Perfect blend of hiker and logger style boots.
I've been looking for something lightweight, supportive and comfortable to replace both my White's Smokejumpers and Scarpa Fuego boots. I've never been fully comfortable with either style, but I like certain attributes of both. In my opinion the Kenetreks are the perfect blend of the two styles.The White's and Scarpas are both big, heavy boots while the Kenetreks feel noticeably lighter and less clunky than the others. The White's have a tall logger style heal while the Fuegos are more flat...both have their advantages depending on the terrain you're in. The Kenetreks have a heal height that's right in between and appropriate for just about any country you might be in. Even the overall height of these boots is right between the shorter height of the Fuego and the taller height of the Smokejumpers. Despite being shorter and lighter than the Smokejumpers these provide more support throughout the entire boot. In addition to being more supportive the also provide more protection higher up on your leg compared to the Scarpas. In other words, these are "just right" in a lot of ways.Comfort: Break-in seems like it will be a non-issue - something that both of the other boots required. I usually try to swap out insoles for something like Super Feet, but that was totally unnecessary with these boots. The included insoles have good support and felt best.Looks: This boot is somewhat a blend of logger and hiker style boots. I think the boots are understated and blend in nicely on the fire line.Durability: Kenetrek stands behind their boots so I'm unconcerned with longevity at this point. In fact I don't expect them to last as long as something like a White's Smokejumper and that's okay because they are lighter and more comfortable. Obviously if they fall apart prematurely I'll update the review. One note - the laces seem a little thin and I replaced them with a thicker diameter Kevlar lace (probably unnecessary but I prefer Pro Tough laces).Fit: True to size. Buy what you normally wear. There's a little wiggle room at the end of toe box so I'm not jamming up my toes on those descents. I have zero heel slippage. With use I expect these will wrap around my feet perfectly and have zero hotspots.