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Last Visit: 05/25/2013 06:25PM
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Hawbakers

05/14/2012 09:31PM

Rubber boots, tennis shoes, sandals, hiking shoes, slippers? What works best for you? When it's cold and wet I love my rubber boots. Stepping out of the canoe it's no worries. But I hate them when I'm paddling for a long stretch. Although the black flies can NOT bite my ankles thru my black rubber boots.

When I'm in camp I'd prefer my comfortable tennis shoes but like to have a pair of hiking boots for good ankle support if we decide to do some bushwhacking or trail blazing up to the top of some palisades.

At night if I have to get out of the tent for any reason, nature's call or I drank too much beer, it's nice to have a pair of easy slip on sandals or something so I don't get wet feet and stuff from the woods inside my sleeping bag.

But I really can't bring along six pairs of shoes if I want to cut down on weight, So what DO YOU DO? AM interested in what is the best all around pieces of footwear to bring

"Far more interesting than the chase itself is the observation, the study of the life histories of the strange and wonderful creatures of the wilderness." President Theodore Roosevelt

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kanoes

05/14/2012 09:47PM

trekkers for portaging, sperrys for camp, crocs for late night pees (easy on).

i think bigfoot is blurry. (mitch hedberg)

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Savage Voyageur

05/14/2012 09:53PM

I wear my keens for swimming, my Merrel boots for portages and LaCrosse knee high neoprene boots for wet footing.

"So many lakes, so little time."

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TeamTuna06

05/14/2012 10:00PM

Merrell shoes similar to these. Mine are a few years old and not made anymore, but they're waterproof and gore tex. Portaging...good stability...not a huge fan of boots, no real ankle issues, knock on wood.

Teva Churns for tooling around camp. The back heel portion folds down so you can slip them on for late night constitutionals. Also a good option for wet-footing in the warmer months.

"If people concentrated on the really important things in life, there’d be a shortage of fishing poles." -Doug Larson

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awbrown

05/14/2012 10:18PM

Columbia low cut hiking shoes with Smartwool hikers socks during the day, and some pull on mesh nylon water shoes for around camp while I sit by the fire and dry my day shoes and wet socks. I like the little water shoes because they pack so light and small. I also wear them if I go swimming (obviously).

Keep the open side up

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yellowcanoe

05/14/2012 10:26PM

I am with Team Tuna for portaging shoes. Some folks of course prefer dry footing or boots. But I stumble on both.

And (aagh unbelievable) Crocs for camp shoes.

Thats it. But I use a holy sacred pair of dry wool sox at camp too. Never never to get wet.

Being a kneeler in a canoe, boots are out.

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kanoes

05/14/2012 10:50PM

quote yellowcanoe: "But I use a holy sacred pair of dry wool sox at camp too. Never never to get wet."
those stay in my sleeping bag.

i think bigfoot is blurry. (mitch hedberg)

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yellowcanoe

05/14/2012 11:03PM

quote kanoes: "quote yellowcanoe: "But I use a holy sacred pair of dry wool sox at camp too. Never never to get wet."
those stay in my sleeping bag."

Good idea

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luft

05/14/2012 11:27PM

I wear a high rubber boot in spring and fall when the water is cold and I really haven't come up with a good summer shoe that I like as yet... I have been wet footing using hiking boots but I am looking at the Chota Hippies because I hate wet sox on my feet.

I wear Crocs around camp with wool sox and a clean pair of wool sox for sleeping in... otherwise my sleeping bag starts to smell like Fritos after a few days :-(

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Longpaddler

05/15/2012 06:28AM

Teva sandals for canoeing, camp and swimming. If the trip will require a lot of portaging, I bring a pair of Bean Boots.

..there is nothing- absolute nothing- half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats - Wind in the Willows

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Lymphocytosis

05/15/2012 06:49AM

In the warmer months I wear a pair of OTB boots. I can swim, wet foot, portage, and hike in these with no worries of a rolled ankle and they drain and breathe well enough that I'm not uncomfortable. Obviously, wet foot boots aren't for everybody, but I've been really pleased.

Around camp I wear a pair of New Balance sneakers designed for water use. They dry fast if I have the misfortune to get them wet and the razor siped soles mean I have good traction on wet surfaces.

Wool socks, as always, are a given.

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PineKnot

05/15/2012 07:06AM

OTB Abyss for travel days. Lightweight Timberline trail shoe and dearfoams for around camp.

