Date: 2017-04-07
From: Springer Mountain Georgia

To: Katahdin Maine
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: light rain

My knee swelling and pain is greatly reduced and I will start some gradual weight bearing on the right leg today. It's just a waiting game with the RA flare-up, but I'm very anxious to get back to the trail. I got a nice text message from my trail family (Elly and Justin) who made it to Hot Springs on Friday. I appreciate the pic that included a Tigger stuffed animal. How cool is that? Tigger is still on the trail in spirit...As promised, I wanted to continue the gear talk discussion with a focus on shoes. Many hours of research and field trials went into these decisions and its truly a work in progress as we change and adapt along the trial. High tech fabrics and shoe technology have given us a big boost in recent years.Trail Shoes: I made the switch from a more conventional Gortex/Leather hiking boot (Vasque St. Elias) after my first 110 miles on the trail. I had used similar boots for 30 years, but now realize that old traditions don't guarantee success (or comfort) on thru hikes. If I can make the change to trail shoes, anyone can. The other important component is to get fitted by a true hiking shoe EXPERT. Taking care of your feet and buying the right trail shoe is the MOST important decision you'll make as a backpacker. I went to Outdoor 76 Outfitter in Franklin, NC for a foot/shoe evaluation. They spent 2 hours with me to insure proper foot measurement, fit, comfort, stability and grip. I tried several brands and discovered that the Brooks Cascadia 12 was best for me. It was light, well cushioned and very stable. The built in rock plate gives me good protection on the bottom of my foot. The tread provides a great grip in all trail conditions. I have hiked 70 miles in these shoes so far and am very happy with the purchase. I've read a couple hiking experts who believe that by reducing the weight of your shoes by one pound, allows you to effectively lessen the impact of your backpack weight by four pounds. This is huge on the trail and I'm already a believer. Trail shoes allow you to be lighter of foot, with less foot pain and faster recovery. Another benefit is less blisters. I no longer get blisters on my 2nd toe and inside big toes. Finally, I went with a non-Gortex shoe. Sure, I'll get some moisture when it rains, but I won't have all the perspiration on warmer days that Gortex causes. Gortex has a tendency to hold this moisture against your feet and not allow them to breathe. I've had issues with this for many years and now it's no longer a problem. Like everything else, foot care and shoe selection is a very personal thing. One size and one shoe does not fit all. I would just encourage you to go through a professional fitting with someone who has actual long-term experience in hiking/backpacking. Try to avoid the typical retail outlets (inlcuding REI) and find a local outfitter with the experience you're looking for. Make sure they measure the length and WIDTH of your foot. You will probably discover like me that you've been wearing the wrong size hiking shoe/boot for a long time. During long distance hikes, your feet will grow. Expect to buy a shoe at least 1/2 to 1 size larger. You won't regret it. Let me now if you have any questions or other comments by signing the guest book to the left. I'll focus on clothing in my my next journal. Thanks again for following along with me on this journey.TTFN