I have owned my Cresta Hikers for 3 years now. I first got them before a 24-day-long backpack off-trail in Montana. I didn't break them in much at all, and they were perfect. I have never had a blister in these boots. They got pretty beat up on that trip, but continue to keep my feet warm and dry (as long as you don't step in so deep the water can come in over the top of the book). I have logged hundreds of miles in these boots, in various conditions from climbing Washington in the winter to dry, hot summer hikes. I love them and want a new pair soon when I wear these ones out.
Ok I have to respectfully disagree with the TX reviewer...here's why...8 yrs later they're still comfortable and waterproof. I bought a pair of these in 2000 and wore them straight out of the box (usually a big no no) on a trip to Hawaii. They were extremely supportive and comfortable for miles. They took me to the top of Ayers Rock in Australia and saved my ankle. They took me over razor sharp rock in Hawaii's Vocano Nat'l Park and even with chewed up soles are still going strong. I have walked/hiked many miles in these and would keep them on from morning til' bedtime and my feet never hurt. And I know they can really hurt which is why I bought the Crestas in 2000. These boots are a brilliant. Combined with the right pair of thick non-cotton socks it is a recipe for pure bliss. Talk to a Bean fit expert and make sure you get the right size with the socks you intend to wear and you cannot go wrong. Bean please keep making these and you have a Cresta customer for life!
These boots are truly comfy right out of the box. From extended backpacking trips to jaunts around town in our rainy pacific northwest weather, my feet stay dry and, more importantly, blister-free. The boots kept my feet warm during a lengthy walk across a frozen lake in Montana. And I've never had a problem with overheating during the summer months, even while backpacking in steamy Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. I wouldn't recommend these boots for someone focused on ultra-lightweight backpacking, but for anyone looking for a sturdy, comfy, durable and long-lived boot, this one's for you.
Love these boots! They've been comfortable since the first time I tried them on. No breaking in necessary. I also think you would be hard pressed to find a pair of hiking boots of comparable craftsmanship for less. I figure they should last me a long time. Actually, the next time I have to buy new boots I will probably be over 60 years old. At that point I will be quite proud to need them! I can't believe I waited this long to get a pair of leather hikers. Who knew they'b be so great?!
