Hi @kiki, Personally, for thru-hiking I tend to toggle between two different shoes (and types), depending on the terrain, climate, pack weight, etc. that I expect to have. For the most part, I actually thru-hike/backpack (even with a full-weight pack) with my trail running shoes - the La Sportiva Bushido II. These shoes are extremely lightweight. They also have amazing traction, durability, comfort, and support. I've used these shoes not only to navigate slipper, muddy terrain, but dry, technical, rocky or dried loose dirt terrain as well. These are a great all-around shoe, and on the plus side, if they get wet, they dry extremely quickly! When I want more ankle support or am navigating extremely wet and humid environments, I turn to my mid-rise boots, the KEEN Terradora II waterproof mid hiking boots. These boots are also extremely lightweight for the type of shoe they are, and they have amazing ankle padding and support, arch support, and traction. And even better, they fit like a glove, so you don't have to worry about friction causing nasty blisters! Now, you may be thinking, "if they are waterproof, they must not be very breathable." I disagree! I have found these boots to work superbly even in hot environments! Hope this helps, Bryn
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