I bought this boot for outdoor excursions here in CT. I had no intentions of babying them, staying on trail or avoiding less than hospitable locations out in the woods. What I did want was something that could hold up to a severe beating, protect my feet and offer the kind of comfort you expect from a boot designed for serious outdoor wear. After trying these on at REI the comfort and construction got me hooked. I soon purchased these a few weeks later here online.
 Its proven to be REALLY rugged, and  also COMPLETELY waterproof. No need for the Gortex lining, which it has as well- can you say double protection.. Secondly, it's fully gussetted all the way up with a mid cut scree collar. I get zero debree in my shoes- zero. It also utilizes a high quality PU midsole with Zamberlans 3D technology to allow your foot to rock forward. These keep my feet planted as I go up and down less than predictable terrain. I've taken them down waterfalls, climbed the sides of mountains, trekked through mud...you name it.  What stops others keeps me going.
Now just to play fair since I already own a pair of Zamberlans are that these do scuff easily do to the lack of a rubber rand. The sole also doesn't grip very well on really wet rocks but still remains predictable. The only other caveat is the break-in time. i'd say about 30 to 40 miles, but thats the cost of a high quality full leather upper.
 I enjoy wrapping em around trees, wedging them  between rocks, trudging through snow and sliding down hills. All the while my feet are at a Hilton Hotel. Couldn't be more happier. Highly recommend and fully worth it at retail.