Boots for long hikes in wet snow?
Posted:
Wed Nov 18, 2015 3:55 pmby LincolnB
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 -
Re: Boots for long hikes in wet snow?
Posted:
Thu Nov 19, 2015 2:28 pmby peninsula
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
Re: Boots for long hikes in wet snow?
Posted:
Thu Nov 19, 2015 5:38 pmby sharperblue
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
Re: Boots for long hikes in wet snow?
Posted:
Thu Nov 19, 2015 8:43 pmby adventurer
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.
Re: Boots for long hikes in wet snow?
Posted:
Sun Nov 22, 2015 2:00 pmby Steve Pratt
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