GREAT backpacking boot! Check out my review on the Oboz Wind River II also since I compare it to this boot. Appearance? VERY nice looking boot - possibly the nicest looking pair I've ever owned. Fit? I strongly advise anyone getting this boot to buy at least 1/2 size larger - maybe more - perhaps a full size up if you intend to wear really heavy socks that exceed the equivalent of a medium weight smartwool sock. I returned the original size 11 boot and the 11.5 size fit perfectly. This boot (if sized correctly) cradles the foot comfortably while providing extremely good, strong foot-exoskeletal type support. A very solid, fit-like-a-glove ankle support all around. The BFit insoles are VERY good with superb arch support. That may sound unimportant, but it's not. Often after buying an expensive pair of boots it is discovered that better insoles are needed. Oboz obviously did not forget the crucial importance of good insoles when they designed this boot. The factory ones from Oboz are more than adequate and actually better than most you'd buy to replace them. In the end that actually saves you 30 bucks or so since better insoles are not required.
Cons? Not sure there are any. They may be a bit too stiff for normal hiking since they are designed as a full duty backpacking boot, but that's not really a "con" since that's what they were designed for. The firm support may be a bit much for daily wear or light trail hiking. The boot appears durable, but I still don't think I'd wear it muddy terrain unless it is cleaned well afterwards. I suspect mud could cake-up in the fabric area, but with proper cleaning that ceases to be an issue. Having said that, I still recommend this boot to anyone looking for a good supporting, ground grabbing boot that has eye-popping appeal. This boot will attract complements if that matters to you. Really nice looking boots that will get you anywhere you want to go.
I discuss the advantages of the semi-rigid Oboz soul versus "athletic" souls in my review of the Wind River IIs. Oboz makes great boots. I got lots of boots - LOTS - and I've grown to consider Oboz to be my favorites for foot support and stability, which is what backpacking is all about. The Lowa Tibets are as good or better, but you'll pay a premium for them. I got them also, but they generally stay in the closet, or at least are less often worn than my Oboz.
Top rate boot, Slight break-in required primarily to get the lace tension like you want it. Once adjusted, this boot and the Wind River II become unbeatably supportive footwear for off-the-beaten-path walking.
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