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Equipment & Gear => All Other Gear => Topic started by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 23, 2016, 01:29:52 PM


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Title: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 23, 2016, 01:29:52 PM
Well after 6 seasons, I have to retire my Danners Elk Ridge boots.  They still feel great, but the tread is gone and I am tired of slipping.
Come to find out Danner discontinued this boot :bash: and tried to supplement it with the Elk Hunter.
I ordered a pair and got them only to be extremely disappointed.  I only needed to lace up one before I realized they are going back.  They felt terrible! 
I have scoured the internet looking for one surviving pair of the Elk Ridge boots, but they are gone.  I loved those boots and they fit me perfectly, why did Danner have to go and change a good thing? If anyone here works for Danner, revive that boot and kill that monstrosity you call the Elk Hunter, NOW! 

I went to my local North 40 today and decided to see what all they hype was with the Kenetreks.  Tried on a pair and damn, those things felt very nice, I almost walked out with them, but my wiser self said to research them a bit first and read the reviews. 

I have never worn a boot with a sole that stiff, but it felt like it fit my foot well.  I jumped on here and read some of the issues guys had with blisters on the heels due to the stiffness and an issue with fitting their foot correctly.  How do I know if this will be a problem for me or not?  Is there a way to be certain the boot fits my foot like its supposed and not cause an issue on my heel?  Seemed to fit my foot like a glove and I felt no rubbing in the store, but once you get on a hill its totally different. Just trying to prevent a $450 mistake.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: tikkahunter on June 23, 2016, 01:51:35 PM
I believe you can resole the elk ridge since it's a stitch down sole
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: MtnMuley on June 23, 2016, 01:52:09 PM
I wore Danner's  for many years, but they are a thing of the past in my eyes. Kenetreks are more than twice the boot. You won't be disappointed. :twocents:
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Southpole on June 23, 2016, 01:56:09 PM
My husband is in the same boat. I don't know what model of Danners he has but they're around 15 years old. They're his favorite boots but, like you, they're getting worn. They don't make that model anymore and he's tried on all the other Danners and they just don't fit right. I bought a pair of Oboz last year from North 40. Like the Kenetreks they fit my foot like a custom glove but they have a very stiff sole, almost like wearing ski boots. I feel insecure when I hike around over wet logs and such. I found myself tripping and falling a lot. I can see wearing these on a groomed trail but not off road. I also paid about $250 for them but I needed them because I had forgotten my work boots on my way to Curlew  :rolleyes:. I would prefer a boot with a more flexible sole so I can feel more detail under my foot.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: mburrows on June 23, 2016, 02:12:15 PM
I bought a pair of the Kenetrek Hardscrabbles recently after bidding farewell to my boots, was a tough decision. At one point i had about a mortgage payments worth of boots in the house because I wanted to make sure I made the right choice.  I love em so far even though they aren't completely broken in. 
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Happy Gilmore on June 23, 2016, 02:17:42 PM
Danner rebuilds all american made boots still for around $100. They put in new GoreTex too. I'm pissed because they discontinued Romeos. I bought two new pair and have them under my bed in reserve. Been wearing Danner Romeo's for at least 13 years and I buy a new pair a year and throw away a pair a year. Keep one year old pair for slippers.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 23, 2016, 02:30:53 PM
I believe you can resole the elk ridge since it's a stitch down sole

I believe you can as well, but its a 10 week turn around right now from the day they get them.  I need my boots for scouting and such this summer and I may not get them back in time for archery season.  I am just kinda torn at this point. 
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 23, 2016, 02:32:04 PM
I wore Danner's  for many years, but they are a thing of the past in my eyes. Kenetreks are more than twice the boot. You won't be disappointed. :twocents:

I hope not, but they are much different than the Danners.  I am worried about the ski boot like feel on some of the terrain.  Does that improve when they are broken in?
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Timberstalker on June 23, 2016, 02:59:30 PM
Although I am on the Kenetrek Bandwagon as well, have you looked at the Danner Canadians?  They are a stout, well built boot if you want to stay with Danner.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: MtnMuley on June 23, 2016, 03:05:23 PM
I wore Danner's  for many years, but they are a thing of the past in my eyes. Kenetreks are more than twice the boot. You won't be disappointed. :twocents:

I hope not, but they are much different than the Danners.  I am worried about the ski boot like feel on some of the terrain.  Does that improve when they are broken in?

