Question:
Do you mean Hi-Tec (the brand) or High Tech (as in having Goretex,
Vibram, bizarre automatic lacing systems etc).
It's less that the boots are suitable for the trail and more that
they're suitable for you. The main thing for any long distance walk
is that the boots comfortable, supportive and don't give you
blisters. If you already own them, walk for an equivalent distance to
what you're planning on the WHW beforehand, preferably on the
steepest, roughest terrain you can find on a wet day. Then you'll
know whether they're suitable for you or not before you get stuck with
ill-fitting boots in the middle of nowhere.
Answer:
I personally do feel that Vibram soles give better grip than any other
sole I've tried (except, bizarrely, on wet tarmac?!). I also feel
that a Goretex lining is worth having, although apparently eVent is
now just as good (and cheaper). It's worth noting that if you do get
water inside your boot (eg from the top) Goretex and eVent will take
longer to dry than unlined boots and, once wet inside, will let water
straight through. Still, in a wet climate like Scotland I think
you've got to go for all the waterproofing you can!
The WHW is not hugely challenging terrain - it's more the remoteness,
poor weather and lack of facilities that make it tricky. If you're
just doing the hike as a one off, it's not worth splashing out on
hugely expensive boots. If, however, you're planning to continue with
a long and fulfilling walking career (especially if you plan on a lot
of hillwalking) it's worth spending a bit more. The main thing though
- and I can't repeat this enough - is that comfort and support are far
more important than high tech features. You'll know the right pair
when you try them on.
One thing about "expensive" boots. Do not necessarily buy the toughest
heaviest boots you are offered by the shop. There seems to be a tendency in
some shops and makers to massively over-specify the boot for the typical
walker, suggesting heavy rigid boots which can take a crampon for use on UK
hills outside of winter conditions.
If you walk at the warmer times of the year, then weight is a significant
factor in comfort; a heavy boot will make you tired more quickly. An
over-stiff boot won't get you up the hill in any more comfort.
I'll walk up almost any mountain in the UK between spring and autumn (that
includes Torriden and Skye, often quoted as the toughest terrain). I'll
usually use Scarpa Rangers, which are advertised as a "gentle lowlands"
boot, some retailers would suggest its barely up to the lake district in
August ! I'll use them across modest amounts of snow, either in headwalls,
or on higher summits in spring. Full winter conditions (ice axes,
crampons, etc.) is a different matter.
Apart from keeping your feet warm, you can do the WHW in trail sandals or
training shoes during most of the year, always assuming they suit your feet.
