I'm on my feet all day and these boots are very comfortable right out of the box. They have great ankle support and overall stability. They squeaked a bit until I put leather conditioner on them, then were perfect. I normally wear a 7.5 or 8 and bought an 8. They fit great with the Cresta hiking socks and are just getting better with time.
I have had these hiking boots a quite a few years now. If anyone knows the Monroe Skyline section of the Long Trail they know you need sturdy, comfortable boots with good traction. Since I live near this part of the Long Trail I hike it often. Rocks, mud, snow and water are the norm on this trail and the Cresta hikers take it all, I alway brush the dirt off when my boots are dry, this really extends the life of any good boot. Once a year I treat then with a quality, environmentally friendly waterproof and cleaner product. These boots are the best!
These boots are awesome. I have bought about 4 or 5 pair, only because I am on my feet 5 days a week working for a delivery company. They do wear out eventually. These boots are comfortable from day one, and my feet have never gotten wet while working in the pouring rain. Fit is true to size. My only concern is that it looks like the black is being discontinued, and that is the color I need for work. Don't know what I will do if this is the case. The boots are made in Romania, not the other country. Perhaps the quality control is better. LL Bean, I am begging you please do not to discontinue the black!
I've had these boots for 8 or 9 years and I wear them hiking and for work. I'm a wetland scientist and am in the woods and mud often. They've been completely submerged many times and are just now getting pretty ragged. I generally oil them once or twice a year and always let them dry completely before putting them back on. They are very comfortable and supportive. I've even worn them back packing in the smoky mts... They were a little heavy for backpacking but worth the extra weight when your feet are dry, supported, and you don't need moleskin. best boots ever!
