Our verdict
The Danner Light II is a tough-as-nails, mid-cut day hiking boot that provides great comfort and stability. It is beautifully crafted footwear with a surprisingly lightweight build, breathable waterproof membrane by Gore-Tex, satisfactory traction on challenging terrain, and a price tag that is considered a worthy investment.
Pros
- Great ankle support
- Amazing traction
- Highly durable
- Waterproof
- Worth its money
- Good breathability
- Lightweight
Cons
- Long break-in time
- Too narrow
Who should buy the Danner Light II
The USA-made Danner Light II hiking boots might be pricey, but you certainly get what you pay for. You won’t regret getting them if you want:
- a classic, lightweight, and comfortable boot with excellent traction for a day hiking
- durable shoes that will serve you longer due to recrafting possibility and removable footbed
Updates to the Danner Light II
- The Danner Light II now comes with a stiff removable footbed providing arch support and heel cupping.
Vibram’s grippy outsole
Vibram’s Kletterlift outsole gives the Danner Light II its traction on various surfaces. This proprietary rubber outsole is made of Vibram’s Megagrip durable and adaptable compound.
Its heel zone effectively absorbs shock upon landing.
Danner’s signature stitchdown construction
This boot is made using Danner’s stitchdown construction, which allows recrafting: reworking the leather, restitching the seams, and replacing the boot’s outsole.
Sufficient cushioning and arch support
This mid-cut hiker gives wearers comfort and stability, thanks to its cushy, flexible, and durable EVA midsole. The extra arch support is made possible by the embedded fiberglass shank that is both lightweight and flexible.
Breathable removable footbed of the Danner Light II
The removable, stiff footbed cradles the wearer’s heel and supports the arch. The raised arch is also perforated, which promotes breathability.
Waterproof upper
The Danner Light II is hiking footwear with nubuck or full-grain leather upper. The ankle coverage is lightweight and contributes to the boot’s overall breathability. Helping the leather upper keep the wearer’s feet dry is the waterproofing membrane by Gore-Tex.
Secure lacing system
The boot’s lacing system secures the foot all the way to the ankle cuff.
