I've tried hiking boots from virtually every manufacturer but these are by far my favorites. I hike a lot in the Tahoe area where there is a great deal of granite and loose rock. These boots are the most stable with the best grip of any that I have ever owned. They are also very light weight and extremely comfortable. They feel a little odd at first because of the wrapped sole design, but once you get used to it, you really appreciate the traction those soles provide.