Footware in the BWCA

There has been a lot of discussion lately in social media about what kind of footware you should use in the Boundary Waters. There are a lot of options out there, and if you are inexperienced, that can be a daunting decision. Here's some background to help you decide what's best for you.

[@theandrewfamily]

Great information Ken!

[@krissimonson7369]

Great analysis of the pros and cons. And, like you, I've come to realize that there is no 1 perfect boot for everyone. After 40+ years of various types and lengths of trips, I've tried a lot of different footwear. Questions worth asking yourself if you are new to the BWCA: Are you traveling in June-July-August or the colder water times such as May or October? Do you tend toward hot, sweaty feet or always cold feet? How strong are your ankles? Can you tolerate having sand or rocks inside? For me, I have sweaty feet, hate debris in my shoes, and need ankle support so I always use Merrill Moab Mid non-waterproof boots matched with fluffy wool socks. I like having my feet wet during the day but need the support of the boot. In the cold water times I add neoprene socks inside.

[@darrengladstone3159]

Thanks for the information. I have asked this same question on the BWCA groups.
My trip memorial day I had two pairs of "lawn mowing tennis shoes" portaging the Missing Link and Brandt Lake loops (wet and muddy). No regrets from me, love my keens for sailing etc, but my feet would have been eaten alive by bugs if I took them in May this year.
Appreciate the high level discussion of this topic.

[@snottymoosestudio1492]

Thanks for the feedback! To each his own!

[@bfrlf9740]

You are absolutely right I have tired many different and types there is not a one size fits all. Summer vs fall rocky trail vs flat trail, strong ankle vs weak ankle, aluminum vs Kevlar and ect.

[@snottymoosestudio1492]

What kinds do you use?

[@robbyvikwainwright215]

Lopez Jose Clark Brenda Rodriguez Sarah

[@SarahGomx]

Robinson Kevin Hernandez Michelle Taylor William

[@JuliHood-c3p]

Williams Mark Allen Jennifer Young Dorothy

[@nick4088]

After 8 years of going there. I have ditched my Keens for crocks for the last 6 years. Crocks are the best. Non slip. Quick dry. I use a knee-high neoprene sock also during portages. Boots are too heavy. All of us uses Crocks now.

[@SeminaRekik]

Martinez John Clark Helen Young Jose

[@NhstjpKmdap]

Lopez Kevin Perez Susan Thompson Gary

[@Gurgle-d4h]

Lee David Miller Timothy Martin Charles

[@KarenRobinson-e5b]

Jackson Joseph Williams Charles Allen Kenneth

[@sidmimiwhitefera7759]

White Anna Brown Ruth Hall Edward

[@СергейСаянов-й8в]

Rodriguez Michael Clark Laura Jackson Jeffrey

[@AbdullahGerigelen]

Walker Eric Lopez Kenneth White William

[@AndiMusaje]

Jackson George Garcia Elizabeth Taylor Barbara