I bought these boots to go hiking with my son at Philmont Scout ranch and I absolutely LOVE them. I never had any problems breaking them in and frankly was happy to just wear them while running errands. They carried me through the 12 days of hiking without a problem and are still going strong. I imagine they will last me 20+ years, just like my Maine Hunting Boots. I was apprehensive buying this boot without first trying it on, but customer service walked me through the sizing process and settled any issues I was having about ordering online. Great boot, great service! THANKS!
If you can only buy one boot, buy this one. The field testers were right: this boot has "out-of-the-box" comfort.
I initially bought my first pair in '97 to hike Katahdin. The boot held the rocky slopes well and kept my feet dry during the stream crossings and in rainy sleet.
Upon moving to West Virginia, I quickly discovered that farming also requires a comfortable, supportive boot with a good tread, and this one fits the bill. After ten years of hard farm work (I tore up the old boots on barbed wire!) it was time for a new pair. My second pair was just as good as the first, and I'd still be using them if the dog hadn't eaten them (apparently they taste good too!).
My third pair is still going strong. I wear them YEAR 'ROUND for all of my outdoor activities, and as a result, have well-supported, dry feet. I have always used the fabric/leather combo boots. They are substantial, yet not too heavy to wear all day. They breathe well for hot summer use, yet have enough heft to keep the feet warm in winter (I just change my cresta wool sock thickness, depending on the weather). The fit on these boots is spot-on (I wear a ladies 7 1/2 wide), and they handle uneven terrain especially well. I wouldn't be without a pair.
My feet are preposterously sensitive-there's nearly always an area that will hurt. This is most difficult in the area of a hiking boot. However, this boot is PERFECT!!! No pinch points, not a rubbing issue, no breaking in. Just pop them on then enjoy the day. I am in amazement over these boots. LLBean you're the best!
As an aspiring ADK 46'r and a forester I was looking for a lightweight boot that had good ankle support, was waterproof, and durable. This boot fits the bill. Doesn't weigh my feet down, can comfortable hike 10+ miles, and I can cross/wade in creeks w/o my feet getting wet at all. They didn't take long to break in either. I consider this a 3 season boot because if I'm just standing around in the snow my feet get cold very fast. Excellent boot at a reasonable price.
