S-Bear: Thanks for the full description of what works for you. For my JMT, (starting in 3 days!) I was planning on wearing my New Balance Leadville trail runners, but after several day hikes this spring, I switched to my older New Balance mid-height hiking boots. At the end of the day, the trail runners hurt my toes. No blisters, but maybe toes hitting the front of the shoe. This after tying them extra tight for the descents.
So I am wearing my New Balance MW1569.
Interestingly, looking up my old orders on Zappos.com, I see the trail runners are size 10, while the hiking boots are size 11. THAT could be the reason they hurt my toes!! | 
