Good Running Shoes VS Hiking Shoes (not boots)

[JacquelineRowe]

Any thoughts on those who've walked in both??

Cheers
Jacqui

[Leslie]

I haven't walked in both, but my walking shoes were great and lasted me twice down the Camino Frances - but were really falling apart by the end of the second time.

[JacquelineRowe]

Thanks - when did you walk - both times?? Probably makes a difference in the lasting of shoes if you walk in winter vs summer, where the soles will melt off!! LOL

I will be starting 13th April, so wonder if waterproof hiking shoes would be better? I will also take hiking sandals for the Meseta & other flatter areas - doesn't matter if my feet get wet - and not likely to be as cold by early/mid May.

Yes?? or No??

Trying to figure out - but think given it'll be a bit wintery to start the waterproof hiking shoes better to cross the Pyrenees and the first few weeks!?

[Leslie]

I walked July/Aug and then Aug/Sep the second time.

I do a fair bit of walking now and wouldn't use running shoes as they are not so comfortable on my feet after a few hours.

My sandles, that I walked a few days in, are a type of sports sandle - the only problem with them is they are quite heavy. I would now go for a lighter sports sandle.

Just make sure you buy your footwear a while before you go and wear them a bit out walking, new shoes are not a great idea at the start.

[Covey]

My trusty Salomon boots lasted for 4 trips down the Camino Frances, but went in the bin when I got home in Sept09.

I have bought a pair of Merrells which are walking shoes for this years trip in September. They are very comfortable, much lighter than the boots and should be fine, as long as I avoid the mud!

I carry a pair of trail sandals (Treva) which I normally wear in the evenings and days off, but I have walked for three days on the trail in them and they are ideal as backup footwear.

I tried some socks called "1000 Mile Socks" in 09 and they were brilliant and lived up to their guarantee of no blisters. I had previously used Smartwool, but the ones I had were quite warm for summer use, but the "1000 Mile No Blister" ones were lighter and cooler.

[taibhsearachd]

Hi Jacqueline. I notice that you're starting your walk on April 13th. I am starting from SJPP on April 12th but since I'm getting a late start that day I likely will try to stop in Orrisson the first night, putting me in Roncesvalles on the 13th. My name is Janet and I am from Canada. Perhaps we'll run in to one another and can share a glass of wine.