for light hikers I really tried to like Merrell boots, but after 3 pairs I've decided I don't. The just don't seem to fit me well or stand up to tough weather. The last pair was the last straw as I got drenched in a downpour hiking in Costa Rica. After letting them dry out for two days, they literally shrunk a size and I could not get them on my feet. Straight in the garbage they went.

Since that time I've had fantastic luck with two pair of solomon's. They seem to be an excellent product and are really comfortable to walk in. I've also done two Canadian winters in a pair of Columbia hikers that have been as warm as winter boots, waterproof and almost as light as running shoes.

While I'm not a serious hiker, I put a minimum of an 1 1/2 hours per day walking my dog through trails and through the neighbourhood.