New Balance 1520 GT Hiking Shoe - Men's - 2009 BCS

I'm a big New Balance fan, but like the earlier reviewer said, this shoe leaked the first time it rained - the leather is waterproof, but the sole connection to the upper is not sealed. Also, these are the first NB I've owned that are sized a half size small (needed to go up 1/2 a size, but the fit isn't quite right). Also, and I know this is a little intensen, but I don't think the last is correct - if you place the show on a table it wobbles from side to side - a big deal if you do a lot of walking or have foot issues. I do really like the look, so do wear them casually!

This shoe is great insofar as fit, comfort, & durability are concerned; unfortunately, they are NOT WATERPROOF!. I've had two pairs, the second a replacement for the first pair, and both pairs leaked!

Ok, I know it's a men's shoe. I know I'm not a man. I also know that to find any women's trail runners in the middle of no where Arkansas is difficult, especially if you happen to need, lets say, a size 10 in women's runners to avoid black toe. That being said...
I teach and outdoor physical education class at a local private school, work at a gear shop, and avidly hike, climb, backpack the local Boston Mts.
The 1520s have really been great. I've had no problems with the gore-tex liner leaking. My feet stay dry as long as the water doesn't come up past the webbing of the tongue. I have a very low volume foot with a high arch, so i put a pair of superfeet in my 1520s and it fixed the dead space.
I'd like them to be a little lighter, but the durability is worth the few ounces.
Also, can you say gaiter compatible? Boo ya!
I only wish the shoe wasn't as stiff on the extreme portion of the upper. Also, in having a gore-tex membrane you give up some breathability and for that I'm rating a 4, but it's really something like a 4.5. I'd never wear these without a wool sock, something smartwool or comparable.