I've been using Merril Moab boots (I think Moabs, if not another line. It's confusing because there are shoe and boot Moabs, I'm talking about the boot) since I was a kid. I'm sure there are better boots but after some harrowingly bad experiences with blisters popping up 4 miles and 3000ft in I'm done playing around. (I also carry leukotape now.)
I use trail runners often though. I recommend committing: with my waterproof boots I wear tall waterproof gaiters, and with my runners I NEVER buy waterproof because the idea is accepting you'll get wet and letting them vent out after. Once your waterproof footwear gets wet inside you are kinda fucked, so something like a shoe is just asking for problems.
>>2843645Even in cold and wet weather sometimes a breathable shoe wins. I'm always surprised how quick I warm up with wool socks after stepping in the creek. If you're camping you'll want to carry a dry pair of course.
