This is exactly the kind of barrier to entry that keeps people out. You need to pick an instance to sign up, but may not even understand their differences or limitations until you sign up. It’s mind blowing to see people act like this doesn’t severely limit adoption.

I specifically came to mention the hydrolysis issue. Most plastics/rubbers will have similar issues, and will break down faster if not used/flexed. Overall I agree with the other person that said you don’t need good hiking boots. The traction you’d gain isn’t huge, and you can easily do better adding Yaktrax/MicroSpikes/a cheap knockoff to regular waterproof boots. Hiking boots would be overkill for little benefit.