6 replies to this topic

[jaker]

Hi Folks;
As a relative newcomer to the delights of bushwalking I currently go out in a pair of Brooks walkers which I think are designed more for street walking.
Various bushwalking sites I've visited have recommended everything from $25.00 Dunlop Volleys to $400.00 Salomons.
I'm currently just doing day walks but will probably upgrade to longer treks as I become more experienced, and learn to read maps and compasses
I'd appreciate some feedback from bushwalking Cr's

Regards

[Phoenix]

Depending on what you intend to tackle, I would recommend a leather, waterproof boot. Good on the ankles. I like the tongue to be part of the boot so water does not seep in through the sides.

I have had these hi-tech ones for a while now and they have been brilliant.

[littleblackpug]

AKU make a really trustworthy hiking boot and are very reasonably priced, with the majority of models with a Gortex membrane making them fully waterproof, costing around $269-$299, for the common models sold at Australian outdoor stores.

A cheaper option is the Snowgum range of hiking boots, The Narran is a good start, which also have a waterproof Sympatex membrane. They cost $199.

Disclaimer: I work at Snowgum

Edited by littleblackpug, 09 May 2008 - 07:29 AM.

[nabiya]

Hi Jaker. I love love love bushwalking!

I've loved both pairs of my Saloman trail shoes which I picked up for $50 or less on sale. One pair I got from Rebel and another from a sports store - it might have been SportsCo or something similar to that.

I've got a range of hiking boots too including a Goretex pair with high ankle support (not so comfy - forget the brand) and a pair of Columbia boots with mid support (pretty comfy) and also the 2x Saloman trail shoes.

I really prefer the saloman trail shoes over the others - it's like wearing super-sturdy sneakers. The base is really stable (give them a flex test - they should be pretty un-bendable) but the top is flexible and soft. If I'm tackling a big bad muddy mountain, I'll go the boots but otherwise, it's the trail shoes.

Experiment and you'll find what works for you

Happy trails!

[Simmo]

Depends whether you are doing multi-day walks with a big pack, or just day walks. Also depends on the terrain. If carrying a big pack, you need good support, including ankle support, and thicker soles with good grip. If it is likely to be muddy (eg Tasmania, NZ), or there are major creeks to cross (Tas, NZ again), or it is really rugged vegetation and/or rocky (Dividing Range, Kimberley), then again you need the full protection of higher profile leather boots, possibly with fitted gaiters. The Scarpa range is one of the best.

For most day walks, except in very muddy terrain, the Brooks would do, but you'd be better off in a trail-running or light, low profile bushwalking shoe.

[pastyboy]

jaker,

Simmo is correct; it totally depends on what sort of hiking you intend to do, how long you hike for, the type of country you hike on, how much you carry. Generally the heavier and more sturdy hiking boots are intended for much more heavy duty use. Heavier boots are intended to support your feet under greater loads, and would usually last longer (you should get 5-10 years out of a good pair of boots).

A lot of boots use a Vibram sole, which is quite solid in all sorts of terrain and good protection from rocks bruising the bottom of your feet. I've used Asolo boots for a long time, mainly because they fit my feet well, and a much more rugged Salomon leather mountain boot in the mountains. Personally I find goretex in shoes a waste; it doesn't really do much and adds costs to the shoe.

Most importantly, get some good advice in show fitting from a reputable outdoor shop. It is worth the extra money to have a good fit.

[jaker]

Thanks all;
Lots of good advice
May see you out there sometime.