Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens Review

First Impressions of Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens

The Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens immediately caught my eye with their rugged yet refined aesthetic, a clear nod to Danner’s heritage in crafting dependable logging boots. The “Monk’s Robe” color promised versatility, blending seamlessly into both urban and natural landscapes, a critical consideration for someone like me who values gear that transitions effortlessly between town and trail. These shoes boast a GORE-TEX liner for waterproofness and a Vibram sole, hinting at a robust construction ready to tackle diverse conditions.

My search for the perfect hiking shoe has been ongoing; I needed something that could handle moderately challenging day hikes, offer reliable weather protection, and still look presentable enough for a casual post-hike brewery visit. Unboxing the Danner Logger 917, I was struck by the rich color and the supple feel of the full-grain leather. The weight felt substantial but not overly heavy, suggesting a good balance between durability and comfort.

Compared to my Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX (known for their lightweight agility) and my Blundstone boots (renowned for their comfort and casual style), the Danner Logger 917 seemed to offer a unique blend of both worlds. While the Salomons might be more nimble on technical trails, the Danners promised better durability and a more classic aesthetic. And while the Blundstones excel in casual settings, they lack the technical features needed for serious hiking. I chose the Danner Logger 917 hoping it would bridge that gap, delivering a versatile hiking shoe with a timeless appeal.

Initially, I was excited and cautiously optimistic. The build quality seemed exceptional, but I was eager to see how they performed on the trail. Would they live up to the Danner name?

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Danner Logger 917 on a moderate 5-mile hike in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. The trail consisted of a mix of packed dirt, loose gravel, and some rocky sections, providing a good initial assessment of the shoe’s capabilities. The weather was overcast, with intermittent light rain, perfect for evaluating the GORE-TEX liner.

The shoes performed admirably, providing excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces thanks to the Vibram 917 outsole. The GORE-TEX liner kept my feet completely dry, even as I splashed through a few shallow puddles. There was a slight stiffness initially, typical of leather hiking shoes, but I didn’t experience any significant discomfort or blistering.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple day hikes and some casual wear around town, the Danner Logger 917 has proven to be a reliable and versatile performer. The full-grain leather has softened and molded to my feet, significantly improving the overall comfort. The shoes have held up exceptionally well to the rigors of the trail, with no visible signs of wear and tear on the leather upper or the sole.

Cleaning the shoes is relatively easy; I simply wipe them down with a damp cloth and apply a leather conditioner periodically to maintain their suppleness. Compared to my previous hiking shoes, the Danner Logger 917 feels significantly more robust and durable, promising years of reliable service. They have exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens

Specifications

The Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens are packed with features designed for comfort, durability, and performance:

• Full-Grain Leather Upper: The full-grain leather not only provides a classic aesthetic but also offers excellent durability and water resistance. This ensures the shoe can withstand demanding conditions and provide long-lasting protection.
• GORE-TEX Waterproof Liner: The GORE-TEX liner provides 100% waterproof and breathable protection. This keeps your feet dry in wet conditions while allowing moisture to escape, preventing overheating.
• Vibram SPE Midsole: The Vibram SPE midsole offers lightweight cushioning and support. This enhances comfort and reduces fatigue, especially on long hikes.
• Vibram 917 Outsole: The Vibram 917 outsole is designed for optimal traction on a variety of surfaces. It provides a secure grip on both wet and dry terrain, ensuring stability and confidence.
• Removable OrthoLite Footbed: The removable OrthoLite footbed offers additional cushioning and moisture management. This enhances comfort and helps to keep your feet dry and fresh.
• Weight: 29 oz. This provides a good balance between support and agility.

Performance & Functionality

The Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens excels in its intended role as a versatile hiking shoe. It provides excellent traction, waterproof protection, and all-day comfort. While perhaps not as nimble as lighter, more minimalist hiking shoes, the Danner offers a superior blend of durability and support.

A key strength lies in its waterproofness; the GORE-TEX liner effectively seals out moisture, keeping feet dry even in prolonged rain or stream crossings. The Vibram sole also inspires confidence on various terrains. One minor weakness might be the initial stiffness of the leather, requiring a short break-in period.

Overall, the Danner Logger 917 meets and even exceeds expectations for a mid-weight hiking shoe.

Design & Ergonomics

The Danner Logger 917 boasts a classic, timeless design with exceptional build quality. The full-grain leather upper is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The shoe feels solid and well-constructed. The weight, while noticeable, is not excessive and contributes to the overall sense of stability and support.

There is a slight learning curve associated with breaking in the leather, but the overall design is user-friendly. The shoe fits true to size and provides ample room in the toe box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Danner Logger 917 is built to last. The full-grain leather upper and the Vibram sole are highly resistant to wear and tear. Regular cleaning and conditioning of the leather will further extend the shoe’s lifespan.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning and occasional leather treatment. With proper care, these shoes should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens comes with two lace options and optional Kilties. The additional lace option allows you to customize the look of the boot. The optional Kilties help protect the leather from debris that collects on the laces.

The removable OrthoLite footbed can be replaced with aftermarket insoles for a more personalized fit and level of support. Although not designed for extensive modification, the Danner Logger 917 offers a degree of customization to suit individual preferences.

Pros and Cons of Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens?

The Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens are perfect for women who enjoy moderate day hikes and need a versatile shoe that can handle a variety of conditions. They are an excellent choice for those who value durability, waterproof protection, and a classic aesthetic. These are also great for those who appreciate a boot that looks great in town, but performs even better on the trail.

Those seeking a minimalist, ultra-lightweight hiking shoe for highly technical terrain might find the Danner Logger 917 to be slightly too heavy or stiff. Someone who prioritizes breathability over waterproofness in extremely hot climates might also want to consider alternative options.

A good pair of merino wool socks is a must-have accessory to maximize comfort and moisture management with these boots.

Conclusion on Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens

The Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens is a well-crafted and versatile hiking shoe that delivers on its promise of durability, waterproof protection, and all-day comfort. The quality of materials is top-notch, ensuring a long lifespan.

At $229.95, the price is justified given the quality of materials, construction, and performance. For someone seeking a reliable and stylish hiking shoe that can handle a variety of conditions, the Danner Logger 917 is an excellent investment.

I would highly recommend the Danner Logger 917 Monk’s Robe GTX Hiking Shoes – Womens to anyone looking for a dependable and aesthetically pleasing hiking shoe. Invest in your feet; you won’t regret it.