When you are off venturing into the wilderness, it is very important to purchase best equipment available.
Some people might think that taking time to research and read about what best cold weather hunting boots are on the current market is a waste of time.
On the contrary; one thing that can make or break your outdoor adventure is your feet’s comfort.
Imagine buying a wrong pair of boots that does not provide necessary stability or fit; your feet will end up with blisters and that will be the end of your day out.
In this article, we are going to look at some key factors one should consider before buying best hunting boots for cold weather.
We shall also give you a list of our top ten hunting boots ranging from best cold weather elk hunting boots, snake proof hunting boots, to cheapest and lightweight hunting boots. Let us begin.
Features to Take into Consideration
There are many factors to consider when you are buying your next good cold weather hunting boots such as fit, ventilation, design, insulation, and intent. Your feet and you will be much happier when all these factors are taken into account.
How you intend on using a pair of cold-weather footwear will have a huge impact on your ventilation and insulation needs as well as the ultimate fit that you will need.
Insulation
Insulation is a number one factor in a boot’s property that affects warmth. The insulation required to maintain your level of comfort varies widely based on intended activity. For example; are you planning to sit in a duck blind or on a tree stand in 10 degree weather?
Such activities will require more insulation because amount of physical activity is minimal. When you are seated down, all heat activity (such as walking or running) is over; also your toes comfort reduces.
This is why you should look out for more insulation whenever you are participating in sedentary activities.
Keep an eye out for best hunting boots to keep feet warm. There are countless best boots for cold weather tree stand hunting available.
When you are walking up pheasants or stalking an elk, your toes and feet are in constant movement.
This increases circulation and your body will be pumping tons of hot blood. If you plan on venturing off on high level activities, then opt for low insulation footwear such as cold weather elk hunting boots.
Another thing you need to take into account when measuring levels of insulation necessary is your body’s makeup.
We all have different internal thermostat. Some people have hot feet while others have cold feet. This means that different boots are required for similar activities and conditions. It is very important to know your body’s makeup.
The utility of insulation can be narrowed down into three functional levels:
l Un-insulated to 200 grams: These types of footwear are ideal for early season and high activity levels.
l 400 grams to 800 grams: These are the most popular category of hunting boots. They have insulation levels that cover most fall season hunting activities.
l 1000 gram and up: If you are planning on hunting in extremely cold environment, then these are just what your feet need. They are also perfect for sedentary activities. They are specifically designed for colder, winter weather and more sedentary activities.
Note: For those unaware, insulation rating factor of boots is always listed in grams. This does not related to total mass of insulation; it is a shortened form of gram per square meter of the fabric.
Intent
Where you intend to go on your escapes matters a lot. Are you planning to go to areas where conditions are sloppy, steep, or you have creeks, marshes, or swamps to walk through?
Are you planning to go for sedentary hunts or high activity hunting?
What are your intentions?
These are very important questions to ask yourself before making any purchase – your intent will weigh very heavily when the time comes to make a decision.
Fit
It is up to you to ensure that you purchase a proper fit. Before buying a pair, wear the socks you intend to hunt with and any other inserts you plan to use. From there, you can now try on a shoe.
Most people tend to forget to incorporate these items when shopping for outdoor footwear – this results in ill fitting shoes that will leave your feet sore and full of blisters.
Design and Style
There are very many different designs and boot styles available on the current market. However, most fall under three categories: Upland, Multi-purpose, and High country.
Upland Boots
These types are specifically designed for lightweight walking. They have a soil-shedding sole and a lighter lug and simple design.
Upland bird hunters tend to put on a lot of miles – they do not need to carry a lot of weight along with them meaning that their footwear should be as lightweight as possible.
Also, this type of footwear does not lug along heavy mud. Most upland hunting is done on moderate terrains that are not too steep – this means that you do not need a lot of traction or support.
Multi-purpose
Multi-purpose is the most popular category of hunting boots available. You will be able to find just about any option of footwear depending on your intent and wants. Looking for a great upland hunting boot, or a big-game boot, or are you mainly looking for one boot that can cover almost all activities?
