I purchased my first pair of Cresta Hikers from the LL Bean store in Freeport, Maine in 1997. They were extremely comfortable and lasted through numerous hikes in western United States and on the Appalachian Trail. After 12 years, they finally came apart this year. Now I will purchase my second pair of Cresta Hikers.
These are by far the best boots I have owned. Give them about 2 weeks to fully break-in and you will be happy. I bought these and wore them to work from 2 weeks. I took the BSA troop backpacking in TN this past weekend. I had absolutely no blisters or even hot spots.
The fit is true. I wear a 10.5 M. That is what I ordered and they fit perfect. Some boots are too loose around my foot but not these.
You will need a better innersole. I bought a $15 innersole for mine.
First off, don't be afraid to buy online from LL Bean. They will do everything they can to make it a positive experience. As far as the boots go, they were excellent materials but the foot bed of the right boot was different from the left. I was sent 3 pairs and I had 3 different people confirm that right out of the box, the arch on the right boot was different. On my first pair, I tried as hard as I could to make these work, but after cutting up several insoles to try and compensate the right foot bed, I had to return them. LL Bean sent me another pair twice, and both times the same issue kept me from keeping them. I have to say that I would not recommend them.
I have not taken them on the trail yet, but have done a couple of short hikes to break them in. I must say that they were extremely comfortable right out of the box and very easy on the feet for my short hikes (10 miles). I will put them to the test on Memorial weekend as I plan to hike Mt. Wheeler in Northern New Mexico. (6-8 hr round trip). Check back here for my review.
