This is the best pair of heavy-duty boots I have ever put on my feet! Although the boots are on the heavy side, you get the absolute best quality boot. I initiated these on a 10 mile climb over mixed rock and snow and they performed wonderfully. NO blisters or sore spots. Being in Alaska, I needed a very warm boot with superb durability. The Everest's fit that bill like no other boot I've tried. They are totally crampon compatible and are excellent for kick-stepping. The only drawback is that the boot is still a little stiff, but I haven't used them much yet. I assume they will break in completely soon enough. The boot retails for about $350 and they're worth every penny.