Hiking Boot Suggestion
 

I will be hiking in Israel in August. I'm looking for suggestions for a sturdy hiking shoe or boot. I've been told to avoid waterproof and Gore-tex as they don't allow the feet to breathe in hot, dry climates.

Does anyone have suggestions for a good shoe/boot for hiking in a hot and dry climate?

It is hot and dry only in the desert. Most of the country is not desert and has normal levels of humidity, particularly along the coast.

I have some Merrills shoes, that I think are actually trail running shoes. They are very supportive. We got them when we took an extensive trip in the US Southwest, hiking in the Grand Canyon, Bryce and Zion. Go to an outdoors store or outfitters and ask their suggestions, then try them on until you find something you like. The reason I suggest the specialty store is that they often have fake inclines, rock terrain, etc so you get the idea of how it improves your "sure-footedness.". Different makes fit people differently, so you want to try them on before you buy. If you plan on doing a lot of hiking, investing in good shoes is well worth it. AND break them in locally for a couple weeks before you leave.

Stay away from "boots" unless you MUST have ankle support. Too hot and heavy!

I absolutely love trail running shoes! They are lightweight, good traction, sturdy in the soles but have lightweight cool mesh fabric uppers that breathe very well and they can be worn with just about any style of street clothes. I chose these Pearl Izumis for my trip to Israel in June because they are quite sturdy for uneven surfaces.

http://www.pearlizumi.com/publish/co...-16110013.html

or these are a little less sturdy.

http://www.brooksrunning.com/on/dema...0115_color=006

Sometimes they are hard to find but REI or local running stores usually have them or can order them for you if you don't want to order online. I am an avid trail runner and have tried many different models. The Pearl Izumi ISO Seek IV are the BEST imho!

Thanks for the suggestions. Toucan, I have been going back and forth thinking about boots and running shoes. I was considering the Merrell Ventilator line, but you are right, I think they may be too heavy.