Any suggestions for good non-leather/suede hiking shoes?
Jun 04, 2007 by littlefurballs | Posted in Other - Outdoor Recreation
First things first. Find a manufacturer who has a last that is designed for you type of foot. It might take several trips to a number of places but this is crucial. Have someone measure your feet. One is typically longer than the other and a little larger volume wise.
Depending on your location, if you can find a quality boot fitter there are no limits. They can stretch or punch certain areas to customize the fit.
Once you find a "Brand" then pick your materials. If in a dry place you can probably avoid GOR-TEX. It is great but it doesn't breath as good as they say. Also highly recommend Smart Wool socks. They come in various types for all kind of hiking.
A good idea if your close to one is look up Surefoot. They can make your feet feel like nothing else.
hilbily | Jun 06, 2007
How do I clean a Merrell Leather hiking shoe?
Aug 22, 2007 by sonu | Posted in Other - Outdoor Recreation
If they are really dirty (like you hiked in woods in the rain) use a nylon scrub brush, old toothbrush or fingernail brush to scrape off any loose dried mud or leaves. Then take out the laces and the insole (if it is removeable) and put them in the kitchen sink. Rinse them under the faucet (or the sprayer), using the brush to loosen the crud.
Once they are clean, stuff them tightly with wadded up newspaper to keep their shape and put them somewhere to dry away from sun or direct source of heat (you will damage the leather if you dry with heat.) If they are slow to dry, change the newspaper the next day.
I don't recommend using any type of "leather cleaners." The chemicals in some of these can soften the glues and melt the fabrics used to construct the boots -- the same is true of silicone type waterproof sprays and creams.
Your boots are designed to hold up to getting wet so it won't hurt to wash them this way.
c_kayak_fun | Aug 22, 2007