Episode 18: Family Hiking with Shoe Expert Damien Tougas (aka “Toe Salad”)

Maybe you’ve wondered, “What’s the deal with those ‘five finger shoes’?” (And shouldn’t they be “five toe shoes”?) Or perhaps you’re curious about minimalist footwear. You’re in luck hikers! This week we have a trail runners expert on the line and we go in depth about shoe talk and so much more.

Damien Tougas (Trail name: Toe Salad) is a hiker, shoe blogger, entrepreneur, and most notably a Family Man. In 2014 he and the whole family hiked the entire Appalachian Trail, challenging enough for one person, a truly impressive feat for a family of five.

In this episode we get in-depth about minimalist footwear, learn the logistics of hiking while homeschooling, and reveal just how little Green Giant really knows about computers. Plus, find out whether Voldemort has a salmon in the oven.

Also, Stories From The Trail wants to hear your stories! Tell us about food you love, a piece of gear you discovered or ask any question you like. You can call our hotline and leave a message (That number is 828-365-8041) or record a voice memo and email it to [email protected]

And as always, you can listen right here, or wherever you download fine podcasts.

Happy Trails!

Affiliate Disclosure

This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek's ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. Thanks for your support!

To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.

What Do You Think?