EDC/light hiking Shoes for duck feet

[ECVMatt]

I was wondering if any could recommend a brand of shoes for someone with wide feet. I generally wear a 12-12.5 in a 4-6E depending upon the brand.

I am looking for a shoe that is comfortable, waterproof, and durable. I am looking for something that is a low to mid cut and can handle light hiking in the mountains and deserts. I guess just general all-around good shoe.

I does anyone with a wide foot have a particular brand that prefer?

Thanks!

[sammage]

Similar boat (or shoes) here at a 12 4E. Used to be the OG Merrell Moabs in a 12 D or wide worked great, the Moab 2s seem to have changed the recipe. Keen Targhees have a wide toe box, and they even make a wide version now. The last couple years I've had good luck with low drop shoes such as Altras or Topos, which have a wide toe box for natural foot shape.

[Steven T]

I have been pretty happy with Danner. I hike/walk in the dessert a few days a week.
I don’t have any experience with their waterproof boots. I find them to hot most of the year.
I have had issues getting wide enough boots. Danner’s fit me well. Of course ymmv.

[Flamingo]

I have had good luck with Lems (https://www.lemsshoes.com/collections/all-mens-products/products/mens-waterproof-boulder-boot?variant=23734351822906) boots and shoes. They have the biggest toe box of any shoe that I have bought.

[javemtr]

If you're also interested in something sportier, in the direction of running shoes, try the Altra Lone Peak 5 or the mid-height version, the Lone Peak Hiker. They are popular with the truhiking crowd.

[Borderland]

Just purchased a pair of these and they work. 12 (4X)



https://www.newbalance.com/pd/1300/MW1300.html#dwvar_MW1300_size=12&dwvar_MW1300_style=MW1300DD&dwvar_MW1300_width=4E&pid=MW1300&quantity=1

[Clusterfrack]

+1 for Altra

[Doc_Glock]

+1 for Altra


Plus 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 for Altra. My entire family has converted to them.

[rob_s]

Going through this right now. My lightweight Keens finally got holes in them so I started shopping replacements, and really want(Ed) something more visually appealing.

Bought some Salomon Outlines (https://www.backcountry.com/salomon-outline-gtx-hiking-shoe-mens) because I love the way they look and the pics tricked me into thinking they were wide enough. Wore them around the house the morning before my flight to the SW to spend 10 days in campgrounds & national parks (basically, would be wearing these all day every day) and within an hour could tell they were wide, just not in the right part of the shoe for me (see pic below). Wound up wearing my old Keen boots (not to be confused with the worn out shoes) which worked fine but were bulkier, heavier, and dorkier than I’d have liked.

I really just want another pair of Keens (https://www.keenfootwear.com/mens-shoes/), but they seem to have stayed frozen in their aesthetic, with the only design changes seemingly going the route of appealing to the nature hippie market that they’ve apparently decided to double-down on. Which seems to put them at this weird nexus of 20-something “influencers” that don’t wash and 50-somethings that have given up caring what they look like. Leaving this 40-something “thinks I’m still cool” left out in the cold.



Salomon vs Keen
71522

[SJC3081]

My 50 year battle to find a shoe to fit wide toe box, Keen is the answer.

[Clusterfrack]

Altra Lone Peak (non Goretex). Preparing for a day of hiking today. Utah.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210515/9fa4a4e7787f2e02d4add379928543ef.jpg

[Cory]

Asside from wide foot issues, you've described Salomon shoes fairly well. Mine aren't waterproof but are awesome for walk around and hiking stuff.

[Le Français]

Altras are great. I've had a pair of their (non-waterproof) trail runners as hiking shoes for years, and they work well and are very durable. If they get a little wet, they dry quickly. I also use a pair of Altra road running shoes for that. Lems are great too. I have their Nine2Fives, which aren't waterproof but can handle a light rain. Lems now offers a waterproof version of their Boulder Boot. Both of these brands focus on zero drop and wide toe boxes, which IMO are great features in a shoe.

[Guerrero]

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1176/5302/products/IMG_2832_1000x.png?v=1569271334

[Parf]

A boot stretcher has really allowed me to purchase great shoes / boots that were too narrow, and widen them over the course of a couple of weeks to be a great fit.

https://www.amazon.com/HOUNDSBAY-Heavy-Duty-Professional-Stretcher-Loosen/dp/B07887H1G4/ref=sr_1_16?crid=5AKKWZ8EF87Y&dchild=1&keywords=shoe%2Bstretchers%2Bfor%2Bwide%2Bfeet&qid=1621107617&sprefix=shoe%2Bstret%2Caps%2C213&sr=8-16&th=1&psc=1

[JAD]

Merrell Moab 2 non gore Tex. Works well for my squared-off 9-2es.

In positive news for those of us who are stability advantages, chuck taylors are now available in wide.

[sparkyv]

I mainly use wide Merrell Moab low and Moab Vetex mids, but recently got some wide Keen Targhees low and they are extra wide and really sturdy?


Similar boat (or shoes) here at a 12 4E. Used to be the OG Merrell Moabs in a 12 D or wide worked great, the Moab 2s seem to have changed the recipe. Keen Targhees have a wide toe box, and they even make a wide version now. The last couple years I've had good luck with low drop shoes such as Altras or Topos, which have a wide toe box for natural foot shape.

[vcdgrips]

Keen and New Balance are the default recommendation in my BSA community for wide footed folks for causal hiking shoes.

Edited to add: if you are wide footed, it is worth getting fitted by somebody who knows what they are doing and buying at least 2 pairs of shoes as alternating two pairs of shoes will make last much long the wearing one pair followed by another.

[Bratch]

I’ll second the Altra and Keen recommendation. I have 2 pair of Altra shoes and one pair of Keen leather boots.

I have weird feet I don’t measure wide but have to wear a wide to prevent blister and for general comfort. I have several pairs of Salomans, if I’m up and moving they are fine but once I stop moving I start to notice that they are too snug.

The boot I’m wearing these days for wet and dirty conditions around town is the first generation of this one:
https://www.salewa.com/en-us/ultra-flex-2-mid-gore-tex-mens-shoe-00-0000061387?c=1518275

I have been very happy with them and they seem wide enough not to bother me. I’m not sure how wide their distribution is but if you could find some they might be worth trying on.

[luckyman]

Oboz is another good solution, especially if like me your heels are still on the narrow side.

[rob_s]

Oboz is another good solution, especially if like me your heels are still on the narrow side.

Their (new?) Bozeman line is particularly appealing.

Thanks!

[Clusterfrack]

We hiked a rugged slickrock trail yesterday, with a several thousand vertical feet of climbing and descent.

The Altra boots were comfortable and had good heel stability. The sole is excellent. However, the wide toebox did not provide as much torsional support as I’m used to. My feet got seriously tired and sore.

These are the only boots I have on this trip, so I’ll just have to suck it up and hope those muscles adapt.

On the plus side, no hot spots, and my feet were not hot or sweaty despite the heat and activity.

