A potentially misleading description in the “Product Features” is that they’re described as having “full grain embossed” leather uppers. According to the International Union of Leather Technologists and Chemists Societies web site, full grain leather means “Leather bearing the original grain surface as exposed by removal of the epidermis and with none of the surface removed by buffing, snuffing or splitting. ”

They don’t mean full grain, embossed leather. It would be more accurately described as light weight leather that has been embossed to simulate the appearance of full grain leather.

Pros:

1. Light weight, warm, waterproof
2. Amost as comfortable as a pair of slippers
3. The wide toebox accomodates wide feet
3. Low profile “herringbone” tread is great for snowshoeing and doesn’t accumulate snow
4. Well stitched (at least my pair was)

Cons:

1. Compared to my old Sorels, the toe box has a slightly lower “ceiling,” which results in a more snug fit and makes it difficult to reinsert the felt liner–at least when the boots are new. This is probably a minor point.
2. The boots don’t provide much cushioning or foot support, and so may not be suitable for extended use for people who need extra support.
3. The flap/loop that holds the bottom of the bootlace will trap snow and moisture, providing an entry point for moisture once the waterproofing breaks down. This is a design flaw.
4. The rubber bottoms are susceptible to punctures and will not be as durable as some winter boots. This is the tradeoff you get for comfort and flexibility.

Overall, this is a good light use snow boot (although some people wear them all day long). They work well with snowshoes and are suitable for light winter hiking, running errands, working in the yard, etc. Due to their lack of support and cushioning and low breathability, they are less suitable for extended use or hiking on bare ground.

Notes:

My pair was true to size. I wear a 10 1/2 EE but the 11D’s fit well.
The -40F rating is optimistic for long term exposure. These aren’t expedition boots.

Rating: 4 / 5

I agree with others who have stated that they are comfortable like slippers but not especially supportive. Better for milling around camp than hiking.

I’ve used them on camping trips down to -15F with no issues. I was probably wearing a single pair of good wool socks with them. I haven’t had an opportunity to test them down to the rated temperature but I have no reason to think they wouldn’t do ok. It depends on so many other factors anyways, activity levels, what else you’re wearing, your own metabolism and circulation etc.

Anyways I like the boots, they are easy to get into, easy to lace up with gloves on, and I feel like I’m prepared for any cold I might experience anywhere in NY where I live. They are overkill almost all the time downstate, but in the Adirondacks they’re just what the doctor ordered. . .
Rating: 5 / 5