Compared to other hiking boots, the Anhu Sugarpine and the Montara are ultra-stylish and versatile. They both come in colors and designs that are appealing for urban traveling purposes. Yet, they are full-fledged hiking boots that are fit to be worn on long hikes through water and rugged terrain.
There are some notable differences between the Sugarpine and the Montara, but they are not noticeable at first glance. We have written this Ahnu Sugarpine vs Montara review in response to the confusion concerning which of these hiking boots one should actually buy. They both have their advantages, but looking at the specific features that make up their designs is important before diving into using either one of them.
Need stronger and waterproof boots for hiking? Read our review of the Keen Pittsburgh vs Detroit Work Boots
Ahnu Sugarpine vs Montara
Sugarpine vs Montara Comparison
The Sugarpine and the Montara are ultra waterproof and durable for a low price. These are some of the best hiking boots you will get for under $100. This is why they tend to be a favorite among hikers and urban dwellers alike. They are sort of like hybrids, appealing to those who want a stiffer boot as well as those who want something attractive to wear on their daily commute.
Anhu believes in creating hiking boots that can be used on a daily basis. This is why they tend to be very attractive and modern, as well as rugged. Below, we have listed all of the important points about these boots that differentiate them from each other.
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Attractiveness:
The Sugarpine is generally more attractive in color and design than the Montara. Some of them look a bit funky, while other color selections look more earthy. If the look of your boot is very important to you, the Sugarpine is a great option. The Montara is also more on the attractive side compared to other hiking boots. But the Montara is the more heavy duty boot, which makes up for being a bit less attractive. -
Heavy duty support:
The Montara is made of a stiffer material, which is more common with hiking boots. It is also more durable than the Sugarpine. In fact, it is built almost entirely out of leather, while the Sugarpine has some more textile to it. With the Montara, you can go longer distances.
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Weight:
Due to its heavier build, the Montara weighs 5 ounces more than the Sugarpine. This can be a notable difference to some hikers.
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Waterproofing:
The waterproofing on these hiking boots is pretty comparable. With both of these boots, you can stand in a creek for several minutes without the insides of the boots getting wet. This is unusual for boots that are at such a low cost. This is part of what makes the Montara and the Sugarpine so popular. The fact that these boots are not lined with Gore-Tex also means that they are going to be more breathable than most most boots that are this waterproof.
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Ankle and arch support:
The Montara has better ankle stabilization and arch support than the Sugarpine.
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Outer sole traction:
While the Montara is stiffer in the boot, the Sugarpine is stiffer in the outer sole. While this means that the Sugarpine will have less traction than the Montara, it also means that the outer sole will last longer. This is the trade-off that happens between a stiff outer sole and one that has a lot of traction.
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Comfort and cushioning:
Despite the fact that the Montara is the most solid boot, it also has the most cushioning in the midsole. This means that your feet will hit the ground softer and feel less impact. As mentioned above, you can go longer distances with the Montara.
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Narrow vs wide foot:
The Montara fits a normal to narrow foot very well. However, you may notice that the Sugarpine is built a little bit wider. The Sugarpine is best for normal to wide feet.
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Rubber toe protector:
The rubber toe protector on the Montara lies higher up along the toe than the one on the Sugarpine. This may make a difference to you if you are going to be doing a lot of hiking on rocky terrain. The difference is not very significant, but is still a consideration.
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Speed lacing system:
You will find that the Montara is easier and quicker to lace up/down than the Sugarpine.
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Gusseted tongue:
One of the advantages of the Sugarpine is that it has a gusseted tongue. This means that nothing will get through the boot, such as dirt or water at the opening between the tongue and a side of the boot.
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Moisture wicking:
The Sugarpine has the moisture wicking mesh lining for those hot summer days.
Price Comparison
Due to the fact that it is more heavy-duty and uses plenty of Nubuck leather, the Montara is generally more expensive than the Sugarpine. If you would like to compare current prices for the Sugarpine and the Montara, please see below:
Ahnu Sugarpine vs Montara: The Verdict
The Anhu Sugarpine is the most attractive and supple hiking boot, while the Montara is more durable and comfortable for longer hikes. Overall, we feel that the Montara provides a better quality feel and more bang for your buck.
This is not to say that the Montara will be best for everyone. For example, those who have a wider foot will get a better fit with the Sugarpine. And for those who like to travel about the city more than they do hiking, the attractive Sugarpine is more than enough.
We would like to hear your opinion on which of these Ahnu boots you have a preference for. Please leave your comment below, as we love to hear from our readers.
I wouldn’t trade my Montara’s for anything!! Right out of the box I climbed South Turner Mountain in Maine, with no blisters, no sore feet, and no sweat, as they breathed quite well. They are worn out now, and not available in Canada! I feel sick about this. I also understand that Ahnu has been bought out by Teva. I’m very worried Teva will ruin a good thing! These are the BEST boots ever. I’ve had Vasque, Merrill, North Face and these. Hands down I’d never go to anything else!
You don’t comment on the comparison of warmth in cold weather. In the other reviews I read both have been worn/used in the snow. Is the Sugarpine warm to 20 degrees? Is the Montara warm to 5 degrees? As if I’m going on an arctic expedition, I live in Wisconsin, haha.
Thank you, good article.
I have owned Surgarpine boots for 3 years now, did the Inca Trail in them, they were prefect. They are so lightweight and when every step is a killer, that counts. But now, we are climbing Mt. Kilmanjaro and I am not sure they will be study enough. Would the Montara be better for this climb? Any suggestions?