Hilly Hiker

Cheap n' cheerful yet fit for purpose, actually amazingly so. I even found one ultra runner that was wearing them and had had them for three months and thought them a great value as an all round shoe.

I had to replace shoes that were worn out and my second pair had to be all round, everyday, go-to shoes. First choice were replacement Merrells for serious work, the second pair were found in a bargain big box company shop called No 1 Shoes. 

I chose a pair of shoes recommended by the senior staff assistant called "Hilly Hiker" for an all round shoe suitable for my local hill walking and also looked reasonable for round town too. These shoes fit like a glove straight from the box, though one size larger than I normally take. 

I have now had them for about two months and am pleased to say that they have proved to be remarkably good. They certainly are not waterproof, but I did not expect them to be. Comfort and fit is excellent, the sole profile is good with 3 mm lugs and performs well in a variety of situations from rock to mud. In this latter I just hose them off to clean them and in an hour in the sun they are dry ready to go down town.

I normally would not contemplate cheap shoes much preferring a quality known brand, but must say that I am very pleasantly surprised and if all said and done they are worn out in a year they would still be excellent value; BUT they are only found in New Zealand.

Background

A lifetime of hiking and fishing and a love of good footwear.