shopping for hiking shoes

“What are the best places to buy hiking shoes? I always need a good arch support too because I have problems with my feet. I don't know if I should buy extra supports with the shoes or if there are is a good pair out there that already has extra support. I could use some advice though. I'm sort of new to this.”

“You can always get a different pair of orthotics or insoles to go in any shoes or boots you like.”

“Unless you have custom shoes or boots made, you're probably going to need orthotics or insoles if you have foot problems. I've got the green Superfeet, and they work well for me. You might want to consider buying the Superfeet that are fitted to your foot. If there is a good outfitter in your area, go there and get fitted.”

“Ok, thanks. I'll try that.”

“Remember to wear the exact socks you will wear when hiking. Many people go to buy hiking boots wearing dress socks and the boots are too tight when they put them on over hiking socks and liners.”

“For proper hiking shoes, go to the nearest outdoors store (REI, Dick's, whatever) and try on several pairs and have a qualified person measure your feet. Walk around the store a bit in several different pairs.

Also, fill out the rest of your profile, troll!”

“REI. If the ones you choose don't work for you, you can return them any time and get a full credit or refund.”

“or wear them on your ears.”

“I have several pairs of hiking boots. I need a lot of arch support, also, and i use different orthotics with different boots. Actually, what i do is go into a store (when i go into civilization) and try on some different types, then i look for the same kind in Campmor catalogue, which is usually a lot cheaper, i think, than REI, LLBean, or those type. Or i look for sales in Sportsman's Guide, or Sierra Trading Post Catalogues. I know the "hiking shoe" is "in", but i prefer a "boot" with ankle support, and cushioning, since i also have foot trouble. I just got a great one from Merrell: "Chameleon" waterproof, and man, are they comfy! Good luck!”

“Ok, so I'm also in the market for boots. No real foot problems here though (unless you call being a size 13 a problem), but I am looking for good mid-weight all-season shoes (it almost sounds like I'm buying tires) that has a really good grip on rock and other smooth and traditionally slippery surfaces. My current boots have started to leak pretty reliably (as in every time I step into the slightest puddle) and have no traction whatsoever, which slows me down big time when it comes to steep hills with lots of rocks.

They don't have to be completely waterproof, but something Gore-Tex would definitely be a plus.

Anyone have any suggestions?”