I have 2 pairs of these boots. They are super comfortable and supportive right out of the box without any need for a break in period. I may add a gel insole instead of the stock one and will now have to waterproof them though. On my 2nd hike in them I got wet walking 7 miles in slushy snow. I noticed about 2 hours in that the fabric on top was soaking up the water and after I got home realized it came all the way through. I doubt it was sweat based on the saturation, low temp outside and my not wearing very heavy socks.  Would I buy them again. Yes. Would I like them to have real Gore-tex waterproofing. Yes.