Since 1932, Danner has been producing affordable, hand-made work boots. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, Danner also produces hunting boots, military-grade combat boots, hiking boots, and footwear for law enforcement officials.

But it’s the work boots that Danner produces for American blue collar workers that has made Danner a household name in shops and on construction sites around the country.

Danner got its start during the Great Depression in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, an old logging town that sits on the shores of the mighty Mississippi River. Danner’s original 12 employees built Danner’s first leather work boots by hand, selling them to lumberjacks for $4 a pair.

Four years later, in 1936, Charles Danner, the company’s founder, moved his family and his company to Portland, where the company is still located today.

What sets Danner apart from other boot companies is the brand’s long-standing commitment to producing American-made boots constructed from top-shelf leather and rubber.

The company’s products are so well-respected that various divisions of the U.S. Armed Forces have worn Danner boots in combat since 1982.

These days, Danner’s heritage-inspired hiking boots and ultra-sturdy work boots have become a style staple for trendy people living throughout Asia, North America, and Europe.

My top 3 personal favorite Danner boots:

Danner Mountain Pass Mink Oil

The Danner Mountain Pass offers out-of-the-box comfort that is uncommon in a hiking boot. This lightweight boot features an integrated shank, midsole, and lasting board. At only 46 oz. a pair, they are perfect for hiking through thick brush or long work days.

Thanks to its removable OrthoLite footbed, long treks are a cakewalk. Combine this with a thin Vibram Kletterlift outsole and you get a full range of motion with every step. Although these boots are not waterproof, they feature a Dri-lex liner that does an excellent job of keeping your feet dry.