I've never experienced the ski boot effect in the Mountain Extreme's with 5 pairs.  I know the feeling with the Mtn Guides and other mountaineering boots I've worn.  I don't notice much of a break in period, but then again I'm fortunate to not have picky feet.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 23, 2016, 03:20:56 PM
Although I am on the Kenetrek Bandwagon as well, have you looked at the Danner Canadians?  They are a stout, well built boot if you want to stay with Danner.

I have considered them as well.  I had a pair awhile back and they just seemed to high on my leg to be comfortable. I think the 9 in shank was my number with Danner boots.  I know the Kenetrek says its also 10in high, but it didn't feel the same when I tested them out.  I also cant find a pair of the Canadians in CDA to try on and I would really like to try the boots on before I order them.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: JBar on June 23, 2016, 03:22:54 PM
Ditch the Danners! I too used to love my Danners but after a few pairs that only lasted a season forget it. My Rain Forest boots were the best and lasted a good 10 years. First couple of Pronghorns lasted 3+, after that they were crap! Tried a couple different boots and ended up buying Kenetreks, first pair lasted 6 years, still have them but one of them developed a leak so I just bought another pair and will send the old ones in to be patched. You will appreciate the stiffness when side hilling and as you and your ankles age. There are other great boots out there so find what fits you right and don't sweat the price tag. You can spend $180 every year or $440 and be way ahead in the long run. :tup: Sorry if I rambled!
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: follow maggie on June 23, 2016, 06:46:48 PM
It's sad how far Danner has fallen. I used to wear nothing but Danner. Then thy off shored some of their manufacturing, but their American made boots were still good. Last year i bought a pair of their quarry boots made in the USA. Didn't evn last for a year before they startd leaking badly. It's sad to see a great company become a purveyor of junk.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: predatorpro on June 23, 2016, 07:02:14 PM
I love my danners...been wearing pronghorns for years and never had a problem....I literally wear them everyday...work water mud snow....they are great!
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: crabcreekhunter on June 23, 2016, 07:15:18 PM
I still wear danners havr the canadians, trophys which are similar to the slk hunters but better quality in my eyes.  Also have a pair of the danner mountain assaults alot along the line of the kennetrek feel but 150 bucks cheaper.  Have only put about 100 miles on those but very happy with the purchase
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: huntnphool on June 23, 2016, 07:20:21 PM
http://www.danner.com/boot-recrafting/

I sent a old pair in last year for a new sole and stitching, they turned out great!
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: lewy on June 23, 2016, 07:28:51 PM
Pick up a set of kenetreks, there awesome and only get better with time. I used to wear out a pair of pronghorns every year, the kenetreks last me 5!
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 23, 2016, 08:27:55 PM
Yeah I'm leaning towards the kenetreks.   Might try on some of the other brands that have a similar style just to see what feels best.   

Sent from my HTC6525LVW using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: HUNTaHOLIC5 on June 23, 2016, 08:33:55 PM
I had the old style danners until they wore out then switched to Scarpa Wrangell. Love them but they are very stiff.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: T-Dozzer on June 23, 2016, 08:35:04 PM
Got a pair being rebuilt now.
Went and bought a pair of Meindl perfekt extremes and am happy I did. Good boots, but have a longer break in period.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: mburrows on June 23, 2016, 09:05:59 PM
Another solid brand to consider is Crispi boots
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: KFhunter on June 23, 2016, 09:14:44 PM
I'm really digging my S2V's       


no idea how they'll hold up but they're like a jogging shoe that laces up and your foot is down inside the sole instead of up on top, the stability is awesome, best surest footed boot I've ever had on.

