Since 1996, this classic trekking boot has remained virtually unchanged—a rarity in a sector where innovation constantly drives revisions to shapes and technologies. To celebrate its 30th anniversary, Hanwag is reintroducing this enduring design in a limited edition inspired by the original model, featuring a Perwanger® suede upper and those unmistakable red laces.
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From Alpine scree slopes to the vast landscapes of Alaska, the Alaska GTX has accompanied trekking enthusiasts across the most challenging terrain for three decades. The fact that a boot has retained its design almost unchanged for so long is an exception in a sector characterized by constant evolution. It is precisely this ability to span eras without losing its identity that makes the Alaska special. Since 1996, Hanwag has remained committed to a proven formula built on durability, quality materials, and expert craftsmanship. Over the years, the model has been updated only through targeted modifications, introduced only when they offered a genuine benefit.
ALASKA GTX 30Y: THE LIMITED EDITION FOR 30 YEARS
To celebrate this important anniversary, the Alaska GTX returns to the market in a special limited edition. The upper, crafted from premium Perwanger® suede in a refined light brown shade, is paired with iconic red Hanwag laces—a clear nod to the original model’s aesthetic. This celebratory look is rounded off by robust lacing hooks and new ventilation holes at the top of the shaft, designed to help maintain a comfortable microclimate inside the boot.
For the rest, the Alaska GTX retains the elements that have defined its character. The high-cut upper supports and protects the ankle, while the waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX ePE membrane helps keep the foot dry, even in wet conditions. The distinctive upper design—featuring fewer seams—minimizes potential points of vulnerability in the outer material and contributes to the boot’s overall durability. The high-grip Vibram® sole ensures stability and traction across various terrains, making it particularly well-suited for hiking with a heavy pack. Today, the Alaska is available in eight variations, ranging from classic styles to a bold limited edition created in collaboration with Beinghunted, as well as a wide-fit version designed to enhance comfort over long distances.
A BOOT DESIGNED DOWN TO THE FINEST DETAIL
It is no coincidence that a project launched thirty years ago remains a benchmark in the trekking world. The Alaska was developed by Adam Weger, Hanwag’s head of product development from 1968 to 2015 and a pivotal figure in the history and evolution of the historic Bavarian mountain boot manufacturer’s product range. With the Alaska, Weger created a boot that successfully balances functionality, comfort, and durability.
“Designing a good shoe is like laying the foundations of a solid house: it creates value meant to last. Not every product needs to be constantly reinvented; what matters is carefully conceived construction. When the fundamentals are right, a model can remain relevant for decades. Alaska is proof of this.”
Thomas Gröger, CEO of Hanwag.
DESIGNED TO LAST
Stability, comfort, and durability have always been the guiding principles behind the Alaska design. Its robust construction and resoleable design ensure an exceptionally long service life; with proper maintenance, it can accompany trekkers for many years across numerous challenging routes.
Its longevity stems from precise design choices. Since its debut, the Alaska GTX has stood out for its solid construction and level of comfort—two characteristics that continue to define its identity and make it suitable even for the most demanding trekking.
THE SECRET TO A THREE-DECADE-LONG SUCCESS
In addition to performance, there are features that hold even greater value today: the Alaska GTX can be resoled and repaired, uses materials designed for durability, and is manufactured in Europe.
A “cradle-to-gate” analysis conducted as part of a research project at Merseburg University of Applied Sciences estimated the emissions associated with producing a pair of Alaska GTX boots at approximately 13.9 kg of CO₂e. The resoleing process alone, meanwhile, would entail an additional 2.2 kg of CO₂e.
Based on the assumptions used in the calculation model, resoling can extend the boot’s lifespan by 1,000 to 2,000 kilometers. When relating “cradle-to-gate” emissions to the distance covered, the first resoling would result in a calculated reduction of approximately 42% in emissions per kilometer of use.
The data therefore shows how the greenhouse gas impact associated with the Alaska GTX—when measured against the distance covered—can be reduced by extending the boot’s lifespan through resoling.
