DannerMountain Light II

Mountain Light II

Model • variant of Mountain Light

About

The Mountain Light II is a 5-inch hiking boot manufactured by Danner. A variant of the Mountain Light, which was introduced in 1979 and set the standard for hiking boots for over 30 years, the Mountain Light II maintains the same core construction and materials while offering updated sizing options. Built in Danner's Portland, Oregon factory using stitchdown construction, the Mountain Light II features full-grain leather uppers, GORE-TEX waterproofing, and the Vibram 148 Kletterlift outsole.

Construction

The Mountain Light II utilizes stitchdown construction, where the upper leather and textile are pulled down around the last, flared out, cemented to the midsole, and stitched to the outsole. This construction method provides a wider platform for increased stability on challenging terrain. The handcrafted design allows for recrafting services, including part replacement, leather care, and restitching. The stitchdown sole construction enables resoling, with Danner offering recrafting services for approximately $60-$100.

The boot features a lace-to-toe system for a secure fit, with an oversized, perforated tongue that provides coverage while allowing breathability. A fiberglass shank reinforces the midsole structure for additional support.

Materials

The upper is constructed from a single piece of full-grain leather, eliminating openings in the tongue area to help keep out debris and water while creating minimal seams. Danner tests their leather through six different evaluations before selection. Full-grain leathers are the strongest and most durable form of leather, designed to last a lifetime with proper care.

The boot is lined with a GORE-TEX membrane that provides 100 percent waterproof and breathable protection, ensuring no water gets in while allowing sweat and moisture to escape. Even after the synthetic liner wears, the thick leather naturally repels harsh weather conditions.

The Vibram 148 Kletterlift outsole offers lightweight comfort as well as superb shock absorption. The "waffle-stomper" tread pattern guarantees traction and stability on both wet and dry surfaces. On light use, the outsole lasts approximately a decade, while heavy or work use reduces the lifespan to five years or less. Resoling typically costs $100 or less, and cobblers usually provide conditioning and water-repellent treatment with the service.

Fit and comfort

The Mountain Light II is built on the 650 last, offering a sleek, narrow profile ideal for narrower feet with a snug fit for challenging terrains. The boot is available in two widths: Men's D (Medium) and EE (Wide). Those with wider feet should consider ordering the EE size for optimal comfort. The size range extends from 6 to 15.

The Danner Airthotic footbed is constructed from molded polyurethane that cups the heel and supports the arch of the foot. The half-length instep design includes perforations for breathability. An EVA midsole provides shock absorption.

Manufacturing

The Mountain Light II is made in the USA in Danner's Portland, Oregon factory. The boots are built from top to bottom in this facility with the same commitment to superior craftsmanship that Danner has been known for since 1932.

Specifications

The Mountain Light II measures 5 inches in height. Weight varies by color: the black version (Style Number 30860) weighs 62 ounces per pair, while the brown version (Style Number 30800) weighs 63 ounces per pair. Both versions are non-insulated.

The boot is available with different lacing options, including green nylon, black nylon, gold-tan nylon, or flat red cotton laces.

Pricing and warranty

The regular price for the Mountain Light II is $470.00, with a sale price of $352.50. The boots come with 365-day warranty coverage and are eligible for paid recrafting services throughout their lifetime.

References

  • 1.

    "Mountain Light II 5" Black". Danner. Retrieved December 1, 2025.

  • 2.

    "Mountain Light II 5" Brown". Danner. Retrieved December 1, 2025.

  • 3.

    "Mountain Light Brown". Danner. Retrieved December 1, 2025.

  • 4.

    "Bespoke Post Danner Mountain Light II Review". Esquire. Retrieved December 1, 2025.

  • 5.

    "Danner Mountain Light II Review". T3. March 26, 2024. Retrieved December 1, 2025.

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