Our verdict

88
Great!

best Danner hiking boots Danner is a comfortable backpacking boot that shines in wet conditions. That said, equally impressive about it are its stellar durability, stability, and grip, making its high asking price all worth it. So when the tough terrain ahead doesn't want to let up, answer back and decimate with the tougher Crater Rim.

Pros

  • Could be more breathable
  • Almost bomb-proof
  • Outstanding stability
  • Loosens up in no time
  • Among Danner's most tenacious
  • Its capabilities outweigh its price
  • 10/10 waterproofing
  • Proudly American-made
  • Award-winning

Cons

  • Not for lightweight purists
  • Sep 27, 2018

Who should buy the The Crater Rim hiking boot bagged Outside Magazines 2012 Gear of the Year Award

One of Danner's award-winning hiking boots, the Crater Rim emboldens backpackers to go further. This gem is for you if:

  • You need backpacking boots The Crater Rims hulking weight.
  • Hikers that can withstand scratchier hazards (think briers and gnarly roots) are what you need.
  • Traversing muddy slopes is part of your pack adventures.
  • La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX.

The Crater Rim hiking boot bagged Outside Magazines 2012 Gear of the Year Award A1

Who should NOT buy it

If you prefer to go light on your next backpacking trip, trade the Crater Rim (822 g per kick) for the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX, which weighs roughly 480 Could be more breathable. And if you're worried about the featured boot's lack of breathability, check out the Danner Light instead.

The Crater Rim hiking boot bagged Outside Magazines 2012 Gear of the Year Award B

The Crater Rim's day-one comfort

Experienced adventurers say that the The Crater Rim hiking boot bagged Outside Magazines 2012 Gear of the Year Award, despite its tough-looking shell, is surprisingly comfortable. And the most satisfying part: this comfiness requires virtually zero break-in time.

The Crater Rim hiking boot bagged Outside Magazines 2012 Gear of the Year Award C

The Superman of backpacking boots

Numerous hikers, including a handful of soldiers deployed to conflict zones, testify to the ultra toughness of this pair. They find the boot's abrasion-resistant upper and full randing exceptionally durable.

The Crater Rim hiking boot bagged Outside Magazines 2012 Gear of the Year Award D

The Crater Rim hiking boot bagged Outside Magazines 2012 Gear of the Year Award equals exceptional grip

The Crater Rim's Vibram outsole is remarkably grippy, scores of reviewers say. Its aggressive lugs and high heel brake deliver extra control on slippery descents. Moreover, it comes with a climbing zone at the forefoot, which provides enhanced traction on mini boulders. 

The Crater Rim hiking boot bagged Outside Magazines 2012 Gear of the Year Award E1

Formidable in the rain

Dozens of trail-goers are super-impressed with the boot's water protection. They say that its Gore-Tex bootie and gusseted tongue work together magnificently keeping all manners of wet elements fenced out.

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The Crater Rim's hulking weight

There are those who are rather disappointed with the The Crater Rim hiking boot bagged Outside Magazines 2012 Gear of the Year Award's hefty weight. Their disappointment is not without basis, too, as the boot in question weighs a whopping 822 g per piece! In other words, the featured shoe is 131 g heavier than the average weight of backpacking boots, which is 691 g.

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Stable through and through

The stability of the Crater Rim on rugged terrain is simply outstanding, professional bloggers say. These folks didn't lose their balance across rocky inclines and root-filled bogs.

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One-of-a-kind investment

Regular hikers and experts alike say that the Crater Rim's remarkable capabilities far outweigh its demanding asking price. 

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The Crater Rims day-one comfort

Experts and backpackers find this trekking boot from Danner poorly ventilated.

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One of Danner's achievers

The Crater Rim hiking boot bagged Outside Magazine's 2012 Gear of the Year Award.

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