Like waxed canvas, they were cutting edge around a hundred years ago. Also like waxed canvas, there are better materials out there today but if you value nostalgia, they can't be beat.

They were intended to keep your feet dry and your footsteps quiet in variable conditions in the woods and still serve that purpose well today, even when compared with similarly priced hunting boots from leading retailers. A big advantage of Bean boots is the sole and vamp are one piece. Today the sole is usually glued on and it will separate and leak over time.

I have the ME hunting shoe. I pair them with wool socks and used them for various kinds of hunting with warm and dry feet. When ice fishing in sub zero (°F) temps, I was the only person in my group who didnt complain about cold or wet feet.

It is true they don't grip on ice very well if you're walking on concrete/in the street. They weren't meant for that purpose. When I need them for those conditions I pair em with yak traks.

I love my ME hunting shoes and I'll never give them up.