Scarpa Men's Zen Pro Mid GTX Hiking Boot

PRIOR PURCHASEI purchased the low-cut version of this boot 10 years ago (see image), and they're still going strong. I continue to prefer that pair of shoes to nearly identical models purchased from Asolo and Patagonia. The fit, comfort, and durability of the low-cut version made buying the above-the-ankle boot version an obvious choice. I got tired of wearing Limmer Mountaineering Boots for day hikes and was looking for something lighter but with a good measure of protection. (Note: I did look at other brands including Asolo but settled on the Scarpa for the reasons noted above.)FITI wear a US size 12medium shoe across the board (dress, casual, athletic) and EU 45 fits perfectly. The toe is tapered a bit so if you need a wide toe-box (e.g., you have a EE width foot) this might not be the right shoe for you.STIFFNESSThe sole is stiff enough that walking on rough surfaces, rocky trails, etc. is comfortable, but the boots and sole are flexible enough in all the right places so that break-in time is minimal to non-existent. The suede upper is supple which contributes to the ease of break-in.SOLEThe Vibram sole is kinda "sticky" - it doesn't slip on surfaces but isn't sticky to the touch. (NOTE: The tread of the new boot is different (and better) than the low-cut model.INSOLEMy only complaint with the low-cut model was the insole. While it offered great support, the cloth covering was a bit rough. The recently purchased above-the-ankle boot sports an insole that has the same support and cushioning but with a much nicer cloth surface.UPPERSThe gusseted tongued Gore-tex lining keeps water out (unless you submerge the boot fully). The upper is reinforced enough that my foot stays on top of the sole and doesn't slide around inside the boot. And as the photo of my old low-cut model shows, the boot has the same construction and I expect the uppers to hold up equally well.CONCLUSIONI live in a rural town in the mountains of Colorado. These boots are comfortable, durable, and suitable for both day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips. I wouldn't use them for mountaineering, but they are perfect for my local trails.

I love these shoes in an unholy way! I ordered them shortly before we went to the U.K. because I wanted one pair of shoes that would protect my feet since I'm diabetic and would be comfortable and stable on all terrain.The reviews that said zero break-in time needed were absolutely accurate! The padded tongue and way-into-the-toe lacing make for an EXTREMELY comfortable fit. The shape of the upper and sole and the way they meet make a very stable platform. These Scarpas are light enough to never slow you down and still offer plenty of protection on the toe. My feet never slipped in the heel of the shoe like you will in some hiking boots. We walked on Welsh mountains, castle ruins, rocky beaches, and London streets and the Scarpas NEVER let me down! I doubt I'll ever buy another brand of shoe for actual hiking/walking/climbing.

Don't buy this boots, they aren't comfortable at all.

Third pair is a charm.After trying Oboz and Danner with little success I landed on these. So happy I did. I absolutely love the look and feel of these and the rubber style toe protection is what I have been looking for.I think when the time comes for me to replace my low top shows that I use for bike rides and walks, I'll be getting a pair of these in low style.I did order a half size bigger than usual and i have ti say they fit pretty true to size. I could ding them for running a little too tight, but I think after a little longer of wearing i'd come to realize I could have gotten away with an 11 instead of the 11.5.My only ding on them are the laces. Not sure if it's my wide foot or not, but the laces could be longer for me. I have just enough room to tie them with very tiny loops making for not room for error when tying them. Bu that really isn't a huge issue either.Very happy indeed.

I'm a roadside photo troll and move lots of gear and supplies around the Santa Monica mountains. These boots work well on the bike, and provide plenty of support for my feet when lugging equipment and supplies around. And after a full day on the go, my dogs still feel fresh (feel, not smell).Sizing seems about right, though the toe box is so stiff I am not sure where my toe ends or how much room is left. Most reviews say the boot is comfortable right out of the box. I concur, but am dealing with one hot spot just above my ankle bone on the inside of my left foot. It seemed a lot worse with the boots loose, lounging around the house, than it did when I had the boots cinched down during my first day wearing them on the job. The insoles have minimal if any cushioning. I am not sure if I like that yet, but new insoles are but a click away if I opt for more cushion and less 'feel'.Thr quality of construction and materials appears top notch: no loose threads or other visual faults. The suede uppers absorb a lot of dirt and dust.I'm ready to change my rating to 5 stars once the hot spot disappears.