RE: a pretty good idea for not spooking deer
i took some ninjitsu (sp?) when was younger and we wore these soft soled ninja shoes, and had class outside in a local park whenever the weather allowed. they taught us to walk on our heels and slowly putting your foot completely down...if you feel a stick that may crack you can adjust your foot/weight accordingly and be near silent. even in crunchy leaves you can sneak around pretty quiet.