what kind of shoes or boots do thru-hikers generally use? and

98% of thru hikers are using trail runners now. everyones feet are different, so it's hard to recommend a brand. The trails are marked on trees, rocks, posts. The PCT is graded for horses, cattle, pack mules, so it's very smooth and easy walking. The AT has a lot of bolder scrambling, rocky sections for miles, and can be brutal.

>>900743
Hikers use Altra trail runners and other brands. They are generally replaced with new shoes every 700 miles.

I hiked 80% of the PCT in sandals. Having stinky feet sucks, washing socks sucks, and not having room for your toes to naturally spread is unhealthy. Although I haven't tried them, I'd recommend Xero's or Chacos. Teva's and Luna's are not where it's at.

You'll find the PCT is like walking on a sidewalk. Since it's an equestrian trail, it's only graded to a maximum of something like 30 degrees the whole way. Even the snow covered parts are so trampled on that you cannot loose your way. In hind sight, I could have done the whole thing without a map, but that would have been extremely inconvenient for planning resupplies.

>trail runners
why though, they arent actually running are they?

>>900766
Because they're light, comfortable, have good traction and break in quickly.

>>900766
to add to what the other guy said, trail runners also dry out fast, something boots take ages to do.

ok guys, im hearing you - trail runners are a good thing

however winter is here/coming up, do people (read: should i) use these in the snow? or should i use a pair of leather boots during the cold season?

>>900781
Well, think that through.

>>900781
I used them in snow during my thru hike.

>>900789
I did too on PCT but there's a big difference between the snowfields and occasional spring storm, and true winter hiking. Would never use them in winter, even with wool socks your feet will freeze

File: 1257_dark_earthburnt_olive_3q.jpg (37KB, 387x333px) Image search: [Google]

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>>900743

>>900781
Are you thru hiking this winter?

File: brooks cascadia 10s.jpg (117KB, 1200x1200px) Image search: [Google]

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>>900743
this >>900754
i wore pic related. (brooks cascadia 10s) Would not reccomend this brand, but trail runners are the way to go.

>and in trails such as pct and the at, are the trails marked on trees,
AT is marked by 2x8 inch strips of white paint on trees, bridges, lamposts, buildings, etc
>is the road trampled
yes
>easy to walk on
depends where you are on the trail. overall yes, but sometimes hell no.

i understand the PCT is much different