Yosemite National Park- Half Dome

Question

I will more than likely be hiking Half Dome for the first time on August 8th or 9th and I was wondering if baseball cleats would be suitable to wear or if I should purchase hiking boots instead? Also I want to bring gloves for the cables, but I have no idea what kind to buy. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your time.

Answer 1

Half Dome is a 16 mile roundtrip from Happy Isle and I doubt very much that you would survive it in baseball shoes.  Even if you managed to get to the base of Half Dome, the cleats would be too slippery on granite to climb the extremely steep slope of the dome.  I recommend you get a good pair of hiking boots for this long and somewhat dangerous hike.  Try them on with the type of socks you will be using.  I prefer a heavy wool sock over a thin nylon sock liner.  This reduces the chance of blistering.  Also carry moleskin and apply it at the first sign of a hot spot to prevent blisters.

I didn't think it necessary to use gloves on the cables but then again I don't have sweaty hands.  If you want to use gloves I suggest a supple but sturdy pair of calf skin leather gloves.

Have fun but be careful.  People do die from falls while climbing and descending Half Dome.  This hike has become so popular that on a busy day you may have to line up and wait for your turn to climb the dome.