I have been wearing Ariat paddock boots for horseback riding for years and love the fit and comfort, so thought I would try these for hiking. They are great - very comfortable and plenty of room for my toes. I wore them on several long hikes (+10 miles each) in the southwest over the summer, and did not get any blisters or rubs. They are a little warm, since they are leather and water proof, but that doesn't bother me and is a bonus in the winter.