Footwear for outdoor

Mona

We are planning to go on a weekend getaway in two weeks. It will be an overnight trip to a park and we will be hiking, kayaking and canoeing a lot. I am just wondering what kind of shoes should I bring with me. Currently, I have a pair of running shoes and I am not sure if it would hold up? Any suggestions?

11 years ago

Dressing

12 replies

Latest reply was from Mona

Joyce B

Veteran

I think you will need some good tough sneakers, maybe treckers. Check out LLBean and LandsEnd.
Sounds like a fun trip!

11 years ago

kkards

Veteran

i guess it depends on how much and what type of hiking you are doing. for short hikes on a groomed trail, running shoes should be ok, but for longer or rugged trails, you might want a sturdier shoe. trail running shoes will give you the comfort of a sneaker, but with more protection for your feet.
as for kayaking and canoeing, i dislike wet feet, so i like either a teva or keen type sandal or a water proof shoe, but if you don't think you'll be in the water, almost any shoe will do.

11 years ago

Diana

Veteran

I wear trail runners for things like this. They have more traction and a sturdier construction than regular running shoes. Mine are new balance If the terrain is very uneven you might want real hiking boots (I like timberlands). if you are doing a lot of the water activities you might want some Tevas or Chacos as well.

11 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

The others have given you great suggestions! I think trail runners are a great bet.

11 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

ETA: the bonus is that you can use them in winter for running. I do this with mine. So it won't be a useless expense for you -- they give better traction in snow or muddy or wet conditions. (I don't run outdoors if it is icy, but will run there if it's just a bit mucky/ snowy or the paths are relatively clear.)

11 years ago

Meredith

Veteran

During my years living and hiking in Colorado I used regular running shoes as well as trail shoes and heavy hiking boots for outdoor activities. Unless you're doing serious hiking or know that you need ankle support you won't need to invest in boots (if you're worried about ankle support just bring a role of athletic tape and tape up your ankles). Trail runners are best because the sole is sturdier and will keep your feet comfy if there are rocks on the trail. North Face makes great options, but my cheapo trail runners from a discount shoe store lasted for years. I've had good luck with just regular running shoes as well. I hate spending money on clothes I'll barely use, so I'd say if the hiking portion of your days will be under two hours a day you're probably fine with running shoes. I would not recommend anything waterproof. You'll probably get the shoes wet with your water activities and the mesh of running/trail shoes will dry faster than something with Gortex. That being said, you could think about some Teva sandals which are appropriate for light hiking and can get wet. They're also nice to change into at the end of a day of hiking.

11 years ago

Mona

Veteran

Thank you so much, ladies! I was sure I would get some great suggesstions here. Off to explore some websites now to see where I can get these.

11 years ago

Beth Ann

Veteran

I wanted to pop on and say that, if budget is an issue, I'd spend money for good quality in a running/hiking shoe, but be more budget conscious with a water shoe -- as long as it wouldn't be slippery. Sounds like a great trip!

11 years ago

Mona

Veteran

that is a great suggestion, BethAnn! thanks so much. I am going to do just that.

11 years ago

rachylou

Veteran

For a weekend getaway, I say trail runners and Chacos (in place of the Tevas).

When I go camping, I go with boots, my Chacos, and a pair of Crocs. No support with the Crocs, but they're always handy for one reason or another.

11 years ago

Isis

Veteran

I vote Teva's. I had a pair of Chaco's and for some reason the strap system always ended up strangling my big toe. Teva's are great for water stuff and light hiking.

11 years ago

Mona

Veteran

Thanks rachy and Isis. I will keep your suggestions in mind when I go shopping this weekend.

11 years ago

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