Women's Merrell Chameleon Arc 2 Rival WP

Great boots! I need a sturdy pair of boots to take on my back country hike into Machu Picchu. I tried another brand first and they pounded my toe so badly my toenail cracked. I then got the Merrell Chameleon and absolutely love them. I ordered a 1/2 size bigger and they fit perfectly. The first time I wore them I did a 3 mile hike and had no breaking in issues. Very comfortable, very sturdy, waterproof and great looking! I know these boots will serve me well on my big adventure...and beyond.

The look is great. I wanted something waterproof and good looking and this seemed the best combination. However, the tongue is linked to the shoe through a polyester material. In the space between the tongue and the shoe, water goes through this material. If at least the tongue went underneath the shoe. The consequence was that I still got wet everyday, maybe just not as much as with non waterproof shoes.

Got those shoes without reading the reviews...seems like a lot of people had the same problem. I exchanged them for a 1/2 size bigger thinking I would get used to them (really tight) but I have the feeling it fits smaller than other shoes. I changed the insole but it stills kinda hurt when I go hiking. not fully satisfied... even though I really like them :(

Definiitely order at least 1/2 size up. The toe of the shoe is more oval than round which might explain the need for added length. This hiker boot in size 10.5 equals LLBean hiker shoe in size 10 as best I can tell. I'm very happy with my choice as I can wear a medium weight hiking/wooly sock and my orthotic. I can leave the orthotic out and wear very thick wooly socks as well. I like the fact that the heel feels supportive around my heel and achilles tendon. I also like the cocoa color with the purple/magenta accent.

I love my new boots. I was a little apprehensive when I purchased the boots because I didn't want anything heavy "dragging" me down while hiking, but the waterproof feature was very important to me. I am pleased to report that the boots not only keep me feet nice and dry, they are also light weight and easy to walk in. They are so comfortable!