• While heavy boots are the traditional footwear for hiking, lightweight shoes are becoming more popular.hiker's view image by Mike & Valerie Miller from Fotolia.com
  
  

Consider Weight Factors

• Lightweight footwear such as trail running shoes weigh significantly less than traditional hiking boots. This difference in weight can be a major factor during the long distance of the Pacific Crest Trail, or PCT. Lightweight shoes allow a hiker to cover more miles faster and usually cause fewer blisters than heavier hiking boots.
  
  

Support May Provide Edge

• While heavy, traditional hiking boots provide a significant amount of stability on rough trails and help to protect the ankle and toes. This additional support is valuable when away from marked trails, in areas with large boulders or steep inclines, or the hiker is weakened by medical conditions.
  
  

Bottom Line

• Because the Pacific Crest Trail is well maintained and relatively smooth, the trend for hikers is to choose lightweight shoes. Traditional hiking boots are still a valid option, however, especially if a person has special conditions or if excursions are planned off the trail. The final footwear choice is at the discretion of the individual hiker.