In reply to M3ZCB:
Good morning, Caroline.
I’d be very cautious before buying another pair of Hillmasters. I have had two pairs so far and they both gave good service. The second pair just did the SDW but that was their swansong (where does that saying come from?) and they are now scrap. They did well over 1000 miles which is not bad. The tread is nearly worn down in places! I had been saving them for this walk because of their comfort.
Brasher built their reputation on “out-of-the-box” comfort - and inded they were. I naturally went for third pair, and didn’t think too much of the fact that the padded cloth lining inside the heel had been replaced with leather. I did enquire and was told that they no longer do that style.
I used them round the house for a while but within a mile of setting off on my lunchtime walk at work, I had a sore spot which turned into a blister. The other foot went the same way before I got back. My colleague had exactly the same experience.
Fortunately, I was able to return them and I ended up replacing them with a pair of Scarpa GTX. Very similar to the Hillmasters but stiffer, slightly heavier and slightly more of a mountaineering boot. Yes, they’re a bit narrower but it’s early days yet. They may well settle down.
So, I too am looking for new boots to replace the Hillmasters. Not for mountain use - the GTXs will do just fine - but for trails. Something lighter and possibly with a more padded footbed than either of the above.
Good luck. It’s a big commitment and a big gamble.
73, Richard