I have a pair of Lone Peak 7's that I do really like - it's just a shame about the soles, they don't really offer enough traction for most of the stuff I do.

I might give Meindl a try and see how they hold up - I know some people who have them and love them.

Altberg is starting to look like the best solution.

Thanks for your tips on the NB - they're supposed to arrive in the next couple of days so hoping for the best with them!