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Old Jul 7, 2006, 10:21 PM   #20 (permalink)
Greg
 
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Hunter: 10.29.08
 
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Thomaston, CT
Posts: 22,307
Quote:
Originally Posted by YardSaleDad
For the sunday hiker, boots are probably the better option. They provide ankle support. protect you from snakes, bugs and sundry critters. Mud, snow, and rain are non issues.

For the obsessed day hiker, trail runners rule. Daily miles will build your balance, core strength, and leg muscles so that it compensates for the lack of ankle support. After a few weeks on the trail, you know where all the critters hang out.

For the serious backpacker you are back to boots.
This is probably an accurate observation. My hiking roots are backpacking/basecamping so I wear boots for all hiking. I enjoy the protection from jagged rock above treeline a boot provides in addition to the additional support. I could not imagine hiking a rugged trail like Caps Ridge in a low-cut trail runner. Ouch!
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