meindlusa.com Avis 

Bought a pair of shoes as a gift for Xmas, they arrived I had a quick look and then gift wrapped them. On Xmas day when the gift was opened we were all shocked to find lumps of mud on the inside. I contacted medal who were extremely unhelpful! The only option I was given was to return the shoes but I had to wait for my return to be approved! Eventually it was I had hen had to drive to a post office que and drop off the shoes, a few weeks went by and I hadn’t heard anything based on the tracking receipt they had received the return over two weeks prior. I reached out regarding my refund got no reply but did get a second email saying my return had been processed. All in an absolute and complete waste of time would not recommend

This shoe business does NOT sell in stores where you can try on your expensive hiking boots and ensure they fit. I assume they do this to save on distribution costs and increase their margins/profits.

This presents the customer with a problem. The only solution is to buy 3-4 boots to try on different sizes and widths.

This is risky in terms of returns. So Meindl go to great lengths to tell you that, and I quote, purchase is "risk free."

They go on to state:

"Experience the unmatched comfort, quality and perfect fit that Meindl is known for. Order today risk free with free & easy returns. If the boots do not meet your expectations, simply send them back - no questions asked.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we are here to ensure that your Meindl experience is nothing short of exceptional. So go ahead, take that first step towards comfort - we have you covered every step of the way."

First, wear the socks and insoles you plan to wear on the trail and lace up your boots snuggly, but not uncomfortably tight. Check to make sure the tongue and gussets are straight and snug against your feet, then walk around indoors for a while. When walking indoors, make sure there is no pinching, binding, your heel stays put and your toes are not hitting the front of the boot. If you have concerns about the fit of your boots, please email or call us and we will help determine if the fit is right for you."

This is all a lie and a total con.

I tried on 4 boots. 3 were an immediate no. Following THEIR instructions to only wear inside and to walk around a bit, the boot that was promising I wore inside for 7-8 minutes on my hardwood floors. The sole got dusty.

When I sent back, they charged my $50 "restocking fee" after online promises that I could buy risk free.

This was a lie. There was a huge risk and I was the one that had to pay for their shady business practices.

Go to a shoe store or REI and try boots on - and forget these cheats and con artists.