I have had 2 pairs of Lowa hiking boots before buying this pair and although the price is at the high end of the market their value for money is second to none. From the moment I put these boots on they feel like they were made specifically for my feet alone, there is no breaking in period and definitely no tired or sore feet at the end of a long day hiking, there is even no hurry to take them off at the end of the day. These boots, I am in no doubt will, like my other 2 pairs, with a little care and attention, last me long enough to easily justify the cost. You could by a cheap pair of boots but you would end up buying twice or even 3 times for the life of these boots.