hiking boots

[Kofoed]

Try Redback. They are based in Oz. I was checking them out, but no retail store near me. This was done after Red WING stopped making model 899 which I have rocked for over 20 years--boo Redwing. This were 9-inch, full leather, Vibram sole types. Stiff soles and ankle support are your friend for x-country use.

[wierdbeard]

got the gf the Lowa BAnff's this last week, they fit her the best out of everything we tried. Thanks for all the feedback.

[1shot1kill]

I have had Meindl boots for years. It is the best boot I have ever used for hiking, hunting and just about all outdoor activities.

[Fly Rod]

I have extensive experience with Merrell, Asolo, Montrail, Lowa and others. I also have alot of training in boot fitting. What I can tell you is this. The boot that works well for 95% of those posting on this thread probably won't work for your gal. What does that mean? She must find a good boot fitter with experience in the field to get her in the right boot. There are alot of very good boots out there. But a $300 super xyz boot that does not fit her well is worth less than nothing. It could ruin the experience.

So the real question I would ask is who is the best boot fitter in her area? When I was fitting newbies, especially women, I would sell them a boot and tell them to wear it indoors for at least 10 hours before wearing it outside. If in that 10 hour period they had issues I would return the boot and we would try another. Do a search for hiking boots and email the shops asking about thier fitters. Some shops let any part time bone head employee sell boots. Others will send one employee to a fitting school and that person does all the specialty fitting. Send her to the shop that has the best combination of a fitter and selection.

[wierdbeard]

gotcha on the fitting, i've got lots of experience with boots myself and found a very knowledgeable fitter in the bay area, the gf was here for a week from australia, went to almost 10 places trying on different stuff for her and decided that the lowa banffs were the right fit. she wore them for a few days while here, everyday wear as well as light hiking, since we purchased at REI they have the return policy if they don't work. Now that she's back in australia hopefully she will continue to wear them and send me some feedback. Personally if its strictly hiking i wear Merrells which i've had for 20 years, great boot, if its rugged terrain i'll wear my whites, and while deployed its whites or bellevilles, unless i feel like wearing my chuck taylors. lol. I've gotten her measured for a Kifaru pack just deciding on the best size for her, she's now wearing one of my spare Camelback rucks with water and a few extra pounds to get her used to carrying weight. My intent is to get her used to some weight and the boots etc, so her first trip will be enjoyable.