User Review: Alico New Guide

Alico New Guide
Above: The current New Guide, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed March 17, 2006 by Ron Hurlburt

Rating:
Materials: Perwanger leather
Use: Desert hiking and climbing, rocky country
Break-in Period: Perhaps 40-50 hours
Weight: 6 pounds per pair
Price Paid: $180

I'd been looking at the ad for these boots at Sierra Trading Post but couldn't decide whether to spend the money for yet another ill-fitting boot that would gather dust in the closet and ultimately wind up at Salvation Army. Then I read Ron G.'s review and sizing recommendations. I too can get by with a 10 EE most of the time so knowing to order a half size larger was good information.

The boots fit well right out of the box and even though they're stiff and a bit heavy I can tell they're going to be my main footgear for the next several years. Much of my hiking is done in very rocky terrain where this level of foot protection really comes in handy.

I am not an ounce-counter so the three pound per boot weight is no big deal. Craftsmanship is important, though, and Alico is right up there with the best. Anyone who wants a long-term relationship with a traditional heavy hiking or light mountaineering boot would do well to spend the money for the Alico New Guide.