Three years ago I was in your shoes (well, not literally, but in reality I was wearing Rocky Stalkers). The backpack weighed 63 lbs loaded and within 3 miles on a remote trail I knew that upon my return to civilization I would get appropriate footwear. My trail companion suggested Vasque, but I have wide feet and these boots were not for me. I purchased LL Bean Leather Cresta Hikers. These boots have provided very good support with a remarkably easy break in period. Last winter I purchased Merrill Explorer III hiking boots. These also were very easy to break in and provide excellent support, with better traction on ice and snow than the Cresta Hikers. However, the leather is thicker and capable of taking more trail abuse on the Cresta Hikers, standing up to scree and rocks better. Please note that the Merrills have not broken down, but they do scuff and cut more easily than the Hikers. I walk about 200 miles per year, year round, with an 85 lb exercise load, and both boots have held up. Most of this is on backwoods trails, although, while the flies and mosquitos are active, I stay on paved trails. In addition, these boots also see about 40-60 miles of backwoods trekking each year. Both boots appear capable of giving me at least a couple more years of service.
