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What I really meant to say was that I intend to break myself into the shoesTrail runners generally don’t need much ‘breaking in’ - in that respect they are very different from leather boots/shoes.
Buen Camino
I have tried many over various Caminos and walks throughout Tasmania but my favourite are Hokas.Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
As you posted this I was writing my Cascadia review! Love them and you are right about them drying. I have walked in all day rain. Put some newspaper in them and they were always dry and ready to get wet all over again the next morning.Hi Lhollo, I walked my first Camino in Merrill boots and had blister and nerve troubles, even though I broke them in well before leaving home. My husband and I have since walked the full Frances and Norte in Brooks Cascadias with only 2 small blisters. So we love our Cascadias.
However, everyone’s feet are different, so as suggested above, you really need to try several. But to address your specific concerns:
-We also wear orthotics in our Cascadias, no problems. My husband left the Cascadia insert in his, I took mine out.
- I also have a pair of Altas for running around town. I like the wide toe box, and the zero gravity has not been a problem, but I too have narrow feet and the heel is a bit too big. My heels move around too much to be comfortable for a long Camino.
- Our Cascadias held up great. We continued to wear them awhile after our 500-mile walks but eventually replaced them. The non-Gortex type dry overnight, no problem.
Have fun getting ready for your walk, and Buen Camino!
Thank you! Did you size up a half size or a full size in your Cascadias? Or not at all?Hi Lhollo, I walked my first Camino in Merrill boots and had blister and nerve troubles, even though I broke them in well before leaving home. My husband and I have since walked the full Frances and Norte in Brooks Cascadias with only 2 small blisters. So we love our Cascadias.
However, everyone’s feet are different, so as suggested above, you really need to try several. But to address your specific concerns:
-We also wear orthotics in our Cascadias, no problems. My husband left the Cascadia insert in his, I took mine out.
- I also have a pair of Altas for running around town. I like the wide toe box, and the zero gravity has not been a problem, but I too have narrow feet and the heel is a bit too big. My heels move around too much to be comfortable for a long Camino.
- Our Cascadias held up great. We continued to wear them awhile after our 500-mile walks but eventually replaced them. The non-Gortex type dry overnight, no problem.
Have fun getting ready for your walk, and Buen Camino!
and the zero gravity has not been a problem
Thank you for this! Do you know which type of Hokas your wife uses? I've been looking at the Hoka One One Speedgoat but some people say that the tongue is sharp and has cut them, which… well, isn't exactly enticing, but I also know they're supposed to be very good so maybe it's worth ignoring tongue-weapon commentsI can only give you my personal experience. As Kanga stated all of us should only go by what our foot tells us and how we feel in them. One thing I would tell you is to size up 1 size because your foot will really expand especially if you are planning a long Camino.
My wife has very narrow feet and she wears orthopedic insoles. She has had major issues with her knees and lower back. She had operations on both knees. We have walked together in the morning especially since the pandemic. Many days after even 30
Minutes she would have pain and need to go back and not walk for a day or 2. A couple of months ago she told me she needed to try something else. After reading about so many people with similar issues she bought some Hokas. She absolutely is in love. She says it is like walking on clouds. She has not had pain since and her insoles fit perfect without any discomfort at all.
I have walked 5 Caminos and almost 5,000 kilometers. Before my first Camino I tried a light Merrill shoe. After a week of walking before the Camino I had blisters everywhere. Walked with some old sneakers after that until they fell apart. A good friend who is an triathlete took me to the running store in my town. The owner at the time was the number 3 ranked ultramarathoner in the world. When I told him that was walking the Camino he and his two salespeople all pointed exactly the same time at a pair of Brooks Cascadias. Tried them on they felt great and I have not even considered any other brand since. I was surprised that you said they they were not durable based on reviews. I think their durability is excellent. In fact a few years ago I walked from Lisbon to Santiago with one pair. Trained with them and another pair for my next Camino on the Norte. I live in Mexico and I waited to long to order a new pair for the Norte and my Cascadias got held up in Mexican customs for over a month and I had to leave before they arrived. I ended up walking about 1800k in that pair and never had a problem. Only 1 blister in all that time. I have to say I am lucky also as I have no serious hip, back or leg issues. But again this is only my experience. Good luck.