[luckyman]

Their (new?) Bozeman line is particularly appealing.

Thanks!

I’ve been eyeing that one too. I have the sawtooth low which is great for light hiking, but too “hiking boot” looking to wear at work if people are coming in, or to slightly nicer restaurants, etc.

[rob_s]

I’ve been eyeing that one too. I have the sawtooth low which is great for light hiking, but too “hiking boot” looking to wear at work if people are coming in, or to slightly nicer restaurants, etc.

One of my favorite things about our trip to Southern Utah was that everywhere we went, hiking boots and shoes seemed an acceptable part of fancy dress. :cool:

[littlejerry]

We hiked a rugged slickrock trail yesterday, with a several thousand vertical feet of climbing and descent.

The Altra boots were comfortable and had good heel stability. The sole is excellent. However, the wide toebox did not provide as much torsional support as I’m used to. My feet got seriously tired and sore.

These are the only boots I have on this trip, so I’ll just have to suck it up and hope those muscles adapt.

On the plus side, no hot spots, and my feet were not hot or sweaty despite the heat and activity.

Lone peak 4s definitely don't have good lateral stability but are otherwise a great boot.

I recommend experimenting with lacing. There are a few patterns you can use to lock down tight in certain areas and relieve pressure over others. I bypassed the small piece of webbing on my LP4 mids to allow me to tie the laces tighter without creating a hot spot.

Supposedly the LP5 has a more dialed in fit and because of that Altra is now offering wide sizing.

For regular old trail runners I highly recommend Nike Terra Kigers. Unlike any other Nike out there, had a much more generous fit but IMO is better contracted than the Altra LPs.

[Clusterfrack]

Definitely feeling some DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), but I’m still happy with the Altra LP4 boots after three hikes in the last three days.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210518/f72f29c4fda5bc545eb3a5dbbe6c978d.jpg

BTW, I do not have duck feet. My feet are average width.

[luckyman]

We hiked a rugged slickrock trail yesterday, with a several thousand vertical feet of climbing and descent.

The Altra boots were comfortable and had good heel stability. The sole is excellent. However, the wide toebox did not provide as much torsional support as I’m used to. My feet got seriously tired and sore.

These are the only boots I have on this trip, so I’ll just have to suck it up and hope those muscles adapt.

On the plus side, no hot spots, and my feet were not hot or sweaty despite the heat and activity.

CF, what did you wear before these?

[Clusterfrack]

CF, what did you wear before these?

My last pair of summer boots were Salomon XA Forces mid (non Goretex). I put a ton of miles on them, but the cloth heel cup wore out (as happens with most of my boots.)

I also recently bought some Keen Explore waterproof boots that I like a lot.

[BehindBlueI's]

I'm also of the wide toe/narrow heel build. Me left foot is also slightly larger than the right. Hoka is my new go to for shoes, Keens has been my old standby for boots. New Balance used to make some real nice boots under the "Dunham" brand but I think they shut that down as I haven't seen them in years. The soles were a little soft and wore out quickly, but the boots were very comfortable. I've tried Oboz on at the store but they seem heavier then Keens, or at least the ones I tried.

With the Hoka trail runners I lace the left shoe "normally" and then lace the right shoe with the little loops through the top two holes and then the shoe strings ran through the little loops, as that tightens up the heel area a bit more. I've found this to make both shoes fit with no heel slop.

[revolvergeek]

Just purchased a pair of these and they work. 12 (4X)



https://www.newbalance.com/pd/1300/MW1300.html#dwvar_MW1300_size=12&dwvar_MW1300_style=MW1300DD&dwvar_MW1300_width=4E&pid=MW1300&quantity=1

I have had a pair of these in 13 4E since last August and like them. Wear them to work (office) 2-3 days a week.

[jeffhughes]

I’d order a pair of custom White’s Boots

www.whitesboots.com

There are lighter, but these are lifetime

[rob_s]

any other suggestions here? Particularly for something more "shoe" than "boot" and "breathable" than "waterproof"?

I'm close to biting down on one of these, but I'm not terribly thrilled about the way they look...

https://www.zappos.com/p/keen-targhee-vent-raven-bronze-brown/product/9145172/color/784543


https://www.zappos.com/p/keen-voyageur-black-olive-inca-gold/product/7368630/color/125169

[Clusterfrack]

any other suggestions here? Particularly for something more "shoe" than "boot" and "breathable" than "waterproof"?

I'm close to biting down on one of these, but I'm not terribly thrilled about the way they look...

https://www.zappos.com/p/keen-targhee-vent-raven-bronze-brown/product/9145172/color/784543


https://www.zappos.com/p/keen-voyageur-black-olive-inca-gold/product/7368630/color/125169

I looked at those, but they are too heavy and stiff for what I'm looking for in a breathable everyday shoe.

My Salomon Sense Escape 2 were great in that role--except for the cloth heel cup that fell apart. Here's my list of candidates for replacing them:

Merrell Bare Access XTR
https://www.zappos.com/p/merrell-bare-access-xtr-olive/product/9254292/color/529

Nova 2
https://www.zappos.com/p/merrell-nova-2/product/9467694

Altra Lone Peak 5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-lone-peak-5-dark-slate-red/product/9468988/color/458292

Escalante 2.5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-escalante-2-5-gray/product/9395912/color/8

Torin 5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-torin-5-black/product/9520327/color/3

Merrell Range AC+
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VBNVGBD/

And maybe?
Xero Mesa Trail
https://www.zappos.com/p/asin/B0844MP4XH

[littlejerry]

Nike Terra Kigers are fantastic trail runners. Those and Altra Lone Peak are my go to.

[rob_s]

I looked at those, but they are too heavy and stiff for what I'm looking for in a breathable everyday shoe.

My Salomon Sense Escape 2 were great in that role--except for the cloth heel cup that fell apart. Here's my list of candidates for replacing them:

Merrell Bare Access XTR
https://www.zappos.com/p/merrell-bare-access-xtr-olive/product/9254292/color/529

Nova 2
https://www.zappos.com/p/merrell-nova-2/product/9467694

Altra Lone Peak 5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-lone-peak-5-dark-slate-red/product/9468988/color/458292

Escalante 2.5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-escalante-2-5-gray/product/9395912/color/8

Torin 5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-torin-5-black/product/9520327/color/3

Merrell Range AC+
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VBNVGBD/

And maybe?
Xero Mesa Trail
https://www.zappos.com/p/asin/B0844MP4XH

appreciate the suggestions.

My god are most of those ugly! WTF has happened to shoe design? I actually just saw an article headline about that very subject the other day. I gotta go find it again now.

The last one was the more palatable, but it looks like it's one of those minimalist shoe things? Anytime I see marketing photos with the shoe balled up it makes me nervous.

[Clusterfrack]

appreciate the suggestions.

My god are most of those ugly! WTF has happened to shoe design? I actually just saw an article headline about that very subject the other day. I gotta go find it again now.

The last one was the more palatable, but it looks like it's one of those minimalist shoe things? Anytime I see marketing photos with the shoe balled up it makes me nervous.

