December 20, 2000


Is there a boot that can do it all?

I'm in search for the boot of all boots: A boot I can wear snowshoeing (i.e. waterproof), on three- to four-day backpacking trips, and on fast-paced, all day winter hikes (i.e. good traction and breathability are musts). And, to top it off, I'm trying to find the MOST affordable boot possible. Am I asking too much? Do I REALLY need more than one boot to serve my needs? Second, I found a pair of Solomon Super Mountain 8s on sale and am wondering if you've heard anything at all about this particular boot. Do you have any other recommendations? I've tried on so many my head is spinning. Thanks very much,

— Jan Weyant New Haven, Connecticut

For a minute, Jan, you were starting to sound like someone who wanted more than any boot at any price could possibly deliver. But then you came back to earth by mentioning the Super Mountain 8 from Salomon, so perhaps there is hope for you.

Normally, I'd suggest two boots. For the snowshoe trips I tend to prefer light plastic boots, such as a Koflach Degre ($255). These offer complete waterproofness, and enough warmth for all but the most severe trips. But they would be a lousy choice for winter day hikes.

A possible compromise would be the Super Mountain 8 or a boot very much like it. The Super Mountain 8 (retail is $245) is essentially a light mountaineering boot. It'll take crampons and do a good job of keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. And while they're not exactly ballet shoes, once they're broken in you'll find them reasonably comfortable on the trail. Comparable boots include the Montrail Moraine AT ($225), La Sportiva Makalu ($245) and Tecnica Wind River ($235).

These won't be perfect. In winter conditions, you may find that your feet get a little cold, although insulated over-gaiters such as Outdoor Research' s X-Gaiters ($90) will help. On the trail, you won't find any of these boots to be particular speed demons. But the only alternative is the two-boot route, with a plastic boot for snowshoeing and a mid-weight hiker such as the Merrell Blast Waterproof ($140) for the day trips.

Hope that puts a stop to the spins.

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