Patagonia Women's Drifter A/C

Rugged lightweight shoe with gripping sole.

Conditions: I have had this shoe for the past three years. I have hiked some rugged and muddy/wet parts of the Long Trail with 25-30 lbs on my back. This shoe is light but gives good support and is very comfortable for those of us with wider feet and narrow heels. I put the copper colored Superfeet footbed in mine and that has worked very well.

Features: What I like most is that when I have inadvertently or unavoidably stepped in water or mud, the socks do get wet, but these shoes drain the water out immediately so I am not left with squishingly wet socks. The breathable mesh airs out the socks over the rest of the day. The shoes dry out quickly in camp.

Comfort: I bought a second pair because they are so comfortable to wear around town.

Construction and Durability: These shoes are well made, no problems. I have been pleased with these little shoes holding up on some very rugged trails.

Temp Control: With wool socks, these shoes are warm for cool spring, fall hiking. With a lighter sock, they are cool for summer hiking.

Support: I was wondering how it would be to go from an Asolo 535 ankle high boots  to these light shoes, but I found that my ankles strengthened and the Drifters have been fine. I have found that the Drifters offer adequate foot support when used with Superfeet insoles.