Men's Asolo FSN 95 GTX

I love these boots in almost every way (good looks, great grip, good waterproofing, stiff sole) except for steep ascents. Downhill and on flat ground they are fine, but when going up a steep or even medium slope, they rub my heel badly even after using them for a year. I always layer with quality socks too. I really wanted to like these, and do, aside from the bloody heels part.

These boots are pretty decent, and until recently I was very happy with them. I've had them for about 6 years now and it's got to the point where the soles are getting pretty worn out. There is still grip there, but on loose downhill slopes with a backpack it's not good at all. I feel the soles have worn down too quickly, as I haven't used these boots too often over the years. I would not recommend these boots for backpacking, because of the soles and not the support (which is fine). But for day hiking I think they are excellent boots that are durable and would last a long time. So overall, I would recommend these boots, but if you're thinking about going backpacking at some point in the near future, get some better boots and don't get these.

I wish I could like these boots. They're durable and relatively lightweight. They keep the moisture out (and also keep it in - as do most waterproof boots). These boots, though, are killing my feet. Since breaking them in, I've been on several week-long backpacking trips and by the third day, every step hurts. And it's not just blisters (though I do get some each time and use my share of moleskin). The whole length of my sole hurts. I don't know what the problem is (I've checked and the sizing is fine). I've tried Smartfeet insoles and they don't help. Judging by the other reviews, it appears that I'm the odd man out. I don't know why my experience has been different than others'. Maybe I need a boot with better cushioning (I'm 6'3", 200lbs) - on other sites, people do comment on how hard the insoles are. I'm not sure.

Have had these boots for over three seasons which includes three hikes up Mt. Whitney and all the training to get there. These are probably the best boots I've had in 40 years of hiking and backpacking.[...] I'll buy another pair for Kilimanjaro this summer.

I've owned 5 pairs of the FSN 95, as well as a couple pairs of the FSN 85, Echo and Powermatic 400 (also several different Lowas, Zamberlain and REI Monarch IV). All are good, but Asolo and Lowa boots are top notch for quality of construction. You'll wear the soles off before you split a seam or do other damage to the boot. I hike 5-8 miles daily on rocky Arizona trails and wear boots out quite quickly, so I usually have several pairs going at once and rotate among them. If you have a wide foot, buy the wide size - all Asolos seem to run a little narrow in the standard width. I have a D-E width foot, and always need the wide size. My only complaint is that the soles stick so well, they wear down quickly. The price you pay for good grip. I could probably get them re-soled, but it is easier to pick up another pair or two when they go on sale and stash them for future use.