x3! Footwear is the one thing I will spend whatever it takes to be comfortable. If there's one lesson I've learned in life, there is nothing more miserable than having to walk around in an ill-fitting pair of shoes.



While I agree lighter is better when it comes to footwear, I'm similar to you in that I've never been comfortable in low top shoes due to weak ankles. Maybe it's psychological, but when it comes to something as personal as boots, it doesn't matter what the science is as long as you feel good in them. I've somewhat compromised on getting a lightweight mid top all leather dayhiking boot. The added feeling of stability (real or imagined) is worth the trade off in weight.

Another reason I don't like low cut trail runners is the constant irritation from having debris getting into the shoe. I do have gaiters that would probably solve the problem, but by the time you add the weight and trouble of the gaiters I may as well have worn a taller shoe to begin with.

When it comes to water crossings, I've found there's no difference between low vs. high. What are the chances of crossing water that is exactly between 3"-4" deep. In those situation either your feet are gonna get wet or they aren't. If crossing water is inevitable, I'd rather have a fast draining (non-goretex) shoe than a waterproof one.

Also, if you're going to get Superfeet or any other type of insoles, just know that those need to be broken in just like boots. The first time you use insoles it'll probably feel like something's wrong, but the pain goes away after about a week.