Shoes or Boots?

Every hiker has a preference, and personally, I'm not so sure one is really "right" or "better" than the other, it's just a matter of opinion.  I won't be shy giving my personal opinion, but I want to be fair to both sides, as both boots and shoes have benefits.  So, here we go.

Obviously the length and terrain of a trip will help determine whether boots or shoes are a viable option.  Rough, slippery terrain needs good traction to prevents slips, while mild dirt trails won't require much.  So, don't forget to take into consideration your hiking area before buying a pair of something for your feet.

BOOTS: Boots usually have great traction and are often waterproof.  They will also last much longer (or should, anyway) than shoes.  In the long run, because they last so much longer, they are probably more cost-effective, though the initial pocketbook shock is probably significantly higher than shoes.  On the downside, boots take much longer to dry out than shoes and are often heavy.

SHOES: Shoes are more flexible, breathable, and lighter in weight than boots.  I've heard that for every pound on your feet is like putting four pounds into your backpack, and if you've ever backpacked, then you know that four extra pounds on your back is quite a deal.  Shoes, however, will tear up much easier and won't last as long as boots.  They also get wet and waterlogged very quickly.

My own personal preference is to wear shoes.  I like them because:

1.  They are initially cheaper.
2.  They are more versatile (I can use them to run or do other things besides hike).
3.  They dry quickly.
4.  They allow "breathing" (some find that waterproof boots get wet from sweat anyway, so it kind of defeats the purpose of the waterproofing).
5.  They are light-weight.

I don't like that most tennis shoes have poor traction, and I have spent many a time coming down a steep, wet, rocky mountain in fear of slipping and falling because of that lack of traction.

In previous long-distance backpacking excursions (the Appalachian Trail, John Muir Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, and others), I have chosen tennis shoes or trail runners.  For this particular trip, I have picked a shoe that is somewhat in between.  It is not technically a boot, but it is more heavy duty than a tennis shoe.  It has better traction and is breathable, but it is a little bit heavier and should last the length of the trail and hopefully longer.  They are pictured above.

Most importantly, whatever you choose, choose something comfortable that fits your foot well!  No one wants to be limping down the trail with massive blisters.  Better to enjoy the scenery than be tending to rubbing shoes or boots.