My Asolo Stynger boots are the best pair of hiking boots I’ve ever owned, and by far the most comfortable.
I’ve worn them on rugged terrain: in snow, rain, sand, and mud, and they’re still going strong! Because the upper of the boot is constructed of a mix of synthetic materials and leather, they are lighter than most backpacking boots that are full leather. Plus, the shank is less stiff than some other boots, which is perfect for moderate hikes and backpacking trips.
The toe and heel are reinforced with rubber, which I have found to be helpful when hiking in rocky areas.
Plus, the Gore-Tex keeps my feet dry (and I’ve crossed many streams, and been caught in more rain than I would have liked). On extremely hot summer days they can get warm, so I wear wicking wool or synthetic socks to avoid blisters.
I have worn mine to the top of Mt. Whitney (the highest peak in the continental 48 states!), on numerous backpacking trips, scrambling over rocks in Joshua Tree National Park, exploring Catalina Island, you name it!
My Asolo hiking boots have taken me to the tops of many mountains!
Do you recommend buying a 1/2 or 1 size larger?? I love Keen’s, but go through them every 6 months… Looking for a good boot to last a thousand miles at least.
Thanks
Yes, ALWAYS get 1/2 size larger so your feet have room to expand at altitude and your toes have space on the downhills… the last thing any hiking “lady” wants is black toenails
Have fun on the trails! Great question.
Thanks!! Do you put insoles in too?? I haven’t, but thought might be better than mole skin??
Yep, I use Superfeet is my Asolo Styngers and trail running shoes. Here’s more info I’ve written on insoles. Mole skin should be used to prevent blisters if you have hot spots on your feet. Insoles provide better support for your feet and therefore legs, and don’t do anything for blister prevention or blister treatment. Hope that helps!
No, do NOT buy a size larger than you need. Hiking boots are designed to accomodate thicker socks and swollen feet. Get your feet properly measured, especially if you haven’t for a while, and buy that size. Unless you have monstrously thick feet, this should be fine. Buying boots too large will cause you grief as your foot slides around in them, and you’ll find your stability will suffer for it.
Thanks for your comment, Jerry. In my experience I have found that if I buy boots that are my street shoe size, I don’t have enough space for my insoles, liner socks, and thick hiking socks. I agree that the key is to get measured and then try on the boots at a store using your own insoles and socks combo that you prefer.
My experience with these boots was horrible. But it may just be my feet. These boots gave me serious blisters; I use to wrap my feet in moleskin and duct tape. They also made the bottoms of my feet hurt really bad if I hiked more than 8 miles a day with a heavy pack.
Hi Sarah,
Thanks for your comment, and I’m really sorry to hear about your blisters! Were they heel blisters or on your toes? I’ve definitely done many 8 mile+ days with these and my feet love them. Hope you can find a style of hiking boots that works for your feet! I’d love to know what you’re wearing now.
Hi –
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I bought these boots, and I honestly do not like them, either!! I did not get blisters from them, but found them to have little to no traction… Perhaps we are hiking on different terrain. After doing more research, read these are great mountain hiking/climbing boots. I live in MN, and we have large hills w/ lots of mud/dirt… Saving for when I go to the mountains
I agree – 1/2 size larger on hiking shoes… Feet swell, and inserts are a must!! measuring at a store is prob the best idea…
Sarah –
Did you put in inserts? when I use inserts, I don’t need mole skin until 8-9th day of hiking trip. (hike 10-30 miles a day).
And, have you tried vaseline on feet before hiking??? Wow, the cheapest invention, and really helps prevent blisters!! (can be warm in the summer tho…) wear vaseline w/ smart wool socks = happy girl. (hope this helps!!)
Hi Activechic – I’m glad you didn’t get blisters, but sorry to hear they hurt! I always wear inserts, and wear liner socks plus outer socks… never had an issue with these boots. I wear them on rocky, mountainous terrain (especially in the California Sierra Nevada mountains). I’ve worn them in the desert, coastal mountains, and on muddy trails…
All of us just have different feet so it is important to keep trying different boots until you find the ones that work best for you.
Happy trails!