ProsDurable, Great Value, Comfortable, Performing as Expected
I've worn one pair of these boots (suede) for over 10 years working daily in Grading Construction. They are extremely durable. The soles are only half worn, the insoles and strings were the only things to give out about 1 year ago. I'm still wearing them to work in. Fit is perfect! Truly Waterproof. Tread grips even slippery surfaces like trailers, rock, wet leaves, etc. I've come to trust these boots to hold me wherever I put my feet! Thermally neutral meaning maintains an even temperature in warm or cool weather. I like them so much I have 2 pair of the suede, one for work, one for play. The only complaint I have is that LL Bean doesn't seem to be offering the suede anymore ... will have to call to verify. Performs well beyond expectations! Extremely satisfied!
ProsDurable, Great Value, Comfortable, exceeded expectations
Desperate to find the Right Pair of hiking boots before trekking in the Himalayas of Bhutan, my research lead me to the LL Bean Cresta boot. Years of shoe and boot buying made me skeptical of the amazing reviews and claims, but I was wrong to doubt. The boots really did fit comfortably right out of the box. They were a little stiff, but otherwise required no breaking in period whatsoever. I ordered them online and wisely ordered three different sizes in order to get to the right fit. I normally wear a size 7.5, and my feet are an average width- I actually consider them to be on the narrow side. With medium weight socks on, I required the 8 Wide, which surprised me, but also kept my feet very happy. Some days we did 14 miles of ups and downs. Many days it rained and the resulting mud was deep and tenacious...and we spent a day in snow, too. My feet stayed dry. My feet stayed warm. My feet never had to touch a patch of moleskin. The boots and my feet are still going strong a year later. My husband's feet did not not have the same luck. He was not wearing LL Bean boots. After the trip, he tossed the old boots and bought his own Crestas, (or the men's equivalent). Thank you LL Bean! You have a lifelong fan!
ProsDurable, Great Value, Comfortable, Performing as Expected
I got these boots last summer, 2011, and have worn them on several backpacking trips in the Rocky Mountains, where I live. From the very first wearing, they have been comfortable, but with great support. I've backpacked for many years, so I know boots - these are great for carrying moderate loads on rocky trails, or scrambling over boulder fields with a day pack. The soles are stiff, but not unyielding, and the uppers are firm solid leather with enough flex that there was virtually no break-in needed. These aren't mountaineering boots, but they aren't day-hikers either. I love them! I got the 81/2 medium, my feet are a tiny bit on the narrow side, and I have very high arches and wear orthotics for them - they fit in the boots fine with liner socks and wool hiking socks. I just bought my husband a pair because his old boots are worn out.
ProsDurable, Great Value, Comfortable, Performing as Expected, better than described
I have wanted Bean boots since I was 16. Now 60, I took the plunge and they arrived yesterday. I absolutely love them. They fit so well, its as if they were custom made for my feet. Well now I can spend the rest of my years walking the peaceful West Virginia montains. Thanks Bean!