The Merrells look the best aesthetically to me, but I think Altra build quality is better. Agree about the rolled up minimalist shoes. I might try the Xeros for martial arts. We are still working outdoors in the dirt.

[vcdgrips]

Size and width please Rob-s

Edited to add- a review of past posts indicates 10.5 to the wide.

As Salomon is now a NO GO given their PRC ownership (despite adding wide to much of their line), I have recently become enamored with the Hoka One One. Based on me previously wearing a Brooks Adrenaline GTS and fitting me, my shoe professional put me in a pair of Gaviota 3s.

Super comfy. Moreover, if a shoe is going to be chunky, it should at least be colorful and comfy.

10.5/wide and extra wide in Hokas linked below.

https://www.hokaoneone.com/mens-view-all/?prefn1=group&prefv1=men&prefn2=size&prefv2=10.5&prefn3=width&prefv3=Wide%7CX-Wide

[Crashpad]

I looked at those, but they are too heavy and stiff for what I'm looking for in a breathable everyday shoe.

My Salomon Sense Escape 2 were great in that role--except for the cloth heel cup that fell apart. Here's my list of candidates for replacing them:

Merrell Bare Access XTR
https://www.zappos.com/p/merrell-bare-access-xtr-olive/product/9254292/color/529

Nova 2
https://www.zappos.com/p/merrell-nova-2/product/9467694

Altra Lone Peak 5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-lone-peak-5-dark-slate-red/product/9468988/color/458292

Escalante 2.5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-escalante-2-5-gray/product/9395912/color/8

Torin 5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-torin-5-black/product/9520327/color/3

Merrell Range AC+
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VBNVGBD/

And maybe?
Xero Mesa Trail
https://www.zappos.com/p/asin/B0844MP4XH

I own or have owned the Escalante (1.5 I think), Torin (4.5 and 4.5 Plush) and Lone Peaks (2, 4.5 and 5s). The Escalantes were horrible. They didn't last long before wearing out and I'm used to replacing shoes every three months or so. I think they made it six weeks before falling apart.
Unlike other shoes with a woven upper they let my feet slide around on the lower way too much. Even when I regulated them to weekend walking around town duty they were borderline dangerous.

The Torins are nice. If you like a lot of cushion try the 4.5 Plush. If you run a lot and don't have feet issues the Plush might be a bit too soft.

I hated the first Lone Peaks I had and gave them away. I hated the 4.5s until I put an insole in that added a little rock protection. After five miles either trail running or hiking my feet would really take a beating. After adding the insoles I can go twenty miles easy with no discomfort.
The 5s I've only had for a couple of months and have only been worn while my 4.5s are drying out but with the changes Altra made I haven't had to add an aftermarket insole to them.

I personally really like some of Topo's models. https://www.topoathletic.com/
I think they do a good job of finding the balance between performance and durability and they offer low drop models (3mm-5mm) if one isn't ready for zero drop or is easing into it.

I currently run between twenty and one hundred miles a week, ninety percent of which is on dirt. Until recently I was running twice to three times as much but have dialed it back to prevent unnecessary injury and wear and tear on my knees and feet.

[Clusterfrack]

... I hated the 4.5s until I put an insole in that added a little rock protection. After five miles either trail running or hiking my feet would really take a beating. After adding the insoles I can go twenty miles easy with no discomfort.

I found them challenging initially as well, but my feet grew used to the LP 4.5s and now I love them. I wonder if weight is an issue. At only 150lbs, maybe I can get away with less rock protection?

That's disappointing about the other Altras.

[littlejerry]

Re the Altra Escalante: The 1 and 1.5 versions were strange. Zero lateral stability, lots of stretch in the upper, and very cushy. They were OK for slow easy runs on pavement, but not secure at all for speed or transitions.

The 2.0s are a different animal. Much tighter upper and some additional stiffness in the sole. They are my go to road shoe. Haven't tried the 2.5s.

My main complaint with Altra is the crazy changes from one generation to another.

I tried a few Topo shoes and they always felt incredibly unstable for me. At the time I was looking for a trail shoe to use in ruck training. Landed on the LP 4.0 and Terra Kigers.

ETA: my weekly run mileage is 10-30 miles, and I'm ~165lbs FWIW.

[Crashpad]

I found them challenging initially as well, but my feet grew used to the LP 4.5s and now I love them. I wonder if weight is an issue. At only 150lbs, maybe I can get away with less rock protection?

That's disappointing about the other Altras.
I'm currently 180 lbs (5'8" tall]. With the LP 4.5s I had to really watch my foot placement on trails with lots of rock and roots, which is the majority of my favorite trails. Once I swapped the insole it was like I was wearing a completely different shoe. The LP 5s have been good out of the box.


Re the Altra Escalante: The 1 and 1.5 versions were strange. Zero lateral stability, lots of stretch in the upper, and very cushy. They were OK for slow easy runs on pavement, but not secure at all for speed or transitions.

The 2.0s are a different animal. Much tighter upper and some additional stiffness in the sole. They are my go to road shoe. Haven't tried the 2.5s.

My main complaint with Altra is the crazy changes from one generation to another.

I tried a few Topo shoes and they always felt incredibly unstable for me. At the time I was looking for a trail shoe to use in ruck training. Landed on the LP 4.0 and Terra Kigers.

ETA: my weekly run mileage is 10-30 miles, and I'm ~165lbs FWIW.

I'm happy to hear that they improved the Escalantes.
The Topo Phantoms were one of my favorite road shoes. The older Gen TerraVenturas were my go to trail shoe until I moved to the Lone Peaks. I've never run with them carrying any weight though.

I agree about Altra's changes from generation to generation. If I really like one of their models I grab extra pairs when they release the next gen. I got a couple of pairs of the LP 4.5s for $60 when the LP 5s were released.

[dsa]

I own or have owned the Escalante (1.5 I think), Torin (4.5 and 4.5 Plush) and Lone Peaks (2, 4.5 and 5s). The Escalantes were horrible. They didn't last long before wearing out and I'm used to replacing shoes every three months or so. I think they made it six weeks before falling apart.
Unlike other shoes with a woven upper they let my feet slide around on the lower way too much. Even when I regulated them to weekend walking around town duty they were borderline dangerous.

The Torins are nice. If you like a lot of cushion try the 4.5 Plush. If you run a lot and don't have feet issues the Plush might be a bit too soft.

I hated the first Lone Peaks I had and gave them away. I hated the 4.5s until I put an insole in that added a little rock protection. After five miles either trail running or hiking my feet would really take a beating. After adding the insoles I can go twenty miles easy with no discomfort.
The 5s I've only had for a couple of months and have only been worn while my 4.5s are drying out but with the changes Altra made I haven't had to add an aftermarket insole to them.

I personally really like some of Topo's models. https://www.topoathletic.com/
I think they do a good job of finding the balance between performance and durability and they offer low drop models (3mm-5mm) if one isn't ready for zero drop or is easing into it.

