Five All-Purpose Light Hikers

To bad they are made by Merrell who has consistent manufacturing defects in almost everything they make.

I live in the Adirondacks. My lightweight hiker needs to be water proof. How about a review of some water proof versions? AND for good measure add a pair of lowcut,lightweigth waterproof gaiters that work with the specific shoe being reviewed? A good gaiter would be one that seals well enough to give you aleast a 5 second leaway so that the waterproof shoe doesn't fill up when you get a "hot foot".

Got to agree with the comment about little to no width choices, but that is why trying on shoes is important. I spent several hours over the last week "fitting myself" and ended up with a pair of Tevas. If they don't work out I'll take them back 'cause I got 'em at REI.

Love my "old school" Danner Mountain Lights. You can say what you want about all the new space-age materials, but I still like the look, feel & protection of real leather. And after 12 years of use I was more than happy to pay the $130 to have them recrafted. When I got them back it was like getting a brand new pair of broken in boots!! Ready for another 10-15 years...

As usual, none of these come in different widths. If you want a pair of quality light hikers that actually fit, go to newbalance.com & pick from several good options. And if you want quality gear reviews go to backpackinglight.com. If you want the backcountry version of Vogue, stick with Backpacker.

As usual, none of these come in different widths. If you want a pair of quality light hikers that actually fit, go to newbalance.com & pick from several good options. And if you want quality gear reviews go to backpackinglight.com. If you want the backcountry version of Vogue, stick with Backpacker.

Quite happy here with my Danner Traverse choice. Fits perfectly, the weight is alright, grip excellent, so I regret they don't offer them anymore (as far as I guess).