James Roddie was impressed with the durability and boxfresh comfort of the Hanwag Makra Pro GTX.
The Hanwag Makra Pro GTX has become one of my favourite all-round winter boots. If like me, you do a mix of winter walking, classic mountaineering and easy winter climbing, then finding a boot which performs strongly in all disciplines is good news.
James Roddie’s Best in Test 2025
If you are looking for a boot that excels in everything from easy winter climbing to long hill-walking expeditions, look no further.- comfort
- durability
- lacing design
- resoleable
- rubber rand could extend higher up boot
| Quick specs |
|---|
| Price: £300 |
| Weight: 1610g (UK size 9.5 pair) |
| B rating: B2 |
| Waterproofing: Goretex |
| Upper: Suede with textile panels |
| Crampon welts: Heel welt |
| Sole: Vibram |
| Sizes: UK 6-13/EU 39.5-48.5 |
| Men’s version? Yes |
| hanwag.com |
The Makra Pro has become one of my favourite all-round winter boots. If like me, you do a mix of winter walking, classic mountaineering and easy winter climbing, then finding a boot which performs strongly in all disciplines is good news.
I found these to be extremely comfortable straight out of the box. My first day using them involved 17km walking and 1500m ascent (in snow), and I had no hotspots or rubbing. Hanwag use a wide last, providing extra room in the forefoot and midfoot. The ankle is well padded and provides ample support.
Waterproofing and breathability are both very good. My feet kept perfectly warm enough in harsh Scottish winter conditions, but didn’t come close to overheating on warm autumn days. After using these boots heavily for a winter season, durability has proven excellent. The materials and construction are of high quality, and Hanwag will replace the soles if necessary.
There is a 360° rubber rand around the boot. This is asymmetrical – extending higher on the inwards-facing side, to protect from crampon scuffs. I would have preferred to see this all the way around.
The Vibram sole has aggressive lugs, providing excellent grip. There is a large flat ‘climbing zone’ at the toe which aids precise footwork. The stiff sole and heel welt make this boot C2 crampon compatible.
A standout feature is the mechanical lace lock. This helps to achieve a perfect fit around the heel. It allows you to easily change tension around the ankle without changing tension around the toe. It works really well and remains locked unless adjusted. This is easy and smooth, even when wearing bulky gloves.
If you are looking for a boot which will last several years, and excel in everything from easy winter climbing to long hill-walking expeditions, look no further.
Testing Conditions
James is a UK size 9.5/EU 44. He tested the boots during the winter of 2023/24 in a variety of weather and conditions in the hills of the Scottish Highlands. Terrain varied from easy trails under light snow cover, to Grade 1 winter mountaineering ground in typical mid-season condition.
This review was first published in the February 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors. To compare this model to others suited to winter mountain days, as chosen by the experts, see our guide to the best winter mountaineering boots.
