New Balance BM1000BK

Waterproof, insulated, and supportive.

These boots were surprisingly comfortable right out of the box. The treated suede and nylon mesh uppers are light and supportive, and a little higher on the ankle, and they work! With 200 grams of insulation and a proprietary waterproof membrane your feet stay warm and dry. The cushion midsoles with memory foam insoles are perfectly paired—like walking on a cloud. The grippy outer sole makes this a very usable yet comfortable cold weather boot, even on ice covered rocky terrain or snow covered trails. This is now my go-to winter boot, replacing a much more expensive German made brand.

I bought the E width to accommodate heavier socks for cold weather winter hikes. The boot fits a lot like a cross training sneaker, but a quick tug on the laces snugs in for a perfect fit. I've read a few complaints about the "speed lace" hooks pulling off the boot...perhaps theirs were an early production that has been corrected—mine are solid and riveted to the upper. The lowest set actually has a tiny pulley in each hook, so lacing is a breeze...even in winter clothing/gear.

The one concern I have is the nylon shank. I didn't have any problems or discomfort, but it could offer a little better arch support and lateral movement.

Background

Great boot! Used these on my "first hike" on 1/1/2020.