good boots, with a couple qualifications

By Mike Turner Ranked #101 - Men's Backpacking Boots September 8, 2009

I bought these boots prior to doing a 5 day section of the northern Long Trail in Vermont. I wear exclusively Smartwool socks, and this seemed to be a good combination. The overall fit and comfort of these boots was fine, and the break in period was minimal. The eVent seemed to mostly do its job, and while my feet got clammy when walking for hours in the rain and mud, they did not prune up.
My biggest complaint is that Kayland does not offer wide sizes. I wear a 9.5-10.5 and went with the size 10. I had plenty of wiggle room from top to bottom, but my feet get squeezed laterally during long descents. I would prefer a wide 9.5, which would have been a perfect fit. I am keeping the boots, but buying trecking poles to minimize the toe-bang.
Despite my complaining, I maintain that my overall opinion is quite good. These are high quality boots that didn't cause the slightest blister in very wet and muddy conditions with serious trail grades both up and down.

View Details: Kayland Vertigo High Backpacking Boot - Men's

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