Do what you can, with what you have, where you are -- Teddy Roosevelt

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mirth

05/15/2012 09:30AM

Teva Dozers for in the canoe & portaging w/wool socks. For camp I have a pair of cross trainers w/YC's sacred dry socks.

I keep a separate pair of socks in my sleeping bag for nighttime, they're a merino & possum blend.

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shsylvester

05/15/2012 09:37AM

Redwing Irish Setters (crepe "waffle" sole) for wetboots, Keen sandals in camp.

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yellowcanoe

05/15/2012 10:03AM

quote mirth:

I keep a separate pair of socks in my sleeping bag for nighttime, they're a merino & possum blend."

Don't tell me you knit them :). And sheared the sheep and whatever you do to the possum.

OK its legit they do this in New Zealand knit possum merino sox

I was pretty sure you were Red Green for a while. Not. Those socks are upwards of $35 a pair! Don't lose one!

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HowardSprague

05/15/2012 10:07AM

A pair of Cabelas Backcountry Waders (they've since discontinued, now they have "Gold Medal Wading Boots" or something like that..they seem more comfortable than mine)I replaced the cheap insole with a good quality, supportive one from RoadRunnerSports.

Under these I wear a pair of good wool socks (and bring 2-3 more pairs for the trip), and either Sealskinz or Chota Brookies. I just got the new version of these too - Chota Caney Fork Wading socks or something like that. It has a neoprene sock and a sort of built-in, waterprook gaiter type thing.

For camp, I'll bring a pair of Keen Newport sandals with the covered/protected toe.

If i think I'll swim, I bring a cheap pair of watershoes.

Pair of cotton socks for sleeping.

"Enjoy every sandwich"

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Lymphocytosis

05/15/2012 10:48AM

quote yellowcanoe: "OK its legit they do this in New Zealand knit possum merino sox

I was pretty sure you were Red Green for a while. Not. Those socks are upwards of $35 a pair! Don't lose one!"

If you've ever had a pair, they are really luxurious. They don't hold up for hiking in at all, but for camp socks, definitely worth it.

They aren't much cheaper even if you're in New Zealand. This surprised me, as the possums are just everywhere. The Kiwis consider them huge pests (invasive) and they actively try to kill them. I suspect it is because such items are marketed for the tourist industry.

The possums are quite strange looking critters if you meet them in the woods at night. I thought there was a rabid cat loose next to the shelter at first.

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mirth

05/15/2012 12:40PM

quote yellowcanoe: "quote mirth:

I keep a separate pair of socks in my sleeping bag for nighttime, they're a merino & possum blend."

Don't tell me you knit them :). And sheared the sheep and whatever you do to the possum.

OK its legit they do this in New Zealand knit possum merino sox

I was pretty sure you were Red Green for a while. Not. Those socks are upwards of $35 a pair! Don't lose one!"

Those are the socks I have. My folks are retired & doing the whole world travelling thing. They did a trip to NZ about 18 months ago and gave me a pair. The only time I wear them is when I'm getting settled into the bag at night. I don't even wear them at home, they're reserved for camping only. Holy cow are they comfy socks. Can't wait, I'll be wearing them this weekend at Webelos Woods w/my son.

They gave everybody something possum related. We also got a possum duster that works very well at trapping dust and getting into small places.

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cinna

05/15/2012 12:57PM

Does anyone go barefoot at landings then boot/shoe-up for the protage?

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TIMMY

05/15/2012 01:30PM

Chacos. Sometimes my New Balance running shoes.

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HowardSprague

05/15/2012 02:14PM

quote cinna: "Does anyone go barefoot at landings then boot/shoe-up for the protage?"

No way.
1)I can see slipping on an algae-coated rock and landing on a sharper, jagged rock or something equally painful.
2)My luck, some canoes would be coming up right behind me as I attempt to put my shoes back on, and then I'd be holding someone up. Then I'd hurry and not tie my shoes. Then when I proceeded to portage with untied shoes I'd trip. Then people would laugh at me.

"Enjoy every sandwich"

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chipaddler

05/15/2012 02:15PM

I've tried hiking boots, tevas, keen's. The hike boots held too much water and stayed too wet. The teva's caused stubbed toes and got debris in them. The keen's still let debris and rocks in.

This year i'm going smartwool socks and the Soloman Amphibian shoe. I took an 8 mile hike that crossed a river multiple times and was on rocky terrain. No debris under my feet, toes and side foot all protected, and they dried out quickly once they were off my foot. Definately be dry by the morning, maybe even in a couple hours in the sunlight.

Some concern over no ankle support and the heel needs to be snugged down sometimes. We'll see...

