by lenslover2003 » May 1, 2008 10:52 am
Thanks for the replies,everyone. I learn something new,everytime I post. For example,Yuccas idea of ordering several pairs of a boot you like,never even crossed my mind! Order a size bigger and smaller,and you should find the magical fit. Then return the ones that don't fit. Pure genius......in it's simplicity.
I also agree with the idea that fit, comes before everything else. That's why I have stuck with my Danner's for so long. I know I can count on them being comfortable,right out of the box. The bad thing I have noticed about them,is that they have gotten cheaper in their build lately. But, I suppose everything has. The leather seems thinner,and more supple. I am also guessing that since they are a military-style boot,they are probably meant to see more time in a barracks,being shined,and looking good,than being outside,being abused.
My wife currently uses the Vasque brand,for hiking,and she uses the 7177 model,If I am reading it right. It has about half the tread gone on the front,and she hikes maybe a third as much as me. The boot itself seems ok,for the casual user,but as Joey said,it seems more trendy,than tough.
I will start paying more attention to the Sierra Trading post site,and also Mountain Gear. They both seem to be similar.
Also,good call on the ortho inserts. I use a pair in all my boots,and they really seem to help. Especially my snow boots,which again,are probably meant for tree stand sitting,rather than hard hiking.
Thanks again,and if I come up with the perfect solution,I'll let you know.........
Blessed are the cracked......for they shall let in the light.......