Hanwag Tatra Top GTX Boots

When I first saw the name Hanwag I assumed that the company was either Japanese or Korean or similar, so was surprised when they turned out to be German. A bit of research showed they are no newcomers to outdoor footwear having been in the business since 1921. What I was sent was very much the sort of boots I now tend to wear most of the year, perhaps excepting full summer.

I have finally given up wearing combat-type boots after many years and now favour what I would term as a technical, hi-leg walking or hill design that is breathable and gives good support and full protection for all day use. I have been using Lowa GTX Hunters for many years with no complaints and the Hanwag Tatra Top GTX are more of the same.

STURDY

At 10.5” they are quite tall so offer good ankle and calf support, which I much prefer over the ankle-height designs, though and initially they do feel a tad stiff and you tend to rock a little as you walk! But this wears in after a while and you get the more natural rolling gait back. The build goes for a brown, waxed, Nubuk leather upper with a high rubber rand that extends all the way round and over the toe area. This section is rigid so offering good protection too along with a protective nose cap.

The sole is a Vibram integral unit with a deep and reasonably open cleat pattern. What I did like was the full, cut-out instep section, which I much prefer to some with a flatter profile. I find this helps more when crossing obstacles like gates and rocks etc. Inbetween this are cushioned inserts for comfort and at the rear a slot, which will help taking them off.
Inside they are GORTEX-lined so waterproof, warm and breathable etc along with a removable footbed. The rear shows a deep, padded cuff so comfortable around the calf, there’s a finger pull for getting them on. The padded tongue is 90% stitched in so offering extra weather security and a generous gape which makes them easy to put on.

DEEP PULL LACING

Lacing consist of five swivel eyes at the bottom, four of which have a ball bearing insert to doubtless allow you to lace them up without losing tension. On the upper section are four, fixed speed hooks. Hanwag have what they call ‘deep pull lacing’ which are special clamps on the side that effectively hold the foot in place. This helps to prevent twisted ankles and minimizes blisters (via a better heel fit). In use the feel and comfort is to be appreciated and it’s plain to see this is a practical and technical design.

Like most boots of this type they start off a little on the inflexible side but with use soon break in and feel more natural. But you are left in no doubt of the protection and comfort they offer. Once again another great pair of European boots that will see you right in all weathers and temperatures. Certainly not the cheapest around but a design that will doubtless last for many years!