Backpacking Background:

Note: The boots originally shipped for this test were too small (see Initial Report).  The original boots were size 11D.  Dunham replaced the boots with a wider size 11EE.  The extended time between the Initial Report and Field Report is due to the time it took Dunham to ship the replacement boots.  This Field Report is based on my experience with the replacement boots.  The test time included a full two months of field testing, like any normal test series. 

Field Testing Information:

Test Results:

My initial experience with the Dunham Cloud Pileus was they ran small as compared with other boots I have tested for Dunham.  Typically, I fit into a "D" width; but, I found the Pileus Cloud boots much too narrow for me.  I contacted Dunham and explained the problem.  They cheerfully agreed to send me out a new pair of boots to test.  The width was increased to "EE".  When they arrived, I was shocked to still find them snug right out-of-the-box.  I decided that they were acceptable and continued testing with them.  Fortunately, after logging around 150 miles (94 km), the boots have loosened up to an acceptable level of comfort.  But, I would be remiss if I didn't stress the close fitting size of the Pileus Cloud, especially in the toe box.  The boots fit me, but there is very little room to spare.  I could never wear really thick socks, there just isn't enough room.  The other issues with new shoes quickly abated with time too.  Initial stiffness, leg fatigue, optimal lacing pattern, was all solved after the first few times out.  In fact, I even acquired a blister on the underside of my toe on the first outing, but none after the toe box loosened up. 

The waterproof qualities of these boots are excellent.  I have stomped around for days in mud and water, and these boots have held their own remarkably.  The leather on the boot shows no signs of wearing.

The toe rand has held phenomenally.  For me, most boots are showing some serious wear-and-tear around the front of the boot by now, but the Pileus Cloud boots look excellent.

I love the lacing system.  Initially, I was concerned with the speed hooks, as they are made from a plastic-like material.  I was concerned they would either break or separate from the boot.  Neither of these potential issues has come to fruition.  I love the ease the laces slip through each hook when tightening; as well as how nicely they work to "grab" the lace near the top of the boot.

The cushion tongue is very comfortable and stays in place!  The gusset works well in keeping out water; yet tends to grab my socks and pull them when inserting my foot into the shoe, especially if my sock is damp.

Typically, I tear up footwear where I hike.  The places I frequent are littered with rocks and boulders.  I prefer a boot with a shank.  It protects the bottoms of my feet and allows me to scramble over the boulder fields much easier.  So far, the shank in the Pileus Cloud has held its own.  These shanks are not heavy, and do allow a lot of flexibility in the boot.    But, even with heavy loads (over 50 lb [23 kg]) I have not had any issues except I can feel quite a bit on the bottom of the boots.  

I have found the tread pattern quite effective overall.  It's excellent in wet conditions; although prone to some minimal slipping, especially crossing algae covered creeks.  The tread pattern sheds residual earthen materials (i.e. mud) quite well and does not become compacted.  Since the test series is outside winter conditions for me, I cannot comment on how they will work in snow. 

The top of the boot has a padded collar that is quite comfortable, and forms easily to different positions of my leg.  It has nicely inhibited things from making their way into my boots as I hike, especially when bushwhacking. 

Overall, I like the Pileus Cloud boots.  I really wish they offered a little more room in the toe box.  I feel they are cut too narrow for a hiking boot.  With time, the Pileus Clouds are softening up, increasing my level of comfort.  They feel light on my feet when I hike in them; yet I would classify them more as a lightweight hiker than a medium hiking boot.  The boots have proven to be quite waterproof.  It's been an extremely wet spring at times.  I've worn them through downpours and raging creeks and haven't had a single leak.  

Summary of Field Experience

These boots run small, especially in the toe box.  The problems are magnified with the tongue gusseted, as oftentimes my socks are pulled tightly when I insert my foot.  Potential buyers should  be aware that these boots fit tighter than other shoes I've bought or tested from Dunham.  I've been wearing boots all of my hiking life.  These boots are a well-made and nice looking.  They feel light on my feet, and offer good stability, even for heavy loads.  They feel much more like a light hiker than a medium one.