I’ve been very pleased with the Fullbore boot from Danner. Right out of the box, and onto my feet they were comfortable. I’ve tried a lot of different boots throughout the years. You can read my footwear reviews here. Purchase here

The boots are very comfortable for many reasons, but we’ll get to that soon. Let’s take a look at the boot. I walk aggressively about 2 hours a day. I’ve worn these for nearly 14 hours a day for nearly 56 hours this month. I’ve already tested the Viktos Johnny Combat, and I’m currently testing the 5.11 XPRT boot. My feet get a good sense of what it likes, and my brain gets happy in the Danner Fullbore.

The FullBore come in two models, and three colors. I reviewed the Coyote Hot; it is made of suede and mesh. Danner also offers a leather waterproof upper (Danner Dry) version in black, and (Danner Dry) in Gunmetal Gray. Danner made the boot for hiking, and field excursions; generally to be used in hotter climates. The boots features are a mix of suede and breathable mesh upper that allows increased airflow; it is a moisture-wicking air mesh lining. Mind you, I’ve trudged through deep snow for my daily two hour hike and they performed sweetly. I didn’t need thicker socks. I’ve also walked along packed ice without slipping, and stayed up. I don’t recommend these for extreme cold weather conditions, but just don’t rely on the lugs on the outsoles to do their job. I also used crampons on some icy days. The Coyote Hot is water resistant, while the Danner Dry is waterproof.

reinforced eyelets on the eyestays

Cushioning material runs through the entire inside of the boot and it climbs up the throat and collar, making it comfy for the foot and ankle. The boot uses metal eyelets in various places around the eyestays. Metal or plastic eyelets ensure that your laces don’t tear through the eyestays, and also allow you to lace your boot as you please. I’ve had a new pair of LALO boots do this in the first week; they corrected the problem. Eyestays are generally made of a sturdy material that provide structure to the eyelets. There is an eyestay/eyeholder at the base of the vamp. This is a nice feature because it increases your ability to pull the laces tighter around the toe-box for a better fit. There are also eyelets at the top of the collar, and these sit inside the flap which also allows for a snugger fit. One smart feature is the side panel of the boot; Danner added a fabric eyelet so you can draw the laces in tighter.

The tongue is moderately plush. The tongue should be a soft elongated flap because a tongue on a boot or shoe must protect the tendons and blood vessels from pressure caused by the laces. A tongue should also prevent the laces from rubbing against the instep of your foot. There is a pull-tab made of fabric which is useful for pulling your boot more easily and quicker over your foot.

the boot has an extra eyestay; good for pulling the toebox in more tightly, this is due to the mesh-suede upper.

The boot outsole is marked with a generous amount of flex grooves; flex grooves are the channels that help the boot flex along with the natural movement of the foot. The combination of pods, studs and such features as flex grooves can determine how responsive a boot is during your activities.  The Fullbore uses a Vibram® Fuga Outsole. The outsole makes up the base of the boot. Danner’s view is that the outsole has, “self-adapting lugs and specially formulated Megagrip compound” These provide incredible grip on both wet and dry surfaces. The outsole is the durable part of the boot that makes contact with the ground, providing traction. The outsole helps attenuate the landing shock and loading forces experienced by the body while running or walking; this is due to the Vibram® SPE Midsole. The rubberized EVA midsole maintains the same cushioning properties as traditional EVA, but is more durable and won’t break down as easily. Danner’s website notes the technology enhances rebound, comfort and support. The boots come in a D (medium) and EE (wide) widths.

Attached to the outsole is a stiff plastic heel stabilizer. The heel stabilizer/counter is the plastic structure of the shoe which wraps around the heel of your foot. It holds the heel in position during the movements of running or walking.

heel stabilizer

The Fullbore has removable OrthoLite Footbeds and there are three layers of varying density which provide cushioning and support. The entire footbed is made of open-cell polyurethane for better heat dissipation and air circulation. Danner uses what they call a DPDX last. A last is a foot-shaped mold that determines the fit of the finished product. Danner’s lasts are made out of plastic, milled to their exact size and shape specifications to deliver consistency in the manufacturing process. Danner builds their lasts to the ½ size, for the best possible fit.

At $150.00 I believe these are a worthwhile investment in your feet. I’ve reviewed boots that were cheaper and some that were more expensive. The Fullbore have performed well so far in the month that I’ve worn them. Time will tell whether they are durable.

  • Cost 4/5 A bit more than the average boot ($100-$120.00) but well worth it.
  • Comfort 5/5 (if applicable) 5/5 Excellent for comfort. Be sure to get the best width and length for your foot.
  • Durability (not graded yet) We shall see. So far, no issues.
  • Functionality 5/5 Excellent on street, grass, mixed terrain, snow, ice, etc. 
  • Weight 5/5
  • Overall Rating 19/20

Suede & Mesh Upper: Water resistant suede leather and breathable mesh create a durable, comfortable upper.

Air Mesh Lining: Breathable, moisture-wicking air mesh lining and ventilation technology for comfort in hot weather.

Removable OrthoLite Footbed: Three layers of varying density are combined for maximum cushioning and support. The entire footbed is made of open-cell polyurethane for better heat dissipation and air circulation.

Vibram® SPE Midsole: This rubberized EVA midsole maintains the same cushioning properties as traditional EVA, but is more durable and won’t break down as easily. This technology enhances rebound, comfort and support.

Vibram® Fuga Outsole: With its self-adapting lugs and specially formulated Megagrip compound, this outsole provides incredible grip on both wet and dry surfaces.

How It Fits: Designed for versatility, the DPDX has a low profile for everyday wear. Whether on the trail or urban exploring, this last was built to offer enough room for comfort while maintaining a sleek profile. Ortholite footbed included.

365-Day Warranty

Specifications

Style20512
Weight42 oz per pair
Height4.5″
InsulationNon-Insulated
ColorCoyote
FootbedOrthoLite
ShankNylon
Last TypeDPDX
LiningNon-Waterproof
LinerAir Mesh
OutsoleVibram® Fuga
RecraftableNo
ManufacturingImported

Material Disclosure

I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer via Spotter Up so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based off my personal experience with the product.

Follow our regular channel at Spotterup on YouTube 

Follow our WEBSITE

Follow on Instagram 

Follow on WeMe

Visit our STORE 

*The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Spotter Up Magazine, the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

By Michael Kurcina

Mike credits his early military training as the one thing that kept him disciplined through the many years. He currently provides his expertise as an adviser for an agency within the DoD. Michael Kurcina subscribes to the Spotter Up way of life. “I will either find a way or I will make one”.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.