Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I debated forever between the size 10 and 10.5 before I finally settled on the 10.5. Out of the box the 10 felt fine (my usual size). I was able to wear socks in them just fine, and they felt comfortable enough for me to think a size 10 would be just fine. I wore both sizes around the house for a few days and kept thinking the larger size would be overkill. Then I realized you do not wear hiking boots around the house. You wear them out hiking in uneven terrain, going up and down the hill/mountain and walking on rocks, etc. So I put these shoes to the test. I went to my local REI which has simulated steep hills where you can try your boots. I noticed with my usual size 10 when I went downhill my toes started to touch the front of my shoes. Not good. I have heard stories of people losing their toenail due to this and did not want to become a statistic. Next I went to the gym and wore the boots on a treadmill that I put on a steep incline (yes, I looked weird). Again, when I wear my hiking boots I do not usually just walk on flat terrain or on carpet, so my boots need to be comfortable no matter what terrain I encounter. After an hour on the treadmill (my feet are now slightly swollen as they usually get after hiking) I noticed the 10.5 were much more comfortable. I then took both on a trail and there was no doubt. I need the 10.5. I strongly recommend you try these boots on various terrains before you make your decision. Personally I would recommend going up at least half a size. It allows for wearing them with hiking socks and for swelling in the feet while hiking. Other than that great boots that I highly recommend. I bought mine in the dark grey color and love the bright blue soles. While on my video you will see me wearing some light cotton socks, I recommend wearing appropriate hiking socks with these boots (I wore the white cotton socks in my video only to show socks do not get wet when shoes are submerged).