Asolo 530

Bought these about 4 years ago in anticipation of a trip. Didn't get to go. I am now about ready to depart, so I took them out and wore them for the first time to break them in. They've been in a climate-controlled home the entire time.

Today, after getting home, I took them off and noticed the sole was almost completely off both boots. The only parts remaining attached are the heel and most of the toe, although that is beginning to separate as well.

I went on the web to see if anyone else experienced this problem. The customer reviews are chock full of stories of these boots coming apart. Some, like in my instance, the first time they were worn, others varied to the second time or some time thereafter.

Apparently their quality control was nonexistent. I would never buy anything Asolo again. Wouldn't take a chance on the roll of those dice; especially with the prices they charge.

I've had a pair of Asolo 530's for the past 3 years. These are the best pair of hiking boots I've ever worn. For starters, they're are the only pair that fit perfectly right out of the box with only a minimal break-in period. And no blisters or calluses -- ever. Being full-grain leather, they're waterproof up the limit of being non-Gore-Tex (Asolo makes a Gore-Tex model called the Asolo 520 GTX).

While some reviewers have mentioned that they may not last very long, mine have been subjected to years of trail use and have not failed me once. Furthermore, they are often sold in outlet stores at discounted prices -- I bought my pair as new for $60 from the North Face Outlet. Even at full price they are a deal -- check out Backpacker Magazine's annual boot reviews for details.

I've had these boots almost 3 years and they are by far my most comfortable pair. They have virtually no break-in period, and give good support with up to 40 lbs of load. They will stay dry for up to one day in the wild but after that it's wet feet. I am however disappointed in the tread. They wore quickly and never provided great traction. The insoles were also on the flimsy side. Overall they have proved a worthy purchase.