The Ducan is a very well made shoe. It's more Summer & Autumn oriented than some other Mammut shoes in that the GTX XCR lining appears very breathable and the shoe has little insulation. The memofoam insole is extremely comfortable, helps avoid blisters and the flexible metal shank in the sole works amazing well to stabilise the shoe on rough terrain. You would think it would be extremely rigid but it's actually just right for demanding hikes that are still suitable for shoes rather than boots.
The synthetic upper appears durable so far, as do the soles. No evidence of any marks despite some demanding hikes up to a mountain lake. It's a 5-star boot except for 1 aspect that will really depend on your foot shape.
The toe volume is noticeably low, more so than say Mammut Kentos which I've also worn. The shoe moulds to your feet with wear and develops some welcome flex around the toes but it's still snug against my little toes and my big toe has little room to move. I would definitely try these on before buying. They're comfortable for me with thin summer hiking socks but don't work with my winter Smartwools. The tongue only opens on one side so it's a bit more effort for someone with a larger foot volume to get them on but not a big deal.
Overall this is a very high tech and high quality shoe, as you'd expect from Mammut. A friend has the Ducan Mids and uses them as a 3 season boot with great success.
--- review of an older model ---
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- Advantages
- Finish
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
- Good grip
- Durable
- Stabilizes the foot
- Breathable
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- Recommended use
- Hiking
- Trekking