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I find that boots fall into one of two categories:
1) Very handsome, stately leather boots that are versatile in what you can wear them with but aren’t exactly comfortable for the first month of wear.
2) Boots that are specifically designed for performance, are very comfortable, but aren’t stylish and generally look like they’re worn by someone who brews kombucha at home.
Now, there are obviously exceptions to every rule, as an adult human you must know this fact of life. And this first-ever boot collaboration between Huckberry and Danner is indeed one of those exceptions.
I first put these boots on a week ago and swore a light shone down from the heavens and a chorus of angels rang out as I slid them onto my feet. As I took my first strides I thought to myself “I think I could run a 5k” in these and be fine. Then I realized that my footwear choice wouldn’t be the thing holding me back from running a 5k. Regardless, if you’re fit, the initial thought still stands!
They’re absurdly lightweight at only 35 ounces, and thanks to the the full-grain leather upper, Vibram sole and cushioned footbed, they already feel broken in. Typically boots will give me trouble on at least one part of my foot for the first bit of wear, whether it’s the heel, arch or the outsides of the toes (if they’re too narrow), but these didn’t lead me to experience any of those typical pitfalls. I’ve been wearing them for a week straight and have had no issues with comfort. I even wore them for a full day of New York City walking with the girlfriend, complete with museum visit (it was the Guggenheim — lots of uphill walking and no sitting).
These are one of those rare crossover boots that you can certainly wear out on the trail, but they’re better suited to rugged city living. They’re waterproof and breathable thanks to the GORE-TEX liner, and the vibram sole prevents slippage on wet surfaces. They’re easy to put on thanks to the quick lace loops at the top and they can go with just about everything short of a three-piece. I’ve already gotten quite a few compliments on them from friends and strangers alike. The one pitfall is that they do scuff slightly, however after a few days those scuffs are already turning into a nice worn-in patina, rather than unsightly scar.
They’re already going quick, so I would recommend getting your hands on a pair ASAP.
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