Boots for long hikes in wet snow?

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LincolnB

 
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Boots for long hikes in wet snow?

by LincolnB » Wed Nov 18, 2015 3:55 pm

Can any recommend a (preferably lightweight) boot for hiking in wet snow? I've had several pairs with goretex liners, but none stay dry for long when hiking through snow on warm days. Thanks -

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peninsula

 
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Re: Boots for long hikes in wet snow?

by peninsula » Thu Nov 19, 2015 2:28 pm

I have yet to find a leather or GTX boot that will stay dry during a day of hiking in wet snow. They might hold up well for one day, but beyond that, water will begin making its way through. I've tried a number of boot treatments... different waxes and other products that are not always recommended for the material being treated. Boots have to breath. So using the correct product for the material is important. I've read of people stopping mid-day and repeating water-proofing treatments. I have not done that myself. What I have favored over the years is GTX light weight boots and using approved GTX treatments. At the end of the day, I'll remove the liners and let the boots dry overnight as best they can, and then retreat before continuing on the trail. If you are staying in a cabin or motel, stuffing the boots with newspaper a few times throughout the evening helps immensely. If you find a boot that does better, I'm all ears! Best of luck

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sharperblue

 
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Re: Boots for long hikes in wet snow?

by sharperblue » Thu Nov 19, 2015 5:38 pm

these are absolutely superb - my new favorites for spring and fall approaches and climbs. very stiff and lightweight, just a bit of insulation, and bulletproof water resistance: Mammut Ridge GTX High (they come in low and medium ankle as well)

http://www.backcountry.com/mammut-ridge ... lsrc=aw.ds

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adventurer

 
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Re: Boots for long hikes in wet snow?

by adventurer » Thu Nov 19, 2015 8:43 pm

I've always done well hiking in snow with LL Bean Cresta Hikers

http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/14774?fe ... lue_0=Dark Brown&productId=20674

If you expect to be hiking in more than say 4 or 5 inches of snow, you might also consider wearing a pair of gaiters over your boots. They will prevent snow from getting inside your boots from over the top and assist the boot in keeping your feet warm.
"When you travel, if you avoid the people, reject the food, ignore the customs, and fear the religion..... you might as well stay home"
James A. Michener

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Steve Pratt

 
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Re: Boots for long hikes in wet snow?

by Steve Pratt » Sun Nov 22, 2015 2:00 pm

I don't have first hand experience with them, but the arcteryx Bora 2 mid might work. All synthetic, gore tex lined. And the removable lining should dry quickly out of the boot. (You could even get a spare liner and swap out if the first gets too wet).

http://arcteryx.com/product.aspx?language=EN&gender=mens&category=Footwear&subcat=Boots&model=Bora2-Mid-GTX-Hiking-Boot


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