I recently bought these, and they have become my everyday shoe here in Alaska. They take a little bit to break in, but they are very comfortable after that. I think that they are worth the price.
I would consider myself a very particular shopper; one who researches a lot before buying. My expectations were high when purchasing this boot, expecting a product that did everything exceptionally well; especially, for the sticker price. Sadly, the boot has yet to live up to all my expectations. Here is my take:
1. Boot is not warm. I am PM for a construction firm and wear these routinely onsite; however, in freezing temepratures the cold cuts right through the boot. This is esepcially true while standing on a concrete slab, but even when standing on dirt. I thought I may have been tying them too tight, but even after adjustments I find they still get cold.
2. Traction is good, but not great. In my book you can't beat a Vibram sole, but this seems to be one of the companies more basic sole patterns/materials. I haven't taken these hiking yet, but I'm not sure they would handle wet rocks and/or slippery surfaces well. For the sticker price I expected better performance. My Vasque Breeze boots have far better traction.
3. The boot is extremely comfortable. Aside from my two previous comments I do find the overall fit quite comfortable. There was a couple days of break-in needed to get some creases in the leather, but that was expected. No hot spots.
4. 100% waterproof. No leaks and I have tried to find them. Water temps will conduct through the leather though.
Overall, this is a good boot. I imagine it will be quite durable through the years and provide a long term value. Not the bombproof boot I was expecting.
ProsDurable, Great Value, Comfortable, Performing as Expected, great outdoors hiking/wor, best boots you can own
I am a woman who loves these boots and yes, I know these are mens' boots, but I do love them! These boots live up to their name! They were purchased after I had returned another cheaper pair that split at the seems. These boots definitely keep your feet dry (unless moisture gets in from the top (entrance)of the shoes - such as snow, sleet, etc. The do not, however, keep your feet as warm as was advertised. BUT, I can say that they fit true to size. I wore these right out of the box. They do need a few days break in as the leather does need to soften a bit to your foot. They are by no means uncomfortable. They ARE very comfortable. I wear orthotics and have wide feet. I beat the heck out of shoe wear so, these are getting quite a good run for their money. Wish they were a bit cheaper though...
Got the boots for Christmas replacing some Vasque boots I had worn for 10 years. They were appropriately stiff out of the box. I've worn them on several "break-in" hikes and one very difficult hike in deep snow. The boots kept me warm and dry. The narrow width is much more comfortable on my narrow feet than my old boots. I have had a little trouble with blisters on my heels (probably still breaking them in). Also, my middle toe is the longest on my foot. I always buy my boots a little long to accommodate that. However, I might should have bought these narrow boots a half-size larger than the wider ones since going down-hill tends to jam my toes and make them sore. Switched to lighter socks on the last trip and it helped. Overall, I highly recommend these boots.