I currently run between twenty and one hundred miles a week, ninety percent of which is on dirt. Until recently I was running twice to three times as much but have dialed it back to prevent unnecessary injury and wear and tear on my knees and feet.
What insole did you use/like?

[Crashpad]

What insole did you use/like?
I put a Fleet Feet branded Superfeet orange insole in the Lone Peak 4.5s. We were in Huntsville for a weekend and I went into their store near Monte Sano State Park looking for another pair of shoes. One of the employees had the same complaints about the LP 4.5s and recommended those insoles. They don't add too much cushion but do add a little more rock protection which was all that I needed.

[dsa]

I put a Fleet Feet branded Superfeet orange insole in the Lone Peak 4.5s. We were in Huntsville for a weekend and I went into their store near Monte Sano State Park looking for another pair of shoes. One of the employees had the same complaints about the LP 4.5s and recommended those insoles. They don't add too much cushion but do add a little more rock protection which was all that I needed.
Thanks!

[littlejerry]

I put a Fleet Feet branded Superfeet orange insole in the Lone Peak 4.5s. We were in Huntsville for a weekend and I went into their store near Monte Sano State Park looking for another pair of shoes. One of the employees had the same complaints about the LP 4.5s and recommended those insoles. They don't add too much cushion but do add a little more rock protection which was all that I needed.

Altra has a removable rock plate that comes with the Superior trail shoes. I've used it in my LPs (both mids and lows) when packing heavier weight. Seems to distribute the load more evenly and eliminates some of the "squish" when rucking.

[rob_s]

Altra Lone Peak, looks like they are up to 5 now? Thoughts?

I at least don't find the appearance totally offensive...

https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-lone-peak-5-khaki/product/9468988/color/423?utm_medium=targetdisplay&utm_source=criteo&utm_content=9468988&utm_campaign=mainlowerfunnel

[Hot Sauce]

I at least don't find the appearance totally offensive...

https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-lone-peak-5-khaki/product/9468988/color/423?utm_medium=targetdisplay&utm_source=criteo&utm_content=9468988&utm_campaign=mainlowerfunnel

You sure?

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71Pa9eAZUeL._AC_SR1400,1050_.jpg

[rob_s]

You sure?

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71Pa9eAZUeL._AC_SR1400,1050_.jpg

goes with the hat...

74358

[vcdgrips]

rob s
you do not have a hair on your ... if you do not end up with some yellow/yellow accented shoes.

https://www.hokaoneone.com/womens-walking/bondi-l-suede/1122572.html?dwvar_1122572_color=CLMB

[texasaggie2005]

I am a fan of the Lone Peaks; have both the 4.5 & non Gortex mids. Damn comfortable. As mentioned in another thread, I ruck a lot, like 30 miles a week, with 60-180 pound loads. Plus I'm 190#. So I'm hard on shoes.

But there are downsides;
- I get less than 300 miles on the soles before the tread is worn smooth. Current pair is at ~120 miles, and tread is half gone.
- Minimal cushion means that concrete and hard surfaces are brutal on the feet over longer (15+ miles) distances.
- Off concrete on rocky trails, they allow rocks to bruise your feet.
- Easy to stub a toe or have cactus penetrate from all angles.

[Clusterfrack]

Merrell Bare Access XTR
https://www.zappos.com/p/merrell-bare-access-xtr-olive/product/9254292/color/529

Nova 2
https://www.zappos.com/p/merrell-nova-2/product/9467694

Altra Lone Peak 5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-lone-peak-5-dark-slate-red/product/9468988/color/458292

Escalante 2.5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-escalante-2-5-gray/product/9395912/color/8

Torin 5
https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-torin-5-black/product/9520327/color/3

Merrell Range AC+
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VBNVGBD/

And maybe?
Xero Mesa Trail
https://www.zappos.com/p/asin/B0844MP4XH

Merrell Bare Access XTR came and are already in the box to ship back.

Fit was very tight, and uncomfortable at the tongue. As well, the eyelet hardware was cheap and flimsy.

[littlejerry]

Merrell Bare Access XTR came and are already in the box to ship back.

Fit was very tight, and uncomfortable at the tongue. As well, the eyelet hardware was cheap and flimsy.

Merrell has gone down in quality(both design and fit/finish) in the last 15 years. Really sad to see.

[BobLoblaw]

I am a fan of the Lone Peaks; have both the 4.5 & non Gortex mids. Damn comfortable. As mentioned in another thread, I ruck a lot, like 30 miles a week, with 60-180 pound loads. Plus I'm 190#. So I'm hard on shoes.

But there are downsides;
- I get less than 300 miles on the soles before the tread is worn smooth. Current pair is at ~120 miles, and tread is half gone.
- Minimal cushion means that concrete and hard surfaces are brutal on the feet over longer (15+ miles) distances.
- Off concrete on rocky trails, they allow rocks to bruise your feet.
- Easy to stub a toe or have cactus penetrate from all angles.

Trying out the Olympus 4 now for the additional cushion and stability (really rigid). Only downside is they're not even close to zero drop. I run 10-15 miles/week at 200 lbs so zero drop helps a lot with reducing heel striking and injury prevention. I also lift and drink beer so I'm unremarkable at all athletic feats these days. We do have a beer mile coming up in August that I didn't even know I was training for.

https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-olympus-4-black-white/product/9395921/color/151

[rob_s]

I am a fan of the Lone Peaks; have both the 4.5 & non Gortex mids. Damn comfortable. As mentioned in another thread, I ruck a lot, like 30 miles a week, with 60-180 pound loads. Plus I'm 190#. So I'm hard on shoes.

But there are downsides;
- I get less than 300 miles on the soles before the tread is worn smooth. Current pair is at ~120 miles, and tread is half gone.
- Minimal cushion means that concrete and hard surfaces are brutal on the feet over longer (15+ miles) distances.
- Off concrete on rocky trails, they allow rocks to bruise your feet.
- Easy to stub a toe or have cactus penetrate from all angles.

that is not encouraging. thanks for the input!

[Clusterfrack]

Inbound from Zappos:


Merrell Bare Access XTR
Altra Escalante 2.5
Xero HFS


I sure hope one of these works out...

[rob_s]

Inbound from Zappos:


Merrell Bare Access XTR (https://www.zappos.com/p/merrell-bare-access-xtr-olive/product/9254292/color/529)
Xero HFS (https://www.zappos.com/p/xero-shoes-hfs-steel-gray/product/9545125/color/115295)


I sure hope one of these works out...

those both look like "possibles" for me too.

I was thinking about this on my drive to work this morning, and it occurred to me that what I really want is just "shoe". it's almost like the fragmentation of the shoe market has conspired against us, along with the weird trend toward any outdoors-related shoe going corrective-footwear.

I do, on occasion, "hike" but the truth is what I want is a shoe to wear to disney world, rv trips, music festivals, etc. I'm not climbing the Eiger, and I'm not running an ultramarathon. I need some traction, some protection, a good life, and a fat toe.


