Last updated on November 22nd, 2023.
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Wading boots are like ski boots. You only know what’s possible once you’ve tried the best. Say hello to the Patagonia Danner Boots.
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The Idea behind the new Patagonia Danner Wading Boots
Wading boots are one of the crucial components when you spend a lot of time at the water. Ideally they need to fit and feel like great hiking boots. On top of it they have to perform well under water in terms of grip and stability.
That’s what Patagonia’s founder, Yvon Chouinard who is a passionate fly fisherman himself, had in mind when the company decided to rework the entire line of Patagonia fly fishing boots. He gathered feedback from designers, ambassadors and guides. Then the company set a few key criteria that the new line of wading boots had to meet.
The boots must be absolutely comfortable even when you spend an entire day walking around. They have to support the foot and provide excellent grip when wading. On top they have to drain water quickly and last for a long time.
A Wading Boot “Made in USA”
Since Patagonia was not really experienced in footwear design and construction they decided to partner up with Portland based Danner boots. The result is a wading boot that is handcrafted in the US from a supple, waterproof leather. The welted construction forms a wide, solid base. On it a new sole can be sewn at any time making sure the boots can last a lifetime.
The side of the boot features a number of small holes to drain water from inside the wading boots. A variable lacing system has traditional eyelets on the forefoot and an additional quick lacing system in the ankle area. This gives stability when wading and walking on uneven ground.
The Patagonia Danner are available with different soles. This way you can choose the sole system best suited for your needs. We spent a whole season with the new wading boots and want to let you know what we think.
The Fabric of the New Patagonia Danner Wading Boots
When you unpack the Patagonia Danner Boots for the first time you instantly realize the build quality. The soft leather has a nice natural smell to it compared to the plastic odor of most wading boots. The soles of the boot and the stitching immediately emanate a long lasting product.
The Fit of the Patagonia Danner Wading Boots
I was even more pleased when I put them on for the first time. The fit, mostly due to the soft, supple, leather is unlike any other wading boot I have ever used. It really feels more like a hiking boot than a wading boot and especially comfortable around the ankle without missing out on stability. Due to their solid construction the Patagonia Danner are not the most slender ones and slightly resemble a snowboard boot.
However, the comfort and fit easily make up for that. I’ve spent multiple days walking with them along and in rivers and never had the slightest symptom of a blister.
Sole Options for the Patagonia Danner Wading Boots
You can choose from different options regarding the bottom of the boot: the Foot Tractor Boots Sticky Rubber, the Foot Tractor – Aluminum Bar and the ones with a felt sole.
I opted for the Sticky Rubber ones and added some spikes from the Foot Tractor Aluminum Bar Replacement kit. The rubber sole without the aluminum bars in the best option if you walk along the river a lot. The sole of Patagonia Danner Sticky Rubber is made with Vibram rubber for grip and durability.
If you want the ultimate in traction you should consider the aluminum bars.
Some fly fishermen love felt soles as they can provide excellent grip on slippery river beds.
Verdict on the Patagonia Danner Boots
The Patagonia Danner certainly don’t come cheap at a price point of $499 – $549. Once you’ll experience their comfort and fit, I am pretty sure you will think they are worth it. In previous wading boots I’ve used I had to replace after a few years (I spend about 50 days on the water a year).
With the Patagonia Danner instead, I can really see them last a lifetime especially considering the fact that the sole can be replaced. And already after one year of using them, they feel as if they only get more comfortable over time.
GET THEM AT VAIL VALLEY ANGLERS
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Patagonia Danner Wading Boots compatible with different types of waders?
Yes, the Patagonia Danner are designed to be versatile and can be worn with various types of waders, including stockingfoot waders and bootfoot waders. They are equipped with a customizable lace system that allows for a secure fit with different wader styles.
What makes the sticky rubber sole of these wading boots special?
The sticky rubber sole of the Danner Wading Boots provides excellent traction on wet and slippery surfaces commonly encountered while fly fishing. It’s designed to minimize the risk of slipping and offers superior grip, enhancing safety and stability in various aquatic environments.
Can I use studs or cleats with these wading boots for added traction?
Yes, the Patagonia Danner Boots are compatible with studs or cleats that can be added to the soles for additional traction. This is especially useful in challenging wading conditions, such as fast-flowing rivers or rocky riverbeds.
Are these wading boots suitable for saltwater fishing?
While the Patagonia Danner are primarily designed for freshwater applications, they can be used in certain saltwater fishing situations, such as flats or estuary fishing. However, it’s essential to rinse them thoroughly with freshwater after saltwater use to prevent corrosion and maintain their longevity. Their lace loops are metal, hence a good rinse is imperative.
The rod in the pictures is a custom build by the fantastic Renato Vitalini of V Stick Custom Fly Rods in Scuol, Switzerland.