putting them on I feel like I should run somewhere
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: JakeLand on June 23, 2016, 09:34:02 PM
The Danner Grouse hunters with the air bob soles are my blacktail hunting boot
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Happy Gilmore on June 23, 2016, 10:42:18 PM
The Danner Grouse hunters with the air bob soles are my blacktail hunting boot
I have a pair which are so comfy its stupid and two worn out pairs of rainforests. Need to send them in. I've actually been wearing out a pair of muck boots a year training dogs and started wearing them in the woods here whenever its wet out.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Magnum_Willys on June 23, 2016, 11:01:50 PM
If my Kennetrek mtn xtremes were any less stiff I would be getting the hardscrabble.   Comfy, just stiff enough for general hunting.  Prob not stiff enough for sheep hunting imo.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Happy Gilmore on June 23, 2016, 11:07:19 PM
Miss my buddy would would wear white nikes just about anywhere and he always seemed to have a picture with a animal and his white nikes
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Redneck Russell on June 23, 2016, 11:16:47 PM
Go Danner Canadians and you won't look back
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: huntnphool on June 23, 2016, 11:31:45 PM
The Danner Grouse hunters with the air bob soles are my blacktail hunting boot
I have a pair which are so comfy its stupid and two worn out pairs of rainforests. Need to send them in. I've actually been wearing out a pair of muck boots a year training dogs and started wearing them in the woods here whenever its wet out.

 Love my Rainforests too. :tup:
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 24, 2016, 09:18:07 AM
Miss my buddy would would wear white nikes just about anywhere and he always seemed to have a picture with a animal and his white nikes

I have some slip on sketchers I will wear during archery season when its really dry.  My feet hurt at the end of the day, but its amazing how quite they are.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: 2MANY on June 24, 2016, 09:23:44 AM
You guys that say your Kenetreks last many years make me laugh.

Hell my wife wore her Kenetreks out in 2 years.

I guess it depends on how hard you hunt and if your in the rocks or not.

Once you get past the blister stage I hear Kenetreks are great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Thefisherman83 on June 24, 2016, 09:24:03 AM
I bought the Meindl Denali's 6 or 7 years ago and they are still holding up great!
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 24, 2016, 09:26:40 AM
You guys that say your Kenetreks last many years make me laugh.

Hell my wife wore her Kenetreks out in 2 years.

I guess it depends on how hard you hunt and if your in the rocks or not.

Once you get past the blister stage I hear Kenetreks are great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am most worried about that blister stage.  On the longevity, my hunting partner has a set he has used heavily for 5 years, tread looks a little to worn for my taste but he says he still gets good traction and will have them resoled next year maybe.  Not very rocky here in the panhandle, but he puts a lot of miles on every hunting season. 
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 24, 2016, 09:31:38 AM
Im going to go try on the Lowas and the Meindl that Cabelas has  today to see if there is a difference in fit.  I have also bee interested in the Crispi and the Zamberlan but I don't think I can test them out anywhere local.  I hate ordering boots online and trying to figure out what size I need.  Seems every brand is different these days.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: 2MANY on June 24, 2016, 09:36:14 AM
You guys that say your Kenetreks last many years make me laugh.

Hell my wife wore her Kenetreks out in 2 years.

I guess it depends on how hard you hunt and if your in the rocks or not.

Once you get past the blister stage I hear Kenetreks are great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am most worried about that blister stage.  On the longevity, my hunting partner has a set he has used heavily for 5 years, tread looks a little to worn for my taste but he says he still gets good traction and will have them resoled next year maybe.  Not very rocky here in the panhandle, but he puts a lot of miles on every hunting season.

Like I said she wore threw the rubber front and back on both and the treads are slicks.
Granite is hard on boots.

Bottom line.........If you have boots you like buy a couple pairs.
Going from ones that work perfect to something new sucks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 24, 2016, 09:40:12 AM
You guys that say your Kenetreks last many years make me laugh.

Hell my wife wore her Kenetreks out in 2 years.

I guess it depends on how hard you hunt and if your in the rocks or not.

Once you get past the blister stage I hear Kenetreks are great!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am most worried about that blister stage.  On the longevity, my hunting partner has a set he has used heavily for 5 years, tread looks a little to worn for my taste but he says he still gets good traction and will have them resoled next year maybe.  Not very rocky here in the panhandle, but he puts a lot of miles on every hunting season.

Like I said she wore threw the rubber front and back on both and the treads are slicks.
Granite is hard on boots.

