What's on your feet guys. I am in need of a dedicated pair of boots, for once I don't just have something that will work. Looking for a 6in boot and something I can get in e3, also something that will last more then a couple seasons. Thanks

Not that I'm hiking that much these days, but I am down to my last pair of Nike ACG Air Karst.

I bought these in about 1997, IIRC. A local sporting goods store that dealt in hiking and camping gear wass going out of business, and ran everything at 75% off.

I picked up two pairs of the Air Karsts and 2 pairs of the Air Tarn boots (which are more a trailboot of lighter construction) for ~$25 per pair. They originally sold for $100+ per pair.

I have literally worn the soles off of the other three pairs, wearing them nearly every day for some stretches of time. They've been very comfortable.

I know Nike no longer makes the Air Tarn, but they still make the Air Karst. My pair has Gore-tex lining and air insoles. The leather is waterproof. I have no experience with the current Air Karst, but if it's anythin like these vintage models, you'll like them.



LA Police Gear has some Hi-Tech Magnum hikers and some Converse Hikers on closeout.

I'm not sure of the performance of these, but one of my friends got a pair of the Magnum Hi-Tech hikers and was very please. At the price,they're tough to beat.
http://www.lapolicegear.com/closeouts.html

i only hike in these.i know they're not 6in but i like more that 6in.they're not e3 either but gortex.i've beat mine up really good and they still work.

http://www.batesfootwear.com/US/Product/NP/Military/U.S.M.C-DuraShocks-Steel-Toe-Hot-Weather.aspx

the people at ESM had the wrong price on these on accident so i took advantage and am really impressed with them.i dont hike with'em because i like more boot in the woods but this r great for trudging through up-state NY winters.not sure if ASOLO does anything in e3??

http://www.asolo.com/eng/prod_det.php?area=3&catid=7&itemid=111

I was planing on making a thread like this. I go hiking a LOT so I invested some in mine they are: http://www.shoebuy.com/asolo-fsn-95-gtx/47352 Asolo FSN 95 GTX I love them a lot. I go on a 5-10 mile hike every weekend with my family and wearing these its like walking on clouds. But before you buy any hiking boots be sure you try them on first and walk around a bit in them around the store.

My summer hiking boots are Asolos, similar to what Boots posted. They are extremely light, support my arch and ankles well, and are very comfortable. I have grown to love the rubber armor on the toes. It seems like I'm always banging my toes into stuff.

My hunting boots (which are essentially high country hiking boots) are Danner Montanas: taller, heavier, insulated, waterproof.

There are alot of excellent boots out there. Shoot, there are a bunch of brands I have been very happy with. I am sure you will find some good ones.

Lots of good boots out there, best bet is to get to a store and try them all! lol

Really it's such a personal thing and the sizes can really be different with each company. just make sure you go/try on with the type of socks you will be using (some wear 2 pairs).

I would avoid Hi-Tech because I've heard lots of complaints about them (especially with QC) and I personally have had problems with LA Police Gear (lied, said they had something in stock and didn't) sorry PBofL!

Vasque Sundower series is really popular (good reviews) and you can get deals if your lucky.

This thread has got me thinking about trading in my GI Issue boots. You mean your feet are supposed to be comfortable when hiking????

What's funny is my Altima Jungle Combat boots are very comfortable and light compared to my Wescos. Most people seem to hate the military stuff though.

Vasque are made by RedWing.... I have worn Redwing boots for many years....good boots....my current hikers are Montrail (not a RedWing product) ...they are okay... the most important thing is comfort...buy no boot online unless you are an easy fit... me... I have duck feet, and I have to be fitted.....RedWing shoes stores do that better than ANY I have ever been to....but whatever you get... the "break-in" should be minimal, if any...Every great boot I have ever bought fit like a glove from start to finish....I have "broken-in" all the rest....your mileage may vary....

Doc

Columbia Trail Meisters.

I loved them so much I found a brand new pair on ebay and use one for everyday and one for the hills. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

I know what you mean about comfortable combat boots. I generally find the used bin at surplus stores and look through them, andnow and then I get lucky. Last summer I got a like new pair of tan Bates for 15.00 and they were already broke in. They looked like they were a parade/dress pair with little use. They are omfortable.

Duck feet, I got cave man feet! Sometimes I think that I with my feet, my brother with his hair, our family could have the missing link gene. I do boost the above statement about trying before buying though--no mail order unless you have tried them before hand.