Second pair of merrells. - Merrell Pulsate Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot - Mens

This is my second pair of Merrells, after buying a pair of All Out Blaze hiking shoes earlier in the year. I absolutely love the All Out Blaze. Wore them on a 50 mile hike in the Wyoming wilderness w/ no break-in and no blisters. I normally wear a 9.5 and that's what these are. They (the AOB) are a tad too short, but it's only noticeable going downhill. However, based on other's comments about sizing for the Pulsate, I got this pair of Pulsate in 9.5 as well and the size is perfect. They are not nearly as flexible as the All Out Blaze, but they do seem to be breaking in adequately. I haven't worn them on the trail yet, but just out and about, they seem okay. They are stiff and somewhat uncomfortable around the ankle when I first put them on, but I quickly forget about that and no hot spots have developed yet. Again, I haven't worn them on the trail yet, but I think I'll like them in the long run. It's just not the same "these are perfect" experience I had with the All Out Blaze.

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