"Not all those who wander are lost" - Tolkien

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shsylvester

05/15/2012 02:21PM

quote cinna: "Does anyone go barefoot at landings then boot/shoe-up for the protage?"

No one with any sense. Cut your foot and your trip is over. I'm OCD about my feet on trail. I switch into my camp shoes by the water. I rinse my "wet" socks and boots, getting all the day's garp and muck out. I rinse my feet thoroughly, dry them, powder them with Dr. Scholl's medicated foot powder and put on dry socks. I never, ever go without shoes, even swimming or around camp. I've done 40-50 trips and have never cut my foot or had foot rot. Take care of your feet.

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cinna

05/15/2012 03:09PM

I kneel when I paddle and because of the seat height I have to go barefoot in the boat. So it's almost instinct stepping out of the boat barefooted. I see what folks are saying about injury though. I will be more careful and consider alternatives now.

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Goby

05/15/2012 04:15PM

In the boat and while traveling I have a pair of OTB Abyss boots that I love. They're sturdy enough and provide ankle support on the rockiest of portages, they have laser sipped soles, have drain holes in the soles to help get the water out. They dry fairly quickly once off my feet. These particular boots were designed for the Navy SEALs, and have some nice features as mentioned above, plus a spot on the tongue to tuck the laces in so they can't snag on anything. All around a great boot for canoe camping.

Around camp I'm last years running shoes. They're lightweight and comfortable, provide protection from sticks and rocks and the like. I try not to get them wet but if I do they dry quickly too.

As for wet footing, I wear double socks, a liner and a smartwool outer. This has prevented blisters for me.

Tight Lines

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boonie

05/15/2012 04:25PM

I trip in late Sept. and wear some Chota rubber boots while tripping and usually old running shoes in camp. Neither is very good for much hiking. I took some hiking shoes but they were heavier and bulkier than the old running shoes to wear in camp and not high enough when hiking to protect my ankles or step in anything very deep. I have used the Chota boots for hiking a few miles, but they're heavy and not the most comfortable, although they're dry and pprotective. Like you, Hawbakers, I don't want the weight and bulk of multiple shoes/boots, but have not found a really good solution for me.

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Scout64

05/15/2012 05:05PM

OTB Abyss IIs for treking. Keens for around camp. Keens with smartwool socks if it is cool. Socks are my luxury item; I bring a pair for each day. I always have a dry pair to change into.

"Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit."

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SunCatcher

05/15/2012 05:40PM

Abyss Boots during the day
light tenny's around camp

SunCatcher

Dad Always said "We don't Always catch fish...but we ALWAYS have a good time"

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fraxinus

05/15/2012 05:41PM

Salomon Techamphibian for wet footing and portaging. The soles are dynomite, really grip well on wet rocks. techamphibian

Keen Arroyo in camp, w/ Smart Wool socks if it's cool. I have Chota Marsh Boots for colder weather, not made anymore, kind of a heavy rubber boot with a neoprene upper that goes to the knees. Does the job, but I don't like walking too far in them, kind of a sloppy feel.

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Hawbakers

05/15/2012 06:24PM

quote PineKnot: "OTB Abyss for travel days. Lightweight Timberline trail shoe and dearfoams for around camp.
"

Wow Thanks for all the responses.

What is OTB? I see several of you have mentioned these. Is this a Brand? Got a photo? or website?

I also saw Tremolo wearing some interesting boots at Wing night that looked like they were waterproof. Was wondering what they were.

I guess I'm really wanting a combination that's good for stepping out of the canoe & portaging. Then having a comfortable shoe to change into around camp.

"Far more interesting than the chase itself is the observation, the study of the life histories of the strange and wonderful creatures of the wilderness." President Theodore Roosevelt

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Intrekid

05/15/2012 06:29PM

Cheap "aqua socks" during the day and house slippers at night around camp.

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Lymphocytosis

05/15/2012 06:55PM

Hawbakers:

OTB is/was a boot brand. They have since been taken over by New Balance. You can occasionally still find the original OTBs on clearance. My boots, the OTB Odhin look like this . For a time, New Balance continued the draining line with the Abyss II, different sole pattern but similar concept. It came in a 6" and 8" version .

But maybe those have also been discontinued. They used to be on the New Balance website, but now I can only find them on military and law enforcement sites. Altrec seems to have a limited number of them. It would be a shame if they really just aren't being made anymore.

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Hawbakers

05/15/2012 07:24PM

Thanks, Sam. I did just do a quick search and found the military type site and saw the prices were a bit steep for what I want to invest in shoes. Gotta get a new tent for this year's trip first.

