HARDCORE OUTDOOR-GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS-GEAR REVIEWS FOR HIKING, SEARCH AND RESCUE, MILITARY, HUNTING: GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION

HARDCORE OUTDOOR-GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS-GEAR REVIEWS FOR HIKING, SEARCH AND RESCUE, MILITARY, HUNTING: GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Hanwag Cheyenne GTX Boots

GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION - Hanwag Cheyenne GTX Boots

The new Cheyenne GTX boots from German boot maker Hanwag. A high quality hiker that feels good but still offers substantial support.  Very nice and good to go right out of the box.

Usually I am pretty reserved about my opinions on new gear. I constantly scan the markets for great gear, I see things that I think I might like, I bring them in, introduce them to you, test them in the field, and if I like them I do a full review, make them part of my personal gear and recommend them. This is especially true with boots, but once in a while something comes along that just works well for me from the start, and I know right away that I am going to end up making a place for them on the "keeper" shelf.

The Hanwag Cheyenne GTX boots, distributed in the United States by Lathrop & Sons, is one of those rare cases. From the time I opened the box I liked them and by the time I had completed my first lap around the block, I loved them. Hanwag has achieved that hard to reach balance of weight, support, comfort, fit, quality, and design that gives you confidence. A certain refined surefootedness.

I classify them as heavy hikers because they are sturdy and substantial but not heavy or clunky. They are relatively light for a boot with this much ankle support, my size 11.5s weigh 1 lbs 14 ounces.  They use a nicely done combination of Nubuk leather and Cordura fabric with a Gore-Tex waterproof/breathable barrier. The Vibram Ultra Grip outsoles are also pretty quiet. However, the best thing about these boots to me, for my feet, is the fit, which is enhanced by the Ghilly Lacing System.

The tongue on Hanwag boots is a thing of functional beauty and comfort, and when you combine that with what I think is the best lacing system in the business, it makes for a snug but supportive and comfortable wearing boot.

Anyway, I will have more for you after the full review, but everybody is starting to get tuned up for hunting season so I wanted to let you know about these.

One more thing. Lathrop & Sons offer more than just boots. They are Pedorthists and Podiatrists, which means they can help you with fit issues and foot problems, or keep you from developing any down the road. It will cost you some more money, but I highly recommend the High Country Footbeds.

UPDATE-HARDCORE OUTDOOR GIVES A FULL RECOMMENDATION

As I said above I had a pretty good idea when I opened the box that I would end up recommending these boots. These are great boots that defy an easy, pigeon hole description.  They are kind of a cross between two other boots that I like, the Asolo FSN 95 GTX and the Lowa Renegade GTX. The Cheyennes are as comfortable and user friendly as the Renegades but just as heavy and substantial as the Asolos which makes them better for tougher terrain, bigger loads and longer trips. In fact, I think they are a little thicker than the Asolos giving a little more protection.

I can see myself using these to hunt quail in the foothills or hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon with a 2 day pack. Very versatile, extremely well made and could easily become a favorite boot for everything but the big stuff. And again, the Hanwag lacing system works beautifully. Here are the particulars.

Class-Heavy Hiker but on the lighter side of the range
Height-6 inches (7 from the floor), 7 loops/cleats
Materials-thick Nubuck leather, heavy Cordura nylon and a rubber toe cap
Insulation-none but the lining is thick and uniformed throughout. It conforms and holds the foot very well. One major internal seam around the top of the ankle but it is smooth and flat and doesn't cause any irritation.
Waterproofing-exterior materials is treated for water repellantcy and they have a Gore Tex waterproof breathable liner. Mine have not leaked despite several long hikes in heavy rain storms.
Cushion-moderate, a nice balance between comfort and substantial support for up to say 30 lb loads and moderate plus terrain. The new High Country Footbeds are excellent without taking up much volume. Just as good as the old custom models but less expensive.
Flexibility-excellent but you still have good support.  Not sloppy at all, precise control.
Tread-Vibram Ultra Grip outsole is sticky, especially in wet conditions (just like the Mountain Lights). I would prefer that the lugs be a little more aggressive but I always say that. These are fine.
Volume-medium, arch support is very good and the heel cup is comfortably snug. Forefoot is roomy but they are ever so narrow on the sides.
Width Availability-Nope and that is a shame because a lot more people could enjoy Hanwags if they were offered in a wide version but I am recommending them anyway. Size range is 8.5 to 14US.
Weight-my 46.5s (Mens 11.5US) weigh 1 lbs 14 ozs per boot
Crampon Compatibility-no but these would tolerate the little strap on instep spikes better than most in this class.
Quality-high-"Made in Europe"
Break In-none, they were comfortable out of the box and I put 7 miles on them the first time out with narry a problem.

The only things I would suggest to Hanwag is that they offer a Wide version like Lowa does in many of their boots for us fat footed Americans and maybe come out with an 8 inch version of this boot. That is a pretty short list of gripes.  Overall I really like these boots. If I think that these are too light for the task at hand, I simply step up to the absolutely superb Hanwag Mountain light.  Now that is a formidable combination for the serious outdoorsman. Anyway, call Lathrop and check these out, if they fit you, you won't be disappointed.

Thanks.

Wade Nelson
Editor

Sorting through the fads and fashion of the outdoor equipment industry to identify and promote the very best wilderness gear for high end recreational users, back country professionals and government agencies.

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