Select recommendations from experts who use this product

I wear these boots every single day

This is my second pair of Zamberlan's VIOZ model and this time I decided to get the the upgraded 1996 Lux GTX as opposed to the 996 GTX. I wanted the extra toe protection as this is where my 996's took a good beating. I was however hesitant because in the past I've had non-Zamberlan boots where the toe protection has become detached from the boot. I've now boot countless miles on these and I can say that everything is holding up as expected. These however, at least for me, do not break in immediately like I've read others comment. I feel like the best boots take a little time to break in and for me that's to be expected. I'm sending in my old 996's for a resole and they will live for many many more years and these 1996's will be the same. I've used them to hike, hunt, walk, drive, cross creeks, walk in snow, walk in mud, thin socks, thick socks, you name it I've done it. These are awesome boots.

I’ve owned a pair of these for a few years now. Admittedly haven't put much mileage on them (unfortunately, had a few big trips planned that ended up not happening), but they are still the most comfortable and supportive boots I’ve worn. Easiest boot I have ever had to take on and off, period. That’s including cowboy & rubber boots. Durability wise? I have every faith in them, but I’m pretty sure they’re still under 200 trail miles so, still new, and they look like it. When I finally get around to wearing them out I’ll be buying another pair.

Well Built Boot

These boots feel amazing. The construction quality is great and not like any other boots I have found in WA state. I have beeen looking for a good quality all leather mountain boot ever since my 2006 purchased REI leather boots wore out. There aren't many out there... ASOLO has some but the reviews are paltry. These boots are exactly what I have been looking for. Perfect for WA mountaineering through all seasons except the worst of winter at high elevation. The books feel and look great, they have a moderately stiff shank and I highly recommend.

Durable and comfortable boots

I hike in these boots almost daily for work, and then hike / backpack / hunt in them pretty much every weekend during the spring summer and fall. These boots are extremely durable, particularly for how comfortable they are right out of the box. They required essentially no break-in period, unlike some of my other full leather boots. With that said, they do not have soles that are as stiff as those boots, and don't have quite as much ankle support. That makes them great all around boots for fairly heavy-duty hiking and backpacking, but not exactly the boot I use when I'm going to spend all day in extremely steep rocky terrain, or if I am going to be packing extremely heavy loads off trail.

Simply Amazing

These are the best boots I’ve ever worn. I am sitting in front of my campfire as I write this after a full day of hiking. My feet, ankles, and knees have zero pain. The boots hug your feet and ankles, offer stiffness and support where needed and flex like they’re an extension of your foot. The rubber toe guard and glove leather lined collar is a welcome upgrade over the regular Viox model. The leather is thick and oozes Italian quality. It took me a few days of wearing them around the house and out for short errands to break them in. They already feel like an old friend and I look forward to many more adventures with these on my feet. If I had to give a criticism it would be that the sole is a bit slippery on wet rock. Other than that, they’re perfect.

Great Hiking Boots

Zamberlan boots are just fantastic. These are great hikers. Little break in, tough as nails, and good looking to boot (no pun intended). If you have really wide feet, these may not be for you. But, if you are a typical "D", these will be just fine. When you first try them on, the spacing in the toe box may feel a bit narrow. Not tight, just narrow. Once you start walking, they just mold around your feet. I know sizing varies, but for me, I wear the same size as my typical athletic shoe. Go to a store and try on a Zamberlan. I own two different styles and my size is the same for both. Once you find your size in one, you will most likely be good to go. Just know that Zamberlan is great about changing out sizes, but you will have to pay to return the wrong-sized boot.

The shoe initially lacks ankle mobility, and takes an incredibly long time to break in. That is all to say, it is an incredibly durable shoe, that is not very nimble, esp on trails containing wet exposed tree roots. If you want a shoe that will never wear out hiking open dry rocky trails, and you're not worried about weight, this is the best shoe for you!

New York State Forest Ranger

I am a New York State Forest Ranger. These boots have aided me on my search and rescue endeavors as well as my day to day law enforcement interactions. They are a versatile boot that has served me well. I have dealt with everything from pavement to the rugged terrain of the Adirondack mountains.

Outstanding boots that hold up to the daily rigor and abuse I put them through. Sizing feels relatively large compared to most US brands, but not unreasonably so. I condition them with Nikwax boot wax and they go right back to original quality and waterproofing, with a gorgeous shine.

Bomber boots!

I loved my gtx but the toe kick didn’t last. Got the RR this time. Super comfortable. Time will tell on whether they last longer but after the first few months, they are solid!

Amazing Italian Craftsmanship

Excellent fit. Very nicely constructed. I have been wearing a size 11 in other brands and Zamberlan lists "45" as a 10.5. These boots definitely require a break in period. Overall, this is my favorite purchase on Expertvoice!

Great support

Very good support for backpacking, durable and quality material, however; takes time to break in and could be painful initially. I ended up using boot "stretcher" which helped!