{Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders} Re: Hiking Bootfitter in the DMV

NOLS typically has fairly strict guidelines on what they consider acceptable equipment. They do thing the "NOLS Way", they know it's not the only way but it simplifies  their curriculum and ensures that gear is adequate. So unless they talk about trail runners being ok I would avoid those. Otherwise you may have to buy a pair from them (if they offer it) when you are out there. 

On the other hand, after you have done NOLS you get to decide what you like and what you want to do differently. So , Gregg, what shoes are you using and what weight pack are you carrying? I am doing a 9ish day hike in the High Sierras and trying to decide on a new pair of shoes or boots for that. And yes fly rod is coming, hoping for a Golden trout. 

On Thursday, May 12, 2016 at 3:10:52 PM UTC-4, Greggory DiSalvo wrote:

Absolutely agree about REI.  They will fit according to your foot shape.  I have wide feet and keens treat me really well.  Another option is a pair of trail runners.  A stiff pair like brooks cascades or a soloman would do the job (go breathable and supplement with ankle gaitors if you are afeared of puddles).  I am doing a 165 miler on the Tahoe Rim Trail in late summer and am using trail runners (bringing the fly rod as well to hit some of the little lakes).  Much lighter and easier on your feet, but you sacrifice ankle support.  

As others have said previously, make sure you put some miles on them prior to your trip.  REI will take full returns even if you step in poo.  

Gregg
On Wednesday, May 11, 2016 at 2:37:35 PM UTC-4, Andrew R wrote:

TPFR community,

I've got a question that's tangentially related to fly fishing.

I'm headed out to Wyoming in late July-Early August for a two week hiking/mountaineering/fly fishing excursion with NOLS. For those not familiar with the program, it's a pretty grueling experience with 50lb+ packs, long multi mile hikes through extreme terrain and a focus on "leave no trace" (i.e. no modern conveniences including TP). I'ved hiked around the DC area on trails like the Billy Goat trail or Rock Creek and have done some day hikes in SNP, but nothing remotely close to this program.

I've heard horror stories about blisters or turned ankles turning the entire experience into a living hell and my very mediocre, cheap hiking boots are definitely not up to the job. NOLS recommends that students visit a bootfitter to make sure they get the right pair for their particular feet and I've been poking around the internet but seen few promising leads. Does anyone know of a good bootfitter around the DC area? Any help is much appreciated.

Thanks,

Andrew

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