Best Hunting Boots: Top 10 Picks

Hiking

Hunting can be a truly magical experience. In that Man vs Nature primeval struggle we battle against the landscape, fatigue, hunger, and weather to stalk and bag our prize.

Whereas in the past a successful hunt could be a matter of life and death, these days it’s not usually so dramatic. Nevertheless, our hunt may take us through all sorts of terrains in all sorts of weather conditions, and it’s important to have the right gear.

Contents

Boots

To to avoid any toe woe, keep reading to find a roundup of the best hunting boots on the market at the moment.

Product

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Rating

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Irish Setter Men’s 2870 Vaprtrek Waterproof 8″ Hunting Boot

Irish best hunting boots

LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18″ Hunting Boot

LaCrosse Men's Alphaburly Pro best hunting boots

Kenetrek Mountain Extreme Non-Insulated Hiking Boot

Kenetrek best hunting boots

Men’s Guide Gear 2400 gram Thinsulate & Ultra Insulation Monolithic Waterproof Boots

Men’s Guide best hunting boots

Lowa Men’s Tibet GTX Trekking Boot

Lowa best hunting boots

Bogs Mens Classic High No Handle Waterproof Insulated Rain and Winter Snow Boot

Bogs Mens best hunting boots

Irish Setter Men’s 880 Elk Tracker Waterproof 200 Gram 12″ Big Game Hunting Boot

Irish Setter Men's 880 Elk Tracker Waterproof 200 Gram 12'...

The Original MuckBoots Adult FieldBlazer Hunting Boot

Muck Boot The Original MuckBoots Adult FieldBlazer...

LaCrosse Men’s Grange 18” Hunting Boot

LaCrosse Men’s Grange 18” Hunting Boot,OD Green,9 M US

LaCrosse Men’s 16″ Premium Knee Boot

LaCrosse Men's 16' Premium Knee Boot,Black,6 M US

How We Reviewed

We compiled a list of popular boots from well-known brands to help you find the best hunting boots. We have provided you with an overview of each boot’s features, their pros and cons, their rough price, and have also included information on warranty (if available).

Overall Price Range of This Product (and Similar Products)

There is a lot of difference between prices amongst different hunting boots. You can pay a lot of money in your quest for the best hunting boot, but just remember that the most expensive boots are not always the best.

Irish Setter Men’s 2870 Vaprtrek


Irish Setter Men’s 2870 Vaprtrek Waterproof 8″ Hunting Boot,…

  • Light weight ankle-high…
  • ScentBan scent control
  • UltraDry waterproofing system
  • Realtree Xtra Camouflage
  • RPM technology significantly…

FEATURES

These boots weigh an incredible 19oz each, which is 40% lighter than a traditional hunting boot, despite having a full-grain leather upper. The lightness of the product stems partly from its specially designed synthetic sole, which gives strong traction and is very durable without being heavy.

The boot is waterproofed with UltraDry moisture wicking mesh lining, which is breathable to keep your feet comfortable and also incorporates Odor-ban technology to keep them fresh. The boots are reinforced in high-stress areas with Armatec “armor” to ensure durability in the boots.

WARRANTY

This product is offered with a 12-month warranty against any manufacturing or material defects.

Pros

  • Breathable waterproofing

  • Light-weight

  • Odor control technology

  • Synthetic sole

Cons

  • Can be a bit narrow

  • Take a long time to put on/take off

  • Not very well insulated

LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18″


LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18″ Hunting Boot,Green,6 M US

  • Hand-laid premium rubber over…
  • Embossed liner increases air…
  • Active Fit with adjustable…
  • Multilayer rubber on the toe…

FEATURES

This looks a bit like a simple wellington boot, but sometimes the best hunting boots come in surprising packages. This boot combines a rubber outer with an insulating neoprene lining, meaning that wearers don’t need to worry about wet and muddy terrain, or about the cold.

The fit of the boot leg can be adjusted via the back gusset (which also makes it easier to get the boot off at the end of the day), and the jersey liner will keep your feet comfortable. The boot comes in a camouflage colorway to help break up your outline whether you are moving or still.

WARRANTY

The boots come with a 90-day comfort guarantee, so if you are unsatisfied with the performance of the boots or their level of comfort in the first 90 days of owning them, you can return them for a full refund.

Pros

  • Totally waterproof

  • Tall

  • Insulated

  • Adjustable

  • Good sole tread pattern

Cons

  • Small fit even when ordering a size up

  • Boots may be stiff

  • Lining may deteriorate quickly

Kenetrek Mountain Extreme Non-Insulated


Kenetrek Men’s Mountain Extreme Ni Hunting Boot,Brown,8.5 M…

  • 2.8 mm thick premium full…
  • 7mm nylon midsoles with steel…
  • Reinforced rubber sole guard…
  • Wind-tex waterproof breathable…
  • Lightweight K-talon outsoles…

FEATURES

This is a premium product; howev
er some may shy away at it’s sky-high price tag. Nevertheless, if you’re willing to spend the money, you will get a very good boot.

