I've literally backpacked across counties wearing Zamberlan light hiking boots. Switched to LaSportiva light hikers. Now switched again to a pair of HOKA light hiking boots. All 3 are raised at the ankle, but the LaSportiva was only neoprene like tall collar. The Zamberlains and HOKA have little more ankle support, but not really much, I think it is more to keep water out than to provide any sort of support.I’d bought a lot of Solomons and keens, and the latest Kenna really went downhill so I took them back.
No other choices except for the Zamberlan, figured why not try them on, I’m here, it’s not like I’m going to buy a $350 boot.
Put them on and it felt like my feet went home. I love them, couldn’t go home without them and have a few miles and a few workdays on them now.
All 3 brands are comfortable, supportive and provide traction. Of the 3 I'd put the Zamberlain and LaSportiva at the top, with the HOKA a less technical but good enough.
Merrill and Keen always seem too hard, not enough traction, especially on wet. OBOZ is probably better than either of those brands, maybe on the same level as the HOKA.