Alt-Berg Yan Tan Boots

Footwear is something that I’m absolutely passionate about, and I’m always on the look out to see what gets picked up amongst my friends and why. Although I do tend to look for tactical models every so often something comes along outside that sphere that takes my fancy!

This is most definitely the case when it comes to the Yan Tan boots from Yorkshire bootmaker Alt-Berg. Alt-Berg are a family business who have a long and proud heritage in making quality boots for both the private and professional sectors and it’s been my privilege to have had numerous pairs of their boots over the years. Each and every model has fitted me to perfection and given stunning service, so when I was sent the Yan Tans for test they’d already got a well won place in my heart.

The Yan Tans are a 2-3 season, lightweight boot.  The upper is a combination of Nubuck and Kevlar fabric, and the design of the boot gives excellent ankle support on rough terrain.  The last/fitting is Alt-Bergs new ergonomic A-Forme, which allows the foot to take up its natural alignment in the boot, whilst supporting the arch and instep.

The midsole is a Tri-flex® 3 season model, with good torsional stability and additional resistance to flex on rough terrain.  The sole is Vibram Tsavo, with a shock absorbing micro mid layer to give heel strike cushioning on tough ground.  Lining is a Sympatex waterproof breathable bootee construction.

They are a sturdy boot providing huge amounts of support, and the sole unit is comfortable over all mixed terrain. After a little bedding in the fit was, as expected, ideal, and once laced up there is little foot movement internally, with a positive heelcup. The level of waterproofness given by the Sympatex bootee has been exemplary.

The insole as standard is a little hard on the foot, but you’ll probably trade these out with your own footbeds any way. I would certainly recommend that you get these fitted by a competent boot fitter to ensure they are right for your particular foot shape as I needed to go one size up to get it right.

Overall these boots have performed admirably on every terrain, and given the subtle colours used they look great with everything!