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For almost nine decades, Danner has been producing robust and hardwearing footwear to exacting standards, and that tradition very much lives on today in the Portland outfit’s new Arctic 600 Side-Zip. Building on the outfit’s already impressive Mountain 600 range, the Arctic 600 constitutes part of Danner’s new Weatherized Collection and, as such, packs a host of features making them highly-conducive to cold-weather conditions.
However, a cursory glance at these impressive boots can only illuminate a woeful few of their exceptional features. Thankfully, we got our hands on a pair and took them to task — giving us a chance to really test their mettle. And the results of our experiences are summed up in the following hands-on look.
Modern Heritage
These 7” side-zip boots are the result of Danner setting out to serve up solutions to some of the most common challenges and problems posed by water, snow, ice, and frigid temperatures. The Arctic 600 boasts a slew of patented features and proprietary technologies and materials that objectively make it one of the most advanced modern-day men’s boots on the market. However, despite benefitting from years of research and development in real-world conditions, these boots still deliver on the classic DNA that dates back to when Danner was a fledgling artisan operation making boots for loggers in the Pacific Northwest in the 1930s.
Premium Construction
Ready to take on whatever even the coldest winters have to throw at it, the appropriately-named Arctic 600 ensures your feet stay warm no matter how far the needle drops thanks to a premium suede upper backed by 200G PrimaLoft Gold insulation. Keeping water out of the boot is the Oregon outfit’s proprietary Danner Dry waterproof liner which is made all the more effective with the boot being 2.5” taller than the Mountain 600. Running up the 7” shoe is also a fully-waterproof YKK side-zipper.
Ice-Ready Outsole
Capable of providing a remarkable level of traction on wet, slick, or dry surfaces, these boots feature a Vibram Nisqually Arctic Grip outsole. Utilizing what’s called Arctic Grip technology — the most advanced cold-weather traction system Danner has used to date — this sophisticated setup was engineered to afford its wearer ample grip, even on wet ice.
The Perfect Fit
Comfort was another key area of focus when developing the 600 Side-Zip. Thanks to its low-profile, the boot makes for a more-than-competent candidate for everyday use. A Vibram SPE midsole has also been paired with an Ortholite footbed that uses a trio of separate layers, all of which vary in density to deliver on both optimal support and cushioning. This enduring, removable footbed is made from an open-cell polyurethane — a material that delivers in spades in both breathability and circulation, as well as heat dissipation.
Style & Substance
And while the Arctic 600 is obviously best-suited to cold-weather adventure and exploration, these well-rounded boots would look right at home on city streets. And with its heat-dissipating properties, this boot can comfortably be worn year-round. Its suede silhouette is complemented by wool hits, and the combination of classic tan leather juxtaposed by black and red laces give the new Danner’s a rugged and timeless look. Offered in a classic brown and red colorway, or a stealthy black on black scheme, the Danner 7” Arctic 600 Side-Zip is available in medium and wide widths in sizes up to 14. Pricing has been set at $220.