The uppers are made of full grain leather which are double and triple stitched to ensure durability, and the sole is aggressively studded to provide traction in difficult terrain.

The waterproof lining membrane should make sure that you’re never discomforted by water in your boots and should ensure warmth even without insulation. The hardware, such as the lacing rings on the boots, is forged metal that will resist corrosion and not break.

WARRANTY

If your Kenetrek Mountain Extreme boots fail due to defective materials or poor workmanship within 12 months from the date of purchase and before the soles are worn 75%, they will be repaired or replaced by Kenetrek.

Pros

  • Leather upper

  • Durable

  • Waterproof

  • Metal Hardware

Cons

  • Expensive

  • Take time to wear in

Men’s Guide Gear 2400 gram Thinsulate

FEATURES

These boots were built for the extreme cold to make sure that the hunter and the hiker don’t have to abandon their sport even in the dead of winter.

The boots are constructed from waterproof leather, nylon, a breathable membrane, and Thinsulate Ultra insulation so that even in the most bleak of climates your feet will be kept warm and dry.

The boots also feature a wool fleece sockliner for extra warmth and comfort. The soles are tough and durable, and should be very slip-resistant.

WARRANTY

Warranty information is not available for this product.

Pros

  • Very warm

  • Durable

  • Inexpensive

  • Metal Hardware

Cons

  • Not very stylish

  • Comparatively heavy

Lowa Men’s Tibet GTX Trekking Boot


Lowa Men’s Tibet GTX Trekking Boot

  • Lace-up hiking boot featuring…
  • Padded tongue and collar
  • Seamless, waterproof Gore-Tex…
  • Climate Control perforated…
  • C4 anatomically contoured…

FEATURES

This is a trekking boot rather than a specialist hunting boot. However, it’s so good that we felt we had to include it. The boots have a nubuck outer, GORE-TEX inner, and a specially molded midsole to provide proper support for your foot, even if you’re carrying heavy loads.

The VIBRAM outer sole will ensure you don’t slip as you travel. This boot would be ideal for hunters who like to be on the move and plan to cover a lot of ground during the day or for those who hunt in particularly rocky or mountainous terrain where the superior grip and support will benefit them.

WARRANTY

This product comes with a manufacture’s warranty which is valid for a period of 24 months.

Pros

  • Durable

  • GORE-TEX lining

  • VIBRAM sole

  • Good for all sorts of activities

Cons

  • Narrow

  • Take a while to wear in

  • Not a hunting boot

Bogs Mens Classic High No Handle


Bogs Men’s Classic High Waterproof Insulated Rain Boot,…

  • The product is 100% waterproof
  • Natural hand-lasted rubber and…
  • Non-slip non-marking and…
  • Contour fit for maximum…
  • Comfort rated to -40F

FEATURES

This boot features a leg fitting upper and a reinforced rubber lower lined with insulating material to keep your calves and feet snug and dry no matter how wet the weather.

The shape of the boot allows users to walk naturally and the rubber sole should ensure you can walk in the wet and mud without having to worry about slipping.

Reviewers with Plantar Fasciitis noted that they could wear these boots without irritating the condition in their feet. Others loved the insulation in the boots but noted that users may want to wear moisture wicking socks to make sure their feet didn’t sweat too much.

WARRANTY

Bogs say that all their products are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, but some users have found dealing with their customer service very unsatisfactory.

Pros

  • Waterproof and insulated

  • Shape allows for natural walk

  • Fit true to size

  • Good for all sorts of activities

Cons

  • Boots take a while to wear in

  • Customer service bad

Irish Setter Men’s 880 Elk Tracker


Irish Setter Men’s 880 Elk Tracker Waterproof 200 Gram 12″…

  • 12-inch hunting boot with 200…
  • Removable comfort cork EVA…
  • ScentBan technology to kill…
  • CARE INSTRUCTIONS :To ensure…
  • shock-absorbing comfort cork…

FEATURES

With a GORE-TEX membrane to prevent any infiltration by water, and Thinsulate lining for warmth, your feet will be warm and dry even when it’s cold and wet outside. The footbed is made with a cork base covered with memory foam to ensure your feet are comfortable.

The sole of the boot incorporates a steel shank for added support and the outsole’s tread designed with multi-directional lugs is designed to give failsafe traction whatever the terrain you’re facing.

This Irish Setter boot incorporates their ScentBan odor inhibiting material, so that even after a hard day’s work your boots and feet will smell fresh and clean.

WARRANTY

This product is offered with a 12-month warranty against any manufacturing or material defects.

