Boots: To Gore Tex or not to Gore Tex...

[Erno1978]

Hi all,

I'm still early in preparation for my first Camino Frances (April/May 2016). Still wondering about boots. At first I thought: I don't need waterproof-ness. But now I'm wondering... what if I'm unlucky and it will rain for several days non-stop? How will you keep your feet dry then?

Any advice on the need for waterproof-ness footgear if you leave (early) spring?

Thanks a lot!

 

[spursfan]

April/May doesn't seem like early spring to me - remember this is Spain - I found some muddy patches on the Camino Frances at that time of year - now I walk in trail shoes with a fabric outer that gets wet but the heat of my foot quickly dries the inside - more sensible for you, I would think, just to bring extra pairs of socks or buy a pair of waterproof socks if you must

 

[Jan_89]

Hello there!

I walked with Gore Tex light trekking shoes (Mammut). It was in summer time last year. No problem! I was very satisfied with them. In Galicia it was very rainy and I was happy for it! So next time.. Gore Tex again for me..

 

[Anniesantiago]

I walk every year in April/May/June and have never worn Goretex.
My shoes, if they do get wet, are always dry next morning.
Personally, I'd worry more about Goretex holding in sweat and causing blisters.

I also would not wear boots on the Camino.
Unless you already have boots you love, or have weak ankles, boots aren't necessary.

The Camino is not a mountain hike, but more of a long walk with a few short hills to climb.
I wear New Balance trail runners every year.

But this is one of those "every person has their own opinion" topics.

 

[annakappa]

You can still get a lot of rain in May, in fact into June. My boots are Goretex, because here in Costa Rica, you buy what you find on sale at the moment you need it. The only boots for ladies available, when I needed to get a new pair were with Goretex.I have hiked here with them, where we have mid 20 degrees temperature most days of the year and I've never felt hot or uncomfortable in them.
However, ask one hundred people what is their preference and you will get 100 different opinions! This is partly, I think, that feet differ some much in shapes and sizes, deformed or young and without 'age' defects, etc. etc!

 

[movinmaggie]

I've been quite happy (and comfortable) training in my Ahnu boots, but have packed some SoftMoc sandals for periodic breaks…..had I known a bit more in the beginning (before I found the forum), I might have considered trail runners as well, but no regrets whatsoever. I like the ankle support of the Ahnus.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

No to boots, but yes trail 'runners' but not made for running but walking. And unless you have particularly sweaty feet, yes to Gortex. Have always had it, haver never regreted it, and even congratulated myself for having them is the infamous cold and rainy May of 2013. Cold always, only wet from Altua condensation in Merino T-shirts, but super happy feet even if walking in 8 inches of mud day after day.