UKH

Hi Everyone,

Let me start by saying im not a Hill Climber, or a mountaineer or long distance walker but I am looking for a pair of boots that would do for someone versed in this hobby.

You see I walk a long distance almost daily (about 6 ~ 10 miles) for uni and try to go everywhere on foot when I can. I'm 26, a large build of 6'4 and about 19st so quite a big lad, and I go through shoes like no ones business.

The soles give out in under 3 months and I'm looking for another pair again. I've been buying what you would consider "cheap" boots in the £50 range from brands such as Karrimor, Wenger etc. but they simply don't last as long as I would like.

With winter coming im looking for a pair to couple with some kahtoola microspikes for grip for really bad days (had a bad fall a few years back and it killed my confidence on the ice, and the areas I have to walk are HORRIBLE for black ice)

Can you please recommend me some boots that are:

1) Good Traction
2) Stylish , so I can wear them as normal street-wear
3) Possibly re-solable (is that even a word?)
4) Good warranty if possible (not like Wenger who I have to pay to look at the boots)

I know its a lot to ask, but im sure someone on here had had issues similar to mine

thanks everyone

In reply to NXSmiggy: I'd say a full grain leather upper should last a good few years. Most modern boots can be re-soled (check out Lancashire shoe repairs). I'd take a look at Scarpa, Meindl, Asolo, HanWag et al but be prepared to spend over £150 for anything with a full leather upper.

In reply to NXSmiggy: Lowa Rnegade is a good looking boot that would go as well with a pair of jeans as it would a pair of walking trousers. A well made and comfortable boot (ie flexible, soft leather). Should be able to resole, but worth double checking.

http://www.lowa.co.uk/product_detail/03___All_Terrain_Footwear/Renegade_GTX...

In reply to NXSmiggy: Have a look at alberg.com Their boots are of an absolutely amazing quality and definitely very durable.

In reply to NXSmiggy: The Zamberlan Sella, Latemar or Tofane... All fit the description of your requirements.

http://www.zamberlanusa.com/catalog/?lang=en&pg=prod&idprod=187&...

(Or similar, Altberg do something close, or the Zamberlan Expert Ibex if you want really burly)

The Sellas have been my field boots and general hiking boot for two years, they have a full leather internal lining so the gore-tex membrane is well protected. The outer is tough and very durable, all it requires is a light coating of Grangers g-wax or similar and you are good to go. They have a welted sole which is stitch down, can be resoled at any good shoe repair specialist or sent back to Zamberlan for some real loving. The traditional design is still the best in terms of all use boots, as they are much easier to maintain, last longer and look good. Everyone looks atw*t in bright green boots when there is no snow, plus the soles on mountain boots will wear out incredibly quickly.

Oh, and whilst the boots mentioned aren't cheap by any means you do get what you pay for!