Some years ago, I procured 2 pairs of Merrell Chameleon low rise shoes that were plenty stiff enough for side hilling and had good support, a nice wide toebox and great soles with octogrip. They lasted well, but all the shoes changed lasts in the 5 years since and I have been unable to find many low hiking shoes that have the following:

1. firm mid-sole support
2. lateral rigidity (can't easily twist the shoe heel to toe)
2. good materials that last 2 years
3. wider toes and narrower heels

I have destroyed some mid-priced Merrells, did well-enough with a pair of Vasque Breeze Low and a pair of Keen Targhee, and now have been unable to find a pair of hiking shoes to replace these as my longer-distance backpacking favorites. I usually travel between 10-25 miles depending on the terrain and use hiking poles and a 20-25lb pack.

Seems most shoes are medium width, made for trail-running and day hikes, and just don't have the "stuff" to stand up to a month on the trail or more than an active year of wear. Anyone else having the same problems?


Edited by wildthing (07/04/12 01:10 PM)
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