Trail runners vs Hiking boots

I am preparing for my first Philmont trek this summer.  Due to a running injury, my right ankle is weak so I will not be taking my trail runners.  I also love Altras and have switched to an Altra Lone Peak 4 Mid and have found them to be light, quite comfortable, good traction, and supportive.  Maybe check them out?

https://www.rei.com/product/139084/altra-lone-peak-4-mid-rsm-hiking-shoes-mens

Don’t change now. Whatever you have been training in, stay in. Philmont is stressful enough without changing to new / different footwear.

“Philmont should be enjoyed, not endured.” Moonshine

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!!!!

The trails at Philmont are some of the best groomed trails you will ever hike on.  If you have been training in trail runners, don’t switch now.  You’ll be fine.  In 2017, our entire crew hiked 90+ miles in trail runners.  We didn’t have anyone with feet problems.  YMMV, but stick with what you are used to.  As long as you aren’t carrying a monster pack, you should be fine.

Yeah, if they worked on those 100s of miles, they should be good to go.

:) Thanks everyone ! I’m going to stick with what I know.

+1 to “not changing”.

But do you use trekking poles? I know that those have been a godsend for me over the years – esp. with tending to ankle injuries.

@Matt, yes I use trekking poles, and agree they are life changing :)

Philmont 2014/Trek 16. Concur re not “upgrading” to boots and SUPER CONCUR re the value of trekking poles.

I may be wrong but I cannot find a scientific study that shows that boots provide more ankle support than trail runners. Stick with the trail runners. I think Philmont has the perfect set up to actually do a study on this issue.