"Far more interesting than the chase itself is the observation, the study of the life histories of the strange and wonderful creatures of the wilderness." President Theodore Roosevelt

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PineKnot

05/15/2012 07:35PM

quote Hawbakers: "...I guess I'm really wanting a combination that's good for stepping out of the canoe & portaging. Then having a comfortable shoe to change into around camp."

There are a number of good wet-foot brands out there. Quality is important as you get what you pay for.

I've found the Abyss to be best for my tripping style. Generally solo, 12-17 days, double portaging, average about 40 portages. I've had the Abyss on 6 Quetico trips to date and they are still going strong. Never had problems with blisters/sprains, although a few times my feet were a bit sore at the end of a long day. The dearfoams, foot powder, merino wool socks, camp chair, tarp, fire, cigar and Vodka/G2 can make them feel a lot better though...

Do what you can, with what you have, where you are -- Teddy Roosevelt

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mc2mens

05/15/2012 07:44PM

In the summer months, I wear Salomon Techniphibians for canoeing and portaging. Crocs in camp. Always have a few pair of wool socks with me. In cold weather months, Muck boots for canoe and portaging, old tennies with wool socks in camp.

"Big fish eat little fish."

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MeatHunter

05/24/2012 04:16PM

Military Issue Jungle Boots, (not the cheap knock-offs) for all portages. Great ankle support, lightweight and dry quickly.
Canoe trips from base camp, Teva Sandals.
At camp, LL Bean slippers.

Some people see nature as being made "Just for them", and view others as an invasive species.....

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toddhunter

05/24/2012 05:17PM

Keen newports were all I wore last year. Initially with socks, then without. Dried fast and could wear in camp also (with socks if cool). Brought some low hiking shoes and never wore them. This year maybe some light mocs for camp, maybe some slip on merrills for camp and/or portaging, but the keen sandals worked for me. I was concerned about ankle support and debris, but neither was a problem. Light wt., good sole support, protected toes, very comfortable.

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whitecedar

05/24/2012 08:37PM

Savage Voyageur: Are you referring to LaCrosse Alpha Burly boots?
Thanks, WC

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Corsair

05/25/2012 05:07AM

Love my OTB Odhins!

"Pack lightly, Tread lightly"

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cjrn

05/27/2012 02:52AM

Keens, for everything. wider toe box makes all I do easier. Dry fast, easy on/off. I wear socks with them, no socks. And no...I don't work for Keens..although if any of them are out there...keep me in mind!!!! I could use a discount!

cjrn

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Frenchy19

05/27/2012 10:54AM

Lightweight, ankle high Merrell boats when traveling and Tevas in camp.

"He hits from both sides of the plate. He’s amphibious." Yogi Berra

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Sierra1

05/27/2012 08:16PM

I bring OTB Ohdins worn with a pair of Chota Hippies in the boat and Merrill water shoes on shore. That's it.

Watch out for that rock!!!........ Oooo.... That's going to leave a mark...

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RoundRiver

05/27/2012 11:06PM

I am debating this myself. Have used an old pair of cheap hiking boots. They have now practically disintegrated. I am considering buying some wading boots (for stocking foot waders ... only I will not be bringing waders. I always wet foot so I figured I would get something made for getting wet so that they last longer. I wear thick Teko socks that are excellent - have abused a pair for many trips and they are still going strong. I could use a good pair of hiking boots that I do not use much anymore, but I cannot imagine they will dry well since they have a waterproof lining (Goretex or equivalent).

Do waterproof boots dry well if they get wet inside? I have heard others, including Stu Osthoff suggest and promote waterproof boots for BWCAW trips. Why would you use them for this purpose?

Find a Listening Point and visit often. Develop a Land Ethic and strive to live it.

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boonie

05/28/2012 06:42AM

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Dbor

05/28/2012 06:47AM

I wear Keen H2's. I also bring two pair of Smartwool socks with if it does get cold.

I then bring a lightweight pair of flip flops to wear around camp while the Keens dry.

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marsonite

05/28/2012 07:54AM

quote RoundRiver: "I am debating this myself. Have used an old pair of cheap hiking boots. They have now practically disintegrated. I am considering buying some wading boots (for stocking foot waders ... only I will not be bringing waders. I always wet foot so I figured I would get something made for getting wet so that they last longer. I wear thick Teko socks that are excellent - have abused a pair for many trips and they are still going strong. I could use a good pair of hiking boots that I do not use much anymore, but I cannot imagine they will dry well since they have a waterproof lining (Goretex or equivalent).

