Patagonia Drifter Eco Friendly Shoe

Need a reliable shoe for your spring and summer adventures?  The new Patagonia Drifter shoe is perfect for summer hiking and travel.  It's classified as a shoe, not a hiking boot, but I think the killer traction makes it appropriate for the trails--it's definitely more of a boot.  Because it doesn't have a ton of ankle support, I wouldn't go backpacking with these, or hike difficult or rocky trails, but for moderate hiking, I think they're perfect.  They're a decent weight at 14 oz, and the mesh will help keep your feet cool in warmer weather.  Very little break-in time with these, comfort level is great, and they are good looking and super durable.   

They come in different colors, but I love the "cardamon," the red contrast is so cute, and gives it an school hiking boot vibe.  Recycled rubber Ecostep outsoles boast some beefy tread and feel very stable.  I also love the black contrast to the tan nubuck and the way the black comes up high--it makes your foot look smaller.  Speaking of smaller, I recommend you order up one half size.   My true size is 8.5 and I need a 9 in this shoe.  Patagonia is an environmentally responsible company that backs up their product. 

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Superfeet Premium Insoles

How do your feet feel right now?  Want better posture?  Better shock absorption, better balance?  More arch support and shock absorption?  Superfeet Premium Insoles are made to give your feet the support they need for proper spinal alignment.  This, they say, does not happen with standard insoles that come in shoes from the manufacturer. 

They're very easy to fit to your shoe.  You just take out the insole that came with the shoe, match it up to your Superfeet, and trim off any excess.  Then you put the Superfeet insole back in your shoe, and you're good to go.  

Superfeet come in a variety of colors, each designed for a specific activity, like skiing, or hiking, or biking for instance.  I heard about Superfeet Greens from a backpacker and that got my attention, an insole that would offer extra support while you carry around a heavy load.  I wasn't really sure at first, because I'm used to the more squishy insoles and i had to get used to the stiffness of the Superfeet.

After trying them out, I really like them and I do feel my feet are getting more support.  If your feet are happy, you're going to have a much better experience whether you are backpacking, hiking, or just walking around town.  I think if it's good for the health of your feet, it's totally worth it.  Find them HERE.

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Vasque Bitterroot Hiking Boots

Will you be spending time on the trails this Summer?  Backpacking?  Hiking?  Then you need to have a look at these gorgeous hiking boots that will have your feet feeling like they can move mountains.  the Vasque BITTERROOT boot has a beautiful classic look and brawn to go with it.  They make your feet feel secure, which is exactly what I need.  Having broken both ankles in my life, I need a lot of support there and my ankles feel strong and also comfortable with lots of cushion, making them a dream come true for my ankles.

There is a reinforced toe and look at those beefy Vibram soles.  There's a removable insole that can be replaced with your preferred insole such as an orthopedic insole, and the Gortex keeps your feet dry while remaining breathable.  There is so much shock absorption and stability in these boots, I don't want to take them off.

Haven't had them out on super rough terrain yet, but walked a few miles and experienced no break in time, no blisters and supreme comfort.  They make me feel powerful, as though I can go anywhere!  I love the ruby laces, but they also come with a more low profile set.  They're very good looking, but they mean business.

Of all your gear, footwear is among the most important, right up there with safety stuff.  It's one area you should not skimp at all, unhappy feet can ruin a trip and improper footwear isn't safe.  You don't want to snap an ankle because you don't have enough support, and you don't want to carry a heavy load without the proper boots on your feet.  They come in both men's and women's sizing. Find them HERE.

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Ahnu Montara Hiking Boots

Need a hiking boot for Spring and Summer?  Check out this Montara Boot from Ahnu.  I love how lightweight this boot is without compromising ankle support.  I have weak ankles and really need solid support in that area but at the same time, it's important to me that my feet don't feel like they are in a straight jacket.

Comfort is instant, no break in time here for me at all.  I sized up in these from an 8.5 and it's a perfect fit, they're super comfortable and light weight with good arch support.  They have excellent traction as well.

The lime green accents are fun and I love that these boots come in so many different colors, and not the boring "women colors" like pastels or those mauves and teals and whatnot.  These are good rich colors that are refreshing on the trail and pleasing to the eye. 

From what I understand, the Montara is also a warm boot, so it would be good for winter too, but since it's so light I think it's great for Summer.  It's also a good value, and the charcoal color (my favorite) is on sale right now at Zappos. 

Ahnu gets its name from the Celtic goddess of balance and well being, which I think is cool.   It's loosely translated to Mother Earth.  The company is environmentally and socially minded, and their footwear is designed to get you out the door and into nature.  The Montera boot will inspire you, find it HERE. 

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