Need a lighter pair of boots for Philmont

You might want to take a look at the LaSportiva Trango Guide. They are supposedly designed as an approach boot, but they have excellent lateral stability, which minimizes the tendency to turn an ankle. They are somewhere between mid and high top, and weigh ~2.5# per pair in a size 9.5 with superfeet insoles. Cost is $95. I’ve used them carrying a 30# load with substantial sections of off trail talus and have been very satisfied with both their stability and comfort. They are not GoreTex lined, which IMHO is a good thing.

in them compared to other brands?

Size up – maybe way up. Lost both big toenails from a pair of LaSportiva boots that I had sized up only 1/2 size. Boots had been broken in (on level ground). Descents caused freshly clipped toenails to “toe strike” the upper portion of the boot toe caps. Hiked about six miles with my socks squishing. Fortunately, it was just an afternoon hike – levels, and ascending was fine – wasn’t until the return trip and the descents that the problem surfaced.

they are not using from a size 9-10

I’d pay for one – I want to compare against my own insoles. I wear 9-10 in most shoes.

lemme know – I think if I can compare insole lengths, I’d be comfortable making an online order for the shoes

I like the yoursole.com insoles. Don’t cook them just use them raw.

Now what about my boot suggestions! I need to go shopping this weekend.