She has the Hola One One. She did not size up because of her insoles. But I doubt I’d she needed to either. I always go up one size. My foot is probably normal width but I always get a 2wide. If your foot is narrow the width will not be an issue. Take care.Thank you for this! Do you know which type of Hokas your wife uses? I've been looking at the Hoka One One Speedgoat but some people say that the tongue is sharp and has cut them, which… well, isn't exactly enticing, but I also know they're supposed to be very good so maybe it's worth ignoring tongue-weapon comments. Also, did you size up for your Cascadias, by a half or full size?
My husband and I both sized up a full size. Gave my toes more roomThank you! Did you size up a half size or a full size in your Cascadias? Or not at all?
Hi, I used to walk in Salomons until I developed problems with plantar fasciitis, and after a bit of trying and failing and obsessive research ended up with Hoka Speedgoats. They will suit a medium to narrow foot, mine aren't particularly narrow and they fit me perfectly. The cushioning and traction from the Vibram sole make them pretty hard wearing compared to some other Hoka models. I have never noticed a sharp tongue on a shoe thoughI've been looking at the Hoka One One Speedgoat
You are overthinking this. It is not necessary for you to fully understand why other people have chosen their shoes. Each shoe company has marketing departments trying to figure this out and convince the masses to buy theirs! Trust that if a good number of people continue to buy a shoe, that it probably is an OK shoe. The important question is whether it is a good shoe for you.I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I used Brooks Ariel as they seemed to be the most comfortable during my training walks. Would have preferred the wide toe box of the Altra Lone Peak, but was concerned about the zero drop. Sometimes it seemed like my knees were a bit sore after a training walk. Perhaps this would have diminished if I'd done more walking in them. Brooks Cascadia were recommended by a gal who has worn them for thousands of miles of hiking all over the world. I liked them but chose the Ariel over them. I also tried Hoka Speedgoat. No complaints there; I just decided on the Brooks Ariel.Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
I did not read all of the replys, so, sorry if this is a repeat.Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
Thank you for this advice. I can assure you that this is something I always do, and I enjoy it! It's a good type of obsessionYou are overthinking this. It is not necessary for you to fully understand why other people have chosen their shoes. Each shoe company has marketing departments trying to figure this out and convince the masses to buy theirs! Trust that if a good number of people continue to buy a shoe, that it probably is an OK shoe. The important question is whether it is a good shoe for you.
The only thing that really matters is the comfort of the shoe on your foot. All those reviews can help you narrow down the field - you have now chosen several shoes. Now you must try them on and give them a good test walk. I always start with an indoor walk around a mall (or similar indoor public space), so I don't damage the shoes. Most shoes are eliminated in this first test, and are returned to the store.
Get the largest size that is not too too big on your foot. Your indoor walk is a good place to compare one shoe with the next size larger. When in doubt, buy the larger one. Try different socks to make the fine adjustments, especially if your feet tend to swell over the course of the day. (If necessary, you can wear a thicker sock in the morning and a thinner one in the afternoon.) Zero drop shoes can be a problem for some people, for various reasons, so be sure to test them out before committing.
The shoes should be comfortable right out of the box.
You have done the internet research. Now it is time to compare several shoes and sizes by wearing them!
Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
C clearly has the best advice, all that matters is how they fit and feel on your foot.Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
Clearly we are two of a kindI too have obsessed over choosing trail runners, needed something to think about during quarantine! Had to cancel our plans for our first Camino - Portugues Coastal this Sept.
I thought I’d replied to you… sorry! My orthotics are probably absorbent, yes, and your advice to take an extra pair is very helpful!Will your orthotics be made from an absorbent material? After my last free climb on the north face of the EigerI too have given up boots in favour of trail runners but swapped out the original insoles for more comfortable ones and I take a spare pair along.
I accept that my feet will get wet so, at the end of a soggy day I just hang up the wet insoles and socks and replace them with dry ones - the runners themselves dry to being just "damp" quite quickly.
I don't have experience with orthotics so not sure if you can do this too.