I'm close to grabbing up a pair of these
https://www.zappos.com/p/keen-austin-canvas-brindle-bungee-cord/product/9461061/color/311406?zlfid=191&ref=pd_detail-1-sims_cv

74384

[littlejerry]

Inbound from Zappos:


Merrell Bare Access XTR
Altra Escalante 2.5
Xero HFS


I sure hope one of these works out...

I have a pair of the Xero Z Trail sandals that I love. In the summer it's all I wear when not at work or the range. I've been thinking about giving their shoes a shot.

[luckyman]

I recently purchased these Oboz Sypes. They are “waterproof Nubuck Leather”. They are fine for “SoCal beach city hot” , would be wearable but not ideal for “SoCal inland summer desert hot”. They are marketed as “an around-towner with the chops of a performance light hiker” which seems pretty accurate. The soles are too flexible to do any kind of edging along steep slopes etc., but they are super comfortable and have good traction. I got them a full size bigger than my standard dress shoe size. The side of the sole is grey, it is much less white looking in person than in this picture.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210715/d415a1d8fbfddb6b06207aae8e9fa6a2.jpg

[texasaggie2005]

Trying out the Olympus 4 now for the additional cushion and stability (really rigid). Only downside is they're not even close to zero drop. I run 10-15 miles/week at 200 lbs so zero drop helps a lot with reducing heel striking and injury prevention. I also lift and drink beer so I'm unremarkable at all athletic feats these days. We do have a beer mile coming up in August that I didn't even know I was training for.

https://www.zappos.com/p/altra-footwear-olympus-4-black-white/product/9395921/color/151

I have a couple rucking buddies who wear those and swear by them. Been eyeing a pair myself, since I have a 50mi ruck coming up.


that is not encouraging. thanks for the input!

Eh, take my input with a grain of salt. Lone Peaks are designed more for trail running, whereas 95% of my usage was on concrete. This will be my 3rd pair I've worn smooth before 300 miles.

[BigDaddy]

I've been wearing Merrill Moab Ventilators in Walnut for at least ten years. I purchased a new pair last year but in a different color. They just didn't seem to be as comfortable or as sturdy as the one's I've worn in years past. I figured that perhaps because it was a different color that was the reason why. So last week I was shopping for another pair to replace the grey ones I had purchased last year when I saw the Keen's. I figured why not. So I bought a pair and all I can say is HOLY SMOKES! It's like wearing your favorite slippers outside. Man are they comfortable. Which I'd bought them years ago.

[Crashpad]

Eh, take my input with a grain of salt. Lone Peaks are designed more for trail running, whereas 95% of my usage was on concrete. This will be my 3rd pair I've worn smooth before 300 miles.
Lone Peaks are like a quality mud terrain tire. Specialized and really good at what they are designed for but if you run them on the road a lot they will wear out quickly.
I actually think that the majority of Altra's line is pretty specialized and one should expect to replace them regularly if used daily. I'm sure they offer some general purpose model that is comparable to other brands, but I have not seen it. I've also not looked.

[Crashpad]

You sure?

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71Pa9eAZUeL._AC_SR1400,1050_.jpg

Those will probably be the next pair of LPs I buy. I currently have the blue color they offer but a friend has the Lime colored ones pictured and it's a good looking shoe.

[rob_s]

I'm close to grabbing up a pair of these
https://www.zappos.com/p/keen-austin-canvas-brindle-bungee-cord/product/9461061/color/311406?zlfid=191&ref=pd_detail-1-sims_cv

74384

No good. Ankle too hard. Rubbed weird. Sending back. Try again.

[Clusterfrack]

Xero HFS are like mat shoes. Not what I’m looking for, but very nice fit.

[rob_s]

Did we talk about Astral (https://www.astraldesigns.com/shop/footwear/mens/tr1-mesh-ms) yet?

What about Lems (https://www.lemsshoes.com/products/mens-trailhead-hiking-trail-shoe)?

Both give me pause as they appear that they could be “minimalist” shoes which isn’t what I want.

[Flamingo]

Did we talk about Astral (https://www.astraldesigns.com/shop/footwear/mens/tr1-mesh-ms) yet?

What about Lems (https://www.lemsshoes.com/products/mens-trailhead-hiking-trail-shoe)?

Both give me pause as they appear that they could be “minimalist” shoes which isn’t what I want.

I have had the Lems boulder boots and the primal 2. The primal 2 is a very minimalist shoe. I like it a lot, but if you don't want minimalist it probably isn't for you.

[Clusterfrack]

And the winner is...


Inbound from Zappos:


Merrell Bare Access XTR: weird fit, tight spots in the forefoot, obviously lower quality.
Altra Escalante 2.5 (https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B082Q2XMR5/). Felt great the moment I put them on. Very comfortable. Good lateral stability. These are keepers!
Xero HFS: basically like mat shoes. Not what I’m looking for, but very nice fit.

[vcdgrips]

ECVMatt (OP of the thread)

What did you end up buying and how are they working out?

[ECVMatt]

Well I kind of got side tracked. I have a son with some pretty serious medical issues and we have spend the last month and a half in the hospital. It definitely has given me some time to catch up on reading just about every thread on PF. I did enjoy posting about the RC Lictor....

I am back to my Danner boots for the time being until I can get some confirmed outdoors time scheduled.

I have also spent lots of time kicking around the internet and still can't really find what I need. I find it hard to believe that there are so few 4E + shoe/boot consumer that it is a niche market but it appears so.

I will post an update when I finally decide and try out a pair. Us wide-footed folks need some love in the sport/trail shoe/low-cut boot department!

[vcdgrips]

I am prayerful for your son's recovery. I will ask my twins to be prayerful as well as they were the recipients of so many prayers when they were preemies.

[rob_s]

Did we talk about Astral (https://www.astraldesigns.com/shop/footwear/mens/tr1-mesh-ms) yet?


Looks like it may be a moot point.

74772

[vcdgrips]

https://www.rei.com/product/148598/astral-tr1-mesh-shoes-mens

Rob S

The link above looks to be live for a 10.5.

[luckyman]

Just made the decision to give away 3 expensive pairs of shoes due to them not fitting my duck feet. I think over the last few years a heel deformity/spur kind of thing I have from bad reactive arthritis from 30 years ago has gotten a little worse….
Anyways, donating a pair of Allen Edmunds, a pair of Mephistos, and a pair of Asolo Fugitive GTXs. That last pair, even in a wide, *almost* works but rubs a spot on the outside of my big toe. It’s a shame, if a pair of hiking boots can be sexy, those are it.

I probably need to replace the Asolos with something else, I don’t have any midweight hikers now.

I have 5 pairs of Allen Edmund dress shoes I’m still hanging onto; got to eventually figure out if I should give them away also. Those used to work well for me, not sure anymore. Need to wear one pair for a few days and see.

[Dennis]

I have used a shoe stretcher for decades to fix narrow shoes. I actually prefer shoes stretched to my liking over too wide wide shoes.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000PMIBWM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_P6MTXH69QWM1X8J7V91Y

Dennis.


Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk

[rob_s]

Couple of new options I wasn’t aware of


https://www.keenfootwear.com/p/M-WASATCH-CREST-VENT.html
Seems to preserve the KEEN toe, but the colors aren’t anything I’m super excited about


https://www.on-running.com/en-us/products/cloudventure
I have not had the impression that ON was “duck foot” friendly but these seem to maybe have a wider toe than the other models?

[ST911]

I have a bunch of miles on a couple pairs Oboz Sawtooth Mids, available mids and lows. GTG for trail and town.
https://obozfootwear.com/en-us/product/mens-sawtooth-ii-mid-waterproof

Added bonus of no reflective trim, important to some.

[RJ]

Thought I would throw this into the thread.

I asked for advice regarding a new USPSA shoe here recently, and eventually purchased a pair of these in 8.5 Wide:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077Y1LXN4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B077Y1LXN4&linkCode=as2&tag=ratio07-20

I would describe them as running shoes with fairly soft, grippy, chevron-shaped studding on the soles. I like them a lot. The Saucony is on the right, next to my at least six year old Merrell MOABs:

79048

[rob_s]

Couple of new options I wasn’t aware of


https://www.keenfootwear.com/p/M-WASATCH-CREST-VENT.html
Seems to preserve the KEEN toe, but the colors aren’t anything I’m super excited about

Finally broke down and ordered these in black. Ordered my standard Ken size of 10.5 only to have them feeling a little short, so have now ordered an 11 as well in the expectation that the half larger size will be perfect.

Initial impressions were favorable, and the wife and daughters didn’t laugh at the shoes so they must not be too bad…

[vcdgrips]

rob-s

if those work, order a second pair and alternate their wear. Do this and they will last far longer than if you wear a pair into the ground and then buy a second. Putting shoe trees (even plastic ones) will get you even more shoe life.

Following with "keen" interest as my Merrell Moab Ventilator Mids (non GTX) are in the last 20% of their life I suspect such that I will be replacing them this spring/summer.

[ST911]

rob-s

if those work, order a second pair and alternate their wear. Do this and they will last far longer than if you wear a pair into the ground and then buy a second. Putting shoe trees (even plastic ones) will get you even more shoe life.

This. When I find a pair I really like, I order a couple more and either rotate them or designate street/field/spare.

[JonInWA]

I'm a very satisfied user of Oboz, both their shoes and boots. Quality materials and construction. Mine are used for duty, hiking, hunting, etc. Second choice is Lowa.

https://www.rei.com/b/oboz/c/mens-shoes?ir=category%3Amens-shoes&r=c%3Bb

Best, Jon

[ECVMatt]

I am very lucky in that I get to walk everyday at my work. One of my job requirements is to conduct a daily safety walk of my school site to ensure it is clean and safe for students. The safety walk combined with general travel on the campus averages out to about 2-3 miles a day. I have been wearing Dunham shoes at work during the pandemic and figured that I have roughly walked from CA to NM in a couple of pairs of these shoes.

I finally needed to replace my work shoes and discovered they also have a line of outdoors shoes. I recently bought these:

https://www.zappos.com/p/dunham-cloud-plus-waterproof-lace-up-navy/product/9343029/color/9?zlfid=191&ref=pd_search_1_sp_1

They also have a high top version: https://www.zappos.com/p/dunham-cloud-waterproof-slate-grey/product/8424912/color/91742?zlfid=191&ref=pd_search_1_sp_1

They truly are 4E and fit my wide foot comfortably. I only have about 20 miles on the new pair of shoes, but they are as comfortable as my other Dunhams.

Anyways, I am not sure why I did not figure this out earlier, but these seem pretty good so far.

[majoroson]

I usually like to buy shoes from different brands. Different shops have in-stock models for everyone. I am also struggling with wide feet, and it is quite hard for me to buy shoes that fit and are comfortable at the same time. I even tried several online shops, but nothing helped. My mom loves hiking and buys shoes online. She told me that they have more models and sizes and you can return them if they aren't for you. She usually buys from forstepstyle.com (https://www.forstepstyle.com). I think it is better to shop online due to the possibility of finding something suitable for you.

[ECVMatt]

Sorry t bring this one back from the dead, but I wanted to give an update now that I have few miles on the Oboz Sawthooths. They are much better than the Dunhams in terms of wear and comfort.

https://obozfootwear.com/en-us/product/mens-sawtooth-x-mid-waterproof

I purchased these a few months ago and have been using them pretty regularly since. I did a class a few weeks ago that was essentially conducted in all day rain. They were comfortable, dry, and had the right amount of traction for the mud.

They only have one wide size, marked "Wide" on the size. While not luxuriously wide, I can wear them all day with no discomfort.

As others have mentions, Oboz get a thumbs up from me.

[centex]

I’m a little surprised about the lack of love for Lems on this thread. My wife and I both have pretty much only been buying their sneakers and boots for the past few years. I’m an 11 EE and their wide toe box fits the bill with room for someone who is EEEE in their wider styles. Plus the design is up to date vs some other options out there.

[Tensaw]

I don't have any specific recommendations re: shoes, but I do have some very specific thoughts about shoe *sizing*. I had been a 10 1/2 for a very long time - like since high school. So I got used to buying 10 1/2 sized shoes. Fast forward 30 years and the last couple of years at work, my feet would always hurt a little by the end of the day. Mind you, I was wearing Allen Edmund dress shoes and mostly driving a desk, so I did not think too hard about the shoes; although I did end up going to a EE width.

After retiring a couple of years ago, I bought quite a few pairs of shoes, now size 11EE. These were geared toward outdoor activities (some Salomon hikers and Ariat steel toed pull-ons). They would be fine for a while, but I couldn't wait to get them off by the end of the day. I was also living in Crocs quite a bit. Several months ago, I sized up to 12EE and things got better. It was incredible. And then just a few weeks ago, I drove almost two hours to get to a Red Wing Boot store for another pair of steel toes. There, I discovered that they have this contraption that not only generates a 3d scan of your feet (for sizing), it also images your foot strike while walking. One foot was measured at 11 1/2D and the other was 11D. Well, that must be geared for Red Wing sizing, which runs small (the numbers run small, the boots run large). I ended up with some 11 1/2 D King Toe boots. I do not forget I'm wearing boots when I have them on, but I can wear them all day with relative comfort.

All that to say, your feet do continue to grow and change throughout your life (I'm 57). So, it pays to play around with different sizing. Don't be dumb like me.

[Chipster]

After retiring from LE my wife and I bought the family owned shoe store from relatives in our small town. While we carry many brands, for the money, it’s tough to beat a Danner. Their warranty is phenomenal and while it may take getting to a brick and mortar store store for sizing (shoe sizing machines are a good starting point but don’t get fixated on them-all shoes are different) they offer a very technical shoe for the everyday person. My favorite the last couple of years has been the Mountain 600 Leaf GTX. I wear a 4E in most but just a 2E in this one. It’s lightweight and offers enough cushion to be considered for those plantar fasciitis flare ups but supportive enough when pushed in uneven terrain.

