I'm going to Oregon to do some easy/moderate hikes of about 7 miles each day. Should I get a waterproof lightweight boot or will it be too hot? THANKS!

When and where? I'd say a waterproof lightweight boot would generally be good in Oregon. I have Eccos (over the ankle) with Gortex and they never seem too hot, though I can't remember hiking when it was too hot.

Anywhere on the coast can be muddy, just about any time, and it is usually cool there. Boots are definitely a good idea for coast hiking.

It gets hotter and drier anywhere but the coast as summer goes on- can be in the nineties. Can you bring along sneakers, too, for easy hikes in dry areas?

I'm going June 1-10 -- next week. I'll be hiking in the Columbia Gorge. I'll bring tennis shoes too to walk around the beaches and Walla Walla where I have a girlfriend. Do you think I'll need waterproof boots? I know it rains frequently but my husband says that regular hiking boots would probably be cooler and do well in shallow puddles or a light rain but he doesn't know for sure. THANKS!

Yes, use regular hiking boots...you will not get too hot. Early June can still be pretty cool around the Gorge. A great boot is the Lowa...lots of various styles...pricey but worth every penny and then some. Very lightweight, really do not even need to break them in.

My limited hiking experience, and most sports, has taught me that good equipment is necessary and proper footgear is critical. If you're feet ain't happy the rest of your body will suffer. I would check out some camping/ hiking stores for info, even if you end up buying it at a chain store but don't let the sales people at a big store convince you of what's best. I think the waterproof is a very good idea in the event of rain, mud, crossing creeks, canals, etc...socks are also important. I've been very uncomfortable hiking, skiing and running when I wasn't wearing the right socks.

Get waterproof boots! Three years ago, I backpacked through two and a half days of continuous rain wearing lightweight boots that got soaked. My skin was a lot more susceptible to blisters, and my feet were cold, sometimes numb, the whole time.

One of the best investments I ever made was in my Scarpa boots. They have NEVER given me blisters, are great on rocks, have gortex, and make any hiking a pleasure. Every time I put them on I think how much I love them... I have hiked in good/hot weather in deserts, cold rainy weather, bogs in Scotland, light mountain hikes with some river rock hopping, etc, etc... and they have been fine. Good boots are great, bad boots will make you miserable!

The first time I went to Yellowstone I wore sneakers and never felt confident on trails with any incline at all.

Ever since I have worn hiking boots (even with shorts) and feel a lot more confident on my feet and more comfortable. And --it has always been hot during the day. Feet never felt hot though.