am ...ummm "round"...I found people didnt take me seriously.
If you have wide feet like me...be careful about getting the "one size" bigger that is often recommended.
You may already have enough length to accomodate your width. Fortunately. ..I found this out on a training walk...I had got a shoe that was one full size bigger and I slopped around in it and ended up with the beginings of a blister on my soles due to the friction. It didnt matter what I did with the laces or doubling socks, my feet still slid around.
Socks will also help with the fit. That comes down to personal preference and what your feet like. Mine love a simple Thorlo running sock. I was using a thicker version but found it made my foot feel fat in the shoe.
I would say finding the right footwear and working out how to get from Auckland to StJean were the hardest part of my Camino. Even the decent into Zubiri was easier.....and I hated that.
Thanks for all that info Lise ... definitely given me something to work with.Hehehe. ..I hear you. I think as Kiwis we are almost born with Jandels on our feet.
I took jandels. ..and ditched them to save weight..but I did take some timberland sandels and they were heaven at the end of the day. It was like walking on pillows.
Another place you might like to try is www.Hikoi.co.nz. Its an online store...you can get a selection of shoes sent to you and try them on at home. They have some great Keen sales too. I know Kiwifamily loves the keen sandels.
I should also mention...that I did find the Keens ok for my feet...but could feel the stones comimg thru the soles. And there are alot of rocks on the path.
And my top suggestion is to get some hikers wool for any blisters or hot spots. Amazing stuff and super light.
I like your flight options! My dream is to one day be able to fly business class to Europe. Oh!!! To be able to lie flat out.
Dear Fatima,
Logically everyone should try on their shoes before purchasing a pair; to not do that would be foolish and the results could be disastrous, both on your feet and definitely on your joie de vivre. Ultimately, you wouldn't be able to concentrate on the purpose of your journey! Or you'd be offering your pain as penance to The Lord! Ouch!!
Check different styles of shoes, try them on, and like it has been pointed out, it has to be the right fit for your feet. I have worn women's shoes that were my size but the wrong fit, I have bought men's and had a better fit, but it wasn't until I tried the Inov8 Roclite 295 - which is actually a unisex model, that I finally had the right shoe for my feet, - and never again have I had any blisters! Can I recommend them? Yes, but will they be the right shoe for you? That, only you could know
Oh, and Fatima, do not get discouraged, let your faith guide you! And that idea that you'll be leaving your family behind? You're planning on returning to them, right? You are not leaving them! This is a spiritual journey you have been craving to do, no one but you can make it happen. You are a courageous woman! Many blessings on your Camino. Maybe we'll cross paths along the way
Ultreia!
Mary
Thanks for the advice Lise. Another product to add to my list! We've got Macpac down here so will have a look. Kerre Woodham climbed Mt Kilimanjaro? That's a great effort ...Hi
Hikers wool is a nz product...although im sure its elsewhere as well.
Its basically sheeps wool.
When you start to feel a hot spot you tear off a bit and put it between your foot and your sock. It acts like a barrier and helps prevent a blister from forming.
It "felts" to your sock. At the end of the day you just pull it off or leave it there. I get a blister under my little toe when I walk...so I wrapped the wool around there. It works a treat. And you dont have to worry about messy plasters or comped. However. .....if you do get a blister you can still use it. But make sure the blister is covered first.
If you google Hikers wool it will pop up. Sorry im on my phone at the moment and dont know how to do a link. I
got mine from Trek n Travel. $10.00 for a bag. But I think Macpac and Bivavacu have it as well.
Kerre Woodham (newstalkzb) used it to climb Mt Klilomanjamo last year. She loved it.
I ended up giving mine to other pilgrams who needed it. A little goes a long way.
Oh Trish......I am so envious you are going. Big sigh....:0)
Hey Greg, thank you for offering this much needed topic. I plan to go and properly fitted but was wondering whether to look for shoes or boots for the CF I am starting this May. I am considering boots due to ankles that are a little weak, and I am concerned about some of the descents. Any brands you can recommend?Hi all,
I'm not quite sure why I havn't thought of this before but better late than never!
