By now, readers of Hiking Lady realize that I’m always on the lookout for a great fitting hiking boots! I’ve tried and reviewed numerous pairs, and continue to test many of the latest models on the market.
For the last couple of months, I’ve been wearing the new Danner Zigzag women’s hiking boots. I’ve taken it on trail, off trail, and in the rain, checking and testing the fit, durability, comfort, and performance in varying conditions.
These boots are full leather with a waterproof Gore-Tex liner, and are built on a narrower last, so the heel cup is a little bit narrower than most standard cut boots.
Pros:
- Fit is good for medium to narrow feet. Since I have a very narrow heel, and these Danner Zigzags are built on a narrow women’s specific last, I was very excited to try them! They did fit snugly in the heel, but only when using my special boot lacing technique that helps keep your heel in place. For those hikers with medium to narrow feet, the Zigzags should fit well.
- Price is right! Some of you new to hiking may think that $150 is a lot of money for a pair of boots, but in reality it is a pretty fair price. Especially on this pair, given all of the high quality leather. My Asolo Styngers sell for $210!
- Very durable. I expected these boots to be highly durable, and they’ve been doing a good job protecting my toes from the rocks and scree and mud…They have an abrasion resistant toe protector, which is standard on all good boots… This is more than adequate for all on trail hiking and most off trail hiking. If you’re getting into mountaineering, then you’ll want to check out mountaineering boots.
- Good tread. Before trying these, I read some reviews that the tread collects mud and debris easily. Since I hike in various conditions, it was easy for me to see how these boots performed in scree and mud. In neither case did I find that rocks/pebbles or mud collected in the tread more than in other boots.
Cons:
- Weight. For a full leather boot, the weight of these boots are reasonable, but it is always nice to find ones that weigh even less! (Perhaps if I put this comment in the “cons” Danner’s research department will continue to innovate and make even lighter but equally durable boots ;))
- Leather takes time to break in.. This comment is not unique to the Danner Zigzags…all leather boots take time to break in and mold to your feet. Ultimately the fit is generally better than boots made primarily of synthetic uppers, but it is something to keep in mind when wearing full leather boots.
- They come up high around the ankle… which can be good or bad. I like a lot of support when I hike, since I often find myself venturing off the trail, into rocky areas, and rutted paths. Therefore, I like my ankles protected and this extra height on the boot is great for me! (I always like to be prepared for hairy trail conditions or an off trail adventure!). If you spend your time on well maintained trails, then the protection these boots offer may be overkill for you.
Specs:
- Weight: 34 ounces (1 pound 2 ounces)
- Price: $150 at Amazon.
Overall a nice pair of boots for hikers with medium to narrow width feet looking for great support and a reasonable price tag!
Happy trails!
Treat Your Feet Right! Hiking Lady’s Tips:
Hi Trail Walker! I’m glad you found the review helpful. I hope this boot works for your friend! Tell her try to the lacing technique too. That definitely helps me a lot.
thanks for your comment!
I have a friend with similar feet; long, narrow small heal – this boot may be ideal for her to try on the next hike!
I’ll certainly pass your fine review on to her so she too, can find the right boot and also enjoy your website.
Keep up the good work; Love those reviews.
Glad you found the review helpful, Clif Hanger 🙂
The Danner Zigzag looks like a winner! A reasonable price, good support that I need to find, a great looking boot that can really be worn just about anywhere. Good review and a product that many Hiking Ladies will add to their wardrobe.