Supportive Hunting Boots

dragon rider · February 09, 2012, 01:55:00 PM

I broke a bone in my foot a month or so ago. Since then, I'm only truly comfortable in running shoes with a high arch support. I've seen several brands of hunting boots that claim to have that kind of cushioning and support, but then I've also heard that a number of products advertised in various places will solve all manner of problems.

I'd appreciate any views from anyone who's had actual experience with that type of boot.

Thanks.

lpcjon2 · February 09, 2012, 02:32:00 PM

I would look into a hiking boot for ankle support and cushion. Most hikers boots have all the qualities of a sneaker and a boot all in one.

Bjorn · February 09, 2012, 02:39:00 PM

I would go to a place like REI where they have some folks that actually know stuff. Could be you are better off in looking for a good orthopedic insole and putting that into an existing or new boot.

Bladepeek · February 09, 2012, 03:47:00 PM

I had a bad case of Plantar Fasciitis (heel spur). The podiatrist ordered a set of orthotics for me from a local manufacturer and it cleared up in just a couple of weeks. I later went to work part-time at the shop grinding orthotics. Ideally, the doctor takes a cast of your foot and provides measurements for a corrective shoe insert. I think there are quite a few over-the-counter inserts that could accomplish much the same thing. I always wear mine in my hikers or boots and it sure makes a difference at the end of a long day.

bbell · February 09, 2012, 03:53:00 PM

I use hanwag boots. I have the mountain lights. I use the green superfeet insoles. I love this combo. It was explained to me that the insoles have the most to do with arch support and cushioning. If u get an REI membership you can return anything even after being used. Good luck.
Brandon

Greg Skinner · February 09, 2012, 07:44:00 PM

I just offer this as a thought because it goes against conventionally accepted procedure. Sometimes the body needs to be allowed to fix itself, but you have to give a chance.

I had a bad case of plantar fasciitis a few years ago and followed the orthotics and stretching route to get rid of it - and that took over a year. I still had other problems with my feet, though, caused by wearing boots that didn't fit right, even though I still used the orthotics.

What I finally discovered was that I needed to strengthen my foot muscles and tendons rather than support them (you can't learn to walk on a leg that has been broken if you keep using crutches).

I started a regimen of barefoot (minimalist) running in an effort to strengthen my feet. That was 3 years ago and my feet have never been healthier,and all I wear is minimalist (flat, no-heel, no arch support)shoes (moccasins) every day all day, and I'm on my feet alot.

Maybe it wouldn't work the same with a broken foot, but my wife had Morton's neuroma in one of her feet from a break when she was a child and she does very well with the minimalist shoes, also. Just saying.

Mike Bolin · February 09, 2012, 08:15:00 PM

Bones in both feet had to be cut/broken and screwed and pinned back in place. Plantar fasciitis as well. I strongly agree that orthotics should help. As far as boots, I have the added problem of having a 4E foot. Extremely difficult to find boots of any kind, especially safety toe boots for work.
I have had very good experience with New Balance. They have a line of walking/light hiking boots that run from B width to 4E. I recently bought a pair New Balance 1200's (I hope that is right) that are more of a heavy duty hiker. All New Balance boots I have tried have removable insoles leaving plenty of room for custom orthotics. Good luck-Mike

dragon rider · February 10, 2012, 10:58:00 AM

Thanks, guys. I appreciate the help.

Dave1437 · February 10, 2012, 11:38:00 AM

Meindl

Bladepeek · February 10, 2012, 12:17:00 PM

I have Meindls. I've worn them for the last 30 - 40 years. Back when I was running (read jogging and probably 30 years ago) 3 miles before breakfast I did it in my Meindl hiking boots. Light weight and great support. I'm guessing my leather high-top insulated Meindls will last the rest of my life time, but I've been through 3 sets of hikers and 5 soles. Greatest boot I've ever had, but I still find the orthotics help. I've also tried wearing them under the removable inner sole, but they really feel better directly under my foot.
Ron