Ive had Dana, Gregory, MR, Eberlestock, old aluminum frames and big bags on them and have looked at close, worn and been with a buddy on hunts who uses a SG. The SG is superb. All have merits, and Im researching also to buy soon, Im seriously considering the Paradox in lieu of the SG so we can compare the two, Both great and well made and light and simple. Im not fond of Schnees and that's where SG is sold from now. Ive had Kennetrecs, I wont again, Scarpas and a few others are lighter, tougher and better by far in the toughest and steepest mtn terrain. Huge selection of models also, One of the best boots in the world. Hoffman Packs are hands down better than any other Pacs Ive used and been in walking the whole list of top end boots. They will do what many Hunt boots say they will, but much better with the great bottoms they use, far tougher than the others. Hunting boots are mostly all hype, Mountaineering boots are in a whole other league and work great for hunting and typically built on better footprints for sidehilling and steep terrain.