Pros

  • Fully waterproof

  • Insulated

  • Odor control

Cons

  • Arch support not great

  • Sole wears quickly

  • Customer service sometimes bad

  • Made in China

The Original MuckBoots Adult FieldBlazer


Muck Boot The Original MuckBoots Adult FieldBlazer…

  • Rugged knee-high hunting boot…
  • Reinforced achilles support…
  • Reinforced shank

FEATURES

This flexible hunting boot is built for the wet and the mud, making it perfect for all kind of hunting and even some fishing. It is constructed with a combination of breathable and insulated linings which ensure that your feet stay warm when it’s cold, and cool when it’s hot.

The rubber lower boot is specially reinforced in the areas that usually get the most wear, and the fabric upper is lighter and more flexible. The boot has a good, non-slip sole. The boot is finished with a MossyOak camouflage patten to break up the outline of the boot.

WARRANTY

This product is guaranteed against manufacturing or material defect for 30 days after purchase.

Pros

  • Waterproof

  • Tall

  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Less rugged than others

  • Not suitable for very rough terrains

  • Warranty not great

LaCrosse Men’s Grange 18” Hunting Boot


LaCrosse Men’s Grange 18” Hunting Boot,OD Green,9 M US

  • Hand-laid premium ZXT Rubber…
  • ZXT Rubber is ozone, abrasion…
  • Multilayer rubber on the toe…
  • Ankle Fit locks the heel in…

FEATURES

This model of boot was first designed and manufactured in 1957, and there’s a reason why they’re still making it. This is a non-insulated rubber boot designed to do it all. The ZXT rubber is durable, resistant to cracking or freezing, and won’t smell too much like rubber.

They have a cleated outsole to prevent slips in muddy or wet conditions. The boots are designed to hold the ankle and prevent slippage in the boot, and the top of the boot can also be adjusted for fit.

However, many reviewers who have bought this boot multiple times note that the quality of the materials has gone down ever since the boots have begun to be manufactured in China.

WARRANTY

This product is guaranteed for one year from date of original purchase, unless you are using them for work, in which case the warranty is 90 days.

Pros

  • Comfortable fit

  • Adjustable

  • Long history

Cons

  • Fits small

  • Manufacturing standards have slipped

LaCrosse Men’s 16″ Premium Knee Boot

FEATURES

This is a rubber boot with a reinforced steel toecap, perfect for if you need some more protection over your feet.

This is really a boot designed for a work-site where you need both waterproof protection and protection against falling objects; perfect for construction workers in wet areas.

The comfortable fit may make it suitable for some hunting activities though we think that outside of summer the lack of insulation could prove to be a bit of a problem.

WARRANTY

This product is gua
7
ranteed
to be free of manufacturer defects for one year from date of original purchase, unless you are using them for work, in which case the warranty is 90 days.

Pros

  • Durable

  • Steel toecap

  • Waterproof

Cons

  • No adjustment strap

  • Variable quality

  • Fits very large

Product FAQ

What Exactly Are Hunting Boots?

Technically, hunting boots could be any boots you wear when you are hunting. However, the best hunting boots are designed for hunters. Hunting boots are often categorized according to the type of hunting that they are designed for as different hunters have diverse needs.

However, you don’t need to panic, as there are no hard-and-fast rules about the boots to wear when you’re hunting. The best hunting boots will be ones that fit you well and fit the task that you’ll be doing.

How Are Hunting Boots Different from Hiking Boots?

Though hunting boots and hiking boots have a lot of similarities, they have differences too. Hiking boots are made to help you cover the ground, and this is true for some hunting boots too.

However, some of the best hunting boots are heavier than the average hiking boot and have better insulation because they are made for hunting situations where the wearer will be staying still for long periods of time.

How Tall Should my Hunting Boots Be?

This really depends on what you’ll be hunting and over what sort of terrain. If you’ll be hunting over long distances and dry ground, you’re more likely to want a lower, lighter boot that offers mobility and ankle support without weighing you down.

If you’re hunting through marshy ground or bodies of water, you’re going to want your boots to come up higher. There is nothing more miserable than having wet feet on a hunt.

What Are the Best Hunting Boots?

The best hunting boots for you will be the ones that suit you and your hunt.The most important things for you to consider are the amount of walking you’ll need to do, the amount of time you’ll spend without moving, and the season you’re planning to hunt in with the boots. These factors will help you in choosing in terms of size, weight, and insulation.

The Verdict- BEST HUNTING BOOTS

The best hunting boots will be different for you will depend on what you’ll be doing with them. If you’ll be spending a lot of time in conditions that are wet but not too rough, the best hunting boots for you may be the LaCrosse Alphaburly; though you may want to try some on to get the right size.

However, if you are going to be moving over rough terrain, then the best hunting boots for you may want the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme if you’ve got a lot of cash, or the Men’s Guide Gear Monolithic if you haven’t.

Featured Image via Unsplash

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