This is everything I expected it to be and more. As a novice boot shopper, I did some research and landed among high-end "buy once cry once" territory. Having only purchased mid-grade hiking boots like Oboz and Merrel, I was blown away by these han wags. The fit, feel and finish are outstanding, and the stiffness is perfect for a boot I intend to use for just about everything from hiking to hunting to work. I hope they last me years.