I found these first on Zappos, and after reading other reviews thought these shoes sounded perfect. unfortunately they did not have my size so I came to Amazon for help...and help they did. I recently relocated to Colorado and was surprised to learn that there is something called "mud season." I bought snow boots thinking that would be sufficient but I learned the hard way (large blister) that snow boots (at least the one's I purchased) were not intended for hiking considerable distances in snow/slush/mud...apparently they are not the best option for snow shoeing either...I needed waterproof hiking shoes.

These are exactly what I wanted, needed and more.

1. They fit like a glove. I am pretty much as true a size 10 as it gets and these fit perfectly for me. I would like slightly more arch support but that may just be my preference (that's why I gave 4 vs 5 stars...but they probably are more like 4.5). Oh and I didn't have to break them in. They were great from the first day I used them...no blisters or rough spots...plus I had a blister from another pair of boots (the aforementioned snow boots) and these did not aggravate it too much. So great fit!

2. They are lightweight! So refreshing for a hiking boot...which in my experience are large, clunky, and heavy. Even my summer hikers are not this light. They are more like wearing a walking/running show but with more ankle support. These might even do double duty or I'll just get a second pair in pink for summer;)

3. Grip is great! The other reviews I read said these were nice and grippy...and they were right. These shoes have good tread and good grip..perfect for hiking over mixed ice/snow/slush/water etc.

4. Waterproof...yet breathable. So I was skeptical about this when I got them because they look like they are just a slightly more substantial mesh upper...much like my running shoes that get soaked through...and I thought...no way can these really be waterproof. Well..they are. At least they have been thus far...I've taken them on 2 mucky hikes since I got them and my feet stayed dry. I don't think they are for jumping in puddles...but they do their job well so far.

5. Looks: Very cool...in my opinion. I got the dark grey with turquoise accents (was torn between these and the dark grey and pink)..but either way you can't go wrong. They are sporty and fresh...and not your typical ugly brown hiking boot.

I am very excited about these boots! I know I'm prepared for mud season...or if we get another bog snow...I've got a good waterproof hiking boot for snowshoeing an it's super cute! I highly recommend these boots!!