Thread: Boots

It really does depend on what you want to do with them - when I was younger and trapping in the South Island I wore 'nailed' soles - they bit into rock and tree roots and kept you on your feet.
Then I moved North and bought 'commando' soles, which were okay for the trapping and hunting I was doing.
Your feet grow as you age, so 'forever' boots don't work. I had Meindl 'wides' I bought extra long to get the width. After a bit I had to 'skinny' my sox as I couldn't get my woollen ones in the boot. Next thing to go were the inner soles, then the sox - I just shoved my bare feet in those boots.
All my magnificent upper body had slumped into my boots.
I now wear Keen lightweight shoes, something I once wouldn't have considered, and I love that they don't weigh anything. They're not a boot, but I don't need a heavy boot any more, I'm not carrying animals or heavy packs, nor am I doing 'river work'. They've lasted quite well, but they're 'slippy' and I've been on my arse more than usual - especially on rock, tree roots and mud. The ideal would be to screw studs in them - and I probably would if I was more active.

It's bloody hard to find a decent boot ............... but the type really does depend on what you want it for.