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Hanwag Banks Low GTX walking shoe tested and reviewed

Made in Europe from high-quality materials, the Hanwag Banks Low GTX walking shoe is designed for comfort over long distances

Our rating

4.5

Fergus Collins

Published: October 26, 2022 at 3:08 pm
Our review
Designed to last a long time – and repairable – the Hanwag Banks Low GTX offers comfort and cushioning for long walks in spring, summer and autumn

Pros:

Very comfortable fit – tongue design and lacing are easy to adjust Completely waterproof and offer strong protection for the whole of the foot Superb cushioning over long walks High-quality construction and materials Solid, handsome design Comes in male and female version Designed to be resoled when needed

Cons:

Some rubbing on outer toe area on both feet Limited choice of colours Lacked a bit of grip on wet, slimy rocks

Hanwag Banks Low GTX walking shoe review

Hanwag is a brand perhaps unfamiliar in the UK but it is a well-established footwear company with centres in Germany and the Balkans, with over 100 years experience in designing durable, comfortable boots and shoes for all needs. All shoes are made in Europe – with materials manufactured in Europe, too.

The Banks Low GTX is designed for comfort. The cleverly designed Futura tongue is attached to the shoe on the outer side of the foot. Described by Hanwag as having a 'bellows' effect, it creates gives more flexibility and cushioning. It also makes this shoe easy to put on.

After several hours of walking in wet grass and light rain, the Hanwag Banks Low GTX walking shoes remained completely dry inside

By combining a reinforced foam wedge with a high-quality insole and additional, soft heel reinforcement, the Banks Low offers particularly good cushioning – and I found no aches and pains even after a good 10-mile walk on varied terrain. There was some rubbing on the tops of my outer toes and there appears to be a small ridge at the toe end of the tongue.

The outsole is designed to be replaced if needed. I've found many walking shoes lack durability – or repairability – so this is important for those looking at a lasting investment. The outsole offers deep lugs and the only places they were not 100 per cent secure was on wet mossy or algae covered slabs.

This is a solid-looking, confidence-giving shoe with a muted selection of colours: dark grey with yellow details ('Asphalt/yellow'), grey-black ('Asphalt/Black') and dark brown ('Mocca/black').

Facts at a glance:

  • RRP: £175
  • Weight: 400g per shoe (men’s size 9)
  • Outsole: Hanwag Endurance Hike
  • Midsole: Polyurethane foam wedge
  • Upper: Nubuck leather, suede, textile
  • Waterproofing: Gore-Tex

Also consider...

Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX Walking Shoe

A stylish, super-light and super-comfortable walking shoe that is flexible enough to fit snugly without any excess space inside the shoe. Thanks to the well cushioned EVA midsole, walking is comfortable and feet are thoroughly protected by the rubber toecap and the lightweight TPU shank. The outsole performed exceptionally well on wet and slippery surfaces.

The Gore-Tex Invisible Fit membrane is waterproof but breathable, and is bonded to a leather and textile upper with a high quality finish. After long hot walks, the shoe interior has no unpleasant smell.

A comfortable walking shoe that is so light you barely feel it – and with very smart looks – offering an extremely pleasant walking experience.

• Read our full length review of the Danner Trail 2650 Campo GTX Walking Shoe

Still looking?

Find the best shoe for you in our big walking shoe review feature.

Fergus Collins

Editor, BBC Countryfile Magazine

Editor of BBC Countryfile Magazine, Fergus lives in deepest Monmouthshire with his family, where his neighbours are farmers, buzzards and sheep. When not working on the magazine he wanders the hills, grows vegetables and plans adventures.
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