This has ever been my advice: ‘When you come to a stream just step right in it. Don’t pussyfoot around trying to keep your feet dry. Ultimately you won’t succeed and you put yourself at risk of a fall, like the one above or this one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZV-_fGIaDY
You should avoid the risk of a serious injury at all costs as even a minor one can easily prove fatal in the back country. I have helicoptered numerous people out over the years who have injured themselves in this way.
These folk should have crossed below the drop where the water flow is slowest (even if it is slightly deeper). Also there will be a sand or gravel bottom there which will give better, safer purchase to your shoes. Carry a light pair of camp booties (like these Sub One Ounce Per Pair Camp Shoes – it includes a pattern) or a pair of Sealskin socks. so you can have dry shoes of a night. Forget about having dry feet on the trail. ‘Waterproof’ & ‘Gortex’ shoes are silly and just add unnecessary weight. They are also heavier when wet and slower to dry out. See also: http://www.theultralighthiker.com/foot-care/
