Zamberlan Vioz GT

Summary

Minimal break-in, maximum stability and comfort. Best pair of boots I've everowned.

Well worth the price. Total comfort right out of the box!

I tried these boots at an REI retail store, then purchased them online a few weeks later. I have long, narrow, fairly flat feet, that have been widening slightly as I age and run. So the boot fitting is always interesting to say the least.

I was replacing a 10-year-old set of La Sportive M-hikes that just didn't fit any more. I liked what I felt in the store, but you never know. The Zamberlans arrived on a Friday afternoon, and I left for a backpacking trip on Monday morning. I only got to try them around the house for a couple of hours, so this was pretty much right out of the box and onto the trail.

For three days, I put them through hiking with a loaded pack, on trail, off trail, snow, slush, stream crossings, mud, scree, steep ups and downs, boulders, scrambling, you name it. I had not one hot spot or blister. This is by far the most comfortable and dry pair of boots I have ever owned. But, this is still only a 20 mile +- report, so time will tell. The Zamberlans stayed 100% dry, never felt too hot, and were so comfortable that I didn't feel the need to change out of them at the end of the day.

I think that there are lots of good boots out there, and basically it comes down to whether the boot fits your foot or not. These fit mine perfectly. The heel is snug but not tight, the instep is perfect, the arch supportive, the toe box roomy. I love 'em.

Best hiking boot I've owned. Didn't have much break in time before a 10-day 75-mile hunting trip up and down a mountain side. No blisters or hot spots. Feet stayed warm and dry.

Great boot. I have owned them for about two years and use them for tramping and hunting in New Zealand on a regular basis.

Very comfortable and warm (I use them mostly in winter so there is a lot of water and some snow use) and like all good leather boots a little TLC will keep them looking like new for ever.