[vcdgrips]

Re lems shoes

1. Not widely known relative to other brands mentioned

2. Zero drop is not perceived to be for everybody

3. A transition to zero drop shoes if you have never worn them can be real and painful

4. Lems themselves are made in China which is off putting to some

5. Style is a subjective thing

6. Oboz, New Balance and Keen are far more widely known and accepted re wide toe box fit

7. Lems is not transparent re what materials they are using to be “waterproof”

[Flamingo]

I use Lems for my work out shoes. I have tried Xeros as well, and I like the Lems much better, but I wish they weren't made in China. For my "outdoor" shoes I have started using the Jim Green Barefoot Ranger. I like them a lot. I know they aren't USA made, but at least they aren't made in China.

[AHR]

I have super wide, high instep, hobbit like feet. Solid platform anyway.

Lowa, in wide size, fit like custom made for me.

[luckyman]

I use Lems for my work out shoes. I have tried Xeros as well, and I like the Lems much better, but I wish they weren't made in China. For my "outdoor" shoes I have started using the Jim Green Barefoot Ranger. I like them a lot. I know they aren't USA made, but at least they aren't made in China.

Flamingo, where did you find the Jim Green brand? Just online?

[littlejerry]

Recently Inov8 has changed their last to be much more similar to the "natural" shape you see from Altra and others.

Im trying out the standard Trailfly model right now. It's a 6mm drop which is more than I'd prefer, but the overall construction and materials are excellent.

I'm only about 50 miles in but so far I'm pretty happy. I may buy the "Speed" variant since it's lower drop and lower stack, and I'm very interested to try some of their high top hiker versions with the updated fit

[Flamingo]

I bought them online. They have an awesome toebox and I really like them.

[Chipster]

Shoes made in Vietnam tend to hold up the best to abuse. "Waterproofing" is always questionable compared to Gore-Tex. Gore-Tex has standards and it's usually why there is a $30+ markup on them. AFAIK Merrell still holds true to not being made in China, although I rarely but their "budget" shoes. However, they are owned by Wolverine Boots which also owns a few other brands that have started tricking in from China. On another note do a little research on the sole before buying. Many soles are specific to the activity. Danner "artic" soles are much softer than their normal ones and don't handle brushed concrete or chip & seal road well, but they are awesome in snow and ice.

[xray 99]

I'm a very satisfied user of Oboz, both their shoes and boots. Quality materials and construction. Mine are used for duty, hiking, hunting, etc. Second choice is Lowa.

https://www.rei.com/b/oboz/c/mens-shoes?ir=category%3Amens-shoes&r=c%3Bb

Best, Jon


I have been wearing a pair of Oboz every day and find them very durable. I also have a pair for day hiking and an insulated pair for winter hikes. Very satisfied with them.

[DMF13]

I used to be a big fan of Inov-8 shoes, especially the 235v3 shoes, both the gym shoes, and the TrailTalons. The last of their "old" versions I bought was a pair of Roclite 286 GTX boots, which are also excellent.

However, I purchased a pair of their "new" shoes, specifically a pair of MudTalon Speed trail shoes. Initially, I thought they would also be good, despite the soles being much thicker than I'd like, but I only wore them for brief periods after first receiving them. Then, about 5 weeks after I got them, I wore them to a USPSA match, and had them on for a little over 6 hours, and my feet hurt so bad I drove home barefoot.

I wish lightweight shoes, with a minimal drop (0-4mm), and without huge soles, were still readily available, but they seem to have fallen out of favor. The Reebok Nano 2.0, and the Inov-8 235, were nearly perfect, and I wish I had purchased a bunch when they were still available.

[Flamingo]

Try the Lems Natives. They are minimal soled and I am pretty sure they are zero drop.

[KneeShot]

I wish lightweight shoes, with a minimal drop (0-4mm), and without huge soles, were still readily available, but they seem to have fallen out of favor. The Reebok Nano 2.0, and the Inov-8 235, were nearly perfect, and I wish I had purchased a bunch when they were still available.

VIKTOS, VIKTOS!! VIKTOS has what you seek. Seems that their website is currently being worked on.

I have a wide foot, and my other one is prosthetic. Wide and minimal drop is a must.
Tried Altra’s, OBOZ, Inov-8, Merrill’s etc, none of them made the cut. The Altra’s almost did it, but I found the heel actually gets too soft before anything else, becomes a negative heel to toe drop (or rise?) and not quite wide enough.
I do want to try some LEMS

Found VIKTOS, ordered two sets of the Core 2’s. Love’em! I wear an 8.5W. Ordered an 8.5 and 9. 8.5 is great for working out, thinner sock. The 9 is great for anytime my foot could swell (traveling) or wearing a thicker sock. Looks good with casual clothes too.

Once their web is back up I want to order some of their ankle height boots.

I also really enjoy the Danner Tachyon. Minimal and 8.5W is perfect. Have a few pair. Glad I found some actual shoes so my teammates would stop making fun of me for wearing “boots” w/ exercise clothes.

I’ve had good luck w/ a few pair of Under Armour boots too.

[javemtr]

The new Altra Lone Peak 9 seem pretty nice! In Europe, we already have the version 9+ that comes with a Vibram outsole. Not sure when that will come to the US.

https://youtu.be/ehVXY5ss7pU

[luckyman]

I have been wearing a pair of Oboz every day and find them very durable. I also have a pair for day hiking and an insulated pair for winter hikes. Very satisfied with them.

The sawtooth mids are my favorite for non-technical 3 season use, but their one disadvantage for me is the soles wear out super-fast. I’m on my 3rd pair and really need a 4th pair come April.

Which model are you using? I have 2 other models of Oboz that don’t have near as much wear but I have been assuming that is just because I put a lot less miles on them.

[littlejerry]

The new Altra Lone Peak 9 seem pretty nice! In Europe, we already have the version 9+ that comes with a Vibram outsole. Not sure when that will come to the US.

https://youtu.be/ehVXY5ss7pU

That would be awesome of the LP was offered with a better outsole. I've always liked both the LP and Superior but their outsole material is junk. The tread wears away so quickly if you see any mileage on asphalt/concrete

[javemtr]

That would be awesome of the LP was offered with a better outsole. I've always liked both the LP and Superior but their outsole material is junk. The tread wears away so quickly if you see any mileage on asphalt/concrete
What's worse is that Altra's rubber compound is also slippery when it's wet. The Vibram outsole should solve both of those issues.

[DMF13]

VIKTOS has what you seek.
Thanks, their Core 2 looks very promising.

Oddly, today I was discussing this with an old friend, who told me Reebok relaunched the Nano 2.0s a little over a year ago.

I may start buying some of those Viktos and Nanos when a good price pops up. I've got three pairs of the TrailTalon 235s, but the tread wears down on those pretty fast, and the 1st pair is almost shot. So, I need to find a good replacement, for use in USPSA matches after the other pairs also wear out.