Multi-purpose is the way to go. These types of footwear are designed to be incredibly durable, long lasting, and provide any user with magnificent traction on a variety of surfaces. They also come in a variety of insulation levels.
Multipurpose footwear has more support than upland version as they can easily accommodate tougher terrain. They also have heavier lugged soles that provide users with greater traction.
It is up to you to decide whether you wish to purchase a shoe that is capable of tackling any terrain or you would prefer one that is specifically made for a sole purpose.
High Country
If you are going after big game such as deer, wild sheep, or elk’s, you will be trekking on very steep terrains. This means that you will require additional support from your footwear.
Rough country is quite risky – especially if you are wearing the wrong type of boots (you can easily twist your ankle or have a hunting accident with wrong type of boots).
This is where High Country Hunting Boots come into play. These types are designed to tackle the most demanding steep hunts.
They are extremely durable and offer incredible support to your feet and ankles. These models are able to cover those rough winter seasons and can be used for a wide range of outdoor activities such as archery or rifle games.
Water Resistance
Waterproof shoes will protect your feet from all types of weather such as snow, rain, and rivers. You should always consider a model that comes inclusive of a waterproof membrane lining.
If you are unable to find one, then purchase a chemical waterproof treatment- you can find this at any outdoor apparel and footwear equipment stores or online.
LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18” 1600G Hunting Boot
LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18” is a fantastic model that one can use for walking or trekking. This item is available in different sizes that offer a user incredible comfort and stability.
LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18” is waterproof and comes equipped with a perfectly fitted rubber that makes it very flexible and easy to put on and take off.
Its natural rubber compound that is used all around the boot provides a user with much required comfort around ankles and feet and great flexibility.
Let us take a more in depth look into LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18”.
LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18” has natural rubber that provides the proper air circulation and lets your feet breath.
This material, combined with a carved neoprene lining ensures that your feet and legs are cool and comfortable at all times. The neoprene adds to overall stability and flexibility.
This Pro 18 Men’s hunting boots are very lightweight and provide great comfort to a user. You will be able to walk for hours without having to take a break.
They come with thick cushioning inside the boots that allow your legs to adjust easily and have the much needed cushioning that is necessary for walking long distances.
Pros
- Comes with custom fitted designed locking mechanism that provides ample ankle space and heel locking prevents excess chafing.
- Comes with required insulation that provides great comfort even on those very cold days
- AffordableOffers great support
Cons
- They can deem to be a bit heavy after long walks
Bogs Men’s Classic High Camo Winter Snow Boot
Bogs Men’s Classic High Camo offers a user with sturdy protection regardless of weather conditions. You will be able to trek through muddy pastures or deep puddles while your feet start dry and warm.
Bogs Men’s Classic High Camo is made from rubber material. They are waterproof and highly durable thanks to the hand-lasted rubber.
They also feature moisture wicking sock liner that is removable and prevents odor. They are great camo hunting boots and have excellent warmth retention up to 40 degrees F.
For best men’s rubber hunting boots, Bog’s men Classic is a good model to look out for. This model comes in a great camouflage design that is amazing. It has an incredible merge with nature.
They are also waterproof meaning that your feet will stay warm and toasty regardless of terrain and weather.
Bogs Men’s Classic High Camo are designed to stay quiet while providing you with non-slip steadiness on any terrain regardless of how slippery or wet it is such as when you are trekking through mud or snow.
Pros
- Easy pull-on design
- Neoprene insulation
- Fully waterproof
- Non-slip rubber sole
- Excellent camouflage
- Highly comfortable
Cons
- Do not protect against snake bites
- Do not comprise of a toe protector
- They are not ideal for hunters with wider feet
- Insides can get a bit humid when work for long periods of time
MuckBoots Men’s Arctic Pro Hunting Boot
MuckBoots Men’s Arctic Pro is an excellent item to purchase for extreme cold weather hunting. They have a great design that keeps your legs warm even in -60 degree C.
These models have a Fleece liner that helps keep cold out – you will be able to stay out for hunting in snow-covered areas even in the most extreme of weathers.
MuckBoots Men’s Arctic Pro has additional reinforcements at heels, Achilles, and in step – this is how they are able to provide you with comfortable cushioning on different parts of your legs.
