Footwear Recommendations
I am in a consistent search for the perfect fitting boot that is durable, lightweight, comfortable, will keep my feet dry and is suitable for the rugged terrain in the ADK. Does this boot even exist? Thank goodness for REI's return policy. Over the years, I have hiked in Timberland, Oboz, Salomon and Merrill. The current pair is the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex, which I sized down 1/2 size. The most difficult part of the last few hikes is the foot pain - not getting blisters, but losing toe nails and in need of a foot massage. The never-ending search continues. What does everyone wear?
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First question is, why downsize? Your feet will expand/swell under extended hikes on rough terrain. If you're losing toenails then you're probably jamming your toes on descent. I would recommend correcting the shoe size, and maybe even increasing by 1/2 size. Google lacing techniques. There are different ways to lock your heel in to prevent you from jamming your toes into the front of the shoe.
As for brands, this is quite the hot topic, and maybe one of Jonathan's next hiker hot takes! Lol... Altra Lone Peak and Topo are 2 brands with a very wide toe box. They also use Vibram soles which are good at absorbing shock, properly supporting your feet, and have good grip on all different terrain. Personally, I didn't like the Altra due to the zero drop. I found it was causing me lower back pain after a long hike. Topo is a 5mm drop. My current hiking shoe, and by far the best all around shoe I've tried, is the Salewa Wildefire mid GTX. It's considered an approach shoe.
Another item to consider is insoles. I ALWAYS replace the crappy stock insole with Superfeet Trailblazers.
Lastly, is socks. Don't get caught up in all the multilayer gimmicky crap. Just a single pair of Darntough merino wool socks regardless of the season. I've hiked hundreds of miles, including the ADK 46, the Grand Canyon, etc... I still have all my toenails and have never had a blister. Hope this helps!!