I took these fabric/ leather boots out this morning for my weekly hike and continue to be very happy that I bought them last year. This is my second review, as I wrote the first shortly after the purchase. They are holding up fine in all sorts of weather in all four seasons. The best compliment I can say is that I do not notice them while hiking. I have a B width foot and an even narrower heel with a high, stiff arch. The 10-B pair I bought was perfect. I take them out on maintenance hikes along the Appalachian Trail as a volunteer maintainer in southwest Virginia, too. At my current (Medicare) age, this pair will likely last me into my nursing home hikes. Check these out if you are a serious hiker.
I recieved these boots as an "off to college" gift in 2003. Since then they have seen countless hiking treks, camping trips and roadtrips. They've done construction, demolition, painting, landscaping and survived 10 northern Vermont winters and mud seasons. They have been my daily work boot for the last 3 years. During all those years these boots always kept my feet dry and comfortable. At the end of last winter, the sole finally became separated from the rest of the boot even after 2 months of weekly shoe-gooing. I mailed them back to L.L. Bean and 2 weeks later they mailed me a credit for $229. After all that use and abuse. So tonight I bought myself another pair of the same Cresta Hikers that I wore til their end. I highly recommend this product and buying gear from LL Bean because they really do stand by their guarantee.
Without a doubt, these are the most comfortable hiking boots I have owned since I started wearing hiking boots 40 years ago. I wish I had just paid the money for what I wanted years ago instead of always trying to find a bargain. These are worth the money, in my view. I broke them in walking my dog and after a few walks they fit just right. The option for a size 9 1/2 Narrow means I don't have to bulk up with socks to make boots fit my skinny feet. They are not as light as some boots I've tried that have textile uppers, but they are highly supportive and conform to feet as only leather does. A rubber toe cap would have been a good idea. Treating the leather with mink oil or Bean's Boot Guard has helped prevent small scuffs and cover bigger ones, but some factory-installed rubber on the toe would be a worthwhile upgrade (if LLBean product planners are paying attention). I've had boots before by Merrill, Vasque and LLBean, and none feel as good on my feet as these Crestas. Great boots.
