$170 on sale at $118. Felt pretty good walking around the store at least and I liked the sale price.

No REI around here, haven't been in one in years, and too lazy to check their website to see whether they carry Danner, but I will never buy a boot, of any style, from another company.

In fact, I only have one pair of non-snow boots these days, Danner Mountain Light II. May not be what you're looking for in terms of weight and cost, but you cannot beat Danner for quality of construction and durability. My pair are about six or seven years old now, and are my all-around go-to boots, all year.

I'd love to have another, lighter pair of Danners, but I can't justify it when the ones I do have work so well.

I am on my second pair. I day hike about 5-10 miles a month with my dog.

They are inexpensive (under $80), are lightweight and provide decent traction on the trails. I bought a new insole for extra cushioning for my plantar fascitis-riddled feet. They are also very water resistant but can get a little chilly when the mercury dips below 20F.

Super lightweight. You are trading weight for ankle support, but from your description, it doesn't sound like you are planning to do too much off the trail hiking.

I've hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon twice in them and never had a blister and support was adequate. For Southern California/desert hiking, I went with the non-waterproof version. They breathe really well and keep your feet comfortable. Just realize, if you step in a puddle that is a little too deep, your socks will get soaked. They have a waterproof version, but that adds a little weight and I can't speak to breathability.

The only knock on them is that the cloth around the heel on mine is wearing out, but that is likely because I slip them on and off rather than untying them. All my shoes are like this after a few years.

And went with the Keens. I bought them for an Inca Trail hike (and I can't remember who was asking but yes -- you'll want something with ankle support for the descents, and yes there's lots of walking along pretty sheer drops). I found that the cushioning was far superior. But everyone's different. REI staff are knowledgeable and will let you try on as many pairs as you like and walk around as much as you need.

I suppose if I don't use hiking boots very often, they'll last roughly forever, so it might be worth a purchase after all. Thanks again.

I was also glad to have telescoping hiking poles. You can rent them from your outfitter,