My recruiter recommended I pick up a pair and start running in them to get ready for USMC Basic. It did take some getting used to running with four extra pounds on my feet but I've had no problems with these boots. It took about 2 days to break them in. I soaked them and wore them around the house. They were great after that. I've gotten used to running in them. It's been about six weeks and I can run several miles in these with no problems. Getting these Bellevilles was a great recommendation.
This is my second pair of Bellevilles. I knew enough to order a smaller size than I normally take. I got almost three years out of my first pair and the only reason I'm geting a second pair is because the leather was getting dirty. I like them enough to buy them again.
This is my 3rd pair of Belleville boots I've got 2 winter wet weather boots plus the 550 ST for the summer. Boot is rugged, steel toe is designed well, and the boots breath nicely. I purchased Kiwi dessert boot care kit to clean the boots and maintain there appearance. The boots clean up easily. Only one very minor problem for me I had to buy Dr. Scholl's inserts not because of heel pain just because the boots arch supports are a little low. This is not a reflection on the boot as much as it is my feet. Other then the low arch I would buy of Belleville's any day any time., They are hard wearing American made products and that is exactly why I keep buying them.
I bought my first pair for 6$ at a pawnshop. They were in OK shape then with 2 years on them, 3 years later they still have life in them. I have owned many other boots and nothing has beaten these. Make sure you order 1 size smaller than your tennis shoes.
I was introduced to the Belleville brand while in Iraq with the US Army. We had just gone to the tan desert boot as the uniform standard. That Belleville boot was the most comfortable and long lasting boot I had ever used. When it was time to buy a pair of steel toe boots for my civilian career Belleville was the brand I turned to, and the 550 ST is the boot I purchased. These exceed the experience of my first Bellevilles: Even more comfortable and the tread is impressive. They're flexible in the right places and nothing bites, not even the hardened toe. I've worn them nearly every day for over two and a half years. There are no worn spots in the leather ready to turn into holes, there are no threads hanging out where seams are ready to blow, there aren't even any toe holes or heel marks where my foot grinds against the cushion sole. I barely maintain them like I know I'm supposed to, with cleaning and suede treatments, and they still look outstanding. I'm ordering another pair right now not because I need them, but in fear that they may change or discontinue my favorite boot. These things happen.
These boots take a beating and just won't quit. I've had these for 5 years, 2 years while I was in the Marines and 3 years since I've gotten out. They've been through rapelling, ruck marches, obstacle courses, rock climbing, etc. You name it and I've pretty much done it in these things. I'll be buying another pair when these finally wear out.
As a Marine Corps officer candidate, I was told that I should get a pair of boots so that I could condition my body for running with five extra pounds on my feet. I got these boots after having done a bit of research on other sites. While Belleville was a brand that was not mentioned a great deal, the few reviews that I found were all favorable. As I could not afford to get a pair of top-of-the-line Danners, I decided to take a chance on these, and purchased a pair at the local military supply store. Out of the box, they are quite comfortable, and after a slight period of mild discomfort (your mileage here may vary) I had broken them in. Currently, they are great to wear, and provide excellent support for hiking and just daily walking about-- speaking only for a civilian routine, of course. A word of warning, however: these are Infantry Combat Boots (ICBs), so they will be a bit heavier than the popular Bates Lights or even jungle boots. They are well-suited for climbing ropes (in my experience), and get great traction thanks to the athletic-type sole, but if you don't train in them regularly, you'll be in for a bit of a system shock when running/sprinting with them. All in all, a good pair of affordable starting boots. I'd buy them again.
A buddy of mine recommended Bellevilles when I first entered the Marines. I put these boots through some serious punishment over the past couple years and other than a nick or a scuff, they are perfect. All the stitching and eyelets have held together. Highly recommend these!
The 550s are the best boots I've owned. They break in within a few days and have been great ever since. I've got flat feet so I need support in the arch area or else after a couple of hours they start to hurt. No pain with these boots. When these wear out, I'll definitely be buying another pair.