Zamberlan 960 guide or ?

[Slim Jim]

I have been through so many pair of boots and just can't seem to find that perfect boot. The closest I've came was the Crispi summit browns but the soles wore out to fast and the Hanwag Alaskans but the toe box was a little to tight.
I'm really ready to pull the trigger on the Zamberlan 960 guides because of all the good reviews and it looks like a solid backpacking boot and not a mountaineering boot.
Right now I have a pair of Salomon 4d quest and they just don't support with heavy loads (very soft sole). Also have a pair of Scarpa Triolets but super stiff with a small toe box. They also have a locking lace system that just won't work (for me at least) when bow hunting. When unlocking the lace it pops and makes to much noise.
Just looking for a little input before pulling the trigger.

Thanks
Jimmy

 

[muleman]

I have the Guide 960 and really like them. I do think the toe box is a little on the tight side and I don't have a wide foot. So you might want to find some to make sure they will work before you drop the coin on an Internet order.

 

[Slim Jim]

That's what I was afraid of. Why are all the boot makers making small toe boxes, I don't get it. Maybe Europeans have small narrow toes

 

[mtnclimber]

check out the salewa raven combi gtx

 

[duchntr]

I own a pair and have used them pretty hard for about one season with no problems. I have a fairly narrow foot and they fit my foot quite well. If your unsure about the fit order them from REI first due to they're awesome return policy.

 

[Slim Jim]

I own a pair and have used them pretty hard for about one season with no problems. I have a fairly narrow foot and they fit my foot quite well. If your unsure about the fit order them from REI first due to they're awesome return policy.

I think I'm going to try them from REI as soon as they have a 20%+ discount sale

 

[Slim Jim]

check out the salewa raven combi gtx

Thanks but those are more mountaineering.

 

[mtnclimber]

Thanks but those are more mountaineering.

Ive found them to be quite a soft boot for my taste with quite abit of flex. especially if your packing heavy loads i wouldn't want less than that.

what makes you call it a mountaineering boot?

 

[kamcgraw]

I received a pair of Guides this past spring and have put a ton of miles on them scouting and on training hikes. I love them. They are a perfect blend of lightweight and rigidity IMO. They are replacing my Meindls on my elk hunt in a few days. I guess the toe box is somewhat narrow but it hasn't bothered me at all. I would say they are definitely worth a shot for you.

 

[Slim Jim]

what makes you call it a mountaineering boot?

When I googled them, all sites have them labeled mountaineering. They also look like a mountaineering boot and nothing wrong with that. I don't care about looks, it's just they are just a little too stiff for me.