Is gore tex a bad idea for Asia

OK, I know this is the second post about walking shoes but I think it is a good idea as the subjects are specific and make finding the post easy, hope this is OK.

So I was trying to decide between Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator and Merrell Alverstone Gore-Tex. I can get them for a similar price. but I read somewhere that Gore Tex is a bad idea in Asia as if they get wet that can take ages to dry out. Seems a bit odd as gore Text is very breathable but that is what was said. Although I get the ventelater will breath better.

Should add this is for long hikes, I'm also taking some sandals (not a big fan of flip flops, like something that is still open but stays on feet better).

I guess part of the question is is there any point in waterproof shes. Strikes we that if it is warm being a bit wet is no big deal and will dry quickly but I may be missing something.

So what do people think?

Ben

It does seem a bit odd, since the breathability should mean they dry out quickly.

But then all these products and materials try to outdo each other in the breathability stakes. I take it all with a pinch of salt.

I think the answer to "is there any point to waterproof" is yes. You can stomp in muddy puddles confident that you're not going to trash your footwear.

Whether you go for breathability over simple ventilation is up to you. Do you struggle with hot feet? I find that if boots are going to be uncomfortable hiking in the tropics then they're also uncomfortably hot hiking in the UK, since the exertion is likely greater here than you'd achieve in a hot or humid climate.

It's not just the warmth which governs how quickly they dry, it's the humidity too. For me the important factors are plenty of toe space and decent socks.

"I guess part of the question is is there any point in waterproof shoes. Strikes we that if it is warm being a bit wet is no big deal and will dry quickly but I may be missing something."

"So what do people think?"

-

I have no use for waterproof shoes unless I am shoveling snow at home. In normal situations I would expect waterproof shoes to be kind of warm! If it is raining - I simply go inside. If there are puddles - I skirt the puddles instead of plodding through them.

* When I was in the military, in tropical locations, my boots had drain holes for walking streams or big puddles. These were canvas and leather. (Some situations there is just no other choices other than getting wet! )

Being a cheapskate, I usually buy something on sale. I look at the tread for traction. I do glue and sew a piece of leather where the heel meets the lining. For fabric linings this is the spot that wears out for me. I look for metal grommets for the laces to go through.

One thing I do when traveling, especially in Asia, is to have a spare pair of shoes! (If you are a male with tiny Asian size feet - no problem for you.) I have big, wide feet 12/13 U.S. In Asia not that easy to find a replacement if needed. If one pair got wet somehow, open a window and let that pair dry. Wear the other pair. I bring a pair of flip-flops for walking around hotel room floors and taking showers. I don't like sandals because - for clumsy old me - to easy to smack my toe against something hard! Also too easy for bug bites and stepping in dog poop is not something I want on my bare feet.

Up to you.

Make a choice and don't worry about it. If you find a pair of shoes you really like, are comfortable and fit well, buy it. The accoutrements aren't the most important things to consider when it comes to travel.