Lowa Lavaia Gore-Tex® Hi Winter Hiking Boots - Waterproof, Insulated (For Women)

These boots are comfortable and seem completely waterproof. They are also quite striking... a great boot! One thing I would mention is that they are not really suitable as 'hiking boots' as there is little arch support in the foot. I added an insole and they are much better.

ALSO - these really do run large - I normally take a 7 and the 6.5 is plenty roomy!

I am absolutely delighted with the Lowa Lavaia Hi boots. Since receiving them (in record time, I might add), I have barely taken them off. They are instantly warm on my feet, even with trouser socks, and do not overheat. STP is right on about ordering a half-size smaller; I've always been a solid size 10, but a 9-1/2 in these works perfectly. They are European-made, which is a huge plus in my book. I like the taller shaft height, and lacing them up is not a chore at all. It allows me to adjust the fit depending on the layers I'm wearing. I haven't even had to put on Yak Trax with these boots, the grippy sole is that solid and reliable- a first in my winter boot experience! Snow falls right out of the treads, so I don't track it indoors. The slimmer style makes for comfortable driving, too, unlike my big clunky pac boots. I was concerned about keeping the light-colored suede clean, but that hasn't been a problem. Water and slush just beads up on the surface and I can shake or wipe it off. I walk A LOT- upwards of 5 miles a day in town and on trails with my dog- and we have a very long winter, so good boots are key. These boots are the best performers I have owned so far. I hope they last a very long time!

I got these boots a few months ago, and we just started getting some real snow in the Denver area, so I've put my new boots to the test only recently. And woooeeeee, are they performing! Like some women have previously mentioned, putting these on and taking them off is a commitment. These are NOT slip-on-and-grab-the-firewood boots or -let-the-dogs-out boots. They are, however, amazing for a longer or all-day romp through snow, slush and ice. I have marched through calf-high powder snow, city slush, muddy puddles and all of the other snowy city hazards (as well as snowy hiking trails) with ease these last few weeks. My feet stay dry and warm, as do my legs. Like, toasty. The soles are grippy, and great for snowy walks. STP recommended I order a HALF SIZE DOWN, and boy am I glad I listened! I wear a true 9.5, and ordered a 9, and the 9 fits perfectly, even with thicker socks. I'm 5'7", and I have long, larger calves (thanks hiking!) and these boots fit my legs, even with a pair of skinny jeans tucked inside! Thanks Lowa! Seriously great boots, amazing quality, and I get compliments on them all the time. (Thank you Sierra Trading Post as well, especially for your amazing customer service!)

These are a pain to get on -you do need to loosen the laces all the way down the boot to get them on, and then again to get them off (but, luckily, they are then loosened for the next time you need to wear them). I live in the mountains outside Denver & don't bother with them when I have to run out quickly for firewood or other reasons. However, they are comfortable for all day wear and they keep my feet warm when it is really cold outside. I love these & would buy them again.

Ordered these boots for my granddaughter away at school up north. She hasn't used them for a winter yet but so far is very impressed. We ordered her normal size and they were a little big, but she feels heavy socks will take care of the extra room.