I was looking for a great all around boot for work and outdoor adventure. I was trying to stay away from the current trend of hiker style boot. I don;t recall how I came upon Bates, but I will be a repeat customer.

These are not your average boot. After I replaced the insole (I always replace the insole) I found my back a bit sore. I found this was from my posture improving. These boots are less like wearing a boot and more like carrying around a solid stable platform everywhere you go. It might sound a bit strange, but for those of you who work hard in varying terrain you'll understand my meaning.

I really like the zipper and the eyelets are solid. I have gotten used to the composite toe, finding it useful. Even in abstract ways like when I recently started replacing a floor. The boots seem to provide the right amount of support no mater the task or the angle.

I spayed them with water proofing and polish them weekly. Thus far they have held up well, though they do have some gashes. A little crazy glue to fill in the gaps and gouges and some polish and they all set. My only gripe is I would have liked this boot in the desert suede but it's not available. My wife will buy a pair, and I recommend them anytime it comes up in conversation. These are great boots.