I've narrowed it down to Salomon Quest 4D or Lalo Tactical Shadow Intruder. I've been wearing Lowa Zephyrs for a coue of years now and love them but it's time to get new boots. Any input would be appreciated. Leaning towards the Lalos but have never handled them personally.

ETA: any advantage to an 8" boot over a 5" or 6"?

Been wearing the Salomons for a couple years now and will definitely be getting another pair when these are ready to retire. I don't know about the other brand.

I'll second the Salomons. I have a set of some Quest 4D GTX boots that I bought back in 2013. I've never properly cleaned them (either hit it with the hose or just let the rain do it's magic), worn them through more than a few dirtbike wipeouts, never re-treated them, and just generally abused the poor things.

They're still waterproof, despite the large cut on the inner side of my right boot from a footpeg. The darn things are even still on the original laces. I can barely get my tennis shoe laces to last 1 year, and these are going on 5+ now and looking like I put them on a week ago.

I just recently got a good deal on some of their lower boots from U.S. Elite Gear, so the 4D's are getting shelved as the new ones obviously look nicer and I no longer do much that requires the ankle support they gave.

But I am entirely sold on the Salomon wagon, and will continue buying from them so long as they continue this level of quality.