Stupid question here, well maybe

[wcd]

So wife and I are headed to the The Smokies and we are avoiding all the tourist traps, well maybe except for Smokey Mountain Gun and Knife, and maybe Buds. But we plan on doing a fair amount of hiking. So I am wondering what makes a boot a hiking boot. My wife says I will look like an idiot if I wear my work boots, and was told I need to find an alternative.

Summer time I am usually a sandal person. So really looking for suggestions as what might be a good option?

Thanks

 

[Leo]

Sounds like casual hiking.

Comfort, ankle protection, tread on the sole that looks like an of road truck tire and broken in before vacation.

That will pretty much do casual hiking for your trip.

 

[wcd]

Sounds like casual hiking.

Comfort, ankle protection, tread on the sole that looks like an of road truck tire and broken in before vacation.

That will pretty much do casual hiking for your trip.

There are some rocky areas, we want to hike back to old abandoned structures.

 

[Cameramonkey]

what work boots are they?

 

[OkieGirl]

Both the hubs and I have had great success with the Merrell Moab. That's the only thing I want if I've got to walk over rocks or stone. They don't take much breaking in, but I'd spend some time in them before you go Smokey Mountain hiking...that will save you some blisters.

 

[Cameramonkey]

Hi-Tec also makes a moderately priced boot for casual hiking. I wear these most days due to foot issues. (sneakers are too flexible and aggravate my plantar fasciitis.)

Amazon product ASIN B09TRXX9TT

 

[JCSR]

Keens are great if you want to spend a little more money. If not Hi-Tek is hard to beat for the price. Both have steel-toed models is you want to use them for work.

 

[wcd]

what work boots are they?

Bates Dura shocks they are 8 inch ones.

 

[wcd]

Hi-Tec also makes a moderately priced boot for casual hiking. I wear these most days due to foot issues. (sneakers are too flexible and aggravate my plantar fasciitis.)

Amazon product ASIN B09TRXX9TT

That’s my thing I learned that good boots keep knee pain at bay.

 

[Cameramonkey]

Bates Dura shocks they are 8 inch ones.

Send it! They'll do fine. Who cares what you look like if your knees are happy.

I was concerned you were talking about somewhat smooth sole work boots farm guys use.

 

[JCSR]

Bates Dura shocks they are 8 inch ones.

Your wife may be right on this one.

 

[wcd]

Your wife may be right on this one.

Well yes she is often right on a lot of things lol

 

[wcd]

Send it! They'll do fine. Who cares what you look like if your knees are happy.

I was concerned you were talking about somewhat smooth sole work boots farm guys use.

We want to hike back to the historic fire tower as well. I encounter some rough stuff daily at work. If only I could convince my wife I won’t look like an idiot?

I mean T shirt my favorite cargo shorts ball cap Why not?

 

[radar8756]

If your work boots have Arch Support - make sure your Hiking boots do also

 

[dieselrealtor]

I have worn the soles off 2 pair of Merrells, can't say that about ANY other boot or shoe.
Not the Moab's as OG suggested but I will probably be picking up a pair of those soon.

 

[Shadow01]

Loved my first pair of MOABs, but not the second pair. Second pair was narrower and not as high on the ankle. Also had less eyelets to tie with. Fine for daily walking, but not on rocky or uneven ground. I will be looking for a different brand next time

 

[dieselrealtor]

Just ordered a pair of Moab 3 hiking shoe, may get a pair of boots as well if these turn out.

$59 on amazon

Moab 3

 

[model1994]

sandals in summer? you’ll want Chacos or similar. I’ve put countless miles on my Chacos.

for boots it’s a pretty personal decision as decent stuff costs some coin and there is lots of factors to consider. Merrell makes a good value. Also Salomon, Danner, Asolo, are just some others. Danner makes some in USA, like the Mountain Light ii’s which are one of my favorites.

 

[WebSnyper]

Keens are great if you want to spend a little more money. If not Hi-Tek is hard to beat for the price. Both have steel-toed models is you want to use them for work.

I'm on my 2nd pair of Keens. Mostly use them for fishing, so mud, some rip rap, water, etc. Really like them.

I've got these https://www.keenfootwear.com/products/mens-targhee-iii-waterproof-mid-bungee-cord-black

You can also get them in just a shoe /ankle height. I prefer the mid boot in case water gets above the ankle.

 

[Sigblitz]

Both the hubs and I have had great success with the Merrell Moab. That's the only thing I want if I've got to walk over rocks or stone. They don't take much breaking in, but I'd spend some time in them before you go Smokey Mountain hiking...that will save you some blisters.

I would never hike in new boots. It could be miserable.