This is a review of the Vasque Sundowner MX2, a heavier (3 lbs) version of the regular Sundowner. They are made in Italy.

I have a very wide foot (4-E), so finding a boot that fits is a challenge. This and a pair of Limmers (stock variety) were the only boots I found that fit. I've used them for more than 100 miles this spring and summer. They are comfortable and provide a platform that is comfortable even with loads. The platform is an important consideration for me because I tore my Achilles' tendon a year ago.

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Scarpa, Limmer, and a lot of brands I don't remember.

I have the MX2 model, and have used them for mostly on-trail backpacking on medium terrain for about 3 months, over about 200 miles or so. They are size 10W, which seems necessary because of really wide toes that expand a lot on the trail.

Broke these in over about 40 miles of day-hiking, and have applied Nikwax. So far no blisters, though initially the leather under the laces cut into the tops of my feet - just altered the lacing to fix that.

I could wish for Vibram soles and better styling - the Zamberlan's were nice that way, though they didn't fit me well.

I'd like to try out a heavier-duty boot, like Asolo 520's, but may have to stick with these because of the wide size.

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Zamberlan Civetta II (blister city)

I love these boots. About three years ago, and after having worn out a cheap pair of HiTecs, I decided to plunk a few extra bills for better footwear. It's been worth every penny. I have the Nubucks, and they really never needed any breaking in. Comfortable from day one, comfortable enough that I use them on day hikes in the San Francisco Bay Area. These boots also provide plenty of support. Since I tip the scales at just over 200lbs and usually hike 5-6 days starting out with a 60-65lbs pack over, and hike through High Sierra granite these boots do get some abuse from me. I've never done any real wet-weather hiking, so I can't say much about how water-proof these boots are. They have kept my foot dry in most low stream crossings. But for fording wider and/or deeper streams where I know the boots will be sumerged, I just break the sandals and take off the boots.

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HiTecs

These are pretty good general purpose boots, but as with all things Vasque, they are not cheap. When they are new, they are bulletproof, and extremely water resistant, but they will break your feet in rather than the other way around. I have gone on quite a few 3-5 day backpacking trips, and have never turned an ankle or had any real problems. Also a good day-hike boot, but perhaps a snad heavy for the longer hikes.

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None

I can think of no better way to spend $190 than on a pair of Sundowners. These are the best boots for general backpacking use that I have ever owned. The design is extremely comfortable. The rigid sole is a great help on those long days with heavy loads. The Gore-Tex bootie will definately keep you dry and happy.

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None

I can't say enough great things about these wonderful boots! I've only been wearing them for a month and a half now but these "jewels" have fit my dainty, size 14 narrows "like a glove"(*) since Day 1! (And that's a "feet" in itself - pun intended) Initially, they did require a bit of breaking in but they have never ceased to be comfortable. One of my initial break-in excursions was an semi-"unplanned" 5-mile walk from work (comprised solely of streets and sidewalks), wearing a pair of my every day dress socks, and arriving home without a blister! I've been wearing them practically every day since I bought them.

I would encourage anyone purchasing a pair of Sundowners (or who HAS a pair, for that fact), even though they are technically "waterproof" with the added Gortex, to go ahead and waterproof them with an aftermarket waterproofing wax (e.g. NIKWAX), particularly the seams. Not only will this be an additional barrier against water but it will also help to preserve both the beauty and integrity of the boot leather by sealing in the natural oils and keeping them from drying out.

Some say that the Sun"down"er side to all this is that the price is a bit steep and, yea, I'll grant you that $190+ for a pair of these babies is a chunk of change. But, I'm one of those whose willing to plunk down a "little extra" if I know that I'm going to get a quality product and reap the benefits in the long run. (These IS some truth to the old adage, "Pay now or pay later".)

I look forward to wearing these boots for many, many years to come! Thanks Vasque for making me a great boot!

(*)P.S. Suggestion: Try a pair on. If they don't feel "right" on your feet from the get-go then they probably NEVER will. Solution: Try on another style OR a different manufacturer altogether. No one boot is going to be right for everybody! My wife tried on a pair of Sundowners and was not comfortable at all.

Customer Service

I left an e-mail with VASQUE, with a question about waterproofing and within 24 hours one of their representatives called up to answer my question.

To say the least, best damn boot I've ever owned. Very comfortable and well worth the price, believe it or not. Can't say enough about these boots. Great for day-hikes, extended trips, traveling, working, anything!

Not only do I go hiking but I am also in the moving and storage business.This puts an extra strain on the boot since I wear these every day. Anybody out there who 6'3" 250# will know what I am talking about. This is my second pair of Sundowners. The first pair I have retired to yard work only. Excellent pair of boots. Like a Porsche there is NO substitute.

Customer Service

I had one dealing with customer service about 10 years ago. I had a pair of Vasque boots (do not remember the type) but the eyes were plastic. Teh plastic eyes began to break after about 3-4 months. Called them up and received credit to get a pair with the updated metal eyes.

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Timberland. Soles seperated from upper.

I bought Sundowners after doing a lot of research into durability, comfort, and fitting. I'm going on the 3rd year with these beauties and have no second thoughts about my $185 purchase. I replaced the Vasque insole right off the bat with those cushy rubber insoles. Not a blister...Not a leak (and mine are scuffed and beat to hell!)...Not a tear. I'm considering a Re-sole soon, although I'm not sure I'd get Vasque soles again because they tend to be a bit slippery on steep downhill sections of wet rock. Overall, I have reccomended these boots to people over and over again and they always come back thanking me.4 stars on value because Vasques are a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for.

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Raichele...no support and broke down easily.

These boots are great. Always keep my feet warm and dry. I've hiked all over with these, from WV to MT. Get em you won't be disappointed.

Customer Service

Had a minor problem with the sole and upper coming unstitched but was treated like gold.

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Nike hiking boots, and Gore Tex boots.