| I am going to Ireland in May and we will be doing a lot of walking along the coast. There will be some very rocky areas. I have hiking boots and hiking shoes, but would love to find something a little less bulky to wear. Does anyone have any suggestions? |
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I can't believe I'm on here at 6 in the morning talking about shoes - life is weird!
Blundstones are what you want for this. Or a bootie like a Blundstone. I have these and actually pull them out more often than my Blundstones anymore: https://troentorpsclogs.com/boots/whistler-camel Sounds like a wonderful trip! |
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Most sneakers brands offer a “trail” option. Find a brand/style you like. I have Brooks but
Altra Lane are much more subdued looking. https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a22115120/best-trail-running-shoes/ |
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Just double check the typical rain forecast for the locations you will be hiking in making your decision. We were there in an admittedly rainy month and it was very good to have hunter chelsea boots (eBay). They worked well for hiking but are heavy.
The day I chose running shoes instead was the wettest I think my feet have ever been while not fully submerged in water. |
| Thanks for the suggestions, and to the PP, yes, waterproof is very important. |
+ To trail running shoes are perfect for this. Try to get waterproof instead of just "water resistant" |
| I second trail runners. |
I have some waterproof Merrill trail shoes that are pretty nice, comfortable and holding up well. Wore them in Ireland, though we only had rain once. |
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I would not want to hike in blundstones.
I agree about trail sneakers. |
Thanks, I’ve had good luck with Merrill hiking boots, I will check these out. |
| I agree with the hiking shoes suggestions. I have a Salomon brand pair that I bought at REI, and I’ve worn them for hiking trips in Norway and in Brittany (France), both of which had some rainy weather. They kept my feet nice and dry. Just head to REI and ask an associate for help. |
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I really like the zero drop altras.
https://www.altrarunning.com/en-us/hike/womens-lone-peak-9-waterproof-low/AL0A85PV.html I also have these and love them. They are quite low profile for a hiking shoe. And they can handle some serious wet weather. https://www.rei.com/product/250037/vasque-horizon-low-waterproof-hiking-shoes-womens |
| Thanks for all the suggestions. I just ordered some gore tex Merrill trail running shoes. They had great reviews from people who wore them traveling. |
| This is OP and I just want to thank those that suggested the Merrill trail running shoes. I just returned from my trip and the shoes were perfect for light hiking, climbing on rocks and the cobblestone streets. Less bulky then a hiking shoe, but waterproof and amazing tread. |
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Which type of Merrill trail running shoes did you get?
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