Bottom line.........If you have boots you like buy a couple pairs.
Going from ones that work perfect to something new sucks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I hear you there.  Never thought they would discontinue these boots, but they did.  If they ever release them again Im stocking up!

Wont Kenetrek rebuild them for you? I saw a detailed review of their rebuilds and they fix everything on the boot for 175 I think.   
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: 2MANY on June 24, 2016, 10:03:05 AM
Her business. :)

I run Danners with the Bob soles.

Hunt them a year and then use them for work boots.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: swashington2128 on June 24, 2016, 10:11:49 AM
Wondering what you need in comfort for boots. I wear boots everyday for work and absolutely love the Danner Elk Hunters. Stomped around the mountains in Utah for two weeks last year with no issues in blisters or fatigue in my feet. Elk hunted late season on the wet side last November with zero moisture.

I know everyone is different but you have to try them before judgment. It took me about of week of preseason hiking to break them in but that shouldn't be any different that any other quality leather boot. Danner hasn't fallen on the boots still made here in the US. Just the overseas crap they sell the city folk.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 24, 2016, 10:25:03 AM
Wondering what you need in comfort for boots. I wear boots everyday for work and absolutely love the Danner Elk Hunters. Stomped around the mountains in Utah for two weeks last year with no issues in blisters or fatigue in my feet. Elk hunted late season on the wet side last November with zero moisture.

I know everyone is different but you have to try them before judgment. It took me about of week of preseason hiking to break them in but that shouldn't be any different that any other quality leather boot. Danner hasn't fallen on the boots still made here in the US. Just the overseas crap they sell the city folk.

I dont know what it was, the uppers felt weak and uncomfortable, I didnt like how the tounge was designed.  Just totally different from my other boots.  The Elk Ridge had a thick tounge and upper that seemed to give me a very comfortable, yet supportive feel.  The insole seemed no existent on the Elk Hunters and my heel wont stay in place, way to much movement. I ordered wide boots and they fit perfect up front but the heel had a very sloppy fit.  I am sure they work great for some guys, i just was expecting something similar to what I had and they were no where close. 
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: huntnphool on June 24, 2016, 10:26:37 AM
 Why not send Danner your old boots while you are breaking in your new boots?
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 24, 2016, 10:30:31 AM
Why not send Danner your old boots while you are breaking in your new boots?
I will, but I better let the wife cool down after she sees how much I spend on these new boots :)  They will be a good back up
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: swashington2128 on June 24, 2016, 10:39:33 AM
I agree with that last advice. As long as the leather is good, get them resoled and don't buy new ones. Your feet wont know the difference between the old and new and you will have the traction back. Great option. Last I checked it is about $120-150 to get Danners resoled. Not a bad price for a comfortable boot.

And you keep the wife on the happy side, win win for everyone! The saved money could end up as new arrows or a new elk bugle call or a, well use your imagination.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: SkookumHntr on June 24, 2016, 10:49:48 AM
I bought Kenetreks last year, wore them all summer hiking and never could break them in, my feet never hurt so bad ever, I even put gel soles in them! Good thing I brought my danner hiking boots on that hunt! I will stick to a pair of pronghorns! lol
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 24, 2016, 10:54:43 AM
I agree with that last advice. As long as the leather is good, get them resoled and don't buy new ones. Your feet wont know the difference between the old and new and you will have the traction back. Great option. Last I checked it is about $120-150 to get Danners resoled. Not a bad price for a comfortable boot.

And you keep the wife on the happy side, win win for everyone! The saved money could end up as new arrows or a new elk bugle call or a, well use your imagination.

Problem is they wont be back before Archery Season.  I am not hunting in my whites, been there done that, sounded like a damn train lol.  If the weather holds I could use sneakers for a bit.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: blackveltbowhunter on June 24, 2016, 11:31:20 AM
My  :twocents: Skip the kennys if your going to get the danners resoled. Obviously they will be your go to boot when resoled. If looking for something for archery elk season, lots of options that will outperform the Mtn extremes that time of year and be a hundred+ less.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: BULLBLASTER on June 24, 2016, 12:38:22 PM
I fought and fought boots through high end pairs almost every year. Finally I broke down and bought the lathrop and sons custom boot deal. They set me up with lowa bighorn hunters. Got them in the mail laced them up and went on a 4 mile hike with a 60 lb pack that day. Feet felt great. There should be no "blister stage" with any boot. That means they don't fit correctly if you are getting blisters or they aren't laced correctly. I also ordered some Solomon 4d quest hikers from lathrop and they are awesome for early to mid season.

