Danner  Mountain Light II GTX Hiking Boots - Men's

These are amazingly comfortable, supportive, and hard-wearing boots. That being said, I'm always wary of boot reviews, since everyone's foot is different. Some folks might like these boots, and others might not. So, to make this review helpful, I'll focus on what makes these boots stand out compared to others. First, it's a classic full-grain-leather, stitch-down, Norwegian-welt backpacking boot, with minimal stitching. What this means is that it's extremely durable. Also, the boots can be resoled and even recrafted when they eventually wear out (ie, the leather can be re-polished and re-tooled, the midsole or liner replaced as needed, etc.) by sending them to the Danner factory in Portland, Oregon. What this means is that these boots will last a long, long time. Second, for that kind of all-leather construction, these Danners are actually pretty lightweight. Of course, they're nowhere near as light as boots with synthetic or mesh uppers. But I, for one, was tired of shelling out good money to buy new boots every year, only to have them fall apart after 300 miles or so. For me, the durability and quality of the Danners more than make up for the small weight penalty. Again, that's a matter of opinion, and your mileage may very... I personally also like the fairly low cut of the boot; in my opinion, ultra-high ankles aren't needed on anything short of mountaineering boots. The three-quarter height of these boots work for me. Also, I like that there's no "Achilles notch" at the back of the ankle. I like the secure feel it provides, and the leather becomes supple enough after break-in that you don't even notice it. Again, those kinds of details are things on which individuals may differ. Of course, what this all-leather handmade construction means is that these boots need some break-in time. Take them to a city park or easy dirt trails for a few miles at first, gradually increasing the distance until they feel like a well-fitting glove. Then, you'll be ready to start backpacking. In short, if you are looking for lightweight hiking shoes with no break-in time, these boots are not for you. But if you are looking for a long-term affair with a quality product that is handmade in the Pacific Northwest by people who will stand by it when issues come up, these boots deserve a look.

I have previously owned other models of Danner Boots and have been a huge fan of their comfort, durability and insulation properties. Am always glad to buy a 100 percent made in the USA product. As a comparison, I also purchased a top of the line manufactured Italian hiking boot from REI. Both boots were similar in price and had excellent reviews. I have put between 50-100 miles on both pairs of boots and definitely find the Danner Mountain Light II's just OK. Why? Both pairs of boots are durable, but the Italian Zamberland's are noticeably lighter. If you 'hump' long distances, as I have in military and government service, it makes a difference on how your feet endure and recover. As other reviews have mentioned, how shoes fit and feel are an individual preference, but I rate fit and feel as my highest priority. REI warns that the Danner Mtn Light II toe box is narrow and they are correct. It's not a major issue for my feet, but you might definitely want to try them on in an REI store versus buying online. I deducted a few points from the Danners because the heel support wedge was very uncomfortable and I also required a supplemental full size insert to improve the overall fit and feel. With the Zamberlands, fit and feel right out of the box was outstanding and I expect that to continue well after this initial break in period. I believe that when you invest 300 dollars for a pair of hiking boots, they should have a comfortable padded fit over rough and rocky terrain. My Zamberlands win that contest as well. I don't have an affiliation with any shoe/boot manufacturer or retailer. The Danners do win in the appearance catagory. I like the simple brown leather design over the multicolored 'fruit loop' look of the Zamberlands. I can honestly recommend the Danner Mtn Light II's as an OK product, but have to give 5 stars and a 100% positive recommendation to the Zamberlands. REI has an excellent return policy, but I will keep both sets of boots and report an update after they hit the 500 mile mark. That should average 60 percent usage on pavement and 40 percent usage on hiking and backpacking trails. My immediate dog walking and hiking area offers concrete, blacktop, packed dirt, mud, rock and sand surfaces. Hat's off to the DC-NOVA, Quantico locations that offers a wide variety of recreational pursuits. It's a great place to test shoes and boots. Stay safe and enjoy the ride.