I have always been a big fan of new balance. I only wore their shoes on my thru-hike and never had a problem, light weight, dry fast and super comfy for my wide feet.
I did try a pair of the first boots (and last boots at that time) they made at the begining of my thru, the seams didnt hold up and the company decided not to go into boot production after that problem happened to a bunch of them.
Read about these today in a magazine and ordered a set in 5 minutes ago. They will be here Wed and I cant wait to try them out this winter!
Gear Review: New Balance 1000 Hiking Boot
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New Balance 1000
“It’s as comfortable as a sneaker, but more supportive and way warmer,” says one tester about this affordable, all-purpose winter boot. He used the mid-cut, insulated hiker for dayhikes and snowshoe jaunts in upstate New York, in temperatures down to 15°F. Warmth comes from PrimaLoft Eco insulation layered under the waterproof/breathable, seam-sealed, suede and mesh upper.
A band of hard rubber wraps around the plastic heel counter, which extends halfway up the Achilles; the combination provides ankle and foot stability comparable to higher-cut boots (good for uneven terrain, and carrying loads up to about 25 pounds). The toothy Vibram Icetrek sole is grippy on hardpacked snow. And it’s snowshoe-friendly: A small, built-in ridge on the heel grabs snowshoe straps, while a D-ring at the toe makes it easy to attach gaiters. Fit bonus: The 1000 is available in five widths for men, three for women. $100; 1 lb. 14 oz. newbalance.com