Beautiful Boots but Beware
teethnclaws
Saranac High Boot Review:
Purchased both the black and brown Sebago boots in this style. Was extremely pleased with them both on first glance - well made, durable, etc...They are beautiful boots that I could see getting many miles and years out of, especially with good treatment. I purchased a quality cleaner & conditioner to use. They were true to size in that I normally wear an 8.5 medium in sneakers and dress shoes and a 9 in boots. I ordered the 9 and they fit. I can get away with wearing thicker socks and they are still relatively comfortable. The black pair gave me no trouble, however the brown pair are going to require a little breaking in that I didn't anticipate. After wearing the brown pair a few times they began to gradually grate on the interior protrusion of my ankle bone; the leather slightly bowing inward causing the problem. I'm going to try to get boot molds or "shoe stretching spray" that I've seen in hopes to correct this issue. Sebago's customer service failed to assist with any helpful suggestions when I contacted them about how to best resolve the problem. They're too pretty to send back, especially given they fit everywhere else perfectly. It is almost like the leather of the black ones vs the leather of the brown are slightly different. Both rugged yet fashionable, but it almost seems like the tanning process of the brown ones might have made the leather more firm if that makes sense. Hence why I think they require a little more wear and tear to improve comfort. They are a matte like leather tone, slightly lighter brown than what is pictured on this site. Forewarning - the brown ones have slightly off coloration, but not something noticed unless you are studying the shoe up close. The black ones have not caused me any issues. They have good cushioned support and I don't feel like Frankenstein stomping around in these - i.e. they're not bulky. I'm pleased with the overall quality of the product, though I can't say much for Sebago's cs reps. Hoping I'll be able to tame the wild boar of the brown ones. Excellent thus far in rain, expect they'll be great for winter which I got them for. Easy to get off and on. The suede collar has a stretchable slit that allows for comfortable movement - roomy for legs, but not creating massive gaps.