I think you are right about the climate and terrain conditions you聮ll face, and right about the footwear choice. Merrell聮s Chameleon II Stretch ($100; www.merrell.com) would be one pretty good option. They聮re a light, grippy shoe that offer decent support and good traction. Make sure you don聮t get the version with Gore-Tex聴that聮s an add-on that you just won聮t need where you聮re going.
Merrell Mesa Ventilator II
Mesa Ventilator II
Merrell also makes a shoe called the Mesa Ventilator II ($75). It has uppers with extensive mesh for added breathability, which might be something that you聮ll appreciate in northeastern Africa.
Montrail聮s Vitesse II ($85; www.montrail.com) is another solid choice. These are very tough, proven trail-runners that have been on the market for several years and have been put to the test by Montrail team runners on ultramarathons. Synthetic mesh and nylon uppers breathe well, and cushy midsoles keep your feet comfortable. I also like Five Ten聮s Guide Tennie ($89; www.fiveten.com), which have a lot of rock-shoe features packaged in a comfortable, tough approach shoe. They would do just fine in northeastern Africa.
Whatever you buy, my advice is to get two pairs. These are all sturdy, well-made shoes, but I聮d be surprised if any holds up to daily use in the sort of conditions you聮re apt to encounter. But maybe they will. Send us a picture of the shoes after your trip!
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