While in TN last weekend I went to the REI store and tried every boot they had in their WIDE sizes. Absolutely nothing fit me. Montrail, Asolo and all the big names, everything was way too narrow. The folks their were very helpful and suggested I try the New Balance store a few miles away. The fellar there told me that New Balance/Dunham has been getting more into the hiking/outdoor boot arena due to the fact that they do offer sizing upto 6E in some models. I ended up with a pair of model 977s....all leather in 11 4E. That is actually a 1/2 to a full size smaller than I usually buy, but I think finding the proper width makes the difference. I have not worn them outside yet, but plan to start doing some hiking with my packframe + 25-30# this week. If anyone is interested, I can report back later. Mike