Merrell Moab Onset Mid Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boots for Men - Durable Construction & Hiking Shoes for Outdoor Jobs, Worksites & Rough Terrain

One fine day many years ago in an Eddie Bauer outlet store, I happened upon a single pair of shoes on a very messy clearance rack. I wasn't shoe shopping and didn't need them. But they looked like a fine pair of shoes and my wife was still looking at some things, so I tried them on. If my feet could have sung with joy, they would have. My love for Merrell shoes, a brand I'd never heard of before then, began that day. I have only worn a couple other brands since then and have regretted it when I have. So when this construction boot went on sale, I nabbed it immediately. I appreciate with Merrell shoes that I can pick up a size 12 shoe without even trying it on, and it's going to feel like it's supposed to. That has been the case for low, mid, and high ankle models, and applies here too. Now, these are work boots and there is a trade-off...less comfort for more durability and a reinforced toe. I do quite a bit of woodworking in my concrete-floor shop, so I've worn these for several hours at a time and a few days in a row. While I notice some small lack of comfort during those times, I can say that my feet don't feel tired or sore at the end. I've worn them during walks around our neighborhood...about a mile, sloping hills, asphalt and gravel. I notice that they have a heavier feel than my hiking shoes, but it's not bad. Again, a fair trade for the durability and protection. I have worn them for several days over the last few weeks in my shop and they still look new. They seem like they are going to last a good long time, and that would be my expectation based on every other pair of Merrells I've had. In case it's helpful for fit (and if you're near the same age as I am) I grew up in Reeboks and Nikes always felt way too narrow. I believe my feet are wider and flatter than average, and the Merrells feel very comfortable for me. I might put a cushion in these work boots to see if it bumps the comfort up. While they fit very nicely, they also feel like there would be plenty of room for a cushion if I re-do the laces. Very happy with these boots, and I would recommend them to anyone.