HOKA vs. ALTRA
In a previous blog post, I lamented the durability (or lack thereof) of boots and walking shoes that I’ve trekked in over the years on my long-distance hikes.
I prematurely concluded that HOKA trail running shoes were the gold standard.
When they finally gave out, I could see how cheaply they had been put together.
I absolutely recommend HOKA trail runners if you only need them for running or light backpacking, but for heavy loads, over long distances, I absolutely recommend the new ALTRA Lone Peak 9+ trail runners.
Zero-Drop
They are a zero-drop shoe (no difference in height between the heel and the forefoot) and do need some getting used to.
The main sticking point for some with zero-drop shoes is that your calves and achilles tendons have to stretch and engage more.
However, once you get used to walking in an altered gait and posture, you’ll think twice about reverting back to a raised heel.
It is also strongly recommended that you get used to the zero-drop before committing to a long journey in them.
Vibram Sole
My main concern with past Lone Peak versions was primarily with the soles — they lost their tread far too quickly.
The 9+ version has a sturdy Vibram MEGAGRIP sole.
How sturdy?
Last Autumn, I trudged my way like a wretched Sisyphus from Sevilla up to Ourense — a 15+ kg rucksack on my aching shoulders — and the shoes held up until the end.
The Camino Sanabrés, btw, is a truly wonderful section of the Camino de Santiago.
As an alternative to the Camino Frances route, you may wish to consider turning south at Astorga toward Granja de Moreruela, and then continuing on the Sanabrés route to Santiago de Compostela.
Quick Camino Tip
From Astorga, it’s approximately 100 km to reach Granja de Moreruela — one of the starting points of the Camino Sanabrés. And along this route, there are some quirky albergues and a fabulous route.
The route itself follows a (now) disused railway track.
There are four recommended stages to this section:
- Astorga – Estación de Valderrey
- Estación de Valderrey – La Bañeza
- La Bañeza – Benavente
- Benavente – Granja de Moreruela
Estación de Valderrey is a donativo albergue in a newly-renovated railway station.
At the albergue in the gorgeous La Bañeza, you get to sleep in actual hospital beds.
La Bañeza to Benavente is a long (but doable) 40+ km trek if the albergue at Alija del Infantado is closed, which it often is.
The albergue at Benavente is currently closed. It’s another lovely Spanish town. I stayed at the Hostal Paraíso, which was perfect — an affordable, family-run hotel.
And the albergue at Granja de Moreruela, despite severely lacking amenities, is cheap and just a night’s sleep before the off on the Sanabrés.
You will meet far warmer locals and experience far lower costs than if you continue from Astorga along the Frances.
Comfortable Protection
ALTRA Lone Peak shoes have gaiter application options on the heels (although I never needed them) and the extension of the Vibram sole gives added protection.
“GTR” stands for Gravity Trail Ready, which simply means that the shoes are optimized for trail use — they balance traction, durability, and rolling efficiency.
I bought both pairs in Bangkok, where I paid more than you would in Europe. I did, however, see them being sold in Santiago de Compostela for around €150.
I opted for one size up so that I would be able to adjust the feel with my specific lacing system. Either way, the toe box is extremely roomy and they can be worn without any breaking in.
I opted both times for the breathable non-Gore-Tex model.
They hold up pretty well against light rain, and non-Gore-Tex shoes dry much faster, anyway.
What Should You Do?
If you choose to opt for this pair of shoes, you must try them on in the store beforehand.
Aim to go in the afternoon, when your feet will be puffier due to a morning’s activity.
Ensure you have a horizontal thumb’s width between the top of your big toe and the end of the show.
Don’t just walk around the store in them. Most outdoor stores have rock gradients that you can use to see how the shoe feels walking up and down, as well as sideways.
And if it is your first time trying a zero-drop shoe, it’s strongly advised to go on lots of short walks before taking on any long-distance walking challenges.
Buen Camino! 🙂
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