I can say confidently they did a great for my rim-to-rim hike in the grand canyon, but you should know shoe opinions are exceptionally subjective. - Columbia PeakFreak XCRSN Mid OutDry Hiking Shoe - Mens

I ordered literally a dozen pairs of hiking boots through Campsaver and also STP websites so that I could find an ideal pair. It really took that many and only one or two were suitable. The first major obstacle was that almost all of the 6-7 different manufacturers I tried only offer whole-number sizes above 12... As if those of us who need 12+ have feet that only grow by integer size increments - c'mon!! I fall squarely between 12 and 13, so not having a 12.5 meant compromises. With so many other boots, the 12 was too tight, either squeezing my toes together or my toes would impact the front. With size 13, they would slide around the inside or I would have to tighten them way too much and, in any case, it's a lot of extra bulk/weight on my feet for no use.

The Columbia PeakFreak was one of two exceptions where the 12 was a suitable size (the other was a Euro-size 46 Zamberlan). I broke these in by just wearing them around the house and taking a couple walks around the neighborhood. My immediate impression is that they are SUPER comfortable and cushioned. Like all boots, your feet are going to be a little more hot than with light street shoes, but I didn't notice excessive heat buildup.

The big trial for these, and the reason I bought them, was a 24-mile rim-to-rim hike in the Grand Canyon I successfully completed last weekend. I tightened them up pretty snug, especially for the descent, and did not sense slippage inside. I wore medium-weight synth/wool socks. After 10.5 hours of hiking, though all my other muscles and joints ached, I can say that I did not have a single blister or hot-spot with these shoes. I am VERY satisfied with their fit, comfort, and durability. They are flexible enough that I had no hint of cramping in my arches, which has happened before in stiff boots. The tread is still in great shape. They kept water out of some shallow (

This review was written in the old system and had content requirements that are different than reviews written today.