I'm looking for the right pair of Hiking Boots
Above all I'm interested in durability and longevity. I'm young and not afraid to drop a buck on a pair that will last me a long time—I wore some Timberlands that I thrifted on a 13 mile overnight and came back with black and blue toes.
I enjoy hiking and I'm not afraid of a long hike or overnight endeavor—but I'm also not hiking every other day or hiking the entire west coast.
Based on my interests and priorities I've narrowed it down to the Jim Green Razorback or Danner Mountain 600 Leaf.
Jim Green Razorback
- I really like the thick, traditional build and the durability that comes with it
- Like the brand; the shoes look cool, they're supporting rangers and seemingly doing the right things
- Good value $190-$210 (depending on size/amazon vs site)
- However, I'm worried that they are only water resistant. I enjoy that I don't need to worry about stepping in shallow streams when I wore my Timberlands.
- I can be critical about my fit of shoe, and Jim Green are only online.
Danner Mountain 600 Leaf
- I appreciate the modern tech of these—Vibram grippy soles, Goretex waterproofing/breathability and lighter
- I have access to a Danner store and can go in to get the right fit of boot the first try
- Whenever I bring it up my dad mentions how great his own pair of Danner boots are—the have held up great for the last decade.
- Slightly more expensive $250
- As I understand it the tech comes at the cost of durability—the Vibram is softer and wears away easier, and the lighter materials are less durable. There seems to be reports of them not holding up too well with regular use.
- Website is very salesy; extra soles, misleading discount advertisements, lots of name "Gore-tex" and "Vibram" with branding on the shoe
Would love to hear from people who know their stuff and have experience rather than throwing endless questions at google. Thanks so much!