[Rex G]

I can affirm that Altra trail-running soles are slippery! (I have the high-top version, that they label as a “hiking boot.” They are not not hiking boots, but simply high-top trail runners.) Slippery on a newly-cleaned restaurant floor, and, yet, sticky when I would rather that they not be sticky, such as when trying to step over or through things. Vibram soles would be a tremendous improvement, and, in my case, necessary for me to buy Altra again. I just bought two pairs, on clearance, and then experienced the slippery part.

Edited to add: Mine are the “Lone Peak Mid ALL-WTHR 2.” Slippery on at least some floors, if any dampness exists, at all, yet extremely grippy on most other surfaces. Wonderful footwear, in many ways, but, yes, in need of Vibram soles. As they are, I think of them as outdoors-only shoes.

[OlongJohnson]

Plus 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 for Altra. My entire family has converted to them.


Altras are great. I've had a pair of their (non-waterproof) trail runners as hiking shoes for years, and they work well and are very durable. If they get a little wet, they dry quickly. I also use a pair of Altra road running shoes for that. Lems are great too. I have their Nine2Fives, which aren't waterproof but can handle a light rain. Lems now offers a waterproof version of their Boulder Boot. Both of these brands focus on zero drop and wide toe boxes, which IMO are great features in a shoe.


What's worse is that Altra's rubber compound is also slippery when it's wet. The Vibram outsole should solve both of those issues.

I've been at my wits' end with how (almost) the entire f'ing shoe industry has gone off the rails over the last 15 years and now only make shoes for elves whose feet curl up cartoonishly at the front. I'm a human, and that means I'm the result of hundreds of thousands of years of evolution walking barefoot on ground that averages flat. Thanks to this thread, I finally have ID'ed two brands that offer shoes with "Zero-to-Low Drop." Going to start with the Chillum Suede for EDW at work. Will probably try a Lone Peak as well.

My godson who now lives with me has true paddle feet and generally hates wearing shoes. Skechers are all we've found so far that he's willing to wear. Will try some shopping for him, too.

[Rex G]

Switching to zero drop shoes took some time, perhaps three years, before my feet stopped hurting, but, importantly, my knees, especially my right knee, which I had written-off years ago, largely HEALED themselves, and my lower back now feels much better.

The best long-term zero-drop shoe, for me, has been the Merrell Trail Glove series, which I found at Whole Earth Provision Company and REI brick-and-mortar stores, where I would try them on. Notably, I went up a size, from 10 to 10.5, in the Trail Glove. Part of the switch to zero drop shoes, with roomy toe boxes, is that one’s feet change shape. The Trail Glove does, of course, look very outdoors casual, which is why I have now added Altra.

[JonInWA]

Oboz or Lowa have been my go-to's, both out of REI.

Best, Jon

[MGW]

I have worn zero drop shoes for work for years now. Mostly Lems Chuckas. They stopped making my favorite shoe, the Chucka suede. Sizing for recent Lems has been all over the place and much narrower. For hiking I stick to Altra. I haven’t been able to find a wide toe box running shoe that works for me however. Zero drop for road shoes doesn’t work for me. A brand a lot of people like is Topo. I haven’t tried them yet but might one day.

[taadski]

I have worn zero drop shoes for work for years now. Mostly Lems Chuckas. They stopped making my favorite shoe, the Chucka suede. Sizing for recent Lems has been all over the place and much narrower. .

You may already be aware, but as information for those not, LEMS has 3 different foot profiles depending on the model being purchased and paying attention to that is important as they can vary up to a full size different IME. I’ve found their size chart for the specific models pretty accurate though.

I just wanted to clarify, as MGW’s comment above read like it was a consistency/manufacturing problem or something.

[centex]

You may already be aware, but as information for those not, LEMS has 3 different foot profiles depending on the model being purchased and paying attention to that is important as they can vary up to a full size different IME. I’ve found their size chart for the specific models pretty accurate though.

I just wanted to clarify, as MGW’s comment above read like it was a consistency/manufacturing problem or something.

Was coming back to say the same thing. Their return policy is also very good, so I typically take their advice and order a couple of sizes just to be safe and return what doesn't fit. I've stuck to the "Wide" and "Widest" profiles and they work well for my EE feet with toe spacers. I haven't tried any shoes in their "Medium" profile, though I suspect they wouldn't work well for me.

[MGW]

You may already be aware, but as information for those not, LEMS has 3 different foot profiles depending on the model being purchased and paying attention to that is important as they can vary up to a full size different IME. I’ve found their size chart for the specific models pretty accurate though.

I just wanted to clarify, as MGW’s comment above read like it was a consistency/manufacturing problem or something.

That’s a good point, however, I have still found differences. I purchased a pair of Boulder Summit waterproof boots during their Black Friday sale and I found the fit to be very low volume and narrow. They are supposed to be their widest fit. The original Nine2Fives were great for width but fit very long for me. I think they were listed as a wide fit as opposed to their widest fit but I don’t remember for sure. They do have a great return/exchange policy. I really like their shoes when I find the right size.

[Exiledviking]

Any recommendations for someone with wide feet and in need of arch support?
I tried on a bunch of hiking boots today and the Boot Barn and the only ones that seemed to have decent arch support were the Merrell Moad 3 mid hiking boots. But, they didn't have any wide boots in stock nor the next size up. 😕

[lwt16]

Any recommendations for someone with wide feet and in need of arch support?
I tried on a bunch of hiking boots today and the Boot Barn and the only ones that seemed to have decent arch support were the Merrell Moad 3 mid hiking boots. But, they didn't have any wide boots in stock nor the next size up. 😕

I have a 20 mile event in 5 weeks and am trying out a new trail running shoe.

https://a.co/d/iXYVsES

Topo Ultraventure 4.

It’s almost a clownishly large toe box. I haven’t got on a trail yet but do have 15 or so miles on them on pavement. Very lightweight, arch support, locked in heel, etc.

Personal cons are they’re a bit too springy, the laces are way too long, and they’re a hybrid Vibram sole. I wear a 14 regular and they were all I could find locally in that size for a trail shoe.

I have a pair of Brooks Cascadias on the way to see if they’re better.

[AMC]

Any recommendations for someone with wide feet and in need of arch support?
I tried on a bunch of hiking boots today and the Boot Barn and the only ones that seemed to have decent arch support were the Merrell Moad 3 mid hiking boots. But, they didn't have any wide boots in stock nor the next size up. 😕

My solution has been the Merrel Moabs with Superfeet Green inserts.

[Default.mp3]

My solution has been the Merrel Moabs with Superfeet Green inserts.I will second the idea of using inserts to help with arch support. I personally have a mix of Superfeet and Tread Labs (being careful to pick the right kind that won't damage a waterproof liner if your boot has one). Both offer pro deals if you qualify.

[Exiledviking]

Thank you, gentlemen. Much appreciated!

[JHC]

+1 for Altra

+2 for those