[at-l] Newbie

[Slyatpct at aol.com (Slyatpct@aol.com)]

Hey Joe,

Welcome to the world of hiking where pain is enevitable, but misery is 
optional.  Ill fitting boots could certainly be a problem.  Except for the steepest 
downhills your toes shouldn't be hitting the fronts.  You may try lacing your 
boots a little tighter and  cushioning insoles will help.  It also helps 
tremendously if you use two hiking poles to help ease the downward pressure.

It's not uncoomon to "feel old" after a good 10-12 mile hike, atleast until 
your body adjust to the rigors. Hang in there and enjoy,

Sly


In a message dated 8/8/2004 8:54:08 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
jmmiele@optonline.net writes:
the main problem is that my toes feel like they are
banging into the top of my boots.  Also, the soles of my feet feel like they
are going to explode.  When I get home after my hikes I hobble around like a
95 year-old man for about two days.

Is this normal and something that I'll just adjust to as I continue hiking?
Is this indicative of a problem with my boots?  Am I biting off more than I
can chew in the beginning?