ProsDurable, Great Value, Comfortable, Performing as Expected
The first day I bought these boots I headed out and hiked Mt. Washington. The sales rep said "it can be done, but I wouldn't recommend it." (Usually, an all leather biker such as this requires a wee bit of break in time, thus his hesitation to be 100% supportive!) Although he quickly added that these boots were by far "the most comfortable" he'd ever worn. Normally, I wouldn't do such a thing as hiking with brand new boots can lead to blisters, discomfort, hot-spots, etc & can ruin a day hike or trip. However, my last pair (not from LL Bean) bit the dust - quite literally - and I was in a pinch. These hikers performed flawlessly! I was so impressed by them. I usually dislike that saying about how good they feel "right out of the box", but in this case it was 100% true. Supple leather that will wear nicely and withstand years of use/abuse. Gore-Tex lined for warmth and moisture wicking, sturdy Vibram sole - a trusted name - provides great traction and added support for those multi-day, multi-pound-carrying treks. These are not a heavy boot. Yes, the features add some weight, but in the long run, it is worth it. I am highly impressed by these and surely hope LL Bean continues to carry them for years to come!
ProsDurable, Great Value, Comfortable, Performing as Expected
I have owned many boots over my lifetime. These are definitely the best I have ever purchased. Their fit is perfect and they felt splendid right out of the box. I really like the extra support around my ankles. After several months of good use, they are proving to hold up extremely well. I purchased another pair of size 12 Crest Hikers 10 years ago which were made in Italy. I still use them for target shooting. However, my feet have lengthened and widenend a bit with age. My new size 13 Cresta Hikers are from Romania and they appear to be even better made! The soul is more flexible and modern allowing a more natural healthy stride ideal for hiking. When I first put them on, the boots squeaked a bit while I walked around. After applying a dab of mink oil, they are as silent as could be. My old boots required considerable break-in. These new ones felt perfect right out of the box. I love 'em.
ProsDurable, Comfortable, Performing as Expected, great for work safety
Purchased for work boots (all leather no steel toe). My husbands feet feel so much better when he comes home from being out in the field for 8 plus hours. He walks on gravel, stones, or some other type of surface. He has lots of feet issues and I wanted him to experience the LLBean boot because I just LOVE my hiking ones. He LOVES his now too. They fit his foot perfectly and very comfortable.
ProsDurable, Great Value, Comfortable, Performing as Expected
After four years of hiking, rockhounding, heavy usage and general wear and tear, I am just now ordering my second pair.
I love these boots. I practically live in them from mid-autumn through early summer. I carry loads of rocks and gear on my back while hiking, plus, I am a big gal, and these boots have never let me down. They have paid for themselves over and over again. I've never gotten a blister from them, they're comfortable, they're very sturdy and they're genuinely waterproof.
Do yourself a favor, treat yourself to a pair - you won't regret it.
