Men's 540 Rise GT Hiking Boot
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Great Boots!
Impeccable construction - much more comfortable than I expected, considering that it's a somewhat beefy and heavy duty boot.
Size: Altrec's sizing is a little off. 10.5 equates to a 45, 11 equates to 45.5, and 11.5 equates to 46. It seems that the boots are true to their european sizes more so than their American equivalents.
Fit: I appreciate the generous toe box. Most other boots smash my little toes, but these boots don't have quite as pointy of a toe taper as some other brands (especially Asolo). The 540 seems to be made for someone with an average or even slightly high volume foot. Width seems to be about a US "D," which is wider than I expected. However, the lacing system does a great job of keeping my narrow ankle and heel in place. I'm a B/C width, and these boots seem to be working so far.
Waterproofness: yup, they passed my 10 minute tub test without a drop.
Breathability: about what I expected for the given materials. They're not super breathable and might not be suitable for hot hikes in the SE USA in July. It's been in the mid 80s and they seem to work out fine though.
September 17, 2011
Excellent boots
I'm still wearing these around the house, not absolutely sure I will keep them but I sure want to. No problems at all yet but the test will be on the trail.
I have very difficult feet and I know exactly what I like so I order and return boots like mad looking for what works for me.
I hike at least 25 miles a week on the AT, in the Catskills and up and down the Taconic trail. I like boots that give me ankle support, toe room for going downhill and swollen feet and have a narrow enough heel so my heel stays in place. I wear SmartWool PhD socks exclusively, mid or heavy weight.
These boots seem to have it all:
Excellent fit, enough room in the toe for downhill and swelling but not so much my feet are moving walking on level ground.
Excellent padding and ankle support.
Simple lacing system.
I hope a sticky vibram sole (not sure yet) but they certainly look like it.
Rubber rands from and back for protection. Very nicely designed.
A simple and conservative style that doesn't look like a Nike basketball shoe.
My only issue that may go away in in house break in is a bit of a pinch on the top of each boot where it bends: the top base of my big toe is feeling the bend on both boots. I'm guessing/hoping this will go away in break in in the house.
I get about 2-3 years on a set of boots (I hike over 1000 miles a year) and I usually have a few pair going at a time. I replace insoles half way through with superfeet and that gives the boots a new life. If I keep these boots I see no reason why I won't get the same mileage out of them, maybe more.
July 10, 2011
Zamberlans 450 Hiking Boots
This is the most comfortable boot I have experienced and it is also the most expensive boot I have purchased. The boots provided excellent support on hills and snow. The toe box provides ample room and when descending steep slopes my toes did not jam into the front of the boot. On the first hike I experienced a bit of rubbing in the heal that was remedied with Hikers Wool. After the first trip I did not have any other issues with rubbing.
Tramped on 4 summit trips including river crossings (water over knee) snow rock and scree.
One trips included eight river crossings and the boots (with gaiters) stayed dry for the first three crossings and this is good as can be expected with extended submerging. The boots take ages to dry-out after being soaked.
Trips with snow the boots keep my feet dry, warm and feet stable - choice.
May 30, 2011
I choose these over 760's
I loved the feel of both the "540" & "760". I choose the Rise because they are lighter. I love these boots. I have wore them 5 months hiking and work. You will love the feel as soon as you put the on. If they go on Sale I will own 2 pairs of them:)
March 20, 2011
Perfect Fit and Finish
I purchased a pair of Zamberlan 760 boots last year and have been very satisfied with their fit and performance as winter hiking boots with and without snowshoes. As a result, I purchased these 540 boots as a lighter alternative for summer hiking. I have used them on red rock trails in southern Utah and so far, they are equally impressive. Both pair of Zamberlans provide excellent support and comfort. My feet seems to be somewhere between a size 11 and 12, I often find it difficult to find boots that fit well. It may be the European sizing or the lacing system, but these boots are the best fitting boots ever. This is a clear case of getting what you pay for. The Zamberlans may cost a tad more but they definitely "protect and serve" your feet well. If you've had a difficult time finding a boot that fits well or just plan to hike often, I highly recommend these 540s as well as the 760s.
March 18, 2011
great boots
best boots ive ever owned, hands down. the uppers are light and flexible with a short break in period (yet still durable), and the soles are stiff and rugged. best of both worlds. it is very apparent, after owning these boots, that zamberlan has a high value for craft in the products they make.
December 17, 2010
I bought these boots a couple of months ago and I have to say I love them. Ive been on a few 5-6 mile hikes on uneven terrain and they've been great. Great ankle support, no hotspots, waterproof and very little break-in period.
October 3, 2010
Excellent fit, comfort, quality, and style
These boots are phenomenal. I've had them for a month and put about 14 miles on them. There was almost no break-in required, they are among the most comfortable footwear that I have ever owned, and their rugged sole ensures plenty of support when carrying 35-pound backpacking loads over uneven terrain. I have found that many boots show their weakness while hiking down long, steep trails in wet weather. This boot excelled in those conditions, however, providing plenty of stability and traction. You get what you pay for, and I feel that I got my moneys worth when I purchased these. Seeing how much I like these boots, my wife now wants a pair. I plan to get her some for her next birthday. What more can I say!?!?
July 17, 2010
