“This is my second pair, and I'm just as happy with them as I've been with my long-time favorites. I've worn these almost daily in the three months since I bought them in December, and they have been perfect for *all* the weather I've experienced--which has included rain, sleet, snow, and ice, and great temperature fluctuations! I even wore them a few times while clearing the driveway in very cold temps (though I wore actual snow boots when the snow accumuation was significant.) I've also worn them for "easy" hikes and long walks, but will wear more supportive boots for hardcore hiking.
I know that some people find that these boots rub; where they rub is different for everyone, probably tied to fit and how your foot and ankle are shaped. I didn't know how that would turn out for me, because my first pair of Blundstone 550s were previouly owned by a friend and already broken-in. This time, I found out pretty quickly that the stiff leather around the ankles called for special attention. Otherwise, they fit exactly like my old boots. Nowhere did they rub or bind or pinch, but the stiffness of the leather at the top of the ankle was notable.
So, I conditioned the leather around the front and back where the tabs attach, wore very thick woolen socks and used hydrocolloid blister bandages where the boot would rub my skin as a preventative measure. Using this method and wearing the boots around my house daily, I gradually increased the time I wore them and was able to start wearing my boots normally, outside of the house, after about 2 weeks (to protect my ankles I still wore the blister bandages.) Overall, I'd say the boots were completely broken-in and as comfortable and my old pair in about a month. For me, the process was worth it; I had the time and I already knew that once broken-in, these would the most ubiquitous footwear I own.”
“These boots are the best. They take a few days to break in, but once broken in, they are my go-to work/casual/yard/dress boot and will last for years of abuse. True to size if you follow the directions when ordering.”
“I love these boots. They are dressy, but also rugged. I am able to wear them to the barn. Then clean them up and wear them out to dinner. I will be buying another pair!”
“This is my second pair of these boots - they are really great for the studio. I am a potter and these certainly withstand the daily abuse that the studio offers. Firing hot kilns, splashing clay and glaze on them, and lots of standing, they accept whatever it is that you bring to them. They clean off easily with the broad leather surfaces and with a bit of oil are good as new. However, over time the insoles blow out so I have upgraded to some superfeet! My first pair is in pretty rough shape but is perfect for the grimy work, while my new pair act as my daily shoes for my errands and daily studio work. Easy on, easy off. :)”
