By hugh from boston, ma on 9/14/2008
Cons:
Leather rips at instep, Not Durable/ Wears Easily, Not Water Resistant, Soles fall off
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
told [...] that they were as good as ASOLO or Merrell, he was full of it. They lasted 6 months and the sole was hanging on by a little glue. DO NOT BUY EMS BRAND BOOTS EVER!!!!!!!!
Eastern Mountain Sports Response:For starters…we’re sorry the boots let you down…and that is exactly why we have our Satisfaction Guarantee. We want you to feel confident about shopping with us and we'll take care of you if your gear fails to meet your expectations. That said…all of us here at EMS recommend the gear we actually use. While we all use different stuff…I would guess the employee who suggested our Summit III boots did so not only in good faith…but also because of experience. We’ve also sold this boot for over a decade with great success. Quality and craftsmanship are all factors when buying anything…and we feel strongly and for good reason…our boots can compete with any other brands on the market. This of course doesn’t mean the boots aren’t for you…or that your pair didn’t fall apart. However…if you’d like our help and are willing to give us another shot…we’d be happy to assist you in finding something you’d be happy with. Feel free to call us at 888.463.6367.
By Belamored
from Somerville, MA on 7/29/2008
Pros:
Ankle Support, Comfortable/No Break-In, Great Traction, Sturdy/Durable
Best Uses:
Cold Weather, Day Hiking, Everyday, Harsh Terrain, Heavy Loads, Light Loads, Long-Distance Hiking, Wet Conditions
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I recently replaced my 8+ year old Summit boots with a new pair of Summit III GTX boots and I couldn't be happier. My original Summit boots have a few hundred miles logged on them and I actually replaced the soles once as I didn't want to give up the great comfort. However, the time finally arrived where they needed to be replaced. Being a bit apprehensive about having to replace these old reliables, I was pleasently surprised when I put on my new GTXs. The initial fiting was comfortable, but the big test came when I took my first three day hike a week and half later. After the first, second and third day no blisters and my feet felt like they were with old friends. I looked into different manufacturers and tried sizing up boots recommended by others, but I have been and will always be a loyal EMS shopper especially when it comes to hiking boots.
By Andrew from NJ on 7/20/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, Non-slip sole, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Day hikes
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Great Boots...they have been with me in the Alps, the Rockies, and numerous other places. They have never leaked, been very comfortable since the start, and have offered great traction. They do scuff easily, however.
By Mike from Monroe, NY on 6/11/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Day hikes, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Casual/ Recreational
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I have been using this boot or the latest version of it for the last 15 years. I would not even consider purchashing a different boot. You dont even know you are wearing a boot when you have these on.
By outdoor guy
from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on 6/10/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, Non-slip sole, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Day hikes, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
This is a great boot, i have used it over many terrians including ice and snow and the boot performed great in all of them. The boot does squeak but i dont understand how that could be a con. These boots are made for the outdoors. Buy sneakers if you want to hang out with friends
By Mike from Michigan on 5/19/2008
Sizing:
Feels half size too big
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Great Traction, Non-slip sole, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Day hikes, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I use these boots on weekend and extended hikes with the Scouts. We do modest distances of 10 miles per day. THe boots hold up well over a variety of terrain. The boots are great supports for the ankles. The tough sole holds up in a variety of conditions. As noted by other reviewers, these boots squeek. I am hoping they become quieter with time.
By hugh from south heights pa on 3/9/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Great Traction, Water Resistant
Describe Yourself:
Casual/ Recreational
Bottom Line:
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
i wear these boots veryday while working, and living, i love how it is waterproof, i have bought this boot 3x and this is the last time. i never had to break in before, but now i have had these for 2 weeks and still very stiff and uncomfortable. i am afraid to even go for a hike until these boots relax.
Eastern Mountain Sports Response:Boots do require a break in period and our Satisfaction Guarantee Policy would protect you if the boots fail to treat your feet well. However Boots and shoes have an extremely personal fit. Please contact us if you need to return or exchange them for something that will be a better fit for you. 888.463.6367.
By dennis fowler from prospect ct on 2/20/2008
Sizing:
Feels half size too small
Pros:
Great Traction, Water Resistant
Cons:
not very good, Squeaks
Best Uses:
ash tray, Everyday
Describe Yourself:
Casual/ Recreational
Bottom Line:
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
I have been wearing this boot for over 15 years.
the first boot with a sewn on sole made in italy was worth the extra money. the second generation was also above adverge. this boot is nothing more then the name, poor fit squeaky soles, and no ware the quality i have come to expect from ems.
this boot made in china does not even come close to the quality in the past.
Eastern Mountain Sports Response:We're sorry you are disappointed in your new Summit III boots. Some history...The Summit II was made by a Chinese factory and we moved the Summit III to another Chinese factory that is managed, trained, and equipped by Italians. The soles are Vibram soles that are not unique to EMS—the same sole is on other shoes in the marketplace. The general complaints of squeaky soles can be remedied by putting some baby powder (or talcum powder) in the shoe underneath the insole. Of course our first priority is your complete satisfaction with your Eastern Mountain Sports® purchase.
