Hiking boots or shoes?

An avid outdoors person all my life, I have always worn boots when it came to camping and exploring in the outdoors.

As a relatively new hiker the game changes a bit. With more miles, differing terrain, it seams that making the correct choice can really help keep the dogs from barking too much. I know ultimately its whats best for me given a number of factors, but I wanted to hear from some of the more experienced trail hounds.

What do you prefer and why? 

Fire Starting- Whats your favorite method?

I always have several methods for starting fire with me when I go out into the wild. My favorite has to be flint and steel, coupled with using petroleum jelly covered cotton balls as tinder. This is my go to. I carry a half dozen cotton balls slathered in petroleum jelly in a small container.  Works like a charm and the cotton balls burn for 2-4 minutes. What is your favorite method?