Battleangel | Personal

I just unboxed (picasa) the boots.

So far so good. The final total including shipping came to €204 (Outdoortrekking2010). Or about €100 less than the typical price here in Sweden.

As this is more or less a brand new boot it feels a bit like uncharted territory. Even if you have used the Meindl Island Pro MFS I would certainly recommend trying the Island Active on for size before taking the plunge. I certainly did but was nevertheless surprised by what seems to be a new narrower fit. Possibly aggravated by a slightly larger right foot or a smaller right boot. Or some form of slight swelling / beginning bunion.

But I think it’s safe to say that this is not really radically different from the usual break-in period that comes with a pair of boots at this level. And speaking of break-in, I have to note that this was no walk in the park. Not that it’s supposed to be. I’m not that naive. But some people have been making the case that Meindl boots have virtually no break-in period. I’m just saying, expect the usual break-in torture walks. Hopefully the pinching across the right foot will go away. I’m trying the Meindl prescribed wet grass method in the meantime.

One thing though that is still a bit sketchy is the issue of shock absorption. And the usefulness of the air-active sole. It’s kind of hard to make out when your entire feet and lower legs are aching. The inlay sole doesn’t look like much in terms of cushioning but is allegedly also vital for moisture transfer. So if it isn’t sufficient and needs to replaced I’d have to find a sole that does both of those things, has better arch support and is mouldable. Correct me if I’m wrong but this insole feels completely flat.