My boyfriend and I are embarking on our first thruhike of the AT in March and he was recently diagnosed with gout and pretty advanced arthritis in his one big toe. His doctor recommended Vasque hiking boots in Summit and Eriksson. Both are discontinued. They have a stiff shank/plate in the sole so not to bend your foot too much to spark any painful flare ups. Anyone know of any other hiking shoes (not necessarily boots) that may have this stiff shank/plate in the sole? The clock is ticking! Thanks.