I walked my second Camino in Brooks Caldera trail runners. They were great....I had only one very small blister on the outside of my left heel (used Compeed and it was gone in like 4 days). They wore out pretty significantly (tatters and wear on the uppers - not the soles) and I was concerned when I was in Sarria that I might need a new pair of shoes to complete the remainder to Santiago. I worried needlessly - but I did toss the Brooks in the trash at my Santiago hotel.Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
My daughter started with Altra lone peaks last year. She loved them during her training but in Santo Domingo she switched to Keen sandals as she had some serious ankle and Achilles issues. I know everyone in the states swears by them but I don't see it either. I always wear boots on the Camino. Hokas, Altras are all comfortable for the first few miles but after that they hurt my feet as they seem too soft and not enough stability. I wear custom orthodics as well. This past Camino with my daughter I took a pair of Altras to wear in the evening so I could get out of my boots. That was the best move I made.Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
I have worn Altra Lone Peaks for 4 Caminos now. I tried out Altra TMPs for comparison. More cushioned. However they just didn’t fit my foot! So back to LPHello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
It really depends on your feet. The right trail runner for you is the one that fits your feet best. I love my hokas for walking around town, but I don't think they would be enough support for the Camino. Hundreds if not thousands, think they're perfect for the Camino. The right answer is which one fits your feet the best and gives you the kind of support that your feet need.Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
For me, boots are far too heavy and uncomfortable, I only use them in really bad winter conditions. My shoes of choice have been Innov8 trail runners but sadly they have changed their cut and the latest ones are too narrow. So most of the time I walk in sandals.My daughter started with Altra lone peaks last year. She loved them during her training but in Santo Domingo she switched to Keen sandals as she had some serious ankle and Achilles issues. I know everyone in the states swears by them but I don't see it either. I always wear boots on the Camino. Hokas, Altras are all comfortable for the first few miles but after that they hurt my feet as they seem too soft and not enough stability. I wear custom orthodics as well. This past Camino with my daughter I took a pair of Altras to wear in the evening so I could get out of my boots. That was the best move I made.
Good luck with your hunt for shoes. Buying shoes/boots for me is always a pain in the butt so I understand your struggles..
Buen Camino
I have tried many over various Caminos and walks throughout Tasmania but my favourite are Hokas.
I always thought I would need a hiking boot to avoid rolling my ankles
I walked the camino last year and wore Salomon’s X-Mission 3. I broke my ankle in three places in 2010 and also wear an orthotic. I liked the fit and weight of the shoe. They are not waterproof. Another big selling point for me is the lacing system on the shoe. This year I had planned to walk again and needed to replace my shoes. I stuck with Salomon and switched to the Speedcross 5 W trail runner. So far I like them very much. I tried other brand (I’m not familiar with the ones you mentioned) and again the lacing system is what tipped my decision. I bought my shoes from REI and then bought a back up pair from amazon. REI has an excellent return policy. They will take anything back within a year no matter how much wear and tear. Good luck and buen Camino!Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
Or an actual ankle brace.For ankle protection you need a proper high boot.
I agree. He wrote a long post a while back about the myths of ankle support.With no disrespect to any of the above
posts, this is when I miss Dave Bugg the most. I
I think you may be referring to this site, but their conclusion is that trail runners are preferable, and this view is backed up by many others: https://thetrek.co/appalachian-trail/top-footwear-appalachian-trail-2019-thru-hiker-survey/.Someone keeps records of what foot wear people use on the Appalachian Trail in the USA and there is no difference in the number of ankle injuries between those who wear trail runners and those who wear low boots. For ankle protection you need a proper high boot.
So many times, I wish we had something like REÍ in the U.K.; there are some shops that have similar policies but really nothing as comprehensive and as flexible.I walked the camino last year and wore Salomon’s X-Mission 3. I broke my ankle in three places in 2010 and also wear an orthotic. I liked the fit and weight of the shoe. They are not waterproof. Another big selling point for me is the lacing system on the shoe. This year I had planned to walk again and needed to replace my shoes. I stuck with Salomon and switched to the Speedcross 5 W trail runner. So far I like them very much. I tried other brand (I’m not familiar with the ones you mentioned) and again the lacing system is what tipped my decision. I bought my shoes from REI and then bought a back up pair from amazon. REI has an excellent return policy. They will take anything back within a year no matter how much wear and tear. Good luck and buen Camino!
You do need to be an REI member to take advantage of this policy.REI has an excellent return policy. They will take anything back within a year no matter how much wear and tear.
Thanks for mentioning that. I had forgottenYou do need to be an REI member to take advantage of this policy.
