Merrell Chameleon II Leather Mid Waterproof Boot - Men's - 2009 BCS

I've been wearing Merrells from since the mid 1990's when I was a wee Outward Bound student in Colorado and I've never favored Merrell brand as a true outdoor boot brand in the presence of other boots made by Scarpa, Asolo, Garmont and LaSportiva. Merrell boot just were never tough enough and the "waterproof" was always an issue until now.
I only got these boots because they were around $69 on closeout sale at a shoe wholesaler in midtown Manhattan. The Ecco Receptor X-Treme Viking boots I've been wearing almost daily since 2006 finally worn down to the last layer of rubber and I needed to replace them.

Right out the box these Chameleon's were the most comfortable Merrell boots I've owned and while the fit was slightly loose for the size 10.5 the use of an extra sole insert added more cushion and made the fit exact. They kept my feet warm and dry thru the North East 2010 - 2011 winter season and have been comfortable for both hard pavement city walking as well as year round hiking.

My only gripe has been the lacing system. They lacing tends to get loose on it's own after long durations of wear. Double knotting is a must. Also the tongue has a stiff bit that took some breaking in for it to not rub against my ankle.

great solid shoes. good design and vibram soles are great, the older suede and canvas continuums had some issues after very extended and abused use, but the leather one's hold up much better.

These boots are sick. I saw my first pair of Merrells on a Special Forces Soldier in Iraq, and he raved about them. Us Army guys are all about protecting our feet, because they are our number one asset. So as soon as I got back to the states I bought a pair of Merrell Chameleons for hiking 14ers here in Colorado. These boots are bomb proof. The vibram soles will last you for a year of hard charging at least.

The only issue with the boots is attempting to walk on ice or slippery rock. The rubber on the soles is just too hard I guess.

So if you want superior durability and comfort, get a pair.

I bought my Merrell Chameleons in May 2009 and have worn them everyday for a year now... I love these boots...They are the most comfortable boots I have ever worn. I hike the foothills with the dog and I backpack to the back country for 5 - 7 days excursions. These boots have held up very nicely. I'm looking to get another pair soon just to have them when or IF these boots ever wear out.

I've been wearing Merrells for about 16 years. I love and never had a problem with comfort, fit or quality until I bought these shoes for my boyfriend. Hiked once or twice in extremely typical Pacific NW wetness, and waterproofness held up fine. But disappointed in paying $130 for shoes that in less than 1 year and 4-6 outings, has rubber peeling off the toe. I'm sending the shoes back to Merrell.

Excellent boots! Very comfortable and fit to size. I wear a size 9 and the 9 fit great. I've been a Merrell boot guy for the last 10 years and have never been dissapointed.