After a week's wear, 100km+ walking in many conditions, I can confidently say these are the most comfortable boots I've worn, and the most interesting and effective design for hiking and light trekking applications. The website app worked perfectly for sizing, and the fit is unlike any boot I've worn before, great heel support and hold down, close fitting over the instep and ankle, but very wide at the forefoot. This, combined with the flexible sole, means the foot isn't locked into the boot as with traditional hiking boots. The result is less fatigue, and a boot that can be worn comfortably all day.
The Walnut Timberjack leather is very supple and highly water resistant, and smells amazing. This leather in combination with the construction means the boot is actually waterproof, I wore them in long wet grass and submerged in a stream and no water came through at all. They felt great out of the box but have continued to become more comfortable every day.
They perform great ascending and descending, and even side-hilling, which was a surprise because the shaft is very flexible. It allows you to keep a flat foot on the ground while on uneven terrain, and even engage your foot muscles for grip and purchase. It's very counter-intuitive, but very effective.
The soles are a great all-around choice, grippy but not too thick or aggressive for daily wear. They are lightweight for an all leather boot, they compare favourably to my German all-leather hiking boots, but I would not call this make-up a lightweight boot, more of a medium weight, though they feel lighter when worn. They are fairly cool as well, and the suede-like inner side of the upper leather absorbs moisture well and the boot breathes nicely.
All in all I'm delighted with these boots, and very happy with the communication and customer service, and had zero hassles ordering internationally. Thanks to the team at Russell Moccasins, I think they are doing a great job in ensuring the reputation of an all-time classic boot.