I have quality boots i purchased in 1995 for Arbor work (not Hoffman) and they are still useful today. Two years ago i purchased these boots and to my surprise they were the lightest weight boot ever. The support is great as is the durability. These are getting to be one of my favorite boots for tree care. Perhaps the Powerline name says they were designed for utility work (linemen), i happen to think after two seasons of use they are superb for Arbor work.