Boots!

What do you guys use for footwear when hiking long distances? So many strongly recommend the use of boots, but I'm really leaning towards light-hikers like Merrell's Chameleon II.
I don't want to get out there this summer and a week in realize that my feet are gonna be hurting the entire time.

I'll start this ball: Nike Free 5.0 Trail. Not meant for hiking. Not intended for hiking. Best hiking shoe I have ever used.

I've worn out lots of trail runners: Saucony (5 pairs), New Balance (4 pairs), Merrill (2), Vasque Velocity (2), Montrail (1), Lowe (1). And boots: Vasque (3), Reichlie (1), Fabino (1). Now I hate to wear anything other than the Nikes.

I'll dive for cover now. Catch me if you can.

i like my montrial masia, as they are super comfortable, and they are all mesh, which means my feet are as dry as they have ever been in shoes by days end. they dont make em anymore though, so dunno. montrails are comfy