Do waterproof boots dry well if they get wet inside? I have heard others, including Stu Osthoff suggest and promote waterproof boots for BWCAW trips. Why would you use them for this purpose?"

I'm also debating footwear for my upcoming trip. Rubber boots or Keen's? To me the question comes down to temperature. If it's a 40 degree morning, I just do not relish the idea of stepping into water, let alone sloshing on a muddy portage.

On the other hand, the idea of wearing rubber boots on an 85 degree day isn't exactly appealing either. Nor does the thought of lugging my Lacrosse Alpha Burly's across a portage!

If rubber boots get wet inside, it's true they will be difficult to dry. However, dry socks and dry insoles go a long way to increasing comfort. Also, even wet, your feet will at least be warm.

Right now I'm thinking rubber boots (Leave June 2). I can always kick 'em off in the canoe if need be.

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mocha

05/28/2012 08:15AM

thinking hip or chest waders would be a good idea...esp if it keeps raining!

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Greenblackplaid

Guest Paddler

05/28/2012 10:52AM

Keens with wool socks for everything, unless it will be consistently colder than 40 - then I'll bring LaCrosse rubber boots to keep my feet dry. Just did the Grand Portage in my keens. It always seems that travel companions who bring some sort of fancy waterproof hiking shoe expecting to keep their feet dry end up with 1)more dents on their canoes from avoiding wet entry/exits and 2) sodden bricks attached to their feet from when their shoes inevitably get soaked!

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Hank

05/28/2012 03:05PM

Lacross Grange rubber boots or 16" Bean Hunting boot (more ankle support than rubber boots) for when the water is cold. OTB boots or Chota Trekkers for summer. These are my portage boots. Camp, I usually wear Crocks or old running shoes.

The older I get the less I like having wet feet. I'm taking my Bean Boots on June 19 for the portages.

A human being should be able to change a diaper, plan an invasion, butcher a hog, conn a ship, design a building, write a sonnet, balance accounts, build a wall, set a bone, comfort the dying, take orders, give orders, cooperate, act alone, solve equations, analyze a new problem, pitch manure, program a computer, cook a tasty meal, fight efficiently, die gallantly. Specialization is for insects. -Robert A. Heinlein

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Bdubguy

05/28/2012 07:16PM

I am still using and old royalex Old Town canoe, so can run it up at the portages without much worry. Which also means I prefer to dry foot it. I wear Merrill hikers and Keens, depending on length of portages expected for the day. Might also depend on air temps.

For the first time, I am planning to bring knee high rubber boots. My son picked me up a pair of xtra tuffs from AK. They feel pretty good...

Keep your line wet....

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trailcheif

06/03/2012 05:44PM

I just returned from my trip. I started my trip in a pair of LaSportiva hiking boots trying to keep my feet dry. I eneded in my Merrell trailgloves and Smartwool socks. Once I gave in to the idea of just having wet feet it made portaging so much easier and fun. The trailgloves drained really well and dried for the next day so i didn't have to put on wet shoes in the mourning. I'm now looking into a more amphibious shoe for my next trip. Maybe the Columbia Powerdrains. The entire sole has drain holes so the hold no water.

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Bonvicken

06/04/2012 10:57PM

For you wet-footers out there, I found Teva Churn water shoes at Marshall's (Rockford) today for $30. Bright blue, but a great deal.

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jwartman59

06/04/2012 11:55PM

i was living in alaska, in a tent. any job would have been a good job. a fire was gobbling up an area near the porcupine river. they needed men (and women), not drunk and must have a pair of eight inch boots. no exceptions. i had a pair of fabiano boots, legendary italian mountaineering boots, as good as you could get . they were six inch. i didn't get the firefighting job.
i am now a fanatic that anyone i canoe with (excepting my son) have and wear top quality boots.

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IBFLY

06/05/2012 08:29AM

Early Spring and Late Fall - I wear OTB Odhins or SARs with wool socks. Anytime in the Summer I wear Salomon water tech amphibians. sometimes with sometimes without wool socks.

In camp - wool socks with keen sandals.

You say that like it's a bad thing.

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forced240

06/05/2012 02:29PM

I went with the wading sock/ wading boot combo last weekend. I am 100% a convert. Absolutely dry feet the entire trip.

One thing nobody mentions about proper wading boots that even with getting in the boat in knee deep water, there was almost no water brought into the boat. They shed water extremely quick.

If you get a good pair they are as good as any good hiking boot, fitment and support wise.

