Stream Fording Footwear

[DaveDill]

Hi All,
I'm curious to hear what footwear strategies folks are using for stream crossings. After trying a few alternatives over the years I have settled on just removing my socks/lasts and wearing my hiking boots during summer hiking season. If your only fording a couple of times during a trip this seems to work reasonably well as the boots dry out relatively quickly. However with the multiple crossings of early season it seems my boots are perpetually wet. Any input appreciated. Thanks,
Dave

[TahoeJeff]

Closed toe helps keep stream gravel out. Adjustable back strap allows for a tight fit for crossings or a loose fit for camp lounging, so they can be used as a multi-tasker.

[Fly Guy Dave]

Ditto that. They are also really light in weight and dry out very quickly. Not the most attractive footwear IMHO, but when you're on the trail, who cares?

[wsp_scott]

I either use flip flops (my camp shoes) or just get my trail runners wet. The shoes dry fast, but my socks will stay damp, I usually don't mind.

[shawnterustic]

For me, it depends on time of day and how many crossings I'm doing (or how wet the trail is) - if it's just one or two crossings or it's late in the day and I don't want to get my shoes wet, I swap into a pair of Shamma sandals. Otherwise, I'll pull out my insoles and take off my socks, then pop my shoes back on (I hike in trail runners).

[RadiantRiddle]

I recommend carrying lightweight, quick-dry water shoes for stream crossings. Switch into them to keep your hiking boots dry. They pack easily, provide good traction, and dry quickly when clipped to your pack. This method has worked well for me on trips with multiple crossings.

[bobby49]

I recommend carrying lightweight water _socks_ for stream crossings. They have rubber treads, but from there up to the ankle bones they are more like stretchy socks. They double as camp shoes.

[mschnaidt]

I picked up a pair of OOcandoo's. They're light, do not absorb water and are extremely comfortable camp shoes. Similar to Crocs. They are working well so far.

Oocandoo.jpg

[Gogd]

Kudos to those who can tolerate hiking in sodden footware, but I can't stand it! I like the beta of the OOcandoos; however currently I have a somewhat lighter water shoe that works for me, the brand of which I do not know as the label is gone. Avoid slip-on models, they can come off at the least opportune moments, a friend had a slip-on shoe drift away in mid crossing. Thus whatever you choose, get footware with a closure strap/lace across the bridge of the foot, similar to the pic (above) of the OOcandoo shoe.

Ed

[bobby49]

Avoid slip-on models, they can come off at the least opportune moments, a friend had a slip-on shoe drift away in mid crossing.

But, that's why they invented duct tape.