Danner Mountain 600
Pros
- Awesome for casual use
- Supportive
- Oustanding grip
- Durable
- Feels light
- Great out of the box
- Waterproof
Cons
- Debris gets into the boot
- Not for technical hiking
Key Features
- Waterproof construction using 100% Danner Dry barrier to keep your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape.
- Durable upper made from smooth suede or full-grain leather, built to withstand rigorous trails.
- Ortholite triple-density footbed for maximum comfort and support, featuring open-cell construction for better heat dissipation.
- SPE midsole crafted from rubberized EVA for enhanced durability and cushioning without added weight.
- Slip-resistant Vibram Fuga outsole designed with self-adapting lugs for traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
Specifications
- Fabric type: Waterproof suede upper and durable full-grain leather upper.
- Origin: Imported.
- Sole material: Vibram Fuga Outsole for superior grip.
- Shaft height: 5.25 inches for optimal ankle support.
The Danner Mountain 600 is a hiking boot that excels in providing comfort and support, making it well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts seeking reliable performance on varied trails.
This boot offers immediate comfort upon wear, ensuring that treks are enjoyable rather than just tolerable. Its notable moisture-resistant construction effectively protects against wet conditions, contributing to a more pleasant hiking experience.
The combination of a sturdy collar and a cushioned, stabilizing insole provides significant support, safeguarding ankles on uneven terrain. Throughout our hikes, we experienced improved steadiness and comfort, with no occurrences of scrapes or blisters typically associated with long hikes.
Tested under various conditions, the Danner Mountain 600 kept our feet dry throughout our adventures. The performance justifies its price point of $200, although it may not be suitable for budget-conscious hikers, as it is 13.4% above the average price for hiking boots.
Danner Mountain Light
Pros
- Highly durable leather and rubber
- Premium materials and craftsmanship
- Top-notch waterproofing
- Can be resolved and recrafted
- Secure lockdown and support
- Very stable and reliable platform
- Sexy and snazzy vintage look
Cons
- Underfoot cushioning feels non-existent
- Breaking in takes time and effort
- The heaviest boot out there
- VERY expensive
Key Features
- Durable Construction: Made from a single piece of full-grain leather tested six ways for strength.
- Waterproof Protection: Features breathable Gore-Tex that keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape.
- Airthotic Comfort: Molded PU footbed with an instep that cups the heel and supports the arch, including perforations for airflow.
- Slip-Resistant Outsole: The Vibram Kletterlift outsole designed for superb shock absorption and excellent traction on varying terrains.
- Made in the USA: Superior craftsmanship with Danner’s legendary stitchdown construction for durability and recrafting potential.
Specifications
- Fabric Type: 100% Leather
- Origin: Made in the USA
- Sole Material: Vibram Kletterlift
- Shaft Height: 5.5 Inches
The Mountain Light is a high-quality hiking boot suited for serious hikers seeking durability, grip, and protection. It has demonstrated significant resistance to wear in lab tests, maintaining its structural integrity even under challenging terrain conditions.
This boot effectively manages various environmental factors, providing a barrier against cold temperatures and moisture. Its waterproofing and insulation properties are verified with a breathability score of 1/5.
The handmade leather construction shows remarkable resilience, exhibiting minimal damage after extensive testing and receiving a perfect durability rating. The heel padding reinforces the boot’s overall quality craftsmanship.
Equipped with a Vibram outsole, the Mountain Light offers notable traction on rugged paths due to its thicker rubber composition, which enhances underfoot protection and longevity. A durometer reading of 91.6 HC and a rubber thickness of 4.8 mm contribute to its robust performance.
The 5.8 mm aggressive lugs improve stability and control, providing excellent braking power on steep inclines. However, it is important to note that the boot is very stiff and requires an extended break-in period, making it less suitable for hikers who prioritize immediate comfort.
Danner Jag
Pros
- Versatile for both city and trail
- High-quality materials
- Excellent waterproofing
- Indestructible outsole
- Lighter than average
- Minimal break-in period
- Firm and grounded platform
- Stylish retro aesthetic
Cons
- Lacks cushioning for longer hikes
- Not for severe overpronation
Key Features
- Danner Dry waterproof protection: Keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- Cushioning open-cell OrthoLite footbed: Provides exceptional comfort and support for long wear.
