There's no doubting that the new Helly Hansen Vanir Gallivant HT is a bit of a marmite boot. Whilst it's unlikely to appeal to the traditional hiker, if you're into fashion-influenced, modern looking outdoor gear, it could well be the boot for you.
Perhaps the biggest eye-catching feature of the Vanir Gallivant HT is the sole. Side-on it's reminiscent of an Adidas and Kanye West creation, yet it's on-trail credentials are revealed when you turn it over. Multi-directional lugs have been designed to maximise traction in tricky terrain and whilst they're unlikely to stand up to the rigours of a multi-day Munro bagging mission, grip is more than good enough on forest walks and light trails.
Helly Hansen have an established reputation for quality and performance and the Vanir Gallivant HT is no exception. Construction-wise you cannot fault it. It's fully waterproof yet still delivers decent breathability, the removable EVA Performance Foot bed is pure class and the eyelets and lace hooks are bomber. The cleats on the two upper hooks are grippy little so-and-sos which means it can take a couple of attempts to get the laces into the right place, but they sure as hell aren't going anywhere once they're in.
Fit-wise the last of the Vanir Gallivant HT will work well for a variety of foot shapes. They do run a little small however so if you're in any doubt then we recommend going half a size up to make sure there's enough room at the front. One thing we did notice was that they felt quite 'flat' inside despite the top-job removable footbed so if you're lacking in arch support then you might want to take it out and insert your own orthotics.
Whilst there are definitely more affordable light hikers out there, there aren't many that come with the build quality of the Helly Hansen Vanir Gallivant HT. If you're into premium construction and top-level modern styling then the Vanir Gallivant HT is more than worth a look.
