Camping and Backpacking GEAR thread

I really like the way these 2 look and the weight also. Both are GTX. However, I do not know how well adidas shoes will be in the outdoors. The hiking shoes actually got good reviews on REI. Would you guys even consider adidas for backpacking shoes?

http://www.adidas.com/us/terrex-agravic-gtx-shoes/AF6120.html - Trail Runners

http://www.adidas.com/us/terrex-swift-r-gtx-shoes/AQ5306.html?_remoteInclude=true&slot=1 - Hiking shoes

 

You can camp all of those places except Rim to Rim and Fossil Creek with a RTT. The lake in Telluride is called Trout Lake and its a few miles outside of town but its free camping.

 

This! I wear the Merrel Capra Spots for everything! Even as approach shoes for climbing.

Right before Sports Chalet closed I picked up a second set of OR Crocodiles for $15 lol

 

The thing about shoes is you need to go into a store and try them on. Everyone's foot comfort in each shoe is different.

I've never seen Adidas come up on the top rankings of trail running shoe recommendations. Doesn't mean that they aren't good.

It depends on your trail terrain, too. Where I go, there are lots of rocks and roots so I need the Vibram soles to keep the shoe from bending too much and hurting my arches. Soft dirt trails could virtually just take a sandal or very lightweight shoe.

 

Yes, I plan to go to REI this weekend to try on the adidas hiking shoes. description and reviews seem decent enough to see in person. Just not sure of the speed lace system.

 

I've used Adidas approach shoes for a couple of years, for backpacking and general hiking I've been using Altras and like them a lot.

 

Altras are top rated. I haven't tried them myself, but they're supposed to be the top of the list for trail running shoes. Many of the long distance guys wear them.

 

I've been wearing trail runners or low hiking shoes for a dozen years. Both in the east (AT) and west (Sierra). Except for snow, I'll wear a boot but nothing of huge substance. And I'll add a gaiter for snow too.

As for brands... Phew. Find what fits you. I have a dozen brands In he closet. Some work. Some don't.

Try different socks too. I'm a big fan of both Injinji and Icebreaker.

As for boot/ankle support... Weak ankles is somewhat a myth (but some folks just aren't strong walkers). (This was told to me by 3 different podiatrists)
It's better described as short tendons vs long tendons. Short tend to sprain/strain more easily because of not giving. I have long. I roll my ankles all the time and just keep going. I find the combo of this and low shoes gives me more agility to catch myself when I trip (which is often).

Try every shoe/boot on. Aim for end of day too. During your normal day, your feet will have swelled some (though not like when hiking). You'll likely need to size up 1/2 to even 1-1/2 sizes.

Have fun and enjoy the adventure!!

 

Yea i only have a problem with one ankle really. Its one i tore tendons in earlier in life and truly cant stand up what my other can. It sucks. I like a good boot!

 

I'm looking for something to wear while hiking in the narrows in Zion when I go. There are a lot of various Merrell water/hiking shoes. Would something like that be best, or should I get a trail running type shoe that I can get more use out of?

 

Depends on how much money you want to trash. I use a shoe that's about seen its last hike, but still has decent tread, and trash them after. If you think you can revive a pair, go for it!
I also like five-fingers for water walking. Tread, quick dry, foot protection...
Salomon Tech Amphibians are good too. They're water sport shoes.

 

Big fan of the Salomon Tech Amphibs

 

I totally get that! It's expensive to buy two pair, one shoe for each foot!

(I had to fit a gal once, had feet 3 sizes different from each other-medical condition, insurance paid for them- but she had to buy two pair of shoes/boots for everything she did.)

 

geez... that would be a royal PITA!id be talking to the manufacturer and begging them to send me a "second" of whatever shoe I already bought and give them a pity story haha.

Speaking of shoes, boots and other things that go on your feet, anybody bought any Vasque boots lately? any idea if the quality has gone downhill or if theyre still solid?

 

I just use my basic Tevas for any water crossings, but if you're doing the narrows and have much more water to slog through, a good amphibious shoe would probably be best. With my Tevas, the issue is that they get gravel/sand under my feet and in between my toes, which drives me nuts. Especially in any kind of current. But, they're light as a feather and make great campsite shoes, too.

 

REI has some smoking deals on some good gear right now, thru July 13. Plus if you spend $100 at all from now until July 13, you get a free $20 gift card to use from July 15-25 on another purchase (members only).

https://www.rei.com/s/deals?ir=collection:deals&page=1

I'm eyeballing that Osprey Stratos 36 pack, and the Patagonia Nano Puff jacket.

 

NanoPuff is the shit! I'd have several if my wallet let me!

 

Free repairs is great too especially since they're warehouse is literary five minutes from my house and I am constantly f'n mine up.

 

Yea osprey does the same. I love that about all the big hitters in the outdoor gear world.

Big Agnes did me great when my rain fly tore on my Fly Creek UL1. 50 bucks for a new rain fly shipped to my door overnight. I was in a bind cause I was guiding a trip 3 days after I called them. Got the rain fly the day before.

 

+1 on big agnes. My bag for the fly creek ul1 ripped. they sent me a new one free.