Ibex

I have found the ibex boots to be a good performer on most terrain. Like all barefoots, pointy gravel can be painful especially if it is about 1-2 inches diameter. The downside is that they are fitted with a breathable membrane, which I prefer to do without in leather footwear. This reduces breathability but seems to have little ability to prevent water ingress. Treating the leather has improved the situation but I still need to wear sealskinz socks when it is going to be a wet walk. I accept that leather boots aren't 100% waterproof but what is the point of the membrane if it isn't keeping water out, even when the boots are new? My old Altberg boots with no membrane (over 10 years old and resoled once so far) are far more waterproof.

Initially great but 18 months of intermittent use, my feet get wet in wet grass. I have maintained them and conditioned the leather regularly but the seams are a weak point despite regular repairs. It would be much better with a stitched seam. Really comfortable though, just maybe stick to dry walks.

Loved these and wore them a lot, really comfortable and great for wearing on walks through dewy grass as they were properly watertight. But about 8 months after I bought them they started leaking in water at the join between sole and upper (see pics) then on the other foot. Now I can’t wear them in any damp conditions as my feet get wet straight away.
Sadly disappointed. If anyone has any suggestions as to how I can mend them please let me know.

Really pleased with the boots. I would have given 5 stars but I have only had them 2 weeks and so I haven’t had chance to judge their capabilities in hot or cold conditions, or have any idea of longevity.

This is my first pair of Freet's - I own several pairs of outdoor brands' shoes, but they are all too soft and fragile for real rocky mountain terrain, so I just wanted something sturdier. I still haven't put them to the mountain test, but gave them a good city walk to get used to them. First thing - they are sturdy and well-made, leather is thick and protective, they provide some insulation as well. The shoes are roomy - can accommodate medium to wide feet with hight volume, there is plenty of room for the rock plates (get the rock plates!), for thick socks, etc. They do run small though - don't, under any circumstance, go for your usual size, consult the chart - it's pretty informative and, after ordering two sizes larger than my usual one, they fit quite well. The heel pad doesn't rub and bruise, but the shoe in general needs some kind of breaking in before heading to the wilderness. After some time, they feel amazing and you won't feel them at all. Also, I would initially give it a good waterproof spray, even though they are waterproof, just to protect the leather from the elements.