You can roll them down when in the boat or on portages.

I converted a pair of Gore-Tex Simms stocking foot waders I found in the bargain cave at cabelas. waders I found fishing waders actually fit your feet very well compared to the Chota Hippies.

I used Simms guide wading boots. Boots

My traveling partner used the Cabels brand Hip wader/ wading boot combo and also loved it. Cabelas wader Boots

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vickieh69

06/05/2012 05:29PM

quote yellowcanoe: " And (aagh unbelievable) Crocs for camp shoes."

+1

Lots & lots of Wool socks and I have my light weight keen hiking/water boots, for non camp activies.

Although this last trip I left my crocs nice and tidy in the van with a pair of dry wool socks for exit day. In the end it was ok, as my feet would have been wet with the crocs as our campsite was a small pond :(

"Nothing exists except atoms and empty space; everything else is opinion." ~Democritus

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shock

06/05/2012 06:54PM

wolverine for portages/hiking, and a pair of tennys when relaxing at camp but stay off wet rocks

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Drahthaar

06/06/2012 09:16AM

I love rubber knee boots. But only the Lacrosse burlys for me. Been wearing them for hunting for 20-23 years. I was hesitant to take them on my first BWCA trip cause ya don't read/hear much about the use of rubber boots but I went with my gut instinct and was very glad I did. I like dry feet!
I reacelntly picked up a pair of LL Bean 16" maine hunting shoe and really like them so far for a more hiking boot type of feel. gonna be hard pressed to decide which pair to take on my next BWCA trip.

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CrookedPaddler1

06/06/2012 09:24AM

Being a veteran "wet foot" portager I used to use the old vietnam style jungle boots. I have graduated to the 16" L.L. Bean Main Hunting Shoe. Seal em up good, get them wet the day before your trip so the leather will swell a little bit, and your feet will be very comfortable for your trip. Well worth the $125.

LL Bean 16" hunting shoe

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shsylvester

06/06/2012 11:07AM

I will be trying something new and will report back. I've been using Redwing Irish Setters for years, but had to cut a recent trip short because of a bruised achilles. Today I purchased a pair of Simms Freestone boots with neoprene socks. I've been using land boots for the water for 25 years so thought I would flip the logic. The Simms feel very comfortable and supportive. So much research has gone into the vibram soles they use that I'm hopeful they will stick well on rocks. Heading to Q 6-11, coming out 6-26, so will let everyone know what my experience was.

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Rob Johnson

06/14/2012 12:01AM

quote Savage Voyageur: "I wear my keens for swimming, my Merrel boots for portages and LaCrosse knee high neoprene boots for wet footing. "

Count me in for another that likes LaCrosse knee highs. My others are a cheap pair of water shoes I ordered from Gander Mountain and an old pair of running shoes for around camp.

You are never lost, late, or lagging behind if you are on an adventure.

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Beaverjack

06/15/2012 07:39PM

quote shsylvester: "quote cinna: "Does anyone go barefoot at landings then boot/shoe-up for the protage?"

No one with any sense. Cut your foot and your trip is over. I'm OCD about my feet on trail. I switch into my camp shoes by the water. I rinse my "wet" socks and boots, getting all the day's garp and muck out. I rinse my feet thoroughly, dry them, powder them with Dr. Scholl's medicated foot powder and put on dry socks. I never, ever go without shoes, even swimming or around camp. I've done 40-50 trips and have never cut my foot or had foot rot. Take care of your feet."

You weren't a buck sargent at Ft. Leonard Wood back in the mid-70s, were you?

Keens are about as useless as boobs on a yard bird. I now wear mine only on pavement, and then it has to be CLEAN pavement - no pebbles whatsoever! I've got a pair of Merril watershoes that ain't much better with letting small rocks in, and they'll turn your feet to hamburger if you walk too far. My Chotas work well in the boat and at landing, then they're a liability. Can't walk rough ground in them let alone packing weight. Jungle boots are about the best thing I've tried, but water emersion ain't the best thing for leather, and there's no supply sargent to fix me up with new ones regularly. I'm saving my pennies for some OTB boots. If they don't work I'll give up and open up a used shoe store.

Tony

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1mike2

06/15/2012 08:05PM

16" Schnee's guide boot with the tire tread sole. Seal them and soak them like a previous poster said about the LL Bean boots. I can't get my knee high rubber Bog boots under the seat when I am kneeling. I tried going with wet feet in sandals on one trip. Hated it.

