I have wide feet and somewhat high arches, which has made finding really good shoes for general wear somewhat difficult.  And for that reason, I have stuck with New Balance shoes since my undergraduate days.  They are well made, and have versions designed for various activities, including running, cross-training, and walking.  And very importantly, they come in widths other than "medium," and provide the maximum benefit to my feet.

Recently on a trip to western North Carolina, I went hiking with a group of friends from the area.  I soon found that my best New Balance shoes were not up to the task: the terrain soon overwhelmed them, and as the day went on, their ability to support my 200 lb. body failed.  By the end of the day, my feet hurt so bad that I could barely walk.  I was told that I absolutely needed to find a good pair of hiking boots if I was going to continue hiking.

I am one of those people who first do a lot of research before I make a new purchase, comparing features, price, availability, technical reviews, and feedback from those who have already made their choice.  In the price range I was looking for, the signs all pointed to Hi-Tech.  Lots of folks carried them, but Amazon's price was clearly the best.  And so, tentatively, I ordered a pair.

I have now been wearing these boots for three months, and I have yet to put my New Balance back on for everyday use.  I still wear business shoes to work, and the New Balance to run in, but the Hi-Tech Altitude IVs are absolutely my favorite.  Why?

1.  The fit was perfect from the first time I put them on.  In fact, I would have to say my feet felt better in them almost immediately.  The width was exactly as I needed, and the arch was just high enough to give me full support for a full day and still enable me to do everything I need.

2.  They needed no "break-in period" and felt right from the first time I wore them.  Even the desert boots I wore in the Middle East needed some period to adjust to my feet and to the way I walk, and the steel-toed work boots I bought from Wal-Mart still hurt my feet (after occasional wear for over a year).  But these feel like an extension of my feet and skin.

3.  They are waterproof, yet still allow my feet to breathe.  Even my kids no longer run out of the room when I take my boots off (which used to be a regular joke around my house).

4.  They seem to be wearing like iron.  After three months, I cannot see any wear at all, not even negligible amounts.  So I won't be buying another pair for a while.

All in all, these boots have my STRONGEST recommendation.  You may find more costly boots, but I challenge you to find any that are significantly better.