Hanwag Trapper GTX Hunting Boots

Since my personal hunting tends to be either in Europe or based on that style, I make no secret of the fact that when it comes to hunting boots I prefer the German offerings. Similarly, ask most German hunters their preferred make and more often than not the reply will be Hanwag, a range of Bavarian designed and individually hand - built boots that have consistently proven themselves since 1921.

Technically Advanced

Now available here in the UK, one of their best selling designs is the Trapper GTX, some of the most technically advanced footwear currently available. Priced at a competitive £235 per pair and finished in what Hanwag describe as Marone or dark tan, the Trapper is a 10” high rough terrain boot designed to work at any level up to and including full Alpine conditions. Fitted with two polyethylene shanks the main thicker unit maintaining rigidity the slimmer secondary support holding the foot, the design allows for flex around the toe whilst permiting true edge of sole mountaineering precision in tight situations. This in turn is enhanced by the new cushioned Vibram Fuora sole providing exceptional traction on the most slick, greasy surfaces. 

The sole itself is reinforced by a deep rubber rand and additional insulation extra to the Gore –Tex lining, the durability of which is further enhanced by Hanwag’s seam reduction, hand built construction and air flow structure that pumps air around and out of the boot when each step is taken. Fastened to the foot by laces, each of the individual lace loops carry a small bearing that prevent over tightening, so allowing the Trapper’s bellows air effect to work and the foot to move more naturally within its confines, the laces relaxing during movement whilst still maintaining tension.

Lightweight and Comfortable

Finished with a deep full bellows tongue and suede cuff that gentle encircles the lower calf; Hanwag’s Trapper GTX boots are as lightweight and comfortable as any high performance footwear on the market. Worn straight out of the box on a five hour stalk, the levels of comfort were without question whilst the firm yet gentle all round support especially around the ankle is remarkable, to a degree that its the best I’ve experienced. Assisting when its required but backing off when returning to level ground, the sensation is at first unusual as you seem to be wearing a boot that interprets each footfall and is virtually one step ahead of the wearer.

Without any reservations whatsoever, I now rate Hanwag’s Trapper GTX boots as the finest all – round hunting and walking boots I’ve currently worn.