Danner, Inc. Instigator GTX
Supportive, comfortable trail sandals with great traction.
Brand: Danner, Inc.
Model: Instigator GTX
Coolest
How do you improve one of the grippiest, most durable, most supportive sandals out there? Make it even more grippy, durable, and supportive. That’s what Chaco has done with the Pro, and if you want an open-air hiker, this is it. In collaboration with Vibram, Chaco developed a new rubber formula with less elasticity. The result: a sole that bites into micro nooks and crannies underfoot—in and out of water—almost as well as a climbing shoe, and is even more durable than previous models.
And a polyurethane midsole gives the sandal the underfoot feel of a light hiker that has exceptional arch support. On New Zealand’s Inland Pack Track, one tester reported that it had more support and better traction than the lightweight boots he left at home. “And I didn’t have to take off shoes and socks at each of the 22 river crossings,” he says. “It held even on underwater boulders when I was getting pushed off balance by the current.”
Desert hikers also loved the Pro, since there’s no upper to trap sand and dirt (but keep an eye out for thorns). It comes in two models: Z/1 (no toe strap) and Z/2 (pictured). $105; 2 lbs.; m’s 7-15, w’s 5-12he Instigator GTX® boot combines athletic performance with traditional Danner toughness. The fullgrain leather upper offers comfort and rugged durability while the GORE-TEX® lining provides waterproof, breathable protection. Danners patented TERRA FORCE® support system with the Approach TFX outsole provides lightweight, durable traction, heel-to-toe energy transfer, side support to enhance maneuverability, and protection from foot fatigue.
BOOT FEATURES
100% waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX® lining for the ultimate in comfortable, breathable waterproof protection.
TERRA FORCE X platform provides lightweight, durable traction, heel-to-toe energy transfer, side support to enhance maneuverability, and protection from arch overwork and fatigue.
Lightweight, yet rugged Danner Approach TFX outsole for superior traction.
The full-grain leather upper offers comfort and protection from both outdoor work and hiking conditions.
Scuff-proof toe cap provides protection where boots tend to show wear.
6″ height offers ankle support and stability while still maintaining a comfortable, athletic feel.
Extremely lightweight at 53 oz.
IDEAL USES
Hiking
Backpacking
Trekking