nice tough boots!

By jason spellman Ranked #26 - Men's Backpacking Boots February 1, 2011

i just got lucky when i picked up these gems! i found them 50% off at a season end clearance sale. they were the only pair of boots left in my size. i didnt even try them on (i know that was stupid). but i got lucky! great vibram sole. soles stick when you think they would slip. i have stood in water up to the top of the boot for a few minutes just to test them...no problems. gusseted tongue keeps out the trail debris. they are much lighter than my old boots. i like the pulley type things for the laces. makes them easy to tighten quickly. the lacing system in general is great. once tied, i have never had to retie them down the trail. the laces themselves are crazy strong. i was worried about the 3 top lace hooks because reviews have said they pulled out. i have not had this problem. they seem really strong and they have never hinted at failing. the ankle has very stiff support. never once rolled my ankle. full leather upper is nice and warm. i haven't scuffed them yet in a few hundred miles. i suppose that is due to the high toe cap. i didn't notice a break in period. they are a little bigger than other brands' 10.5, but that's fine considering my hiking socks are a little thicker. the toe box is pretty roomy. even though they are a little bigger, my feet don't slide enough to worry about "turf toe" and my heal stays pretty well tucked in...without cranking down on the laces too much to cut off circulation. i never got a blister even when they were new and put a bunch of miles on them in one day. i do wear a liner when i wear thinner socks because of this. Goretex lining is great. i hardly sweat in them at all compared to my old non-Goretex boots. and nice to note they looked great with jeans during the break in period. i guess it all really boils down to fit. they fit me great and they do all the things they are advertised to do. the only problem i have had is trying to get high clay content mud out of the sole...it was like glue...but i dont think that has anything specifically to do with these boots or this brand. i love these boots and would buy them again at full retail. but, i am glad i got them 50% off. my buddy has the same ones and has had no problems with them either!

View Details: Merrell Perimeter GTX Backpacking Boot - Men's

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