Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Finally got my 2nd pair of these. Had my first pair for about 3+ years of heavy use. When it came time to replace I wanted to try a higher end boot. Got a pair of Merrils and had problems with the fit of the right boot, then they started to rub the top of my toes, again, in the right boot. Was frustrated and decided to go with "tried and true" and ordered my 2nd pair of these. So with HEAVY use I can say... Pros: -fit right out of the box, don't really need to break them in -waterproofing held up and still is on my original pair, I'm impressed -they're very light weight and VERY comfortable -they look good -they're great on downhills (not all hiking boots are) -not too badly priced; especially if you get them on sale Cons: -The traction isn't as aggressive as I'd like -the tread wears a little quick and since there wasn't an aggressive tread to begin with it seems they wore down too soon. I continue to wear my old pair for dirty jobs as work boots and they're fine but on slick surfaces or muddy slopes they got a little to slick a little too soon -the laces that come with these boots won't stay tied for anything; plan on replacing them immediately -The insoles are cheap; I used the originals for the life of my first pair but bought new insoles for my 2nd pair and it almost transforms the boot in a good way. I LOVE my 2nd pair a 100% more with the new insoles. -They eyelets have never broken on mine as others have reported but they are a bit sharp so they wear thinner laces (the kind I prefer) rather quickly. -You can really feel rocks through the sole; these are better for smoother trails; for really rocky terrain they're a bit thin. When I wear out my 2nd pair I'll try again to find my "ultimate" hikers but frankly for the money you'd be hard pressed to get much better than these. I know I listed quite a few cons but don't shy away; just get them on sale and buy some better insoles and you'll have a great boot. The fact that my 1st pair are still waterproof after such heavy use is really impressive to me and the old pair are still more than serviceable.