FEATURES
The Hanwag Ferrata Combi GTX boot is light at 1796g (pair, size 11). The upper is made from synthetic textile and leather with Gore-Tex waterproof lining and a full rubber rand. The Vibram sole has well-spaced lugs, though they are slightly shallower than some others; and you get a smooth climbing zone under the toe. The ankle cuff is a bit softer than others, so it offers a little less support, but is good for comfort. 4/5
FIT
The men’s sizes are 6-13 and the women’s sizes are 3½-9. On the foot the Ferrata Combi GTX feels higher-volume than all the other boots we looked at, and very spacious above the foot, so it will suit those with chunky feet best, but does not fit quite as neatly as some. The ankle cuff is very comfortable around the foot, with a soft side and forward flex. 4/5
COMFORT
There is good padding, particularly around the ankle cuff, and the upper is a little softer in general than others, which again improves comfort. I noticed the pressure from the laces more with this boot than others, so I needed to be a little more careful with lacing and use of the locking eyelets to fine-tune comfort in this area. 4/5
IN USE
There is a good rolling action from the sole when walking, but it is not quite as smooth as higher-priced boots. Also the ankle cuff is more flexible and so less supportive than some, so the Hanwag Ferrata Combi GTX is not the best for scrambling or traversing slopes. The sole has lugs that are a little less aggressive than some, thus it’s not the best for grip in soft snow. It can take a crampon with a heel clip though. So it’s okay but not the best performance. 4/5
VALUE
The price is reasonably low and the performance is certainly good enough for most general hillwalkers so it is good value. 4/5
VERDICT
The Hanwag Ferrata Combi GTX is a good general winter walking boot at a good price, but it does not excel in any areas.
4.0/5
Review by Graham Thompson
First published in Trail magazine January 2017