Hiking Boot Preferences?

[Biru]

Just wondering:

What type of hiking boots/shoes do you posters prefer? I'm currently looking and don't know what's up to snuff and what's junk. What's comfortable and good-wearing?

Thanks, Bill.

[Tarrodemierda]

i use nowadays Haix and Sorel brands.

[Mike, Lord of the Spammers!]

Altberg's are the finest boot's I've ever had mate

[donvito]

I had a pair of Asolo boots last me 4 years if heavy use. My friends prefer Scarpa. If you have an outdoor type of store near you check out their selection and pic what fits you best. Fit in hiking boots is the most important deciding factor for me along with the brand.

[Sea Monster]

I spent a long time wondering, and tried on probably 30-40 pairs of boots, before buying a pair of Dunlop Volleys.




(Recommended by 9/10 ninjas for their stealthiness, and grip in the dark and wet, where most dramatic ninja scenes take place)


Anyway, I've heard lots of good things about Scarpa.

[WhichDawg]

now's the time to buy! I too was looking for good hikers a couple of moons ago, did some research:

Now like they said, try them on if you can, that is best, they all make different sizes (even the same size)
and your needs are different then others. If you can't (for whatever reason) their are online stores (like zappo's)
that have free return shipping, as long as they still look new! which is easy if your just fitting.

Asolo, Danner, Scarpa and Vasque are very popular and expensive! (but you can find them on sale).
They also have custom ones too that I hear are great but 400.00 usd and up! some day...
Stay away from the cheapies, they won't last and you and your feet will suffer. (Hi-Tec bad reviews)

I decided on these;

Timberland Cadion Mid XCR.

they have Gortex, waterproof, lightweight, vibram outsole, memory fit, and good support and protection,
and they fit me great!

now don't forget inserts and socks, they can really help. I'd recommend "superfeet green" for the insert, they last
and really make your feet feel comfy over hard use.

Socks "DO NOT USE COTTON SOCKS!" they make your feet hot and stinky! get wool or wool/synth blends
and use a thinner liner sock (underneath) to wick the moisture and heat, and just them in the warmer times.

That's what I learned and my puppies thank me (as do the people who are around me when I take the boots off!)
lots of good choices out there, good luck and let us know what you get

[Sea Monster]

I'll agree on inserts - good ones can cost a bit (those $10 ones from the supermarket do nothing), but they're a good investment

[WhichDawg]

I'll agree on inserts - good ones can cost a bit (those $10 ones from the supermarket do nothing), but they're a good investment

good point! don't waste your money on them if you plan on really walking, invest in the good stuff

[AndyTiedye]

Birkenstock makes nice hiking boots.

[Biru]

Thanks for the suggestions. Those Timberlands are sharp boots! As to inserts, I have to use them as I have a damaged tendon on my right heel that has been a mess the past few years. It's been so long since I looked at boots that I wondered what you guys liked.

Thanks for the info,

Bill.

[ephraim]

I personally like anything made by Wolverine, Timberland, or Columbia

[WhichDawg]

a couple more shots of them;

[Tarrodemierda]

i donno if u guys ski at all,but still id like to know,if u have seen any boots,that can be fitted into old school / military ski´s,u know,the shoes have square tip and on the heel,there deep groove for the leather strap/spring

i could need a pair in sze 45-46 or 11-11.5.

[NutSAK]

I used to always wear Vasque 1-piece leather boots like the Sundowner: http://www.backcountry.com/store/VSQ0021/Vasque-Sundowner-GTX-Backpacking-Boot-Mens.html?CMP_ID=SH_FRO001&CMP_SKU=VSQ0021&mv_pc=r126

However, I just bought a pair of Montrail Torre GTX boots a couple of months ago, and I absolutely love them.  They are a bit of a narrow fit but are offered in a wide model, and have plenty of support for moderate backpacking.  All the long-term reviews I've read say they hold up very well: http://www.backcountryoutlet.com/outlet/MON0063/Montrail-Torre-GTX-Hiking-Boot-Mens.html?CMP_ID=SH_FRO002&CMP_SKU=MON0063&mv_pc=r126

Here are some reviews: http://www.outdoorreview.com/cat/outdoor-equipment/backpacking-camping-hiking/mens-hiking-backpacking-boots/montrail/PRD_78927_2961crx.aspx

http://www.thebackpacker.com/gear/boots/montrail_torre_gtx.php

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Footwear/Boots/Montrail%20Torre%20GTX/

[WhichDawg]

I've seen those Terry, both (always liked the look and reviews of the Sundowners)
can you share some differences between the 2 (Vasque and Montrail)?