Zamberlan shows quality
This boot is great for backpacking. Very well designed and made. The whole shoe made from one leather, which reduced the stitches. I took this boot for broke-in hikes twice, about 20 miles. These boots NEED a break in. If you take it directly to a week long backpacking, good luck. After breaking in, it is the perfect shoes for backpacking. I used to wear Keen Targhee II, these are also great shoes, but not that great for backpacking, a bit soft on the bottom though. 992 on the other hand, have hard bottom if you don't carry any weight. But if you have a loaded bag, you can feel the difference. Maybe that's why Zamberlan put 992 into trekking category instead of hiking. Overall, GREAT SHOES. Made in Italy.

European Quality, Traditional Look
These are Old World, Old School traditional hiking boots in the best sense of the terms. If you're looking for a boot that will out last your knees, get these....

A well made boot
The boots seem very well made. Not any seams where the thread will wear out and have the boot split open. They are very stiff initially, but are gradually getting to where I want them to be. I work in the outdoors and wear these boots at work with no issues yet. These boots also fit my orthotics well.

Well made in a classic style.
So far, I am very pleased with the 992 Panther. The leather feels durable and boots overall are well-crafted. I ordered them for their classic design and simplicity and have not been disappointed. They feel very stiff the first couple of weeks, but loosen up with use. Also, and perhaps the thing I had to get use to, the souls are high. I stand a good two inches higher and feel a little like Frankenstein wearing them. You get use to it. I have used them only for day hikes so far, and am planning a 60 mile expedition this summer. I am glad I bought them.