I have hiked for years in big military boots and I swore as soon as I could, I'd wear lighter shoes. I personally wear road runners with a wide toe box. It’s been my personal experience that I need cushion and lightness of feet more than the protection afforded by a more built-up shoe like a trail runner. I don't wear hiking boots so don't have an opinion on them.Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
Oh, I'd be very interested in knowing how you find the Bondi 7. Like you, I bought men's Bondi 6 for my duck feet (narrow heel, wide forefoot) but sadly found them too slippery. And somehow flimsy? I didn't trust the build of them. Was this your experience? I exchanged them for a pair of Topo Athletic Magnifly (in men's, too) and LOVE those. Not the same walking-on-a-cloud as Bondi, I'm sure ☁I recently ordered and got Bondi 7 that has a memory foam in heel-area - and is meant to be slightly more durable than Bondi 6 - but feels almost the same - I have only used it for walks in the woods as I got it a few days ago.
Outdoor Gearlab… yes, I’ve been reading their site a lotI have hiked for years in big military boots and I swore as soon as I could, I'd wear lighter shoes. I personally wear road runners with a wide toe box. It’s been my personal experience that I need cushion and lightness of feet more than the protection afforded by a more built-up shoe like a trail runner. I don't wear hiking boots so don't have an opinion on them.
Currently, I walk/hike in Topo Athletic Magnifly 2 (they’re up to Magnifly 3 now). I bought and used at home a pair of Hoka One One Bondi 6 a few months ago and returned them to the store. I found them to be, I don't know, flimsy? And slippery, very slippery! Cushion was amazing though.
That said, I would love to try on a pair of Altra because they have that big toe box that I like. They seem less cushiony than the ones I have now, but with a thicker/softer insole, maybe? The Escalante and Paradigm seem to have massive cushioned soles and only weigh 260g. My Magnifly weigh 235g, so that's my range.
Over the years, I have developed Morton’s neuromas on both feet from wearing too-narrow footwear in my civilian life, so I have become a bit paranoid with shoes. Some people are with backpacks, me, it’s shoes.
Have you ever visited Outdoor GearLab? They have wonderful reviews of pretty much everything. Good luck!
Could you tell me more about the Brooks Ariel? I had some Cascadia delivered and like them but am waiting on a slightly larger size in them, and wonder whether they’re cushioned enough. They feel so stable though! I also tried a pair of Hokas that weren’t suitable because of my knees but which were more cushioned than the Cascadias. It’s caused me to start considering the Ariels but before I pay out on ordering a pair I’d like to know more from someone who’s actually held a pair and worn them. I say this largely because I can’t order many more pairs (waiting on refunds… bank balance not too happy!).I used Brooks Ariel as they seemed to be the most comfortable during my training walks. Would have preferred the wide toe box of the Altra Lone Peak, but was concerned about the zero drop. Sometimes it seemed like my knees were a bit sore after a training walk. Perhaps this would have diminished if I'd done more walking in them. Brooks Cascadia were recommended by a gal who has worn them for thousands of miles of hiking all over the world. I liked them but chose the Ariel over them. I also tried Hoka Speedgoat. No complaints there; I just decided on the Brooks Ariel.
Find footwear that fits, is comfortable, and does not cause problems. That's the boot, sandal or shoe you wear regardless of whatever else you learn from others. Your feet will make the decision for you. Best wishes.
I wonder whether you could answer the same question I asked @JanelMcB above! I’m interested in the Ariels.I used to wear Brooks Cascadia but my foot doctor recommended Brooks Ariel instead for arch support. She has me remove the factory inserts and use an orthotic arch support inside the shoe as well. Her test for arch support: hold the shoe perpendicular to the ground and press the toe against the ground as hard as you can. Only the toe should bend, not the middle of the shoe. Cascadia bends in the middle while Ariel only bends at the toe. Both have the wide toe box and though Ariel is a running shoe, it grabbed the trail better than my Cascadias. SJPDP to Finesterre no problema.
Do you have any further thoughts, in light of this update?
Thank you. I understand about recommendations being impossible, but I appreciate the information about what’s suited you and the reasons for that. I’ll bear these in mind as options because they do sound possible for me.I won't give any recommandations as we are all different and have different preferences. I can say that I personally have had good experiences withthe New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro. They are well cushioned (but not too much so they feel 'mushy') and have good Vibram outher soles. They have a medium+ width toe box and a good heel grip. They are quite sturdy; I have walked more than 1000 km in mine and there are still some distance left in them. Perhaps worth a try?
