Danner River Gripper (8-inch)
By Scott Clayton

After spending money on rods, reels, and lines, plus waders, a jacket, and layering, not to mention flies and other supplies I was tempted to save a few bucks and use my sneakers as wading shoes. Not a bad idea, right? Come on, I know you've probably at least had this thought cross your mind. After further thought on the subject this didn't sound like such a good idea. A day of fishing usually requires wading and some hiking. Neither of which sounds like much fun in a pair of shoes barely good enough to mow the lawn in. Comfort aside, when you're spending a big part of your day walking around in a river, a shoe made specifically for wading is the safest way to go. Danner makes an excellent boot that will help keep you safe and comfortable while wading or hiking.

Danner's 8-inch River Gripper wading boots are made of breathable nylon mesh and neoprene impregnated suede. They are constructed using a quality stichdown process wherein the upper is glued and stitched with heavy thread to the outsole, creating a strong, stable platform. They feature Danner's nylon felt fishing sole made of tight knit polyester plus a 3.2 mm rubber midsole. They weigh 55 ounces.

Danner's 8-inch River Gripper's are nice looking boots. At first, because of the high ankle, I expected them to be difficult to get on and off, especially when wet. They weren't. In fact, it really doesn't take much more than loosening the laces to get them on and off. I really like the support provided by the high ankle. The height also does an excellent job protecting the feet of my waders from unwanted debris; add some gravel guards and you've got maximum protection.

The mesh material on the sides of each boot does a great job of draining water quickly, mitigating the awkward sloshing when hiking after exiting the stream. The felt soles provide good solid traction; handling every situation I threw at them, including mud, moss, gravel, and rocks.

The first time I wore these boots I hiked a couple of miles, most of it on railroad tracks. Afterwards, I did experience soreness on the ball of one foot. The boot sole was pretty stiff. But eventually they've broken in and are much more comfortable.

My foot size is 9 so I got the size 9 boots. With Gore-Tex feet waders they fit well, with neoprene feet waders they are a bit snug; they are a little on the narrow side. Once wet, they loosened up and felt better with the neoprene feet waders.

Danner's 8-inch River Gripper's are available in men's whole sizes 6-15 EE width. They retail for $150.

Summary:
The 8-inch River Gripper is a great example of Danner quality. The mesh/suede upper's are good looking and Danner's stitchdown process insures a durable product. The stability of the high ankle is excellent. The felt soles give great traction. The price is pretty steep, but I've seen them in stores for less than $150. They are an excellent choice for wading boots.

Scott Clayton is the Fly Fishing Editor at GearReview.com.

For more information, contact:
Danner
12722 NE Airport Way
Portland, OR 97230
503-251-1100
webmaster@danner.com