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Trail runners on Whitney?
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Apr 3, 2009 at 5:23 pm #1235287
So this summer I'll be hiking Whitney twice. Once in a day hike and another time in a 5 night backpacking trip. Its been a while since I've backpacked and so new shoes are in order. I was hoping to get trail runners rather than heavy duty hiking shoes so that I could use them for shorter hikes after the trips as well. Would trail runners hold up on the 5 day trip alright?
Apr 3, 2009 at 5:47 pm #1491080Trail runners are great, as long as you are generally staying on the trail system.
If your route to the mountain heads cross-country over some of the interesting sierra passes, the runners may leave a little to be desired.
– Klas
Apr 3, 2009 at 5:51 pm #1491081As above, trail runners are just fine. It's what I wear in my last two hikes up Whitney.
Apr 3, 2009 at 5:58 pm #1491083They'll work just fine. Note that they usually have crappy traction compared to boots, so you may have less confidence on the rocks.
Apr 5, 2009 at 6:37 pm #1491525"Would trail runners hold up on the 5 day trip alright?"
I through-hiked the PCT in trail runners last year, including Whitney/JMT portion in early June. 5 pairs got me 2600+ miles, using a shoe that's regarded as poor for durability (Golite Sundragon II's) so one pair of trail runners will surely last you 5 days (!).
In fact, trail runners or similar shoes have become the most common choice for long distance backpackers, no worries on that score. If you're still uncertain, bring a little extra duct tape.
Apr 5, 2009 at 6:44 pm #1491527You will be fine with trail runners. That is what I used a few years ago. Just watch you foot placings. Some of the those rocks can hurt. Other than that, your feet will love you!!!
Apr 6, 2009 at 12:17 am #1491589I agree.
In 2007 I did the High Sierra Trail from Sequoia National Park to Mt. Whitney going 70 miles with Innov8 Terroc 330's without a problem.
I do find that the Innov-8, which are the only brand of trail runners that I have used (I am on my 3rd pair…2 pair Terrocs and now using 295s) and I find that 200 miles on them is what I am getting.
In that sense, I am disappointed in the short tread life of the sole….the rest of the shoe has done very well.
-Tony
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