Mike

"Endeavor to persevere"

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river rat

06/19/2012 12:49PM

I've been using something like this

Wading shoes
for a few trips now and really like them. There are different brands out there but they all serve the same purpose.
They're meant for wearing with stocking foot waders but work very well by themselves.
It's best to try them on before you buy because being they are made for wearing over stocking foot waders, you will need to go with a smaller size. I had to go 2 sizes smaller than I normally wear in a boot.

They have good traction and dry very quickly. I wear them for portaging and any time I'm in the water. I wear a slip on water shoe or something similar in camp.

If it's early or late in the year and I know the water will be cold, I won't hesitate to wear rubber with neoprene uppers knee high boots. Cold, wet feet are not my idea of a good time.

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Xand

06/19/2012 01:38PM

I spent most of my time in a pair of Teva Optimum water shoes. They are pretty sturdy, have good grip and have a toe cap so they are easy to portage in and really came in handy.

Had a new pair of hiking boots I wore around camp. Nothing beats some sturdy warm hiking boots and wool socks after a day in wet water shoes. Not habing to worry about stumbling on rocks or roots is nice too.

“There are three things all wise men fear: the sea in storm, a night with no moon, and the anger of a gentle man.”

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Flatwater5

06/19/2012 03:50PM

Wet foot portage footwear for me and my two sons: Wellco Ripple Sole Jungle boots with heavy wool socks for portaging and hiking. They have great support for ankles when laced up firmly. they will dry out completely in one afternoon/evening in warm weather. We have not tripped early or late season when the temps are cooler. I would be looking at something over the knee and waterproof if/when we go May or Sept.

camp shoes are low cut Chuck Taylor canvas shoes. Comfortable, light, compact, cheap and dry easily.

No frills, low budget, but completely reliable.

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LuvMyBell

06/19/2012 05:28PM

I wear Muck boots while canoeing. If it's wet I wear calf high boots. If it's dry I wear an ankle high pair. I always have both with me. They are lightweight and high quality and provide plenty of support on the portages.

In camp I wear a pair of dry sneakers. For swimming or day fishing from camp I wear a pair of water socks.

I know 4 pair of footwear sounds like a lot but the combined weight of my 4 pair is less than 1 pair of the footwear I've seen some use.

Paddle Faster....I hear banjo music

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brantagal23

06/19/2012 10:33PM

Never having been in the summer (may or August only) I wear my knee boots for the long paddles and portages. Chacos around camp (with or without socks... Yes, I make fun of myself) and Chacos when fishing/ paddling for fun (no portaging). I used to bring my hiking boots, but no more. Too much room and never used them.

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Scout64

06/21/2012 01:04AM

I used my Abyss II OTBs for the first time in the BW 2 weeks ago. I have to say they worked great. THey drained well and provided great support over the portages. I am happy I made the purchase.

"Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit."

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Bonvicken

06/21/2012 10:25PM

quote Beaverjack: "

Keens are about as useless as boobs on a yard bird. "

+1

Stuff gets inside 'em easy, and once it's there, it's there to stay. You gotta pull 'em off, rinse, repeat. Great, comfy sandals, but I don't care to wear 'em in the water when there's any kind of sand, gravel, or muck.

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jb in the wild

06/24/2012 08:36PM

quote Drahthaar: "I love rubber knee boots. But only the Lacrosse burlys for me. Been wearing them for hunting for 20-23 years. I was hesitant to take them on my first BWCA trip cause ya don't read/hear much about the use of rubber boots but I went with my gut instinct and was very glad I did. I like dry feet!
I reacelntly picked up a pair of LL Bean 16" maine hunting shoe and really like them so far for a more hiking boot type of feel. gonna be hard pressed to decide which pair to take on my next BWCA trip.

"

Not to be condescending but if you capsize with those anchors on your feet I hope your always wearing your pfd.

JB

You can't explain the obvious to the ignorant.

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sunnybear09

06/25/2012 12:23AM

Either Chota Trekkers or LL Bean hard rubber soled wading shoes w/neoprene Chota Knee Highs for cold wear (still warm if you go over the top) with hard portaging, or just ankle high neoprene stocking foot wading socks w/gravel guards over wool socks for wet wading and portaging if warmer. Warm weather and light portaging (easy terrain, day pack) Salomon Technoamphibians with a light neoprene sock, then change to dry wool for camp.

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Rapid Runner

06/26/2012 09:00AM

I use my turkey hunting LaCrosse boots while out of camp, and i use Crocs in camp.

