From time to time, AR members have discussed footwear. A new product caught my eye. I was looking for a warm weather hunting/outdoor shoe and came across Keen Newport Sandals. www.keenfootwear.com

They are a cross between hiking shoes and sandals with the best features of both. Waterproof leather,(or nylon in the H2), all terrain sole, neoprene lining of the straps for comfort, and most importantly, a full toe guard for protection. This toe guard gives you the ability to hike, run, or climb a tree without fear of smashing your toes!

I have never been a sandal wearer but these shoes are great. They don't chafe at the heel and the elastic drawstring closure can be easily adjusted.

They might be an option for wet and warm hunting conditions such as a Zambezi valley buffalo hunt in the wetlands of Mozambique. That was my original intent.

Cabelas, Galyans, and Gander Mountain carry them. Around $90.00. Not cheap, but very well made and they should last.

RCG

The problem with "enclosed" sandals is that they just collect more debris. Unless hunting in thick thorns, I'd rather wear "open" Tevas.

I bought a pair of these about three months ago at Cabelas. Took them to Mexico.... They were great until you got into loosely packed sand, you had to take them off to get all of it out...they fit tight enough that the sand couldn't work itself out.

Other than that...I wear them all the time.

If you're in a debris envionment, you should wear a performance sock like SmartWool. This keeps the bulk of crud out, yet still allows cooler feet. They're geared for SERIOUS walker/hikers. While buying a pair last week, a fellow walked in and bought three pair for his hike back to Maryland (I am in Charleston and over 1000 foot miles away).
With a little practice, you can "work out" stones sticks, etc. sand (especially wet) still takes a while.

I got the 05 catalog when I called the local rep, and these tyles should hit the website in November, and the stores shortly thereafter. Many new styles to choose from. Great as they are, I don't think they're a hunting shoe because there are instances when you don't have time to clear stubborn debris.

The debris problem also plagues short boot wearers unless the boot has a fully gusseted tongue, but I don't want to hear from the Russel/Gokey, etc. crowd. You wear what you want, and I'll wear what I want.

For now that is a fully gusseted light hiking boot.

Safe Hunting.

Clint

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