HI-TECTec Storm Waterproof Walking Boot Mens Boots

Having received these I gave them a spray with 'Nikwax Fabric and Leather Spray' which waterproofs suede and man made materials well. You have to apply it after making the outer of the boot *damp* so that the spray seals properly.I've found these to be a great little boot: They have a lightweight but strong construction which is as waterproof as promised (albeit I *did* use Nikwax).Although lightweight they have some very thick, but breathable padding -great for cold weather yet ventilated enough to prevent overheating.They offer great foot support with a nice shape under the arch, a toebox that isnt too narrow and good ankle support. They have an ergonomic feel. The soles are grippy and have a nice aggressive tread. As well as that, the soles are thick and high, keeping you a decent height above the ground when walking over waterlogged areas.The only thing I can think of with the negative reviews is if people are using them for everyday wear and constantly getting them wet and then drying them out without applying waterproofing spray occasionally? I cant see how else you could manage to damage these boots within a matter of months?Considering the low price I cant think of a hiking boot that beats them. Remember that these arent even a third of the price of premium boots which can start at £150.Incidentally if you want a premium boot that cant be beaten and don't mind paying more I wholeheartedly recommend the hi tec 'Ravine' or 'Ravine Lite'. They're reasonably priced here on Amazon. The 'Ravines' have near indestructible soles, the boots are solid full grain leather and if occasionally waxed (Grangers Wax is a great example) they pretty much last forever. Given I have owned Merrell, Salomon and La-Sportiva boots but Ravine are still my favourite it says a lot.

The boots are good quality for the price ,they fit well and are very light , the soles are good and grip well on wet surfaces. These are my second pair of these boots , the first pair are still in use and after a year are still useable . I was going to try a more expensive brand but why take the chance when the originals have been so good . They have proven to be comfortable and well insulated, not too hot in the summer and warm in the winter .Edit...This is now the third pair of these boots , they replace the previous pair that have been in daily use . The boots are not waterproof but you have to consider the price you are paying .In winter, when the dog walks are muddy for most of the time ,I have a pair of expensive boots that are completely water tight and very sturdy but that performance comes at a price (£300) so it would be unfair to expect that degree of performance for a boot at this price . These boots are light and comfortable, they last about a year for me with daily use of about three miles over rough terrain . They look smart and do the job very well . The previous pairs have been UK size 10 , but this time I have gone for the wide fitting in size 9 . They fit well and are comfortable... you just have less colour choice .

### Update 3 ###OK, several years ago I reviewed 'another variant' of these boots which after a promising start failed leaking badly after 2 months and 250-300 km moderate use. I bought this 'newer model' in November without realising that they were a 'variant' of the model I had previously tried, and it appears that improvements have been made since my initial experience.So having bought this newer pair, I have now covered nearly 900km (according to my Garmin device records) on varying terrain and surfaces, including a month walking over North Harris & Lewis. So that's 875km in 5 months. Again, they fitted me well and to date remain comfortable & waterproof, while the soles remain grippy and hard wearing. Recently, I have noticed signs of the sole starting to separate from the uppers ** slightly ** , and in the same location as the previous pair. However this is not nearly as bad as the earlier model, especially given the additional hard milage I have put on this pair.I bought this newer pair on special offer at just under £40 and for that money I have no complaints this time around. In fact, I've just bought a second pair which says everything?So a thumbs up and a solid 4 stars this time round. 👍### Update 2 ###Finally found out where the water is coming in and it's the same on both boots - the sole is coming away from the uppers on the outside at the front of each boot. VERY disappointed after less than 2 months and around 250-300 km. They are really comfortable boots which makes it all the more galling.Rating amended accordingly & will contact supplier &/or HiTec to see what their view is.## Update ##Over a month later at an average of 10km/day and I can say these are just as comfortable and wearing well EXCEPT they are NOT waterproof.At best I would describe them as water resistant but it doesn't take much for your feet to get soaked. Other than that they are no less comfortable to walk in but less than 10 minutes on short wet grass is all it takes.Frustrating because other than that they are holding up well.# Original review #They fit me well and I have plenty of toe room. So far, they are confortable and appear to be waterproof as claimed. For the money I have no complaints whatsoever and am considering getting a second pair.