I've had these boots for 2 months in training for a Kilimanjaro trip. These boots are taller than my last ones and I've found that though my feet feel great they are harder under foot than my previous Columbia boots. My problem is that they are thinner and stiffer around the ankle so hurt the ankle bone on one leg (the other is fine) so I can't wear them for more than 4 hours without too much discomfort. I slipped my old boots on after a hike the other day and my sore ankle immediately seemed forgotten for that 30 minute walk. I'm wondering if I should just replace the boots (do Columbia allow that FOC?), or should I try and pack the boot around the ankle in some way?? Anyone with similar experience or advice appreciated.

hi there, had the same problem with my right ankle. after breaking them in they were great. buying another pair now. wore out my last ones in about a year with virtually everyday use on extremely poor walking conditions

Hi Rex. I got those boots 5 days ago and after making my first short walk in the city, I felt pain only on the bone of my left ankle. The shoe feels great on both my feet, but the pain on my left ankle bone is unbearable at times. I tried putting on a second sock, thicker sock, loosening the laces etc but the pain kept on insisting. I googled to see if I am the only one with such problem and found your comment. Did you manage to fix the problem? Thanks

I have just started wearing a new pair of a different style of Columbia winter hikers and found that they were also rubbing welts around my leg even when I undid the top lacing hooks. I am trying an insole to change the angle of my foot in the boot, but am not optimistic. I love the boots otherwise, and having purchased them in Vegas, cannot really run them back to the store. (No matter how much I'd love to!) GT

Never had an experience like that myself, but it sounds like they might be laced up a bit tight. Even then, though, ankle pain shouldn't be happening. Contact the outfit that sold them to you to get a replacement (or if that fails get a hold of Columbia directly). Hopefully it's just a defect in the boot.