Zamberlan 1996
Ok first impressions. I’m an older elk and mule deer hunter looking to replace my 15 year old Cabela’s guide boots and preparing for a 10 day hunt in BC this fall.The fit and finish of these boots are impeckable. The soles are a little stiffer than I exspected. Went on a three mile walk this morning fit was great I have one foot bigger than the other and have wide feet. Toe box had plenty of room and no movement in the heel box which is a must. The heel is higher than I’m used to and my feet were a little crampy in my arches initially but settle out after about a mile traction is fantastic and have total confidence boots will perform well in scramble situations with a heavy pack. Adequate ancle support for heavy backpack loads but some pepole might want a slightly hier boot if you do a lot of water crossings.I’ll update after a few more break in walks with my pack on but so far these look to be great boots.Soo far soo good broke in pretty easy been walking with 25lb pack about three miles a day now. Performing well did need to oil the leather right awayI would recommend these boots if your a long trip Hunter backpacker. If your a weekend warrior these boots may be a little to stiff for you.
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Amazon Customer
November 11, 2022
True to size all arounder
This is my initial review and I will update once I have done everything in these boots I bought them for. Purpose; I bought these to work on my property, use chainsaw, chop wood, hike around, snowshoe, wear on overland trips, mountain living stuff. I wanted a good 3-4 season boot that I could rough up a bit but that wouldn’t be so heavy that I couldn’t enjoy a decent hike. I’ve spent thousands of $ on footwear in recent years including dress boots, fly fishing boots, snowboard boots, cycling, golf shoes, you name it.. I do it and have a shoe for it. These are incredibly well built and aesthetically pleasing. These are NOT an urban hipster boot “I wanna look mountain person” boot. These boots are for people who really need a strong durable weatherproof boot with a grippy sole, some toe protection, and confidence in mountainous terrain. They aren’t crazy light or zero drop. They have chunky grippy soles. If you’re trying to look rugged on sidewalks, go buy some lightweight danners or knock offs. These are pretty chunky boots but excellent for snow, dirt, and rooted/rocky terrain. Think also, getting out of your car or truck in the snow to put chains on or the type of boot you’d want on if you got lost in wilderness. I took it at as a good sign that several employees at REI also said they love this boot. I bought the 1996 toe cap version cuz I just wore out a pair of leather/goretex danner boots that didn’t have a toe cap or structured sole. For as much money as these are, I’m pleased they come with 2 sets of laces. Good outsdoorsman always carry an extra set of laces in vehicle or backpack. Lastly, to compare… I tried on several mountaineering brands at REI including Asolo, Scarpa, etc… these zamberlins were the most comfortable and didn’t give me that weird sharp pain in top of my foot when bending down. My hunch is these need a thorough break in period, and need proper leather care as you use them. I’m always a size 10 and size 10 fits great great. 10.5 was too roomy even for thicker socks. I’m very glad I discovered these, and hoping they will last me at least 5 years. I will update review after winter season.Short term Update; excellent traction in snow and hiking over slippery rocks. Didn’t take long to break in. Only 1 hot spot around ankle that went away after more use. Thin or thick wool sock does fine. Feet stayed toasty and warm in freezing temps. Rubber toe cap is nice for work in yard, or wedging feel into tight spots climbing over rocks. Went in water and slush up to 3-4” deep, feel stayed completely dry, no leaks. Good support for lifting stuff or moving logs/firewood/cut down trees. Feels great laced up tight around ankles doing work, and less tight for hikes.
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Roberto
November 10, 2025
Best boots
Best boots I've ever had. Immediately comfortable. Look pretty good once you have them on too. Get a lot of compliments.
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I would buy again.
At today’s footwear prices this is a fair value. Made in Italy one can trust the sizing chart/recommendation. The boot is well-constructed and will last much longer than Keene, Oboz, or Merrell (sp?) footwear. It takes a considerable amount of break-in time where I was using moleskin on my heels.
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Best All Terrain Boot
Zamberlan 1996 Vioz Lux GTR, size 12. Zamberlan quality, craftsmanship, perfect fit and finish is attractive. Zamberlan interior design continues. The replaceable insoles are adequate. Two sets of shoe laces, flat & round are a nice touch. Zamberlan out of the box requires zero break-in. The vibram soles are grippy and flexible in wet, dry, rocky, and lightly snow covered terrain. Breathable waxed leather is very flexible. The ankle liner material is soft and smooth. The boot weight and foot support are outstanding, zero complaints. Definitely recommend and will purchase additional items from Amazon.com and Zamberlan.
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Richard L. Dooley Jr.
February 16, 2019
Quality boot.
I use these boots for work and not hiking. I do construction work, so I’m on my feet all day. These boots are made very well, that’s for sure. I’m a size 13 and they fit and feel perfect from the very first day. This is actually my third pair. I wear them year round. Not too hot in summer and not too cold in winter with some good socks. They stay waterproof for quite some time as well. The only downside is that the soles wear rather quick, but with me, it’s because I wear them every day of the work week.I would still highly recommend these boots. Very well made and very comfortable.I’m fortunate enough at the time to be able to spend the $345 on the boots. They seem pricey, but I honestly think they’re worth the cost.I used to get the 996, but the 1996 are definitely a step up. The rubber rand really helps protecting the boot.
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