Assuming an average stride of 2.5 feet, Dr. Harlow calculated that a single hiker walking 1 mile would leave about 120 pounds of topsoil vulnerable to erosion. Dr. Harlow's experiment may not represent typical trail conditions, but it does provide a dramatic explanation for the trenches that pass for trails in some of our heavily used recreation areas. A shallower tread pattern on the sole won't clog with mud and does far less damage to soil and plants. They're lightweight, which lessens fatigue, and they dry out more quickly than full-grain leather boots. If you need more support, try a pair of light or ultra-light hiking boots.
Most models feature low-profile soles. .