I own the thermo Super mountain 9's of this boot and concur that they're best for technical climbing. Absolutely rigid platform plus a good leather upper foot mean's that something has to give on trail... and it's your heals for sure. Typical problem with a boot of this type. But well worth the trade off for a secure foot on technical terrain... no toe's fishing around in these bad boys!
Solomons actually tend to run a bit wider than LaSports, but are still about a medium width. Yah, and I would say that they're a bit higher volumne than the LaSports.
No prob on the NikWax, go for it! Don't use the Nubuc stuff, go for the Aqueos at Min, perferably the 'Wax.' The NuBuc is marketed only for those concerned about boot apperance. NikWax needed to meet customer demands with the NuBuc product.
I LOVE these boots, they rock! Much better lacing system than the LaSports!
Did I mention I sell boots???