Customer Reviews Oboz Firebrand II Bdry

Really like the style, but they were too stiff for me.

Normally I take a size 10 but had to go to a 10 1/2 to fit. Takes a couple of weeks to break in. Otherwise a good shoe.

I have usually purchased/used Merrill or Keen with great success. I decided to try Oboz based on the great reviews they have received. I tried on several different models and had a difficult time finding the right fit. I think I have a fairly “normal” foot and have been able to wear the other brands right out of the box with good comfort. I finally settled on the Firebrand II thinking they would just need some extra time to break in. The construction seems rock-solid and the removable insole is nice. They are stiff, but for a hiking shoe, that’s what I want on the trail. I’m not sure anybody can find fault in the construction and quality of this hiker. I will say, however, that the laces seem to loosen very easily as they are thick and somewhat stretchy. Unfortunately, after about 50 miles of day hikes, these shoes still give me blisters in the heel. The toe box is narrower than I am used to, and the heel is too wide for my foot. I thought over time, they would stretch/adjust to my feet, but they haven’t. I’m not sure I can fault Oboz for this, it’s just not the right shoe for my feet. I really wanted to like these shoes because of their reputation, other reviews and the look. I guess I’ve got to look elsewhere though. Oh... I purchased the grey color which in reality is almost charcoal/black. Not a big deal, but the actual colors of all the Oboz shoes are much darker in person than they appear on-line just as an FYI.

I usually take a size 10. I switched to 10 1/2 and that was the difference for comfort and fit. Shoes seem to have a lot of support in the arch and sole so should be good for hiking in the mountains. Great traction and waterproof so far. Very comfortable to wear. First day off use through mud and water and my feet kept dry. I just bought these so we’ll see how long they last!

Great design and clearly well made shoes but definitely on the narrow and shallow side.

Disappointed--shoe too wide, poor support for me. Returned shoe

The left shoe is pressing down on the top of my foot. Hoping as it breaks in the shoe will be more comfortable.