User Review: Merrell Wilderness

Merrell Wilderness
Above: The current Wilderness, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed October 29, 1997 by Ed Goldstein

Rating:
Materials: leather
Use: backpacking, off-trail, light mountaineering
Break-in Period: none needed
Weight: 3.75
Price Paid: $220-240

The most comfortable leather boot I ever wore, right out of the box. Strong enough for the AT. But, they won't last. I've had many pair, and although the soles can be replaced (Norwegian welt), rarely does the interior (cheap cambrelle lining - not leather) last longer than the soles. The little leather used inside is thin and abrades easily. The boots are not rugged enough for the price, and should only be purchased from a store that will replace them free.