Our verdict

83
Good!

Individuals who require comfort and lightness for their day hikes may like what they’re going to get from this Danner offering. Indeed, its durability and waterproofness may also come in handy when tackling challenging environments. However, the boot’s lack of cushioning may take its overall grade down a notch.

Pros

  • Remarkably comfy
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Waterproof
  • Zero break-in period
  • Grippy

Cons

  • Lack of cushioning
  • Lack of ventilation
  • Narrow toe box

Who should buy the We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us

The We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us may remain a competent partner during an adventure because of the trail-related benefits it offers. It is a solid option if you:
  • Prefer a popular Danner hunting boot converted into rugged footgear for all-terrain day hiking trips.
  • Want a reliable boot that prevents water intrusions.
  • Top 20% most popular hiking boots.

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updated 7 Jun 2023

  • The Vital Trail is a popular Danner hunting boot converted into rugged footgear for all-terrain day hiking trips. Its abrasion-resistant leather and textile upper contains a patented Danner Dry laminate that prevents water intrusions.
  • Outdoor lovers are able to tackle uneven trails with ample cushioning via its Plyolite ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole. Its Danner Vital outsole, meanwhile, supplies grip on dry and slick surfaces.

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Size and fit

The We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us is a mid-top hiking boot that fits both men and women. It is built using the brand’s DT4 last, which comes with a tight heel pocket and a roomy toe box design. Its sleek and streamlined configuration is suitable for on and off-trail trips.

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This Danner outdoor boot uses a Lock & Load closure system, which allows wearers to gain a secure and customized fit via its quick lacing feature. It is also furnished with a mesh-padded tongue and lined with multi-density foam. These components eliminate hot spots and promote a comfy lockdown.

Excellent grip on all types of terrain

This leather outdoor boot for hikers sports a Danner Vital outsole for surefootedness. It uses pod-like lugs to supply wearers with a grip on virtually all types of terrain. Its front end houses a ridged design while a heel brake is incorporated into the rearfoot zone. 
 
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Excellent control when going uphill or downhill

These features grant control when going uphill or downhill. Moreover, the sole’s front section extends upward for added protection from accidental knocks.
 
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Lightweight and shock-absorbing cushioning

The men’s and women’s We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us is equipped with a proprietary Plyolite EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning and shock reduction. A nylon shank is embedded into the midsole, imbuing the footgear with rigidity and underfoot support.
 
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Waterproof

This waterproof outdoor boot for hikers features a  polyurethane (PU) footbed for added cushioning and underfoot comfort. Its open-cell construction also optimizes air circulation inside the footgear.
 
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Durable and abrasion-resistant

The We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us’s upper uses a split leather material fused with polyurethane. The outcome is a durable leather variant that’s resistant to abrasion. It is combined with a 900 denier polyester fabric that produces a sturdy upper. 
 
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Nice to know

The Vital Trail employs a set of fabric eyelets and metal hooks to promote fit management. A molded counter is positioned in the rearfoot zone for heel support. The cuff contains a pull tab at the back that gives wearers easy on and off.

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Nice to know

Outdoor lovers who need a lighter and more agile pair may consider the Durable and abrasion-resistant.