I'm a veteran of one Camino Frances in summer, one in winter. A Camino Muxia, a Camino Finistere and finally, imminently a Camino Catalan. When I'm not walking the Camino, I lead hikes in the mountains. When I'm not doing that, I work in an outdoor store in the UK fitting boots and socks all day long.
Having learnt what usually works when it comes to footwear combinations I can offer any advice, in the build up to 'Camino season', to those pondering on what to buy and how to make it all work.
There are lots of little tricks you can use to lace boots, deal with changes of temperatures during your walking day, how to prevent 'hot-spots' developing into blisters, taking space out of a pair of boots without compromising the fit, how best to layer your socks and what fabrics are best for different seasons.
Feel free to fire away
Buen Camino
Greg
Keen is a well known quality brand used by many members on the forum. They are known for wide toe boxes like you require.
They make a large range of models.
If you find a Keen that fits well I would advise going with it.
Hi CaminoKris,Hey Greg, thank you for offering this much needed topic. I plan to go and properly fitted but was wondering whether to look for shoes or boots for the CF I am starting this May. I am considering boots due to ankles that are a little weak, and I am concerned about some of the descents. Any brands you can recommend?
Kris
Much obliged GregHi Gerard,
I mean, you could try what you suggest but if your body and your feet were good the last time, why risk a change?
It's difficult to find Merrell Moab mid boots WITHOUT waterproof, especially in shops. You , may have to order direct.
If its 70% aesthetics and 30% confidence of your body's weaknesses, I would gather confidence from how the body worked last time.
If you're still intent on going down a half size you can expect about 3cm length loss I would say, not all that much.
I'll use an English saying...'if it aint broke, dont fix it'.
Wear a removable ankle strap for support instead.
I have read through several posts and I am still uncomfortable about what shoe/boot to choose. I will be leaving for my 2nd Camino in June. My first Camino ended in Leon due to blisters and foot pain. I wore keen targhee mid boots, Vaseline, 2 pairs of socks (liner -cool max and smart wool). After returning home heartbroken I was set on wearing trail shoes next time. I saw a lot of people wearing trail runners and even crosstrainers and they were dancing down the path while I was trudging along. I have a narrow heel and require a wider toe box (blisters formed on both little toes even with the keens wide toe box). I'm fretting about this and only have 2 months to find shoes and break them in..any help would be appreciated. Trail shoes (low top) or mid top boots? I know everyone is different but what have you found to have the best cushion and are trail hikers (low top) less likely to cause blistering? Thank you!Hi all,
I'm not quite sure why I havn't thought of this before but better late than never!
I'm a veteran of one Camino Frances in summer, one in winter. A Camino Muxia, a Camino Finistere and finally, imminently a Camino Catalan. When I'm not walking the Camino, I lead hikes in the mountains. When I'm not doing that, I work in an outdoor store in the UK fitting boots and socks all day long.
Having learnt what usually works when it comes to footwear combinations I can offer any advice, in the build up to 'Camino season', to those pondering on what to buy and how to make it all work.
There are lots of little tricks you can use to lace boots, deal with changes of temperatures during your walking day, how to prevent 'hot-spots' developing into blisters, taking space out of a pair of boots without compromising the fit, how best to layer your socks and what fabrics are best for different seasons.
Feel free to fire away
Buen Camino
Greg
I have the boots and they work for me. Try researching the instructional videos for hiking boots available on youtube.com. Another tip; if prone to foot problems, consider transporting the bag once in a while. For 6-7 Euros/day companies pick-up your bag by 8am (i.e. Jacotrans have an online list of pick/up-drop-off points) and you only need to tell them the town you will pick it up. They will tell you where in that town they deliver the bags to. A break from the load once in a while may be the difference between been able to go the distance or not....Just a thought.I will try out the Merrill, boots or low top trail Merrill? Thanks! Buen Camino to you and maybe our paths will cross!
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