I was looking at some of the New Balance Hiking Boots and shoes that are supposed to be water proof. Has anyone ever tried them?
I have two pairs -- the mid-rise all-leather GoreTex NB
977s, and the higher-rise leather/nylon GoreTex NB
1201s. Love 'em both. The only time water's ever gotten inside either of them was when I played a course that had standing water several inches deep across three fairways, and I accidentally sloshed some in over the top of the 977s. I've been in creeks up to my ankles in the 1201s, and in November I played 27 holes in 45 degree weather with pouring rain and 25 mph winds -- the ONLY things dry by the time I finished were my feet.
Even though the 1201s are higher, the nylon material is lighter/cooler than the leather on the 977s, so I tend to wear the 977s mostly in cold weather and the 1201 in the warmer months, unless I expect to be wading or on very rough terrain, in which case I wear the 1201s no matter the temperature. In addition to the GoreTex lining, the 1201s have a Vibram sole and extra ankle support, both of which are important for me on rough terrain.
The 1201s are on clearance right now at NB Web Express for $104.99, which is a very good price -- I paid $129 for mine on sale last spring, and full retail is $149.
If you're looking for something styled more like an athletic shoe than a hiking boot, take a look at the NB
1520s. They have GoreTex lining and a Vibram sole.