Originally Posted by
Traveler
I use different footwear for the season and terrain. I will use trail runners for fairly easy to moderate conditions, trail shoes for moderate into difficult terrain, and high leather boots for difficult terrain on rock and talus and in winter conditions. I find my feet are less banged up and feet/legs are less tired when using the boots on rocky terrain, conversely, I am less tired overall when using runners or shoes in light to moderate trail conditions.
Though I understand some folks prefer a single type of shoe for all conditions, for me having a choice is akin to a carpenters tool box with a variety of saws designed to cut wood. Having a single cross cut saw can work, but making a rip cut will impact arm joints and hands fairly quickly.