Probably not. Hokas are super cushioned - I found them squishy, and it felt like there was no motion control, which it sounds like you need. These two things have an inverse relationship - high motion control means less cushioning and vice versa.I sent these back quite quickly because my foot was rolling in, even with the orthotics. Now I’m wondering whether I was hasty and maybe need to try different orthotics, even though my physio has approved my own and I use them all the time.
Well, I'll repeat my shout-out for Oboz. After Keen discontinued my favorite shoe, I tried something similar in their line-up last year but was not as happy with them. So I was a bit desperate too, and tried on a bunch of other brands - and did not like anything else as much as the Oboz (Sawtooth II low).I’m hoping the Brooks Caldera will work out but if they don’t… not sure where to look next. Do you have any further thoughts, in light of this update?
I think you want a neutral shoe, since your custom orthotic will provide the correct arch support.options that have particularly good arch support
I think it is normal to remove the manufacturer's insole before inserting a custom orthotic.The smaller size only fit if I remove their insole
What do you mean by roll? Sideways? Have you tried a thicker sock? I have had shoes where I was concerned with the looseness/movement on the heel but they turned out to be fine. Try wearing them all day at home, and see if you can forget about them.Brooks Cascadia 14, UK size 6: I expected these to be a perfect fit but my feet seem to want to roll in in them, not sure why because I use the same orthotic all the time and the half size down don’t have this problem. The heel is slightly loose if I don’t pull the laces tight. At one point I felt that the ankle part may rub my ankle bone over time.
What do you mean by roll? Sideways? Have you tried a thicker sock? I have had shoes where I was concerned with the looseness/movement on the heel but they turned out to be fine. Try wearing them all day at home, and see if you can forget about them.
Oh, and on those Gobi-2's, I went up one size. your feet will flatten over the miles.
I got some that had little inserts that you can switch out depending on your arch height.Have any of you found insoles with very high arch support? Maybe there are good cheap options?
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy.
As I understand it, you purchase a ready-made insole. My feet have high arches and a lot of mobility. I use an "orthotic" that is custom-made from a mold of my feet, so that I get exactly the arch support that I need. Unfortunately, they are quite expensive, and they are not useful for everybody. However, I have found that they help my feet significantly. Given your more serious situation, have you consulted with your doctors to see if custom orthotics might be appropriate?I usually wear these Wellbeing-Pro 11 insoles with high arch support.
I did the Southwest Coast path In 2017. Bought Hoka and pleased. I prefer the fabric boot rather than leather. I wear Hoka running shoes routinely and would never buy anything else! I love them. Hoka web site will mail to you.Hello. I am VERY confused and not a little obsessed with reading reviews about trail runners. I’ll be grateful if you can help to end my torment
I’m used to wearing hiking boots but they’re too sweaty for a May/June Camino Frances (just SJPP to Belorado). I have knee/joint trouble so trying trail runners makes sense. I plan to break them in during a walking holiday in the Scottish Highlands this month, then use them for weekend walks through the winter too.
I have to use an orthotic insert to raise my arches so will need to put this in whatever I buy. My understanding is that all of the shoes I’m considering will be fine with an orthotic, but maybe there are also some differences?
And my main question... I initially looked mostly at both the Brooks Cascadia and the Brooks Caldera. Most are out of stock in my size, though, and I’ve read poor reviews about their durability. Im confused because the Caldera has better cushioning but the Cascadia is more popular, and I don’t know why. After reading about these, I then repeatedly convince myself that the natural toe width of the Altras would surely be better. I have quite narrow feet (I’m a petite 5ft tall woman) but in the past have had black toe on my little toe in my hiking boots, although never yet a blister.
I suspect that the Altra’s flat sole—the zero drop—might not be good for my knees. If I did consider Altras, I don’t understand why so many people wear the Altra Lone Peaks—for the Pacific Crest Trail as well as the Camino—when the Altra Olympus offers more cushioning and still good traction/stability. Can you shed light on this? Is the Lone Peak actually really well cushioned?
Also Hokas... and… others… and I can’t get to a shop to try anything on because my family is shielding.
Any light-casting on the above mess of uncertainty will be very much appreciated!
