Excellent boots. But they are heavy. You'll need to be in shape if you plan to hike a few miles. Well made and it shows. The boots feel a wee bit narrow, but I'm not uncomfortable.
I am a Gore Mountain Tech member, and have owned this boot for over two years. So far I am very pleased with the performance of this boot. Pros: Waterproof - without question, I don't even have to think twice about hiking through streams, snow, etc. Breathable - for a leather boot this is very breathable. I make sure to wear a lightweight wool sock while hiking, but i never have damp feet even after a 7 hour hike. Rugged Sole - the sole of these boots is very sturdy, keeps your foot from fatiguing on longer hikes Also very comfortable and they look sweet.
Cons Sizing - it took me a few pairs to get the right size. i ended up getting a wide, which i have to do with most Bean footwear. so try a few on Toe marks easy - i know its leather, so its going to get scratched up on the toe if you kick rocks when hiking, but wish they had some kind of protection that wrapped over the toe a little more, but would probably make it look ugly
ProsGreat Value, Comfortable, Performing as Expected
I have owned (and worn out) many pairs of hiking boots over the last forty years. I have a narrow foot (B width). I also have weak arches and must wear custom orthotics. My Gore-Tex Cresta Hikers are - hands down - the most comfortable shoes of any type that I have ever had the good fortune to put on my feet. They fit like gloves out of the box. They felt broken in after two or three hours of wear. My toes have wiggle room. There are no chafing hot-spots on my feet. They support my feet so well that I can stand for much longer without discomfort. They are a joy on the trail, but elegant-looking enough to wear anywhere except for the most dressy occasions. In addition to the Gore-Tex sleeve inside, they are designed to be truly waterproof. I am marrying the Cresta Hiker: forsaking all other boots for as long as I shall live. Thank you, L.L. Bean!
ProsDurable, Comfortable, good stability, waterproof
I live at 10,000 feet in the Rockies and hike 8 to 15 miles twice a week during the season. Almost all of it is on steep, rocky trails carrying a day pack. I have two pair of these boots. The original pair is 9+ years old. A couple years ago I purchased a second pair, not because the first pair was worn out, but because I was afraid LL Bean may change them somehow and I didn't want to risk having to find another pair of boots that are as durable, waterproof and comfortable. I still wear the first pair most of the time. They look beat up, but are still as waterproof and comfortable as they were when new. I should mention I use the "green" Super Feet after market insoles, which I think is a factor contributing to their comfort. These insoles are good for a two to three hundred miles before needing replacements. On a number of occasions I have wore the boots on crosscountry hikes lasting 10+ consecutive days without any feet problems. The only downside is, being a full leather boot, they can get warm when the air temperature is above 75 deg. The upside of full leather is that they also work great as snowshoeing boots!