Bottom line is everyone has different feet and needs and some expert advice can save lots of money in the long run. 
There is a quality boot out there for all feet types wether its meindls or kenetreks or lowa etc.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 24, 2016, 06:35:25 PM
I fought and fought boots through high end pairs almost every year. Finally I broke down and bought the lathrop and sons custom boot deal. They set me up with lowa bighorn hunters. Got them in the mail laced them up and went on a 4 mile hike with a 60 lb pack that day. Feet felt great. There should be no "blister stage" with any boot. That means they don't fit correctly if you are getting blisters or they aren't laced correctly. I also ordered some Solomon 4d quest hikers from lathrop and they are awesome for early to mid season.

Bottom line is everyone has different feet and needs and some expert advice can save lots of money in the long run. 
There is a quality boot out there for all feet types wether its meindls or kenetreks or lowa etc.

So I went back and tried on the Kenetreks again and compared them with Lowa.  I could tell right away there was a difference and the Lowa they had wasn't for me.  I also noticed the Kenetrek felt loose because I was wearing a lighter sock, the same sock Ill wear until there is snow on the ground.  I tried them on the first time with medium weight socks, that felt great.  I think I will check out Lathrop and sons and see what they say.  Seems kinda spendy to drop 150 on a sizing kit, but I suppose its best to know exactly what you need before dropping 450 on something that will only work part of the time.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 24, 2016, 06:40:13 PM
Speaking of custom boots, anyone on here running the White's Hunters?  Or maybe a set of Nick's? 
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Miles on June 24, 2016, 07:17:34 PM
People still wear Danner boots?
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: lewy on June 24, 2016, 07:24:17 PM
 :chuckle:
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: mikeybuck on June 24, 2016, 07:27:47 PM
Love my Crispi's! Only boot that I have found not to leak.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: fish vacuum on June 24, 2016, 08:08:21 PM
The Danner Grouse hunters with the air bob soles are my blacktail hunting boot
Me too. Got them at a going out of business sale for about half price!
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Bushcraft on June 24, 2016, 08:14:37 PM
I fought and fought boots through high end pairs almost every year. Finally I broke down and bought the lathrop and sons custom boot deal. They set me up with lowa bighorn hunters. Got them in the mail laced them up and went on a 4 mile hike with a 60 lb pack that day. Feet felt great. There should be no "blister stage" with any boot. That means they don't fit correctly if you are getting blisters or they aren't laced correctly. I also ordered some Solomon 4d quest hikers from lathrop and they are awesome for early to mid season.

Bottom line is everyone has different feet and needs and some expert advice can save lots of money in the long run. 
There is a quality boot out there for all feet types wether its meindls or kenetreks or lowa etc.

Spot on advice.  Every need is different and every foot is different.  I'd add that some so-called boots that are marketed as "hunting" boots are a waste of money.  No offense, but Kenetreks are not stiff boots, at least compared to more serious mountaineering/hunting type boots and they quickly break down if you are a high mileage guy or spend any amount of time up in granite scree fields.

I admit to initially being a fanboy of Kenetreks but grew to despise them after trying to make them work for me.  The first pair I bought fit like a glove, but unfortunately leaked like a sieve....I'm talking walk through some wet lawn grass and your feet are squishing water inside the boot kind of leaky.  Sent them back.  Second identical pair (Mountain Extreme Non-Ins) had notable heel slip to the point I had to pre-apply duct-tape before doing long trails or venturing up some steep stuff.  They leaked and I wore down the sole in a season.  Sent them back. The third pair were total POS. The rand peeled off, they leaked, the tops were floppy soft like Chuck Taylor Converse All-Stars and the sole wore off in hardly any time at all.  I babied the fourth pair which fit quite a bit better though I still felt compelled to duct up my heels, but they also leaked and the soles were toast after just a couple scouting trips and one bear hunt.  Sent them back and got a refund after a few choice words with the owner who initially wasn't going to refund my money.  My hunting partner managed to run his for 3 years and some stitching tore out on the back of the boot.  He sent them in to Kenetrek to get repaired and was told the boots were shot and his only option was to buy a new pair.  He said no thanks and had Dave Page fix the sewing.  They lasted through the rest of the season before being relegated to lawn mowing boots.  He's been running mountaineering boots ever since and won't even mention the name Kenetrek they pissed him off so bad.

