I haven’t worn these boots on the trail yet, so I can’t speak to long-term performance. That said, I’m posting this review because I searched extensively for a hiking boot with a wide, natural forefoot and solid ankle support, and this was the best option I found.

After a four-day backpacking trip, my wide right foot (with a big-toe bunion) developed blisters from the tight fit of my previous boots (Lowa Renegade). As a result, I ordered nine pairs of hiking boots to try - Hanwag, Zamberlan, Asolo, Keen, and Merrell - in hopes of finding a better fit.

I’m sharing these details in case they help someone else, as finding boots that accommodate my feet has been very difficult. For reference, I wore the Lowa Renegades in an 8.5 wide. I ordered both the 8 and 8.5 in the Lady Comfort Fit Hiker and ultimately kept the 8.5. The forefoot is wider than the Lowa, and the boot runs slightly longer overall.

As an aside, I also wear the Altra Lone Peak trail runners, which offer even more toe room. However, they haven’t proven waterproof as advertised, and I tend to roll my ankle in them on longer hikes - so I don’t think the boot version would meet my needs.

I look forward to putting some miles on these Meindls - fingers crossed that I've found a boot I can keep coming back to!

This was a big plunge, but worth it! These boots are extremely comfortable. So far I've only hiked a maximum of 6 miles in them and my feet were still very happy at the end. I've done a number of road walks, and forest paths as well. I live in New Hampshire, so our mountains are filled with sharp edged granite and long smooth sections of potentially slippery granite slabs. So far so good. I typically wear size 10 wide (women's). I ordered size 10 women's and they are a tiny bit too big, but I believe the 9.5 would be a bit too short. That's a conundrum. The cork insoles are wonderful but I need a tad more arch. I'm working on that!