Asolo TPS 520 Review

"This is a great boot. Very firm, but no breaking in necessary. I set out to find the firmest boot with the firmest sole (which is what I want when jumping from rock to rock with a backpack on), and the Asolo TPS 520 fit the bill. There are certainly boots on the market that are more flexible and seemingly more comforable at the store, but I've found that you pay for this comfort once out on the trail. High tops with solid ankle protection and a web design that seals the tounge to the rest of the boot. You can stand in a reasonably deep puddle without worrying about water dribbling down you ankle. Insulation is great. You could stand in 33 degree water all day and not worry about cold feet. I've never had cold feet with these boots, but I also haven't tested them on a below-zero summit yet either. I have been beating these boots for months now and they still look like new every time I clean them off and condition them up. I don't like the laces. They're not flimsy, but they're made out of the thin/flat cloth and I can see them freezing up in winter conditions."

"I bought a pair of 520's and took them on several day hikes before going to Glacier with them for a week last summer. Overall great boot. A bit heavy for short trips and I would have liked the wrap up toe you find in similar brands as the rocky terrain left the fronts nicked up but the fit the bill comfort wise which is where it counts."

"overall i was very pleased with the boots. they didnt take long to break in and they retained their waterproof qualities for a solid 5 months of almost everyday use. i used them while i worked with a trail crew for 5 months in New Hampshire. My only complaint is that by the end of that five months, the vibram soles were actually cracking in spots, and were also beginning to peel off of the leather upper. like i said though, i used them just about everyday for 5 months, and they held up wonderfully all things considered for such constant abuse."

"Wore these boots on the Mt Whitney trail with a 50 lb pack and they were very comfortable and supportive. They were comfortable right out of the box, no break in neccesary. I own several pairs of asolos. They seem to fit my foot very well."

"I had a pair of Asolo boots that I wore backpacking and as everyday shoes for about 5 years straight...until Katrina washed them away. I loved those awesome boots and they never hurt my feet. I have since bought another pair of Asolos but, after one three-hour hike with two pairs of appropriate socks, I had worn away most of the skin on the backs of both of my heels--very, very painful. I just bought some shoe inserts, hoping that would alleviate the problem, but I still feel the rub as I walk in them. AND it's a plenty snug fit. I'm very disappointed with this boot. Am I the only person who has had this problem? Maybe they're a defective pair."