Anyway, after the Kenetrek debacles, I moved on to Schnee's Granites.  Much, MUCH better made boot than the Kenetreks, but they are definitely a little on the warm side since they are insulated.  Initially somewhat stiffer feeling but have an amazing rocker. Good heel cup.  Extremely comfortable with Sole "blue" insoles.  The first pair were great but the right book eventually sprung a leak over my instep.  Soles and rand held up fine.  But sent them back for a second pair which are still going strong two years later, but I baby them and have only taken them on a few long-bomb alpine scouting and hunting trips.

I finally decided to make the switch to Scarpa's last year for alpine hunting and will never ever go back to wildly overpriced leather recreational hunting boots.  I'm rolling with the Mont Blanc Pro GTX's and the Triolets.  Absolutely love them with Sole blue inserts.  Dry, comfy, stable, supportive, and going up in the steep stuff is like walking on stairs.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: mikeybuck on June 24, 2016, 09:57:26 PM
I had the same leaky issues with the two sets of kenetreks that I once owned. Fit my foot  perfect, loved the fit and feel, but leaked in wet grass.
Plus the customer service was a joke.
Not only did I have issues, but the two other people in our camp had the same issues as bushcraft and I.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Buzz2401 on June 24, 2016, 10:11:21 PM
I love MADE in USA Danners but their off shore stuff is junk.  I think Kenetreks work for some and not for others.  I'm on my second set of Canadians and got 7 years out of the first.  Never had a problem with a Made in USA Danner and they are super comfy on my feet.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 24, 2016, 10:35:04 PM
I fought and fought boots through high end pairs almost every year. Finally I broke down and bought the lathrop and sons custom boot deal. They set me up with lowa bighorn hunters. Got them in the mail laced them up and went on a 4 mile hike with a 60 lb pack that day. Feet felt great. There should be no "blister stage" with any boot. That means they don't fit correctly if you are getting blisters or they aren't laced correctly. I also ordered some Solomon 4d quest hikers from lathrop and they are awesome for early to mid season.

Bottom line is everyone has different feet and needs and some expert advice can save lots of money in the long run. 
There is a quality boot out there for all feet types wether its meindls or kenetreks or lowa etc.

Spot on advice.  Every need is different and every foot is different.  I'd add that some so-called boots that are marketed as "hunting" boots are a waste of money.  No offense, but Kenetreks are not stiff boots, at least compared to more serious mountaineering/hunting type boots and they quickly break down if you are a high mileage guy or spend any amount of time up in granite scree fields.

I admit to initially being a fanboy of Kenetreks but grew to despise them after trying to make them work for me.  The first pair I bought fit like a glove, but unfortunately leaked like a sieve....I'm talking walk through some wet lawn grass and your feet are squishing water inside the boot kind of leaky.  Sent them back.  Second identical pair (Mountain Extreme Non-Ins) had notable heel slip to the point I had to pre-apply duct-tape before doing long trails or venturing up some steep stuff.  They leaked and I wore down the sole in a season.  Sent them back. The third pair were total POS. The rand peeled off, they leaked, the tops were floppy soft like Chuck Taylor Converse All-Stars and the sole wore off in hardly any time at all.  I babied the fourth pair which fit quite a bit better though I still felt compelled to duct up my heels, but they also leaked and the soles were toast after just a couple scouting trips and one bear hunt.  Sent them back and got a refund after a few choice words with the owner who initially wasn't going to refund my money.  My hunting partner managed to run his for 3 years and some stitching tore out on the back of the boot.  He sent them in to Kenetrek to get repaired and was told the boots were shot and his only option was to buy a new pair.  He said no thanks and had Dave Page fix the sewing.  They lasted through the rest of the season before being relegated to lawn mowing boots.  He's been running mountaineering boots ever since and won't even mention the name Kenetrek they pissed him off so bad.

