Men’s Danner Mountain Pass Mink Oil Boots Review
Ask anyone who dreams of being in the great outdoors all day and night what their favorite hiking boots are and chances are you’ll hear one word, “Danner”. It’s a good reason as to why their Mountain Light boot, which was introduced back in 1979, still remains one of the most popular hiking boots to this day. Everyone loves to wear them out on the trail.
Yet, how in the world do you improve upon such a classic with an already unmatched durability and support? It’s simple. You make a hiking boot that’s 25% lighter and more versatile with the same classic Danner style. Meet the Mountain Pass (in Mink Oil).
It’s the boot built for not only lighter hikes but also urban city street environments. While these boots have slimmed down in weight to an impressive 46oz per pair, what will leave you surprised is the level of comfort.
In reality, you won’t find this kind of comfort in a standard hiking boot. It’s all due in thanks to the removable ortholite footbed which features three unique layers of varying density. The open-cell polyurethane construction also helps to regulate the removal of heat while drawing in fresh air. Danner’s Dri-Lex liner which aims to make warm-to-hot days feel more pleasant, offers plenty of breathability while keeping odor, mildew and moisture vapor at bay.
In terms of support, the Bi Fit Board shank (a combination of the midsole, lasting board and shank into a single piece), solves the issue of weight without reducing stability. A stichdown construction further reinforces the idea of what Danner had aimed to accomplish. When paired with the Vibram Kletterlift thin outsole, it all combines for the ultimate secure fit alongside a high level of confidence felt with every step.
When it comes to durability, just look at the name on the side of these Mountain Pass boots and you’ll see it says, Danner. Need I say more? These hiking boots will last you for miles and miles and plenty of years to come.
While the Mountain Pass hiking boots are offered a handful of different colors including gunmetal, black glace, dark brown, horween rio, Humboldt, and sand, I choose to go with Mink Oil. There’s just something about the finish that draws you in. Truthfully, you just have to see the finish firsthand and I promise you will fall in love with it.
While I’m not personally a fan of bolder colors on my shoes such as the red laces, I have to say in this case, I wouldn’t consider replacing them at all! The way they contrast the mink oil is done tastefully and it makes for one darn attractive boot that’s hard not to take a second look at.