I have worn Zamberlan boots for the last decade. Very comfortable (for me) and indestructible. Cost is anywhere from 300-500 for a pair. I always use super feet green inserts as well.
I had a pair of these a couple years ago and was impressed for a little while but they went down hill pretty quick. I think it's a newer model now but they look similar. They lost their rigidity and waterproofness after a season and became painful to walk in. I've had a different pair of insulated irish setters for about 15 years now, though, that are still in good shape. Though I only wear them a handful of times a year. I tried the Hoka Kaha 2 GTX last year. They're good if you have a long walk on a trail but off trail they weren't my favorites. I'll probably get another year or two out of them but I think I want to try a pair of Renegades this year.I had looked into the Irish Setter Vaportreks but they seem to get mixed reviews online. Have you had any personal experience with these?
I use to wear Danners at work but s switched to Kenetreks. Everyday wear and still look newer at 2 years than a lot of others guys boots at work. I initially bought the Kenetrek Hardscrabble and liked them so much I bought a pair of Hard Tactical. I have an extremely high arch and get hot spots so I have to take up my heels to avoid blisters. I have yet to find a bit that prevents this issue. Seems lesser in the Kenetreks though.
I also bought a pair of Crispi Nevada's to see if they were better than my Kenetreks. I like them but I still get the heel lift. They are comfortable though. They do occasionally cause my right foot to go numb though after several miles (issue with my high arch and under pronation).
The stiffer boots require a longer break in period. My Crispis required about 50 miles. My Kenetreks just a few miles. These boots should last me the rest of my life.
Waterproofing in boots doesn't help for sweaty feet. If you're walking a lot, you will need to swap out socks. I found this out in the Colorado mountains.
If I did it again, I think I would have bought the Kenetrek Desert Guides as there is no waterproofing material just leather. Would be better in warmer environments.
I'm still looking for the perfect boot though, but Kenetrek seem the closest for me. Most high end boots allow returns if you're ordering online. Might have to pay for shipping though.
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I may have to take a look. I even do a special heel lock that helps a lot with the Kenetreks but not the CrispisI struggle with heel lift in Zamberlans and some other higher end boots I have tried. For me Asolo's completely lock down my heel. I have both the Falcon's and the Hunter GTX's. Sierra trading post has several pairs at the moment. They might be worth a look for you.
I may have to take a look. I even do a special heel lock that helps a lot with the Kenetreks but not the Crispis
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Here are some 3 year old Kenetreks. Have 300+ miles on them. I just cleaned them and put their waterproofing boot wax on them. You can see my struggle with uneven heel wear due to under pronation. These boots will last a lifetime if properly cared for. Most of the expensive brands allow new soles to be put on, which I'll probably do to these after this hunting season.
I've read that most expensive boots need to be worn at least twice a month in order to keep in the best shape. If not there can be issues with the soles and delamination.
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