Anyway, after the Kenetrek debacles, I moved on to Schnee's Granites.  Much, MUCH better made boot than the Kenetreks, but they are definitely a little on the warm side since they are insulated.  Initially somewhat stiffer feeling but have an amazing rocker. Good heel cup.  Extremely comfortable with Sole "blue" insoles.  The first pair were great but the right book eventually sprung a leak over my instep.  Soles and rand held up fine.  But sent them back for a second pair which are still going strong two years later, but I baby them and have only taken them on a few long-bomb alpine scouting and hunting trips.

I finally decided to make the switch to Scarpa's last year for alpine hunting and will never ever go back to wildly overpriced leather recreational hunting boots.  I'm rolling with the Mont Blanc Pro GTX's and the Triolets.  Absolutely love them with Sole blue inserts.  Dry, comfy, stable, supportive, and going up in the steep stuff is like walking on stairs.
I just was looking at the schnees.   I was  intrigued.   It sounds like you are hunting a much different area than I usually go.   No granite fields,  just normal wet mountain terrain found in north idaho. Really want a leak proof boot that I can hike all day in.   Would they be worth looking at?

Sent from my HTC6525LVW using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Bushcraft on June 24, 2016, 11:13:02 PM
Every foot and every application is different so they may or may not work for you.  I'm just not a fan of all-leather boots in constantly wet environments, whether it be dew on the grass or heather or rain.  Order a pair and see if they fit your foot.  If they don't you can always return them.

Whatever boot you decide on, make sure you get a good pair of aftermarket insoles.  OEM insoles are all cheap rubbish that the manufacturer knows people are going to throw anyway.  I highly recommend Sole blue inserts.  Excellent arch support, good cushion, great breathability, dry fast and are heat moldable to your feet.  You can pick 'em up at REI for sub $50.  The Green Superfeet are good too if you want something a little lighter, but they don't really have any cushion.  They have a friction sort of texture to their surface and I find the soles of my feet feel like they are on fire sometimes when wearing them going down steep terrain with a moderate to heavy load.

FWIW, I've heard nothing but good things about Hanwag's service and support.  You might check them too.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: JakeLand on June 27, 2016, 08:49:20 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20160628%2F57f0cf0fbf30b629f9300c522d50e8c1.jpg&hash=cd4960476dab6dff1defedddd054bf4b4473bdc5)


 Worth every penny!
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Redneck Russell on June 27, 2016, 11:25:39 PM
The Danner Grouse hunters with the air bob soles are my blacktail hunting boot
Me too. Got them at a going out of business sale for about half price!

Are you saying Danner is going out of business?
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: fish vacuum on June 28, 2016, 12:00:15 AM
The Danner Grouse hunters with the air bob soles are my blacktail hunting boot
Me too. Got them at a going out of business sale for about half price!

Are you saying Danner is going out of business?
No. That was years ago when a sporting goods store was closing up.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: thinkingman on June 28, 2016, 08:17:44 AM
Wondering what you need in comfort for boots. I wear boots everyday for work and absolutely love the Danner Elk Hunters. Stomped around the mountains in Utah for two weeks last year with no issues in blisters or fatigue in my feet. Elk hunted late season on the wet side last November with zero moisture.

I know everyone is different but you have to try them before judgment. It took me about of week of preseason hiking to break them in but that shouldn't be any different that any other quality leather boot. Danner hasn't fallen on the boots still made here in the US. Just the overseas crap they sell the city folk.

I dont know what it was, the uppers felt weak and uncomfortable, I didnt like how the tounge was designed.  Just totally different from my other boots.  The Elk Ridge had a thick tounge and upper that seemed to give me a very comfortable, yet supportive feel.  The insole seemed no existent on the Elk Hunters and my heel wont stay in place, way to much movement. I ordered wide boots and they fit perfect up front but the heel had a very sloppy fit.  I am sure they work great for some guys, i just was expecting something similar to what I had and they were no where close.
I had Danner Pronghorns that fit great but cracked both boots through the sole under the arch. They were far from worn out and they were not covered under any warranty.
Danner did give me a 40% off(full price) coupon and I bought the Elk Ridge in same size as Pronghorn. Fit was much different. Sloppy and loose unless I wear thick socks.
Not happy and my last pair of Danners n
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 28, 2016, 09:43:54 AM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20160628%2F57f0cf0fbf30b629f9300c522d50e8c1.jpg&hash=cd4960476dab6dff1defedddd054bf4b4473bdc5)


 Worth every penny!

