New gear to try

[Boddie]

I have some fantastic boots which my old chap bought me for a tenner but they are unfortunately 1 size too big. At the weekend my friend gave me some 'waterproof' socks and told me that to wear them you really need a size up from your normal boots. I also recently got some gel insoles from an Italian company. I have put the insoles in the boots and am to try the new socks this afternoon, with the boots that have laid redundant for months.

I will let you know how I get on as I am off for a long walk - the weather is beautiful.

Cheers

Boddie

[Boddie]

What a fantastic walk, and the very first time I have got lost in the 4,200 acre Sutton Park, only realising that I had gone round in a circle when I came across the rifle range for the second time. Today I walked along the eastern side of the park, which is populated with a golf course. There are so many horses and cows grazing that all of the greens have to be wired off and a special passageway is made for the golfers to gain access to the green - see pics in Midlands Landscapes.
I saw many Rabbits today and far less squirrels than normal but did get my largest view of varied funghi for some time.
I reckon to have walked maybe 8 miles and the boots were perfect so thanks Dad. The insoles were incredible - they are made out of gel and are not available in the UK unforunately, (I got them in Italy) The gel displaces and means that there are no pressure peaks as the gel displaces so that the pressure is 'evened out'. 8 miles is not so long but it was tough terrain and I was carrying 25kg yet my feet feel great. I will put in a 25 mile walk at the weekend and try the socks to their best potential - through water. Apparently they are 100 percent waterproof but allow your feet to breathe. I agree that they allow your feet to breathe but will report on the waterproofing after Saturdays hike.

[Helen]

Nothing worse than poorly fitting footwear, especially when out walking! Reading that, you've made me realise I should get out walking more.

[Boddie]

Actually I saw the boots in a shop where my old chap lives and asked him to buy them for me as they were so inexpensive. Unfortunatekly, as I said they were too large but with the gel soles and waterproof socks they feel fantastic. The gel insoles are brilliant - I have had a few pairs for years and use them in normal shoes, when I am at exhibitions, and on my feet all day and also in my golf shoes. They really are fantastic. The waterproof socks I have yet to try to their full potential yet. They are definitely breathable but I have to check their waterproofing so will be river walking at the weekend.