Danner is a subsidiary of the LaCrosse Footwear company based in Oregon. They manufacture boots and various types of footwear for construction workers, hunters, and people who love the outdoors. They were made popular by their very durable, all leather boots.
Many Danner fans love the Mountain Light line for its simplicity and that all leather feel. Since Mountain Light II has hit the scene, people are wondering what the real difference is between the original Mountain Light and the sequel. We have written this Danner Mountain Light vs Mountain Light II comparison in order to outline the differences between these two models.
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Danner Mountain Light vs Mountain Light II
Highlights of the Mountain Light Models
Before we get into comparing the Mountain Light models, we will be listing out what makes them as popular as they are. As you will see, there are many features that set these hiking boots apart from others.
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One-piece upper:
The upper of the boots are made of just one piece of high-grade leather. This means that there are no seams connecting the various pieces. This has a couple of advantages. First, it makes the boot more durable because it will not break apart as easily. And second, water will not get through any seams.
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Very waterproof:
Both of these boots are very waterproof. You can walk in puddles and mud with them without getting anything inside.
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Gusseted tongue:
In addition to the materials of these boots being waterproof, the tongue of the boots are attached to the sides of the upper. Since there is no separation or gaps between the tongue and the boot, no water or dirt will get in. There is also a piece of thick leather sewn above the guts of the tongue to provide even more protection.
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Very breathable:
Despite the fact that these boots are waterproof, they are also touted as being very breathable. We have seen no complaints of people saying that their feet start to sweat too much in hot weather. This makes these boots excellent for hiking.
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Very durable:
The Danner Mountain Light is a legendary hiking boot because of its unmatched durability, quality and support.
The durability of these boots is excellent. This also makes them a bit tough to break into. You will need to wear them for maybe 2 hours at a time until they fit snugly around your foot. Although these boots are stiff out of the box, this also means that they are more durable than most other hiking boots. This is part of the reason why these Danner boots are so popular. -
Boot height:
The height of the Mountain Light II a slightly greater than the original Mountain Light. While the original Mountain Light measures 5 inches from the arch to the top of the boot, the Mountain Light II measures 5.5 inches. The way that these boots wear is simply a matter of personal preference. But the Mountain Light II might offer a bit more protection against water and dirt around the ankles.
Looking for high-cut and high-quality boots? Check out our Danner Bull Run vs Thorogood Work Boot Review
Mountain Light and Mountain Light II Comparison
Now that we have outlined the reasons why the Mountain Light boots have such a following, we will let you in on the major differences between them.
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Weight:
The Mountain Light are a bit on the lighter side compared to the Mountain Light II. Granted, both of these boots are a bit heavier than the standard hiking boot. This is due to the highly durable leather that makes that makes the boots unique.
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Modern styling:
Mountain Light II has a tighter fit compared to the original Mountain Light
Since the original Mountain Light has been around for a very long time, the Mountain Light II was bound to come out with a more modern look. In fact, many customers feel that the Mountain Light II is just a more attractive boot. -
Heel Support
The Mountain Light II is equipped with Danner’s latest heel support technology, the Airthotic instep. This rigid polyurethane foam support cups the heel and aids the user’s foot arch.
Price Comparison
The Mountain Light and the Mountain Light II are comparable in price. If you would like to see the Mountain Light prices on Amazon, please follow the links below:
The Verdict
As both of these Mountain Light models are comparable in price, it is interesting to note that the Mountain Light II to has a Airthotic instep. We also like the Mountain Light II for the fact that they have a more modern-looking style. They also weigh almost the same as the Mountain Light despite the fact that they are just as durable.
We have a preference for the Mountain Light II because we feel that that gives more value for the cost. What is your preference? Please leave your comment below.
Excellent comparison of the two styles. I bought a pair of Mountain Lights and was disappointed in the appearance. I sent them back. Had I read this article first I would have known to buy the MLII which is better suited to my needs. I just ordered a pair in brown. Thanks. Very helpful.