Footwear

[gustafsj]

I switch between my Altra Lone Peak and Steger Mukluks. The Altras get me down to about 25F with a variety of socks and gaiters including neoprene. The mukluks will get me down to as low of temp as it gets here in MN. I've been out in as low as -40F windchill and have been comfy. I do wear a pair of RBH vapor barrier socks if I am going to be out for more than a day or in super cold weather. My feet sweat even when cold, so this makes a big difference for me. I am saving up for a pair of Russell Mocassins (minimalist series) as a better solution for the shoulder seasons. They are expensive, but are fully customizable and I'm a big fan of minimalist footwear all the way around, so I think it will be worth the investment. Plus they will last forever if I take good care of them. I'm tired of spending so much money on trail runners and blowing through them so fast.

[Loma traditional]

I shattered my ankle in 2004 so from then on I'm an ankle brace in a boot guy but footwear is very subjective or rather a personal choice. Since my injury I'm very particular about footwear and what works for me well..... I would say if you've shot an elk in rough country, packing one out in trail shoes would be impossible for me with an 80-100lbs pack. I wouldn't have any arches left after the season. At the moment I'm packing in Kenetrek mountain extreme non insulated boots, superfeet blues, smart wool Liner socks and darn tough crew socks. Working well so far.