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Rapid Runner

06/26/2012 09:03AM

quote jb in the wild: "quote Drahthaar: "I love rubber knee boots. But only the Lacrosse burlys for me. Been wearing them for hunting for 20-23 years. I was hesitant to take them on my first BWCA trip cause ya don't read/hear much about the use of rubber boots but I went with my gut instinct and was very glad I did. I like dry feet!
I reacelntly picked up a pair of LL Bean 16" maine hunting shoe and really like them so far for a more hiking boot type of feel. gonna be hard pressed to decide which pair to take on my next BWCA trip.

"

Not to be condescending but if you capsize with those anchors on your feet I hope your always wearing your pfd.

JB"

theres nothing different between those and shoes. when you have something on your feet like shoes or boots, your not supposed to even kick with your feet. it just makes you use more energy and go nowhere but down. I actually have gotten into the bad habit of just swimming with my arms most of the time even without shoes on my feet. unless im scuba diving then i just use my feet/flippers and no arms.

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ripple

06/26/2012 05:01PM

On the portage-

At the camp site-

Ripple in still water....

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Steff196

06/28/2012 01:44AM

Keen sandals. Wear neoprene socks in them when its cold. No need to ever dryfoot.

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nctry

06/28/2012 10:01AM

I used the Chota Trekkers all of last year and my two tris this year. I also have the Chota neoprene socks that go inside the Trekkers. On day 2 of my recent 26 day ordeal my Trekkers are starting to "blow out". I realized by day whatever my neoprene socks are not only just there to stink up my feet but possibly the culprit of the blowout. I sent them home with the guys flying out after 14days and switched to Smart wool socks. Also the boots both had to be sewn up to finish the trip and this was accomplished with dental floss... very strong! I'm going to see what our friends at Piragis says about the boots before I make a desicion what to do. They had less than 25 days tripping when they started to fail.

Nctry Ben

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shsylvester

06/28/2012 10:48AM

For my just completed 14 day in Quetico (the Hunter Island Loop: Cache Bay, Falls Chain, Kawnipi, Sturgeon, Maligne R, Poobah Creek, Poobah, Conmee, Sarah, McIntyre, North Bay, Prairie Portage, Man Chain, Cache Bay) i used Simms Freestone Boots with Simms Neoprene "Guard Socks". Fabulous! The soles are sticky and solid, the uppers have a minimum of stitching (so don't blow out like the Chotas and they're $30 cheaper), good ankle support, drain adequately. Q portages are brutal on boots. These look like new after two hard weeks. I highly recommend them.

Simms Freestone Boots

Simms Guard Socks

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NorthwoodsHeaven

06/28/2012 01:10PM

One pair of close toed teva sandals built to get wet and dry quickly. Thats it. Always has been awesome and saves weight from everyone having 2 pairs of shoes.

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Hawbakers

06/30/2012 10:49AM

So after all my considerations I have come to the conclusion that RUBBER BOOTS RULE. Especially when it rains half of your trip and you walk portages with rivers running through them. I LOVE my Rubber Boots!

"Far more interesting than the chase itself is the observation, the study of the life histories of the strange and wonderful creatures of the wilderness." President Theodore Roosevelt

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Grandma L

07/01/2012 10:10AM

quote cinna: "I kneel when I paddle and because of the seat height I have to go barefoot in the boat. So it's almost instinct stepping out of the boat barefooted. I see what folks are saying about injury though. I will be more careful and consider alternatives now. "

One fishing lure/hook in your foot and you might appreciate some kind of shoes!

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mghank

07/08/2012 12:26PM

The North Face Boa... Water shoe, that's all I need:) Obviously good in water and fine for hiking.

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mjmkjun

07/10/2012 06:41PM

This year I learned OTB Ohdins + wet smartwool hiking socks left my feet aching terribly + burning each day w/long portages.
Crocs were too loose and sloppy moving around camp.
I've got make other arrangements for my feet.

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wb4syth

07/11/2012 08:18AM

Bite wading boots (for wet foot portaging)
Keen sandals for camp
Water shoes for swiming.

"I'm not superstitious. I'm a little stitious" - Michael Scott

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jcavenagh

07/11/2012 01:13PM

OTB Abyss and just mesh top sneakers for camp.

LNT - The road to success is always under construction. http://hikingillinois.blogspot.com/

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Oakman

07/16/2012 06:52AM

Sandals in the canoe, short portages and around camp. I have a pair of velcro wading boots from Cabela's that I wear on longer portages as they are quite stable. Because I have mine with "wool" soles, I have great traction on slimy rocks. I purposely bought this pair one size smaller because of no waders for padding...

In Nature There Is Order...

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