Question:
Anyone hike in quality work boots? What are the differences between a high
end work boot and a good hiking boot? In Northern California, Wolverine is
promoting the Durashock model work boot for $89 regularly $122. Could this be
a choice for a hiking boot?
Answer:
I haven't tried the specific brand you mention but I have done
construction and hiking. I tried hiking in work boots but the
problems arose with the difference in material in the sole. Basically
the sole was too soft. After hiking all day on rocky ground, my feet
were very tender because the sole compressed under the rock which made
it a distinct point source lump under foot. Now and then is tolerable
but all day is not. The difference is quite noticable if you go for a
long hike in work boots then repeat it at a later date in hiking
boots.
What kind of work are we talking about? Carpenters favor flat soles
without lugs or heel notches to pick up mud and carry it into new
houses. The soles are usually soft and white so they won't leave scuff
marks on floors.
I've known long-time hikers who bought their boots from an outfit that
specialized in boots for loggers. They specified Vibram soles instead of
caulks.
I have a pair of insulated Sketcher work boots with lug soles
made from that gummy stuff that's on Hush puppies. I can't comment
for their usefulness on long hikes, but they are the next best
thing to climbing shoes if you plan on doing some bouldering, and
I didn't have to worry about getting dirt on the soles, like
standard sticky climbing shoes.
They really grabbed the surfaces of the rocks at Joshua Tree
like suction cups.
