This article is from the Hiking Boots FAQ, by Chris Gilbert chris_gilbert@ntlworld.com with numerous contributions by others.
Is it really a boot that you need ? There is a presumption that
if you are going out into the hills then you should have a 'stout
pair of walking boots' but the experience of many people is
that while there are many circumstances in which boots are a
must there are just as many where they clearly are not the best
thing that you could have on your feet. Lugging around an
extra Kilogram or more on each foot on a dry, warm day is
perhaps not the best strategy when a pair of well-made,
lightweight cross-trainers or even walking sandals might well
make the whole experience even more enjoyable than it
would be in boots.
 
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