I'm currently using the Hanwag Alaska, which is more of a mountaineering type of boot, and although the sole (shank) is pretty rigid, that boot is very comfortable. I bought the Hanwag on sale for $100 off and it still cost me twice what this Lowa did, so if the Lowa turns out to be acceptable for me, I'll feel like I stole them at the price I paid. While not necessary for lots of hunting situations in Washington, the mountaineering type boots will work anywhere, and when I do find myself in the alpine areas of the Cascades, I'll have on the best boots for the job.