Comfortable right out of the box. Ordered normal shoe size and they fit great. I thought that they would require breaking in, but if they do I can only imagine how great they will feel.then. Great support, some might think this is stiffness? Worth trying them out.
I have been using my Cresta Hikers for two seasons now and have put about 100 miles on them. Aside from some scuffing on the toes, they've held up very well and I expect to get many more seasons out of them. They are completely waterproof - I never even think about it before stepping into water with them. The ankle support has saved my ankles on more than one occasion. I have wide feet and these boots worked for me where the Mountain Treads did not.
I've enjoyed these boots for many many years (greater than 7 years!#. They truly are waterproof -step into a creek up to your ankle - your foot stays completely dry!
One note: these boots are generally quite warm, until you get into very cold temperatures #below 20), in which case, you'll want to use thermal socks. The great thing about these boots - the tongue & laces allow plenty of room for expansion for those thicker socks.
And talk about durable - the leather on mine look a bit scuffed up, but I've had zero holes, the stitching has remained intact, and the shoelace "brackets" are all still intact.
My ONLY complaints are: The soles, (Vibram) are NOT replaceable - this is a horrible decision by their designers. They are not replaceable because they are not stitched to the shoe; they're glued on. The "wrap around" sole is not available to shoe repairmen and your only option is to purchase a new pair (or, if you choose, take advantage of their guarantee!). At $199/pair, this can get quite costly and comparable boots by other mfgr's have the capability of having the sole replaced; just something to consider... The other gripe I have is the insole. If you're an aggressive walker like I am, the insole WILL wear out, and replacement insoles are not available. Finally, these boots are quite heavy - about 2 pounds each, which makes a difference when you're trying to pack as light as possible, although, the weight does come in handy for getting a good workout! :)
This new and revised edition of the hiking shoes I have been buying from LL Bean for over a decade just might be the best ever from LL Bean. Had mine about year now and still going strong and will for a long time. I had a pair years ago where parts of the rubber was glued or heated together and came apart but LL Bean has changed how they are constructed so that won't be a problem for this version. Going to order the black pair!
