No, These Aren’t New Balances. They’re Retro Sneakers from a Beloved Hiking Brand

Portland-based Danner marks a big departure from its usual styling for a frankly great-looking pair of outdoor-ready dad shoes.

Danner FullBore ID Hiking Sneaker laces closeup

By Sean Tirman

Published July 15, 2025

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Founded in Boston back in 1906, New Balance has trudged a long, difficult road to become the massive sneaker brand it is today. It has been so successful in carving out a place for itself in the athletic and fashion industries that its influence has seeped into the fibers of other brands.

Take the sneaker you see before you today, for example. It’s not a New Balance. It’s the Danner FullBore ID, admittedly a pretty major departure from the Portland brand’s typical styling. This sneaker embraces its dadness in the same way so much of NB’s best footwear does. And honestly, I’m here for it.

In a stark departure from the brand’s typical styling, these sneakers embrace the “dad shoe” aesthetic.

Danner

Tactical … or is it?

You might remember a couple of weeks ago, we covered a pair of Danner hiking sneaker-sandals that borrowed from the brand’s FullBore tactical boots. Technically speaking, these sneakers borrow from that same line. That said, it’s definitely more of a reach.

The closest similarities are in the crosshatched lacing system, which allows for greater security around the whole foot when the laces are cinched. But the rest of the upper’s styling is pretty vastly different from its inspiration.

Danner FullBore ID Hiking Sneakers top and bottom — The stable lacing system pairs well with the chunky Vibram outsole.

The other big similarity can be found on the underside. Like the sandal before it, these sneakers have a chunky Vibram outsole that’s especially adept at tackling uneven terrain.

So while these look a lot like dad sneakers you might wear down to the local farmers market, they’re actually a lot more capable. But that makes sense coming from a brand that has built much of its sterling reputation on products made for outdoor adventure.

Danner FullBore ID Hiking Sneaker 3/4 rear — The tread says adventure, but the upper says family brunch.

Built for speed, built for comfort

The FullBore ID’s upper is made from suede and nylon, a classic combination that offers both stylishness and durability. Wedged between the upper and the outsole is a Danner Plyolite midsole, offering plenty of cushion to keep your feet comfy no matter the terrain.

To take that a step further (pardon the pun), these sneakers also have a removable OrthoLite footbed to offer a little more comfort and support. And there’s a mesh lining to keep everything breathable, making these shoes great for summer adventures.

Combine all of that and what do you get? A stylish sneaker that looks good enough for everyday wear but is built capably and comfortably enough to hit the trails, too. Good show, Danner.