If we say picture the classic hiking boot, probably the Danner Mountain Light just popped in your head. (Unless you skipped breakfast. Then you’re just thinking about a boot-shaped bagel.) For the properly fed, this limited edition boot takes thirty years of hiking function and form and gives it a new interpretation, thanks to Danner’s collaboration with Topo Designs, a Colorado-based, USA-made outdoor gear maker.
The red and black scheme is all Topo, along with the red flecked paracord laces. The manufacturing is all Danner, made top-to-bottom in their Portland, Oregon factory. The result is a pair of those rest-of-your-life boots that will last through resoling, restitching and part replacement.
But can you hike in them? With a Vibram outsole, you’ll get traction. The waterproof yet breathable Gore-Tex liner will eradicate the damp, and the premium Horween leather won’t fall apart when it meets a rock. So if you’re still thinking about breakfast, go eat. Then get yourself some boots. – $390
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