User Review: Merrell Wilderness

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

Reviewed July 29, 1997 by Pete

Rating:
Materials: Leather (Norwegian Welt)
Use: Mid-Hvy Wt. Trail & Off Trail
Break-in Period: No Break In Period for Me
Price Paid: $164 on sale

I purchased these at the REI sale because they had the Norwegian Welt style and felt good in the shop. I really liked these boots. They had a very short break in period and are good even as a light hiker for me. I've used them going up to Camp Muir (Mt. Rainier) and various areas in the Cascades with a moderate pack. It's has a really good quality leather that seems really waterproof once you treat it.

The only design change that I'd make is that the cuff is not high enough and it doesn't have a snug collar to keep debris out. Also, it has a vibram sole, but it doesn't have very deep lugs. When it wears down, I'd suggest getting it resoled with a deeper lug sole.