I am a retired wildland firefighter and wore Kenetreks in the field for many years. These boots are amazingly comfortable with no break in period. You take them out of the box, put them on your feet and go. I have hiked so many miles throughout the United States in the worst terrain and conditions in Kenetreks .They are incredibly durable and can take all types of abuse. In my current career change I tried to use top brand name work boots that were less expensive, around the $300.00 to $350.00 price range. I would not get six months of use out of those boots. The soles and seams would literally fall apart. I currently wear my Kenetreks 14 to 16 hours a day in rough terrain, snow, mud, on concrete and asphalt, you name it. On my days off I am hiking, hunting and fishing in my boots through out the Eastern Sierra. My feet, knees and back are much happier in these boots. I cannot say enough praises about them. As long as Kenetrek produces a quality product I will be a loyal customer.