I bought these based on the recommendation I read in Backpacker magazine (Aug. 09). They noted that these were great, light hiking shoes, ideal for rugged terrain. They've got very knobby soles that really dig in on muddy or rubble cover trails.

I put these shoes on, and thought they were immediately comfortable. I hiked in them the next day, 8 miles, over varied terrain, and had hardly any breaking-in issues. They feel very supportive, and solid, despite their lightweight and good breathability.

My only complaint, and it's a minor one, is that the laces that came with the shoes are entirely too long, so the bow-knot I have to tie is almost comically large.

I'm really very glad I bought these shoes, and will probably be buying another pair, so I can be sure to have them when I wear my first pair out.