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My first thought was, “Well, phooey. There’s a waste of $200.” I gazed forlornly at my new Salomons: crampon capable clodstoppers, still putting forth the odor of vulcanization, bought only hours before my discovery of lightweight backpacking. I could sense their vestigial hobnails. They would go the distance, I had thought; I would be tramping through some pretty rough country, to be sure. I was going to hike a thousand miles, I had argued to myself, all of it unknown.
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# PHOTOS: 11
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Companion forum thread to:
Into the Unknown, with Sturdy Footwear
A great read and a lot of fun. Somewhat shoe-obsessed, but overall quite engaging.
A history buff's fascination is realized by this article.
I still find I am more comfortable in the woods with sturdy boots. Thank you, Andrew for a great read!
Exceptional reading, I would love to see more of this on BPL…thank you for posting this submission!
I've been on BPL for a long time, and this is the first time I've left a comment on an article. I really appreciate the old time info, and to see how things have changed. I totally agree with your last paragraph-I still love the romance and adventure ofbeing in the woods. I often stop to wonder about the other hikers who have stood in the same place I'm standing. Regardless of the years between us, there is a shared spirit among all wilderness explorers.
I like my old and well taken care of Lowa Alpspitz and Vasque Sundowners when I hike.
I've tried the sneaker thing.The feet hurt and turning an ankle scares me
Edited — old thread.
I realize my comment is a couple of years late but I love the last line of this piece. Great article for many reasons.
Thanks, Derrick. Always glad when people keep reading my stuff. Andrew
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