HI-TEC Tec Storm Waterproof Walking Boot Mens Boots

I ordered my first pair of these shoes in December 2022. I have worn them every day since, but only recently have I started to experience delamination of the sole. That's two and a half years of wear. Almost everyday day. Now, walking boots, specifically for walking, aren't generally worn everyday. They are used for day hikes, camping trips, and as such, if maintained/waterproofed, can last many, many years. But I require wide fitting shoes. For work commutes, camping trips, and hiking. Two and a half years for daily use shoes? And for under £40? I think in that respect, they are an absolute bargain. Comfortable to wear, firm sole, and breathable. And very good in wet conditions. Very happy, and so I have bought a second pair in 2025. Yes, unless you are walking in the hills or on mud, the soles are are a bit hard, which means that wet city streets and ice can be a bit precarious. But still great value for money.

Having received these I gave them a spray with 'Nikwax Fabric and Leather Spray' which waterproofs suede and man made materials well. You have to apply it after making the outer of the boot *damp* so that the spray seals properly.I've found these to be a great little boot: They have a lightweight but strong construction which is as waterproof as promised (albeit I *did* use Nikwax).Although lightweight they have some very thick, but breathable padding -great for cold weather yet ventilated enough to prevent overheating.They offer great foot support with a nice shape under the arch, a toebox that isnt too narrow and good ankle support. They have an ergonomic feel. The soles are grippy and have a nice aggressive tread. As well as that, the soles are thick and high, keeping you a decent height above the ground when walking over waterlogged areas.The only thing I can think of with the negative reviews is if people are using them for everyday wear and constantly getting them wet and then drying them out without applying waterproofing spray occasionally? I cant see how else you could manage to damage these boots within a matter of months?Considering the low price I cant think of a hiking boot that beats them. Remember that these arent even a third of the price of premium boots which can start at £150.Incidentally if you want a premium boot that cant be beaten and don't mind paying more I wholeheartedly recommend the hi tec 'Ravine' or 'Ravine Lite'. They're reasonably priced here on Amazon. The 'Ravines' have near indestructible soles, the boots are solid full grain leather and if occasionally waxed (Grangers Wax is a great example) they pretty much last forever. Given I have owned Merrell, Salomon and La-Sportiva boots but Ravine are still my favourite it says a lot.

### Update 3 ###OK, several years ago I reviewed 'another variant' of these boots which after a promising start failed leaking badly after 2 months and 250-300 km moderate use. I bought this 'newer model' in November without realising that they were a 'variant' of the model I had previously tried, and it appears that improvements have been made since my initial experience.So having bought this newer pair, I have now covered nearly 900km (according to my Garmin device records) on varying terrain and surfaces, including a month walking over North Harris & Lewis. So that's 875km in 5 months. Again, they fitted me well and to date remain comfortable & waterproof, while the soles remain grippy and hard wearing. Recently, I have noticed signs of the sole starting to separate from the uppers ** slightly ** , and in the same location as the previous pair. However this is not nearly as bad as the earlier model, especially given the additional hard milage I have put on this pair.I bought this newer pair on special offer at just under £40 and for that money I have no complaints this time around. In fact, I've just bought a second pair which says everything?So a thumbs up and a solid 4 stars this time round. 👍### Update 2 ###Finally found out where the water is coming in and it's the same on both boots - the sole is coming away from the uppers on the outside at the front of each boot. VERY disappointed after less than 2 months and around 250-300 km. They are really comfortable boots which makes it all the more galling.Rating amended accordingly & will contact supplier &/or HiTec to see what their view is.## Update ##Over a month later at an average of 10km/day and I can say these are just as comfortable and wearing well EXCEPT they are NOT waterproof.At best I would describe them as water resistant but it doesn't take much for your feet to get soaked. Other than that they are no less comfortable to walk in but less than 10 minutes on short wet grass is all it takes.Frustrating because other than that they are holding up well.# Original review #They fit me well and I have plenty of toe room. So far, they are confortable and appear to be waterproof as claimed. For the money I have no complaints whatsoever and am considering getting a second pair.