I have been let down by cordora in the past I don't think I could ever trust it again.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: KFhunter on June 28, 2016, 09:53:56 AM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fuploads.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F20160628%2F57f0cf0fbf30b629f9300c522d50e8c1.jpg&hash=cd4960476dab6dff1defedddd054bf4b4473bdc5)


 Worth every penny!

I've had a dozen of those boots and got a couple brand news ones stashed in my closet,  I like them.....but I'll reach for the new S2V's every time without a doubt.


(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdemandware.edgesuite.net%2Faaol_prd%2Fon%2Fdemandware.static%2F-%2FSites-Master-Product-catalog-en%2Fdefault%2Fdw19012841%2Fimages%2FFQ0000104_LARGE.jpg&hash=37085af0dfbd84f5492692345eea99bff9acfb26)
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: elkinrutdrivemenuts on June 28, 2016, 11:57:00 AM
Went with the kenetrek mountain extreme non insulated.  I decided that with the correct sock choice, these boots will work great.  When wearing thin, everyday Costco socks, which I would wear with my old boots since the had 600g of insulation, they had a little heel movement.  When wearing a medium hunting sock, they felt perfect.  Since they are non insulated I will be wearing a thicker sock regardless, and I never felt my feet were to hot in the 600 gram Danners I was used to.  Overnighted with amazon prime so I can start breaking them in over the 4th and be ready for some scouting trips!!!  I will have the Danners rebuilt this Fall and use them when the temps are really cold.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Jpmiller on July 11, 2016, 06:49:43 AM
Dinner has made in the USA (like the super rainforest which I can get three years hunting and working underground utilities everyday) and assembled in USA like the quarry.

Took some rather pointed questions with the salesman at the renting landing scanner store to find that out. Explains why my quarry boots were no good. Apparently danner puts the metal on in Portland and most everything else is Chinese.

Switched back to the super rainforest and have never had an issue as long as I keep them greased and clean. I watch guys in my crew go through three or more pairs just working or just hiking before I need to replace mine.
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: ctwiggs1 on July 11, 2016, 08:02:31 AM
Dinner has made in the USA (like the super rainforest which I can get three years hunting and working underground utilities everyday) and assembled in USA like the quarry.

Took some rather pointed questions with the salesman at the renting landing scanner store to find that out. Explains why my quarry boots were no good. Apparently danner puts the metal on in Portland and most everything else is Chinese.

Switched back to the super rainforest and have never had an issue as long as I keep them greased and clean. I watch guys in my crew go through three or more pairs just working or just hiking before I need to replace mine.

Yeah but aren't you the guy who just sits in the truck and drinks coffee while the rest of the guys work?   :chuckle: :chuckle:

Curtis
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Jpmiller on July 11, 2016, 12:09:13 PM
Dinner has made in the USA (like the super rainforest which I can get three years hunting and working underground utilities everyday) and assembled in USA like the quarry.

Took some rather pointed questions with the salesman at the renting landing scanner store to find that out. Explains why my quarry boots were no good. Apparently danner puts the metal on in Portland and most everything else is Chinese.

Switched back to the super rainforest and have never had an issue as long as I keep them greased and clean. I watch guys in my crew go through three or more pairs just working or just hiking before I need to replace mine.

Yeah but aren't you the guy who just sits in the truck and drinks coffee while the rest of the guys work?   :chuckle: :chuckle:

Curtis

Never was a cofee drinker. I am a tea on a machine guy lol
Title: Re: Boots, Danner what did you do!!!!!
Post by: Stickerbush on July 12, 2016, 08:18:49 PM
I had the old style danners until they wore out then switched to Scarpa Wrangell. Love them but they are very stiff.

Anybody have advice on the fit of scarpas? the Euro sizing confuses me and I'm basically a 13.5 shoe size
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