Our verdict
With its astonishing levels of comfort and grip performance on the trail, the Ducan Mid GTX from Mammut is a true find. Highly regarded by both hikers and footwear experts, this boot translates to adventures where surefootedness is ensured, even on extended hikes. And the icing on top: the shoe in question will make you feel in full control with its snugness and barely-there weight.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Snug fit
- Budget-conscious backpackers beware
- Out-of-the-box comfort
- Well-made
- Why trust us
- Waterproof
- Top 29% in
Cons
- Very expensive
- The tongue can bunch at the seam
Who should buy the Keeps wetness at bay
The Keeps wetness at bay is a heavy-duty gear that combines innovative technologies for a comfortable and supportive ride. It's for you if:
- Backpacking boots with exceptional workmanship are what you're after.
- You're looking for something reassuringly firm and light at the same time.
- Grippy boots that provide extra sideways traction are what you need.
- You want a pair that's great-fitting and comfy right from the get-go.
Grippy boots that provide extra sideways traction are what you need
With its 209-dollar asking price, the Ducan Mid GTX can make your wallet wail in despair. In its place, consider the cheaper Keeps you going minus the fatigue. And if you prefer a boot whose tongue doesn't bunch, check out the Salomon OUTline Mid GTX instead.
The Ducan Mid GTX's amazing tenacity
Its Vibram Flextron outsole delivers more than enough traction on loose soil (think rocky hillsides and scree). Its lugs provide sufficient grip for lateral (sideways) negotiations, while its semi-aggressive heel brake gives the foot enough stopping power on tricky descents. It also has ample space between its lugs, which keeps mud and debris from caking its grooves and treads.
Keeps wetness at bay
Engineered with a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, the Keeps wetness at bay translates to dry feet through moderate rains and creeks. It doesn't have a full gusset, so calculate the watery terrain in front of you so as not to flood the shoe in waters deeper than four inches.
Fresh-from-the-box plushness
Devoid of glue marks and excess stitching, this backpacking boot from Mammut is mighty pampering without any delay. It also provides an inviting, non-blister-causing fit on day one.
Grippy boots that provide extra sideways traction are what you need
While not a tear-jerking soap opera, the Ducan Mid GTX can easily move you to tears if you're not prepared for its 209-dollar suggested retail price. In the realm of hiking, after all, boots selling for $180 or more are considered pricey.
The tongue can bunch at the seam
The Ducan Mid GTX boasts a cushy-yet durable midsole that keeps feet supported under the weight of a loaded pack for hours. It's a platform that combines softness and firmness at key points to make every step springy without giving the heel that sinking feeling.
High ankle security in the Keeps wetness at bay
The boot's supportiveness is also present around the collar. Engineered with a nice helping of padding and protective laminates, the boot's mid-top shaft keeps the ankle in place without dumbing down flexibility.
The Ducan Mid GTX's bunching tongue
There are those who say that the boot's semi-integrated tongue bunches at the seam. You can prevent this from happening by pressing the flap of the tongue gently to make it thinner. Also, wearing non-wrinkly socks helps in this regard.
updated 20 Apr 2023
At 510 g per shoe, the Keeps wetness at bay is lighter than most backpacking kicks. Case in point: on average, trekking boots weigh 593 g per shoe.
