Zamberlan Steep GT

Let me start off by saying that I have become so frustrated with trying to find a hiking boot that fit right this year. I wear a size 9 standard width. I have purchased Merrel and keen and both were too narrow and tore up my feet. I don't understand why boot manufacturers cant size their boots right. Money down the tubes... I was pleased when I found Zappos and read that most people felt the 2 models I had were too narrow. I was trying to figure out why my feet fit a standard 9 normal width sneaker, dress show, sandal, but not a hiking boot! Anywho... I have never spent almost $300 on a pair of shoes before in my life and was quite nervous about doing it online. However, when I read the reviews on these bad boys and saw they were about the only boot that ran "true to size" I decided to go for it. Funny enough if you go to Zamberlan's website they say right on there that their boots run a half size large in US sizes. So I'm still confused about what the deal is with hiking boots and sizes. Maybe the size is right on the outside of the boot and the thicker materials and layers make them smaller on the inside or something? These boots ROCK! The first time I wore them I did about 5 miles and not one blister, rub mark, sore toe, anything. They are the the best boot I have ever worn! If you are thinking about buying these, stop thinking and make a purchase! You will not regret it! The next weekend I did 7 miles and they were even more comfortable. I have actually started wearing these when I am not hiking as they are so comfortable. I am a large guy (6'2" 280#) with small feet so my feet need proper support. The feel, sole support, temperature management system is the best I have ever experienced. I was a little concerned about them being hot because they are leather but wow the thermal management system in these keep your feet cool and comfy. I also have trodded through a few creeks now and not one drop of water gets in. You can see the water run off the boot and they aren't wet at all! Its pretty impressive. I also like the way the laces are configured, you can loosen or tighten the toe/instep area and keep the ankle support tight (which I need as I have floppy ankles). The height on these guys are also ideal for superb ankle support, normal mids are a bit low for me and do not give me the support I need. The tread gives great grip on dirt, sand, gravel, rocks, etc. Oh yeah, and they look awesome. :) I was going to go for the Lowa tibet pros but they were out of stock at the time. I have to say I am glad they were I LOVE my Zamberlans!

I purchased the Steep boots for my deployment to Afghanistan. I wore these boots for 6months, through the winter, spring and early summer. They were the most comfortable boot right out of the box and never stopped being secure and perfect boots. I wore them in rain,msnow, and icy conditions and they never failed me. I would recommend these boots to anyone who wants a secure ankle, good grip in all conditions, and overall, something you can wear day in and out!!

I'd also recommend: Vasque

I used these right out of the box with no break in period for a back country bushwhack fishing trip in the Adirondacks. I covered about three miles while carrying a boat and another three miles of hiking and the boots worked great. They were very comfortable and had plenty of support and traction. These replaced a pair of Perfekt Hikers that I got from Cabelas and I'm glad that I got these. I look forward to using them in the back country for hunting this fall.

These are the most expensive boots that I have ever purchased. I bought them primarily because of the editors choice they won in Backpacker's Magazine. These are made with very high quality standards and it shows. They are great all around boots. They had a quick break in period, very flexible, yet rigid enough to support heavy loads. I have not had any of the traction issues that some buyers complained about with these boots. I have tried Keens, Salomons, Asolos, you name it but none of them are on par with these boots. I know the price is a little steep but you will not be disappointed. Just get them! And a couple years down the road you have not got to throw them out when you have worn the sole out because they are resolable! I have nothing bad to say about these boots.

I'd also recommend: Lowa, Scarpa