What is the best hiking boot for hiking the Grand Canyon in the spring?

Question

I would like a mid height boot that is water proof/resistant and breathable. Will hike the canyon next Spring or Fall at the latest. Something that won't make my feet cook if the weather is a little warm, but will allow for warmth depending on the conditions. Basically a good all around boot.

Answer 1

While some brands have better reputations for the quality of materials and workmanship, there is really no such thing as one specific best hiking boot because what works for one person's foot shape may not work well for another.

The single most important thing in a hiking boot is how well it fits - is it loose enough in the toes and snug (but not too tight) in the heel?  Different boot brands have slightly different shapes and thus fit certain types of feet better than others.  If a cheap, lesser name brand fits you perfectly and a famous brand with a good rep does not, go with the cheap brand.

I would recommend going to a place that specializes in hiking gear (as opposed to a general shoe store or sporting goods store) as they will be more likely to have people that can help find the best boot for you (REI is a good national chain whose employees are generally knowledgeable about such stuff).  Go to the store later in the day (when your feet tend to be slightly more swollen) and wear whatever socks you would most likely wear when hiking.  If you are planning on carrying a pack, be sure to consider having extra good arch support.

That being said, if you want something that is breathable and waterproof, than look for boots with a Gore-Tex lining (most of the higher ends ones do these days).  I also prefer boots with a Vibram tread as these seem to last longer.  My current pair of boots are REI Monarchs and I have been very happy with them - they have probably done a couple thousand miles including the 93-mile Wonderland trail and Mount Rainier and at least a half-dozen trips to the bottom of the Grand Canyon.  

And finally, every March backpacker magazine has their annual 'gear guide' where they identify top equipment (including boots) along a wide range of criteria and categories (their 2008 issue gave the Keen Targhee II Mid as the best buy for mid-duty boots and the Scarpa Kailesh as the best all-around mid-duty boot).  Other brands that have generally good reputations include Asolo, Danner, Vasque and Lowe.