Recommendation on Hiking Boots

Definitely head to REI. Their salespeople are knowledgeable and very helpful. You need to describe the kind of hiking you will be doing so they can find the right kind for you. If you're planning on hiking half dome or other hard trails, you will need a seriously good pair of quality boots. Otherwise, they have something in the category of hiking/cross country boots that you can wear as walking shoes or trail hikes locally. Salomon makes great hiking boots. I was the only one who made it to half dome and back without blisters. And don't forget thick soled breathable socks, as well. BTW, running shoes do not provide the lateral support you need on the hiking trail.

try buying used! most women who have these have only worn them a few times anyway, LOL!

REI used to have a used section, but you could also post up on Freecycle LA, a usergroup, that you are looking for boots, size, etc.

Craig's List is als a good place to look for high quality, affordable used items.

The boot style and brand will entirely depend on the width of your feet and the height of your arch, so I suggest you go to REI Santa Monica and get fitted. You can then look for the "pre-owned" boot you want. just don't take recommendations willy nilly for good hiking boots. you gotta get fitted. trust me, i know. it hurt sooooo bad! and they were high end ones, lol!

oh yeah, wool socks. don't leave home with out them.
-A.

REI is definitely the best place to start. Buying a used pair is not a bad idea especially if this is a one time thing. Most important advise-good thick socks and break them in before you go.
Be sure to carry bandaids with you when you go and use them at the first inkling of a blister.
Enjoy!

use running shoes! If you are not a hiker, I assume you will not be hiking far. No need to purchase a good pair of boots. Unless you're a size 10.5 and want to give them to me afterward! :) Just kidding. Don't waste your money. Running shoes are the most comfortable thing out there for you.

Have a great time!

definately try REI or Adventure 16. Also, be sure to wear your boots a few times before going on your trip. The more you can break them in, the better it will be.

Frontrunners in Brentwood area. Google for address. I went cheap first time to Yosemite and paid heavy price with blistered feet. Paid a fair sum for hiking shoes from Frontrunners and was kicking myself for not going that route the first time. You can always use them locally in mountains and in places like Runyon Canyon.

Have Fun! Yosemite is amazing!!

I recommend going to Big 5. They have numerous brands, usually off-brands, that are quality shoes. They've worked well for me and my friends. Big 5 is always putting hiking boots on sale and if you find a pair that is not on sale at the time, you can ask for the lowest sale price. They've always given the lowest sale price to me when I've bought shoes there. Have lots of fun in Yosemite. It's absolutely beautiful!!!

If you want great quality at a reasonable price then head to REI - stores local to me are Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach but there are some in the Valley too. They have experts who have used the products they sell and cater to the novice as well as the hard core. I'd stay clear of Big 5. Adventure 16 is good also but comes with a price and Sports Chalet is average as far as inventory and knowledgeable staff. Also don't limit yourself to just looking at boots. Now a days there are great cross breeds like sandals that have enclosed toes and great ankle support - something like this may be more versatile for you to use outside of your one hiking trip. Have a great trip

Sporting goods stores make hiking tennis shoes which work very well, especially if you're not doing advanced hiking and are cheaper. They are made speciifcally for hiking - ask about them about Sports Chalet or A-16 (Adventure 16).