The boots come inclusive of a wrap-up bumper that is used to cover the toe areas for better protection.
This bumper absorbs all shock while you are walking and running.
Muchboots are made with synthetic, fabric, and man made soles that are highly durable.
Even in swampy and slippery areas, you will have ample traction and grip necessary for added stability.
Pros
- Offers great stability
- Have thick cushioning and a wrap-up bumper that ensures your feet are comfortable at all times
- Durable
- Breathes well
- Very stylish
- 100% waterproof
- Easy to put on and pull off
Cons
- They might be a little stiff at the beginning
- With extensive use, they wear out quickly
Kamik Men’s Hunter Cold-Weather Boot
Kamik Men’s Hunter is a fantastic all-round rain boot that is suitable for cool to freezing cold weather. Its warmth comes from its plush and removable liner.
This model has great thread count with deep canals and large lugs, making it the ideal footwear for use on wet and muddy trails.
You will also find that Kamik Men’s Hunter is ideal for snowy and slushy sidewalks.
However, this model does not have ample traction on smooth and slippery surfaces.
Kamik Men’s Hunter is designed to be both breathable and waterproof. Your feet will be nice and cool, protecting them from becoming sweaty and slippery.
This model is designed to handle rough and rocky terrain that you are likely to encounter when heading out to go for your hiking adventure.
They comprise of great features such as strong and breathable materials, firm lacing system, hard sole, lightweight materials and eye-catching design; all in one product.
Pros
- Very warm and cozy
- Ease of use
- Very stylish
- Offers great traction
- Water resistant
Cons
- Insole tends to come out every time a user takes off this boot
Sorel Men’s Bear Extreme Snow Boot
Sorel Men’s Bear comes with a removable 9mm recycled felt inner boot with omni-heat insulation lining that ensures your feet stay warm even during those cold seasons.
Sorel Men’s Bear has a waterproof shell and PU coated synthetic upper.
Available in a black or a black/red color, this model features a synthetic sole that is long lasting.
Sorel Men’s Bear is very lightweight and will provide you with much more support and stability as you tackle those rough terrains.
They are constructed with durable materials that can endure a lot of hiking trails before needing replacement.
This model offers an incredible fit. Hiking footwear should always provide firm support. Better support and fit tends to lead to more comfort and stability on and off a trail.
Sorel Men’s Bear secures your foot so that it does not lift out of shoe as you are walking. However, we would still recommend that you give it a try at the store before purchasing.
Walk around, jump up and down and see whether that size is what you should purchase.
PROS
- Durable
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Extremely comfortable
- Have great lining and plenty of room for your feet to breathe
CONS
- Sizes vary so it is best to first fit before purchasing
Guide Gear Men’s Monolithic Hunting Boots Insulated Waterproof 2400 Grams
Guide Gear Men’s Monolithic is made with rubber outsoles that ensure your footwear does not get damaged easily.
These rubber outsoles offer durable and long lasting traction as you walk on wet rocks or even on dry terrain.
Guide Gear Men’s Monolithic has flexible soles that allow your feet to bend naturally while walking, but still thick enough to protect the bottom of your feet from sharp and other gravel on the ground.
It always boils down to money. Guide Gear Men’s Monolithic is highly affordable and long lasting.
You can be able to use one pair for years to come without much tear and wear – especially if you take good care of them.
Guide Gear Men’s Monolithic is a great alternative for anyone who has sweaty feet or for those looking for shoes that have incredible waterproof features that ensure your feet do not get cold regardless of extreme cold weather.
Guide Gear Men’s Monolithic will ensure your feet are safely secured in place – this helps make sure that they do not slip as you tackle those slippery and snowy paths.
PROS
- Warm and comfortable
- Great grip even in snow
- Easy to use
- Easy to use
- Made from good and highly durable materials
- Offers a great fit
- Great price
CONS
- They are a bit stiff
Kamik Men’s Nation Camo Hunting Boot
Kamik Men’s Nation Camo is made from waterproof suede and comes in a beautiful mossy oak camouflage nylon that is long lasting.
They are able to withstand colds of up to -40 F.
