Ankle Braces to increase support in low hikers?

[tdot]

So I am blessed with feet that are more similar to a duck's, then an average human being. Over the years I have progressed from plastic boots that I punched the toe box to give me more room, to leather boots that I've had stretched. However, I just dont want the hassle/pain of going thru this with another pair of boots, and I really dont want to go back to 5 pound boots.

I have some Scarpa approach shoes that have been working well for day hunts and light weight backpacking and I would really love to use them on an upcoming mountain hunt. However this is where I think I will finally miss the additional ankle support offered by a taller stiff boot.

Since I'm ok with ascending with a 50lb pack and hunting with a 20lb pack. The only time I really need some burly boots is when I'm traversing or descending with a 100lb pack.... atleast I hope i wont be climbing with that pack.

Is it possible to use ankle braces that I could put on only when I need to. To help boost the protection and stiffness of my ankle?

 

[EJFS]

I've had a few ankle injuries on my right ankle over the years that still act up sometimes. I find that it bothers me much more after hiking in stiff boots, compared to trail runners. Work up to it, but you might be surprised how well you can handle a load in the approach shoes. Trekking poles are a game changer though. That being said, I've carried an ankle brace in my pack just in case, when the old ankle was acting up before a hunt. I like the ones that lace up, have two straps that criss cross and velcro on the sides and then a heavy elastic strap that wraps around the ankle up top.

 

[tdot]

I've had a few ankle injuries on my right ankle over the years that still act up sometimes. I find that it bothers me much more after hiking in stiff boots, compared to trail runners. Work up to it, but you might be surprised how well you can handle a load in the approach shoes. Trekking poles are a game changer though. That being said, I've carried an ankle brace in my pack just in case, when the old ankle was acting up before a hunt. I like the ones that lace up, have two straps that criss cross and velcro on the sides and then a heavy elastic strap that wraps around the ankle up top.

So no problem stuffing the ankle brace into the approach shoes?


I didnt mention in my original post that part of this concern is because I'm still rehabbing two ankle injuries to my right ankle. First was a sprain, second was dislocated bones in my ankle and foot. I'll continue to rehab it. But if I could have a back up option, it'd be good. I just haven't felt the need yet.

 

[Jimss]

Trekking poles would solve a lot of your problem! It takes time to learn how to use them properly but they will work miracles on steep slopes! I do a lot of sheep and mtn goat hunting in some of the steepest country on the continent and don't like super stiff, tall boots...but that's just me....I don't need added support.

I tried on a pair of Crispi Nevadas the other day and my feet just about melted in them. I believe they have some sort of form fitting inner that was super posh and comfortable. Crispi may make a similar boot that is taller on your ankles that may work?

One thing I have always been an advocate for is to hike and train on the same terrain as where you'll be hunting. I would advise using trekking poles and get your leg and ankle muscles in tune and shape by hiking as much each week as possible on steep stuff! I am blessed having an outdoor job where I do this nearly every day. When hunting season rolls around I'm ready to go!

With that said, trekking poles are a life-saver for me on steep and nasty slopes....and I'm in incredible shape! I can guarantee that if you use trekking poles correctly it will dramatically improve your mobility on steep slopes!