Winter/Snow Conditions Hiking Boot Replacements for My Old Merrells

Have not test driven them yet, anyone have them and have an opinion on them? I think they’ll serve me just fine, the try on seems comfy and super sturdy, and they have all the specs I’m looking for (although I’m surprised at the lack of options from major brands in this specific area of boot).

and some recent snowy hike pics just for funzies—love that Smartwool ball cap so much for cold but sunny days :ok_hand:, <30° F here, 9 mile hike

Just got a pair of these a few weeks ago and one of the upper lace loops broke the third time I wore them. The fit of Keen boots is great, but the quality seems to be lacking.

Tallis said:
Just got a pair of these a few weeks ago and one of the upper lace loops broke the third time I wore them. The fit of Keen boots is great, but the quality seems to be lacking.

That’s disappointing to hear—will definitely report back on my experience.

Tallis said:
Just got a pair of these a few weeks ago and one of the upper lace loops broke the third time I wore them. The fit of Keen boots is great, but the quality seems to be lacking.

Did you try to return them, and if so, did they accept them back?

@Yan
I started the warranty process on Monday. The site says it takes 7 to 10 days, so I’ll see what happens. I think Keen is pretty good about upholding their warranty.

Tallis said:
@Yan
I started the warranty process on Monday. The site says it takes 7 to 10 days, so I’ll see what happens. I think Keen is pretty good about upholding their warranty.

That’s rough. I had a similar issue with Danner. Bought a pair of trail shoes with a rock plate that came loose after less than 20 miles of wear. They refused to exchange them, even though they had them in stock, because I bought them on sale. Ended up just getting a refund. I hope Keen treats you better; these boots are great for winter hikers when they hold up.

@Brenner
It’s sad to see a premium brand like Danner not standing behind their product. You’d think they’d value maintaining a good reputation over a few dollars.

Love my Keens, but you will need to swap out the insoles for something better.

Shane said:
Love my Keens, but you will need to swap out the insoles for something better.

Thanks for the tip! What issues did the original insoles cause you?

Yan said:

Shane said:
Love my Keens, but you will need to swap out the insoles for something better.

Thanks for the tip! What issues did the original insoles cause you?

They’re just cheap, providing no support.

@Shane
Got it, I’ll keep that in mind. Interestingly, I’ve never changed an insole before, despite years of running and hiking. Maybe this will be the first time I need to.

image

@Brenner
Great review, thanks! I debated between that color and the one I got, and now I’m second-guessing my choice. It looks good!

Yan said:
@Brenner
Great review, thanks! I debated between that color and the one I got, and now I’m second-guessing my choice. It looks good!

I wasn’t even looking for boots when I walked into the store; we were there for my wife to buy some. These caught my eye immediately because I loved the colors. I’m planning to buy a second pair to keep for when these wear out, assuming they survive the entire winter here in the UP. My wife ended up getting a different model of Keens and loves them too.

@Brenner
That’s exactly how I felt about my La Sportiva Nucleos. I’ve stocked up on a couple since they’re just summer boots, and I wish La Sportiva made a winter version. I’m looking forward to testing out these Keens in the snow here in Colorado!

I bought a pair of these a couple of years back and exchanged them three times before giving up. They were so narrow I couldn’t get them wide enough without causing my feet to slide around and get blistered, even with ‘W’ sizing. It’s a shame because they seemed perfect for winter otherwise.

@Vance
Interesting, I have such narrow feet that I was concerned these might be too wide for me, but it seems to fit just right. I’ll keep an eye out for any issues though!

You don’t seem too keen on them.

Bennet said:
You don’t seem too keen on them.

lol, nice pun!

My wife and I both have a pair, excellent boots.