Question:
I am looking for a pair of good quality steel toed boots. I will be
using these boots mainly for Backpacking but my employer requires them to be
steel toed. So far I haven't found anything worth taking a second look at. I
you can help I would appreciate it.
Answer:
Sounds to me like you need two pairs of boots, one for hiking and one
with steel toes. I can't think of any use of steel toes when hiking,
so I wouldn't expect any hiking boot manufacturer to offer that
feature.
You might look at the Hermann Survivor's brand. However using this type of
leather boot to hike in is a huge step backwards in time. My wife did
however hike the Montana CDT in a pair. And I used a pair for many years
back in the '70's. Just be careful of the type "heel" you get... the
so-called logger heel is too high, and catches unmercifully on small
objects. Also be sure to get a large enough size so you can wear cushioned
socks.... steel toes are brutal to human toes when hiking steeply down hill.
I wouldn't want to wear a pair of steel toe shoes on my two mile
morning walk. I hate to think what my feet and toes would look like
and feel like on a week long backpack trip.
I'd agree. The main markets for steel toes tend to be industrial
protection and kicking peoples' heads in, neither of which tend to
adress the requirements for lightness and long term walking comfort that
would benefit you. My caving wellies have steel toes and every now and
then I do a particularly boggy mountain walk in them, but I'd hardly
recommend them as a general backpacking item! ;-)
All other things being equal, the lighter the boot the more comfortable
it will be. Steel boxes tend not to breathe too well either. You may
end up spending more money this way, but ultimately I'd think it would
be well spent if you get a pair of Docs for work hiking boots for the
trails. If it's mainly to be in warm weather you can get something like
a Hi Tec Trail which shouldn't bust the bank. There are better, sure,
but those will do.
