Hi folks, do any of you have footwear that you like, that has these qualities:
-good for a few hours of snowshoeing in mild weather: keeps feet warm enough with proper socks, and can hold its own against snowshoe bindings
-mid (or boot)
-waterproof, and breathable-enough
-light enough for use in other seasons
-toes don’t slam into the front on descents
-good traction on rock
So far, have been reading reviews on Keen Targhee II, Vasque Talus, and a few others.
A little more info:
I’ve been using my old Vasque Sundowners for snowshoeing, but may have to retire them. Looking for a replacement; need something more than shoe-height, since I’ll also wear them in other snowy situations without gaiters. No need for a full-on winter boot since it’s only for day-trips in not-super-cold places.
I have inov-8’s for three-season use. My last trip involved a few consecutive hours of steep descent during which my toes apparently rammed into the front too much; they turned black-and-blue and my toenails are still recovering three months later. The inov-8’s give lots of space and freedom to the front of my foot, which is part of why I love them, but maybe this contributed to the toe issues? (Never had this issue with the Sundowners in similar conditions.) Also, the reality is that my ankles don’t get strengthened on an everyday basis as much as I’d like, so for some hikes I enjoy wearing footwear with a little bit of structural ankle support.
As long as I’m replacing the Sundowners for snowshoeing, might as well see if there’s something light enough for three-season situations when I want something with a little more more brawn and toe control. Before going UL I wore the Sundowners for all hiking, so I’m familiar with shortcomings of a waterproof/breathable leather shoe and can handle it (never felt overheated etc).
If I can’t find something like this, will probably just re-sole the Sundowners.
Feel free to redirect me to already-existing threads.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts!