Please call us in customer service @ 888.463.6367, check out our website www.ems.com, or visit one of our EMS Retail locations if we can assist you in any way.
By Chris from Buffalo, New York on 1/31/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Durable, Water Resistant
Cons:
Bulky, Eyelets difficult to lace, Heavy, Laces break, Squeaks
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Cold weather, Day hikes, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
The quality is there but they are bulky and they squeak so bad that it annoys the people around me. The previous Summitt III was much much better. Go with something else.
Eastern Mountain Sports Response:Of course our first priority is your complete satisfaction with your Eastern Mountain Sports® purchase.
Please call us in customer service @ 888.463.6367, check out our website www.ems.com, or visit one of our EMS Retail locations if we can assist you in any way. We should point out the Summit III's haven't changed at all since they've been the Summit III's. And we’ve heard of general complaints of squeaky insoles (especially aftermarket insoles) in a variety of footwear and the common solution is to put some baby powder (or talcum powder) in the shoe underneath the insole.
As good as a boot as I have ever had.
By Colorado from SW Colorado on 1/29/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, Non-slip sole, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Day hikes
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I first owned a summit boot back some 7 years ago. Best boot I ever had and I tried many. When I needed to replace them I was nervous to find as good a boot for me.
The summit III meet and exceed my expectations. No break in period and very comfortable. I have had the boot for 1 year. I have used it to hunt, hike, back pack in the mountains of Colorado in the back country and nothing negative to say. For me this boot fit me perfect and would recommended. The summit is a great boot to have if you are a serious outdoor person.
**The one thing I did do was to add a slightly better insole for some extra padding. I spent a lot of money on a fancy insole and returned it and tried an inexpensive insole and put it over the one that came with the boot and perfect. Just needed a little more padding on the insole.
By JP from Island Pond, Vermont on 1/21/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Day hikes, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I bought this shoe to use on a trip to climb Aconcagua. The right shoe broke in with a rub line on my big toe [...]They fit well from the first although my calves were sore at the start but I got used to the feel as they were kinda stiff but thats what they are supposed to be. Fairly comfortable. They were waterproof as I wore them in the rain. They seemed to scuff very easily, I had them 2 weeks and it looked like I had hiked across Africa in them. Got them on sale for [$] which was a good value. [...] I would recommend these boots to a friend without a problem.
By Flying Dutchman from Rochester, NY on 1/14/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Appears to be well made
Best Uses:
Not used returned
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
The shape of the boot did't fit my feet. Returned them [...].
By amy from tucson, az on 1/8/2008
Sizing:
Feels half size too big
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, last pair lasted three ye, Non-slip sole, Stable, Water Resistant
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
my last pair lasted three years and i wore them everyday
good boot but only lasts a couple years
By Electron from MA on 1/3/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Cold weather, Day hikes, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Casual/ Recreational
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Good solid boot for a nice price.
I've never taken it on a longer backpacking trip than about 4 days, but it's always performed admirably. There's plenty of room for heavy socks (of course YMMV with foot size) and while the boot is not insulated I've been quite comfortable hiking in the snow with it.
My only gripe is that I'm now on my second pair and not still on my first. Like many glued boots (at least those on the lower end of the price scale, I've never shelled out for the priciest boots) the leather and the rubber sole split around the toe after a couple years, seriously decreasing waterproofness
Great fit and extremely comfortable
By Chris from Farmington Maine on 1/2/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Excellent boot, Great Traction, Non-slip sole, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Cold weather, Day hikes, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Casual/ Recreational
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Gret for wearing on a daily basis in the snow. Also very comfortable on hikes. They squek a little which is the only problem I have.
By Frank the outdoor enthusiast from CT on 1/2/2008
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Durable, Stable, Water Resistant
Cons:
Front ankle cuff to high.
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Cold weather, Day hikes, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
I have the original summit boots and love them. I wish the front top of boot was the same height as the originals. The new summit III's cut into my lower legs above the ankles.
Eastern Mountain Sports Response:Boots and shoes have an extremely personal fit and do change from time to time. We are sorry to hear the new version isn't right for your feet. Please contact us if you need to return or exchange them for something that will be a better fit for you. 888.463.6367.
By Duncan from Lockport, NY on 12/5/2007
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Best Uses:
Keeping in the closet
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
I have worn Summit II boots for many years and have gone through 3 pairs. I have always found them comfortable and durable, like all EMS branded products. The Summit III boots, however, are entirely different. The do more than squeak, they sound like you are always walking on crunchy snow. Other changes include a thinner sole that I could feel rocks through, and a different fit around the ankle. These boots are going back as soon as I can get to the store. The noise factor alone is reason to stay away from these boots.
Eastern Mountain Sports Response:We are certainly sorry to hear your new Summitt III's aren't working out for you. Boots and shoes have an extremely personal fit. Please contact us if you need to return or exchange them for something that will be a better fit for you. 888.463.6367.
These boots have been around the world!
