I'm undertaking research in Bulgaria this summer for my dissertation for two months and hope to travel post that. My current pair of hiking boots are third hand and used to be owned by my grandfather and about 30 years old. On a recent trip to Spain I realised that I probably needed to buy a new pair...this pair has served me very well over the years but I started getting splinters in my toes from stuff that had gotten into the boots, they aren't remotely waterproof and I think Bulgaria will destroy them.
For really decent boots you'll have to shell out more than just 100 pounds. Hiking boots that are a similar quality to what you had (come on, they lasted 30 years!) will set you back around 200 pounds, maybe more. I would definitely go for leather again, it is the only thing that is durable.
Here is a list with possible candidates of good quality:
http://www.globetrotter.de/de/shop/rubrik.php?k_id=0116 - Trekking boots, heavy duty boots suitable for serious stuff in rocky terrain.
http://www.globetrotter.de/de/shop/rubrik.php?k_id=0117 - Hiking boots, a little bit lighter, probably closer to what you are looking for.
They are also some trainers that are somewhat suitable for hiking, but they are normally not waterproof, not really durable and they have no ankle support. They were originally designed for serious hikers with strong, very trained ankles that wanted lighter shoes. I have a pair of those. I use them mainly because I am not the world's best hiker yet like to do a small tour once in a while. For the stuff I do the heavier boots would be overkill. I strongly dislike wearing these shoes in hot weather, sometimes I think that the heavy leather boots would keep my feet cooler.
If you truly want something that is gives you cool feet consider going for a hiking sandal. I would not do any really serious hiking in it, but they can take some abuse. You need something that protects your toes if you want to hike, Keen is a good brand. They also make some sandals that handle water very well.
BTW, the shop above does international orders. Shipping to the UK would be 10,50 EUR. Place a big order (all available shoes in your size ), pay with credit card and then you can try them on to your heart's content.
Note that you should break your hiking boots in, most people buy new shoes in autumn and then wear them every day during winter.
[ 02-May-2010, at 19:04 ]
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