- Apr 27, 2015
- 122
- 288
- Detector(s) used
- Garrett Axiom and XP Deus
- Primary Interest:
- Metal Detecting
I use a Garrett Axiom pulse induction detector often with a large coil. I quickly learned that I needed non-metallic boots when using the Axiom. Non-metallic boots are common in the electric power industry (electrical hazard, EH rated) where I've worked in the past. I purchased (~$183) some very nice Merrell Moab Vertex non-metallic mid-height hiking boots. After only about 10 miles of Arizona desert hiking I noticed that pieces of the sole were tearing and beginning to fall off. A few more detector outings and the rubber at the boot front guarding the toe was also tearing, de-laminating and the toe fabric had worn through.
A little research at the Merrell website shows that their corporate policy is to now use recycled materials where possible in their footwear in order to be eco-friendly and support sustainability. I guess their design and quality control engineering staff didn't pay attention in the Strength of Materials course during college. The rubber Merrell is now using has very poor shear and tear strength. I am now coating the front of my boots with Shoe-Goo which is a shoe repair glue product. Hopefully I can get a few more months out of the toes before the boot soles totally fail.
By the way. If you are searching for non-metallic non-conductive boots be sure to test them with your pin-pointer. Some non-conductive EH rated boots still have metal in them.
I will never again purchase boots without assessing the materials strength of the rubber. Can anyone recommend a durable non-metallic hiking boot? Ed, Tucson, AZ.
A little research at the Merrell website shows that their corporate policy is to now use recycled materials where possible in their footwear in order to be eco-friendly and support sustainability. I guess their design and quality control engineering staff didn't pay attention in the Strength of Materials course during college. The rubber Merrell is now using has very poor shear and tear strength. I am now coating the front of my boots with Shoe-Goo which is a shoe repair glue product. Hopefully I can get a few more months out of the toes before the boot soles totally fail.
By the way. If you are searching for non-metallic non-conductive boots be sure to test them with your pin-pointer. Some non-conductive EH rated boots still have metal in them.
I will never again purchase boots without assessing the materials strength of the rubber. Can anyone recommend a durable non-metallic hiking boot? Ed, Tucson, AZ.