By FlyGuyBly from Philippines (for now) on 10/22/2007
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Cold weather, Day hikes, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I own a pair of the Summit Is, IIs and now IIIs. Excellent boot. I have a high instep and finding a good fit is tough-- I can walk 10 miles in these boots right out of the box. Vietnam, New Zealand, Central America, The Philippines, even hiking in Borneo--- they've seen it all and performed great. Biggest negatives: they're a bit heavy (compared to the "light and fast" revolution, at least), but I'm not the type to hike in tennis shoes. Also, there's no rand on the toecap, so it gets beat up a bit, but it just adds to the character. I even bought an extra "backup" pair out of fear that they won't be available when the others wear out!
All you will need to pack anywhere
By Mountain Man Eric from Milford CT on 9/19/2007
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Cold weather, Day hikes, Hunting, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Like all leather pack boots these need some breaking in. But once you break them these boots are fantastic. A little heavy but thats to be expected in this style of boot. Great stable ankle support.
By Itchymoche from Medina, Ohio on 7/28/2007
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, Low maintenence, Non-slip sole, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Cold weather, Day hikes, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I work outdoor construction and these boots get put to the test 9+ hours a day, through all weather conditions and terrain. One pair can last me almost three years before they are totally worn out! I've been pleasantly pleased.
By AT bound from Poplar Bluff , MO on 7/10/2007
Sizing:
Feels half size too big
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Great Traction, Stable, Water Resistant
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
They fit great.I've only put 20 miles on them,
but the comfort and suport are real good.
Great Third Generation Boot
By JRW from Eastern Shore, MD on 7/6/2007
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, Non-slip sole, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Cold weather, Day hikes, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
SalesContractor
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I have owned the original summit the summit II and have had nothing but good things to say about these boots. I buy two of these at a time and cycle everyday wear between the two. This boot is perfect for day hikes, jobsites, and trail blazing. I have worn these boots on 25+ mile hikes without foot soreness or rubbing. However, you will feel the weight of these boots at mile 20.
I love these boots. I use them for work.
By bourget biker from Salisbury, NH on 6/24/2007
Comfort:
Stiff Leather/Fabric
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, Stable, Water Resistant
Cons:
Insulated i use all year
Best Uses:
Cold weather, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Contractor
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I build houses, so i need a rugged boot with stiff leather sides for support when i am on a roof or climbing a wall/ladders. These boots are very rugged and wear well. I wish they made a pair that were not insulated for summer.
A durable boot for off/on trail.
By Ed from Santa Barbara, CA on 6/19/2007
Comfort:
Breathes Well, Broken in, Cushioned Insole, Supple
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Day hikes, Everyday, Off Trail
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
At this point the Summit III is just as comfortable and durable as the Summit II's that I am having resoled. I spend a lot of time, bushwhacking and rock hopping. I haven't found anything to dislike yet and I don't expect to. They are far lighter than my Mountaineering boots and a lot more comfortable! I'm looking forward to seeing how long the tread lasts on my Summit III's. I perform regular maintenance on my boots which ensures that I get adequate life from them.
By Tree climber from Albany, NY on 6/4/2007
Comfort:
Causes Hotspots or Blisters
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Cold weather, Day hikes, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
No, I would not recommend this to a friend
The plastic insert that holds the toe firm reaches too far back and digs into my toes. this made the first 6 weeks hellish to wear. Other than that they were ok. More aggressive soles would be nice.
Not sure what he's talking about
By Hawkman from WNY on 5/25/2007
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Stable
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Day hikes, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Casual/ Recreational
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
[...] I have put many mile on my boots with very little wear. I've been hiking the ADK 46 and have had no issues. The great range is as rough as you can get with all kinds conditions and lots of rocks. They have held up fine so far, no issues
Great for others; just not my foot!
By Jared from Buffalo on 5/5/2007
Comfort:
Breathes Well, Stiff Leather/Fabric
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Durable, Great Traction, Non-slip sole, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
Backcountry, Cold weather, Day hikes, Everyday, Wet Weather
Describe Yourself:
Avid Adventurer
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
The boots give great ankle support and with my ankles that's a must! The only reason I ended up switching them for a different pair is that my left fit just didn't fit quite right, which resulted in a constant pinch when I flexed the boot. Overall, it's a great sturdy boot, but just didn't fit my particular feet.
Eastern Mountain Sports Response:Go Sabres!
By Expat Pete from New York on 1/20/2007
Comfort:
Comfortable from day one, Supple
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Pros:
Comfortable, Stable, Water Resistant
Best Uses:
When shopping in town
I was very disappointed with this product. I purchased the boots and wore them in for a week before stepping on to the trail for the first time. The first day hike i wore the boots on was 5 miles and the state of the toe caps at the end was not good. Instead of just the usual few scratches on the leather I found that whole chunks had come off , so i returned the boots straight to the shop. EMS are good in that they took the boots back and gave me store credit, but these new boots are not good. I would not recomend them for anyone wanting serious mileage or back country wear from their boots, however these boots are a good option for those of you who like to go shopping in G-Tex lined hiking style boots.
Eastern Mountain Sports Response:I'm glad you have returned the boots to us. We had more in mind for the boots than shopping in town and believe your experience is an isolated one. However that is exactly why we have our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. We want you to feel confident about shopping with us and we'll take care of you if your gear fails to meet your expectations.
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