The reason is because my physio and consultant both actually approved this type for me and they have kept my knees in place for three years now (I couldn’t walk unaided in 2017 but now do long hikes and can even bounce around a bit so something is working!). I did ask about having custom ones made but they suggested it wasn’t necessary because the ones I use are fine. Because of this, it seems strange that the shoes I’m trying now aren’t working well with my insoles, but I suppose this may be connected to my sizing up in anticipation of foot swelling etc, and to give my toes more room. I really don’t want to return to wearing my hiking boots which are my usual solution and ok in the colder U.K. but which are heavy and hot for Spain. Plus, surely, surely I will find something that will work, it can’t be that hard!As I understand it, you purchase a ready-made insole. My feet have high arches and a lot of mobility. I use an "orthotic" that is custom-made from a mold of my feet, so that I get exactly the arch support that I need. Unfortunately, they are quite expensive, and they are not useful for everybody. However, I have found that they help my feet significantly. Given your more serious situation, have you consulted with your doctors to see if custom orthotics might be appropriate?
The Hoka One One Tors worked great for me Especially with all my foot and knee issues and I had to scramble quite a few times on the Norte (alternatives)@Iriebabel, I love Hoka One One's. I adoion to walking on marshmellows/pillows, they had very good grips on wet rocks for me on the Le Puy route. I did notice another person on this thread did not think they worked as well on wet rocks...our opinions are as varied as the wind.
"It's all about the feet".The Hoka One One Tors worked great for me Especially with all my foot and knee issues and I had to scramble quite a few times on the Norte (alternatives)
yes depends on the feet and depends on the style Of the shoe also.. These Stinson ATR 6 trail runner had great reviews and I decided Going away from the Bondi 6 because some reviews said they were slippery. The Hoka speedgoat and Clifton don't have enough marshmallow. This will be used For daily use as rehab for me, Therapy to get walking again. Normally I use Birkenstock’s as Florida is too hot for non sandal use But i need a bit more Cloud action hugging my arch On the surgery foot at the moment. I prefer the hi tops for hiking gives protection from ankle rolls. I am In love with HOKA And so are my feet
Lots of comments but here's my two cents...
I wore Hoka shoes on my first Camino and I HATED them on the hills and mountain trails. For me, the height was very unstable. At that time in my life, I was an avid trail runner but I got plantar fasciitis while training for the Camino so I assumed more cushion would be better. Again, for me it was like walking in high-heeled shoes on mountain trails. Fortunately I brought a
I have also worn Altra. I liked Altra but they are not durable. I have had three pairs and all of them fell apart at the seams between the sole and the upper, so I don't buy them anymore.
I currently have Nike trail runners that I use for hiking and they are like zero drop. I feel more stable the closer my actual foot is to the ground.
If you are in the United States, Roadrunner Sports allows you to try shoes for 90 days and then you can return them if you don't like them. I never buy running/hiking/walking shoes anywhere else. (You have to join their membership but it's totally worth it.)
I have only done two Caminos
Update: I’m about to leave this afternoon for the Cairngorms, Scotland, and am taking with me…
Altra Lone Peak 4.5
and Cascadia 14
Who’d have thought it? … That I should plump for the two most popular thru-hiking shoes
The Lone Peaks arrived two days ago and are, at last, perfect.With my 2/3 size orthotics, they fit like slippers. I love how nimble my feet feel in them, that they have plenty of cushioning and are more stable than the Altra Olympus. They’re more stable also than the Brooks Caldera 4, which I tried outside and found wobbly on grassy slopes (thanks to Brooks 90 day no quibble guarantee and v helpful advisors).
I’m keeping the Cascadia 14s too, because the fit is so different to the Lone Peaks but they’re still comfortable. They feel to me more like an ordinary shoe, with quite firm support. They’re not quite as marshmallow nor as flexible as the Altra but do strike quite a balance with all these aspects and are comfy in a different way. I got them at a very good sale price so don’t feel too concerned about seeing how they compare with the Altras outside on longer walks.
My thinking is that I will use both shoes no matter what, but with some time to try out both on hikes I’ll have a better idea of which type will suit me in the longer term, both for my Camino and going forward for future years.
I may update this again after my Highland adventures.
Thank you again for all your input. This was actually a difficult process, because I couldn’t go to shops so had to rely on research and trial and error at home, and you’ve been brilliant on this forum!
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