This boot was my first pair of Keen footwear and they have been perfect so far. I don't take really long hikes but have had several supposedly great boots wear out or break down too quickly in the past. These seem like they will go the distance and are very sturdy with a lot of support. The laces hold your feet very well but I did have to buy a new pair of laces fairly quickly. For the fit and support you get it was a small sacrifice. I have had them for about a year and done all sorts of walking, hiking, scree piles you name it. They are also very roomy shoe. Because of these I have bought several more pairs of Keen footwear.