I purchased these shoes two weeks ago after hiking with Merrills for years.  The shoes were very comfortable when wearing them around the store and broke in quickly, that is why I gave them 2 stars.  I broke them in by walking in them for 20 miles or so.  I set out tfor a week long backpacking hiking trip with my new shoes.  I was disappointed from the start.  The ankle support on the trail is practically non existent.  The worst part of all is there is NO TRACTION what-so-ever!  I slipped on leaves, small rocks, ladge, leaves, and pretty much whatever I walked on besides blacktop.  When things were wet it made everything a million times worse!  It took me much longer because I had to be overly cautious walking so I wouldn't fall.  Even being extra careful I still fell 4 times.  I would never buy these shoes again, and if I would return them after putting 110 miles on them I would do it tomorrow!  Traction and lack of ankle support are huge problems with this boot.  Comfort and easy breaking in are the pros.