Kamik Men’s Nation Camo have rubber soles and a rustproof speed lacing system that makes it a breeze to put on and remove shoe.
Kamik Men’s Nation Camo advocates lightweight footwear – this shoe will allow you to move faster and freer as you take on your adventure.
You will be able to walk for miles without needing a break from heavy boots. Kamik Men’s Nation Camo is just what you should consider especially for long hunting adventures.
All in all, Kamik Men’s Nation Camo is an incredible model to consider. It is made from highly durable leather material that is long lasting and yet lightweight.
This item is waterproof and can be used on just about any trail regardless of weather.
You will have required stability and grip as you tackle those slippery slopes. For more information, do not hesitate to comment below or visit their Amazon webpage.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Offers great stability and grip
- Affordable
CONS
- Boot design is very short and very narrow
- Inserts are not removable and they tend to make this boot smaller
LaCrosse Men’s AeroHead 18” 3.5mm Hunting Boot
LaCrosse Men’s AeroHead 18” 3.5mm is made of rubber soles that offer you good grip and stability regardless of terrain.
Waterproof and comes with a camo-print shaft featuring adjustable back gusset with strap and traction outsole. They also come integrated with shanks for support and stability.
Finally, LaCrosse Men’s AeroHead 18” 3.5mm has injected PU cushioned midsole and is armed with AeroForm technology for flexibility and insulation.
LaCrosse Men’s AeroHead 18” 3.5mm has a very still sole and thick layer of rubber that protects your toes.
This will provide you with great support in your ankles as well as throughout the boot. LaCrosse Men’s AeroHead 18” 3.5mm are very water resistant.
Even if you mistakenly walk into a few inches of water, your feet will remain dry. Remember to avoid very deep water though.
PROS
- Great construction
- Comfortable
- Very warm
- Have a great fit
CONS
- Front part is a bit too rigid
- Do not last as long as expected
MuckBoots Women’s Arctic Weekend Boot
MuckBoots Women’s Arctic Weekend comes in a variety of vibrant colors and an eye-catching design.
They are made with rubber soles and waterproof mid-calf that has a stretch-fit topline featuring lightweight EVA midsole and multipurpose traction outsole.
The stretch topline snuggles the calf, keeping warmth in and cold out.
MuckBoots Women’s Arctic Weekend is highly affordable and will provide any user with quality features that are worth every penny spent.
They will also have good cushioning that will guarantee your feet will not get blisters regardless of how long you trek for. This model is very breathable and durable.
They are made from rubber soles that are long lasting and not prone to wear and tear when well maintained.
Your MuckBoots Women’s Arctic Weekend will take you on many great adventures for many years to come.
PROS
- Incredibly comfortable
- Keeps your feet snug and toasty warm
- Excellent quality and value
- Affordable
- Durable
CONS
- Size is not accurate. Always order at least a half size smaller that you normally wear
Wolverine Women’s Panther 8 Inch Boot
Wolverine Women’s Panther 8 Inch is made with 75% leather and 25% nylon material. They have rubber soles and a shaft measuring approximately 8’’ from arch.
Waterproof and has a 1000 denier nylon upper for abrasion resistance from all elements. This model has Dri-lex with waterproof membranes that will keep your feet dry in the wettest conditions.
Made from durable leather material, this shoe is waterproof and will keep your feet dry and warm at all times. Your feet will be cocooned with breathable and soft leather and nylon fabric that allows great airflow for ultimate dryness.
Tying shoes can be very annoying at times. If you do not like complicated lacing system, then you are in luck.
Wolverine Women’s Panther 8 Inch provides speedy lacing – you will be able to tie tour shoes within seconds and proceed on to your outdoor activities.
PROS
- Easy to break in
- Provides a user with wonderful traction
- Will keep your feet warm and dry even when walking through creeks and in snow
- Very comfortable
CONS
- They are not very long lasting as one would wish
- Sizes are not that dependable. Always order a size up from your original size
When it comes to purchasing best cold weather hunting boots, it is vital to consider a few things such as your destination, your objective, and of course your budget. These ten mentioned products will provide a user with indescribably comfort and stability. They are also lightweight and highly durable. For more information about any above mentioned product, do not hesitate to leave your queries below.