Patagonia this week reveals its first collaboration ever: a wading boot made by Danner. Meet the new Foot Tractor.
Lace the Foot Tractor or River Salt over your waders and step into the stream. Patagonia says its technology, coupled with the lifetime build quality of Danner, will keep you on the water longer.
Patagonia this week reveals its first collaboration in brand history at the ICAST fishing convention in Florida. The brand intends these wading boots, built by stalwart footwear manufacturer Danner, to last a lifetime.
It’s worth noting that Patagonia has had the Foot Tractor in its line for a while. But the soon-to-market version and the new River Salt are the first made in collaboration with Danner and also made in the USA.
Danner Foot Tractor
Patagonia and Danner will team up to build four models of wading boots. Three of the models fall under the Foot Tractor name. The fourth, the Salt River, is a lighter model for anglers on the move.
First, let’s talk the Foot Tractor. Patagonia and Danner designed these to be recrafted with age. That means cobblers can repair any damage that comes with time.
The brands intend these boots, meant to be the “last ones you’ll ever need to buy,” as a lifetime investment. Yes, that means they’re expensive. These boots are made in Portland, Ore. And if maintained, they could be the last pair you buy.
The Foot Tractor comes with three sole options. The sticky rubber sole ($500) will give most anglers a versatile choice that works on a lot of river bottoms.
For those looking for more aggressive tread, the aluminum bar sole ($550) gives super grabby traction.
Finally, a popular, effective, but often outlawed option — due to invasive species transport — comes with a felt sole bottom ($500).
River Salt Wading Boot
The second style, the River Salt, can also be repaired. But it’s a lighter design for those who cover more distance.
Patagonia intends it for wet wading, flats fishing, and long approaches. It claims excellent performance and durability in both fresh and salt water. And Vibram Megagrip soles give traction across a wide range of surfaces.
Both these products will be shown at ICAST and Outdoor Retailer in the coming month. But they won’t be available to consumers until February 2019.
We’re excited to see a wading boot meant for a lifetime of use and look forward to seeing how they perform on the water.
