I recently went through a second pair of Cabelas Meindl Perfekt Hikers. The first pair got returned after one season when the leather toe was worn though after a week of hunting mule deer. The second pair I put Tuff Toe on and it lasted a couple of seasons, but the stiching is blowing out and my feet get wet when exposed to continuous moisture. Those boots were around $200.
I’m considering upping my game and getting some high quality boots, particularly looking at Crispi, Schnee’s, or Hanwag. Other possible contenders are Scarpa, Zamberlan, and Lowa. Most of these boots are in the $300 - $350 range. I’m debating if “investing” in a disposable item is worth it. These top tier boots need to last at least 3-4 years and not need a repair or resole before it becomes worth it, otherwise I can just buy a new pair of REI boots every 18 months and save money. For reference, i average 40 days in the field every year over all sorts of terrain. Are any of these boots exceptionally durable? Will they stay waterproof for years? Is there a major step up in comfort or support? Is there a company that is a customer service or warranty standout? I’ve never had a pair of boots last more than 2 years, but I’ve also never paid more than $200 for a pair, so maybe the next level up will last much longer?
I’m considering upping my game and getting some high quality boots, particularly looking at Crispi, Schnee’s, or Hanwag. Other possible contenders are Scarpa, Zamberlan, and Lowa. Most of these boots are in the $300 - $350 range. I’m debating if “investing” in a disposable item is worth it. These top tier boots need to last at least 3-4 years and not need a repair or resole before it becomes worth it, otherwise I can just buy a new pair of REI boots every 18 months and save money. For reference, i average 40 days in the field every year over all sorts of terrain. Are any of these boots exceptionally durable? Will they stay waterproof for years? Is there a major step up in comfort or support? Is there a company that is a customer service or warranty standout? I’ve never had a pair of boots last more than 2 years, but I’ve also never paid more than $200 for a pair, so maybe the next level up will last much longer?