I have always heard that Japan gets all of the cool stuff, but never believed it. A recent visit to the Danner factory store, in Portland Oregon, confirmed what I had hitherto denied.
In search of a new pair of boots at a bargain price, I headed to the Factory Seconds part of the store. Nestled on the lowest self, I stumbled across these two pairs of Japanese only Mountain Light II Hiking boots.
Danner Japan boots come in varying leathers and sole options unavailable in other markets. For example, the Mountain Light II Hiking boot only comes with the a Vibram Kletterlift sole in American but the Japanese market can decide between the Kletterlift and Laramie slip resistant sole (like on the Red Wing 875).
According to the Danner saleswomen, Danner Japan shoes (abreveated to DJ) are so exclusive, that even Danner employes can't order them. In addition, these shoes are only made in sizes 6.5-10 US, well smaller than my foot. So sadly, I will never be able to get an official pare of Mountian Lights with a crepe sole in size 12...
However, For 90 dollars, Danner will rebuild a boot with the a Vibram sole of your choice. This means, that if some one is deadset on getting a Mountain Light with a crepe sole, they can buy the standard Mountain Light with the Kletterleft sole and then have it resoled with a Laramie crepe sole for 90 dollars. Maybe I will do that to mine some day...
The Mountain Light II in Black, Avaliable only in Japan 6.5 to 10 US
The Mountain Light II in Tan Suede, Avaliable only in Japan 6.5 to 10 US
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3 comments:
Where's the Danner store? And did they have any of the Japan stuff, as seconds, at the shop? For once, my 6.5 shoe size might be of use if I could actually find a source for the Japan:Danner line.
Love your trip reports. Keep them coming!
I have been wearing the Danner boot for more decades than most of you have been on earth. Here is the deal: if you buy a pair and really like them, order another and either switch off in the wearing or store the second pair.
Over the years I find I have a Danner for most every need.
They once made a "half boot," really nice. It was light and made for a good around town, daily shoe. It could also be "dressed-up," and would pass with the three piece suit,(ugggg). I wore them and wore them knowing that Danner could always rebuild them. When that day came I shipped them off to Danner. Well Hells Bells, I receive them back with a note telling me they were too far gone.
It would be cool if Danner would consider another line of dress boots and why not a rugged daily walking shoe?
I had tried them all, even had a pair handmade, Danner is the best that I have found.
Happy Trails, Mark
Wow I love all those shoes I want to pick one.
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