I will swear by Vasques. I bought my first pair (canvas) when I was in High School 18 years ago with money from a summer job. They lasted through many a backpack trip in college. Got my second pair in college and upgraded to full leather and goretex (Sundowner) and LOVED them. After years of service they finally went belly up. Third pair, leather goretex (new sundowner version) were just retired last year and replaced with a new goretex canvas/leather pair. My ankles can't handle heavy hiking anymore so went with something a little more flexible. The break in time is not bad at all. Very blister friendly but it all depends on the feet. So all in all I can't say enough abou them. I think they used to retail for around $120.

I think trying them on is a good thing. Fit is important.
Good luck and I am jealous! -Nic