Why We Chose It: Long-lasting, comfortable, well-crafted
In 2020, Hanwag re-released their Banks family of hiking boots and shoes, bringing new materials and a slightly modernised design and fit to a collection that was first released over 16 years ago. What’s more, they’ve also now introduced a host of new last designs, meaning you can essentially pick a Banks to match your foot shape.
Who’s The Hanwag Banks GTX For?
The Banks GTX is a very British style of walking boot. It’s got the look for sure, but it also has that performance you want for, say, a day wading through sticky peat in the Peak District or for navigating some Scottish bogland. Granted it’s not necessarily a boot with the specs to handle a day of via ferrata in the South Tyrol, but if you want something reliable enough and comfortable enough for a big day hike, or maybe even a long-distance backpacking trip, the Banks GTX would be a very good boot to opt for.
The Different Banks Fits
The standard model of the Banks GTX is built around the German brand’s StraightFit last, giving a nice amount of space around the toes to let them sit naturally and comfortably. Then there’s also the SF Extra version, which combines the StraightFit’ last’s roomy toebox with a wider fit around the ball of the foot.
In the ladies-specific Banks collection, there’s the choice between either the StraightFit last or the SF Extra, plus there’s a narrow fit option in the women’s category as well.
Suffer from Hallux Valgus? In that case, you’ll want to go for the Banks Low (that’s the low cut, shoe version) which comes in a bunion fit.