- Lightweight, shock-absorbing EVA midsole: Reduces impact on your joints, offering a smooth ride.
- Danner Waffle rubber outsole: Features a classic hiking tread pattern that ensures excellent traction on various terrains.
- Multiple color options: Available in Brown/Khaki, Slate Gray/Lava Rock, Carbon Black, Sandy Taupe, Steel Gray/Blue Wing, and Bark/Dusty Olive.
Specifications
- Fabric type: Nubuck and textile upper.
- Origin: Imported.
- Fur description: No Fur.
- Sole material: Rubber.
The Danner Jag is a hiking boot that effectively blends style with function, making it suitable for both casual wear and outdoor activities. Its modern durability allows it to withstand harsh environmental elements while providing seamless transitions between town and trail.
Weighing in at 17.0 oz (482g), the Danner Jag is lighter than the average boot weight of 18.5 oz (523g). This lightweight design enhances its versatility, and lab tests indicate that it offers a level of flexibility comparable to the average boot. The boot features 3.7 mm lugs that provide a smoother feel on pavement while maintaining traction on loose surfaces.
In terms of durability, the Danner Jag performs exceptionally well, as demonstrated by our rigorous Dremel test conducted on its outsole, heel, and upper. It achieved a notable score of 92.1 HC on our durometer, indicating robust construction. The heel and upper received impressive durability ratings of 4/5, and the upper effectively protects against abrasions, water, and cold weather.
During testing, we experienced no wet or cold feet thanks to the impermeable material used in the design. However, the low breathability of the boot can cause discomfort during summer hikes, making it more suitable for colder seasons. This notable drawback should be considered when selecting the Danner Jag for warmer weather conditions.
Danner Cascade Crest
Pros
- Excellent materials and craftsmanship (made in USA)
- Hard-wearing and durable build
- World-class Gore-Tex waterproofing
- Isolates the foot from trail hazards
- Stable platform and reliable foothold
- Wide-foot friendly
- Can be resoled/recrafted
- Beautiful vintage vibes
Cons
- Much heavier than average
- Very expensive
Key Features
- Durable full-grain leather and suede or textile upper
- GORE-TEX waterproof breathable lining made with 30% post-consumer recycled materials
- Cushioning open-cell OrthoLite Eco footbed for enhanced comfort
- Bi-Fit board for improved stability
- Handcrafted, stitchdown construction for added strength and stability
Specifications
- Origin: Made in USA with Imported Components
- Sole material: Vibram Traction Cascade Outsole
- Shaft height: 5 inches
- Outer material: Full-Grain Leather & Nylon Upper
The Danner Cascade Crest is designed for individuals seeking a dependable hiking boot capable of handling harsh weather and rugged terrain. Our lab testing confirms its protective features through a stable ride, durable Vibram outsole, and airtight upper. Additionally, the toebox provides spacious comfort, making it an excellent option for those with wide feet.
During our hikes, we noted ample room for toe splay, with a measurement of 103.7 mm recorded on our caliper, the widest among Danner boots. The midsole also excels, featuring a measurement of 118.9/89.3 mm, which contributes to a planted and secure feel throughout various activities. This combination enhances overall stability during outdoor adventures.
Traction was a standout feature, allowing us to maintain control on slippery surfaces. The Vibram outsole, equipped with deep 5-mm lugs, provided stability on puddles, snow, and uneven terrains. While navigating rocky trails, we appreciated the protection offered by the tough 85.0 HC rubber, contributing to the boot’s long-lasting durability.
The well-constructed upper received a solid 4/5 durability score in our Dremel test, indicating its strength over time. Its Gore-Tex membrane and sturdy leather enhance its waterproof and airtight qualities, as evidenced by a 1/5 breathability rating. These features ensure that the boot performs well in adverse conditions.
However, it's important to note that the big toe space measures at 74.3 mm, which is narrower than average. Those requiring additional volume in this area may need to consider other options. Overall, the Danner Cascade Crest provides a reliable choice for hikers prioritizing protection and comfort.