For good deals on hiking boots/tennis shoes I shop Big 5 every few months despite membership at REI for a long time.  \n\nI first learned about Hi-TEC boots while some of the AZ Yelpers were in kindergarten.  I made a big mistake of hiking in work boots on my first ten mile coastal hike with stream crossings followed by climbing a ridge on a fire road near Malibu. I also used cheap cotton socks which didn't help the situation either.  I had to nurse quarter size blisters for several months.  In the interim I learned about the necessity for good fitting hiking boots and hiking socks.\n\nOn my next hike I had purchased my first pair of Hi-TEC hiking boots and padded socks.  Since then both light and heavy duty boots but still like Hi-TECs for short to medium hikes.  Three years ago I learned Big 5 stocked Hi-TECs and seemed to put them on sale fairly often.  I have worn out two pairs but at half the price or less than REI it is not worth my trouble or time and now gas to go to REI.  \n\nI just purchased two pairs of Hi-TEC El Dorados so should be set for several more years.   Happy Hiking...\n\nHi-TEC Update:  The El Dorado model has superior ease in \"sliding\" my foot in and out plus \"tie ability\" with a raised  loop and hook vs. my oldest Quantum model with a loop and my more recent Mckenzie with double hooks.  The Quantum, although more colorful, is being retired and I hope it doesn't end up in Canadian waters with a foot in it... (especially my foot)....