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Choosing The Best Hunting or Hiking Boots

hiking boot reviews

If you have never hunted or gone on a proper hike before, then chances are you do not know that hunting/hiking boots are in their own category.

hiking boot reviews

Most individuals usually assume that a hunter just wears any boot that is suited for fishing or farming, but the reality is that it’s a shoe category that goes far beyond any of these pastimes.

Hiking or hunting boots need to be all these and more. They are your wheels on your trips through the mountains and tough terrains and so, they need to be comfortable, stealthy through the hunting grounds, waterproof and even able to protect you against elements.

If you do not spend some time doing proper preparation and taking precautions with boots, then you might be in for a rough ride. That being said, let us take a look at a few tips for picking an ideal hunting or hiking boot.

The Terrain

Terrain differs from location to location, but it is an important factor to consider. For example, if you’re going to be doing your hunt mostly in a flat country, for maybe an antelope, then ankle support might not be a big deal for you.

A flexible lightweight boot or shoe might be just fine. There are people who prefer to hunt in sneakers, given they are lightweight, comfortable and stealthy.

However, if you are hunting in steep conditions in jagged shale rock, then you may want to pick a boot with some backbone. A mountaineering boot will not only provide more support, but it will actually hold up longer.

You would not want to take your truck on a road that’s filled with sharp rocks without ideal tires right? Well, the same thing applies.

The Following Hunting boots we would like to recommend is a highly waterproof type, which is also lightweight and suits the needs for different terrains and conditions.

Water Proof Hiking Boots – XPETI Men’s Thermador Mid Outdoor Boot

top hunting hiking boots

  • Waterproof mesh upper and Hydroshield Membrane waterproof
  • Rubber Toe cap protection and Rubber Outsole for optimal trail grip.
  • Molded TPU ankle support and Moisture-wicking mesh lining.

The frequency of Use In Relation To Price

This will vary from person to person. Those who spend a lot of time in the field will just slam through the hiking boots faster than most do, and this is a hard pill to swallow, considering how much they cost.

If you hunt just a few days a year, then a pair of boots that costs between$50 and $100 will last for up to 5 years, and that is fine. However, with more use comes more mishaps. Hitting the hills on a regular basis with a cheap pair just won’t cut it.

There will come a day where your boots will become destroyed while on a hunt, and this will just make you lose your game. It’s no fun, so consider buying the best boot you can afford if you are a hunting or hiking enthusiast.

XPETI Women’s Dimo Mid Waterproof Hiking Outdoor Boot – Under $100

best hunting boots for hiking

  • fabric-and-synthetic
  • Rubber sole
  • Waterproof mesh upper and Hydroshield Membrane waterproof
  • Rubber Toe Cap protection and Rubber Outsole for optimal trail grip while hiking.

Correct Sizing

Proper sizing when it comes to hiking boots is of paramount importance. One of the most common mistakes people make is buying boots that are too large for them.

Most go for larger boots so that they can have room for thick socks when it comes to hunting season.

But what do you do when it heats up?

Your feet will be sliding around, which can actually ruin a hunt. Wearing boots that are too large also increase the chances of them sliding off when climbing a relatively steep mountainside.

When shopping for boots, it is advisable to bring your socks and try them out to get an idea of how the boot will feel on the field. Also, if you are having issues with a particular pair, it might not be size, but the lacing method that you’re using.

It is always smart to experiment with various lacing techniques before putting the boots to the side. This is a tip that most people are not aware of but can completely change the way you feel about the boots.

XPETI Men’s Thermador Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Trekking Insulated Outdoor Boots

best waterproof hunting hiking boots

  • Rubber sole
  • Shaft measures approximately 8” from arch
  • Waterproof mesh upper and Hydroshield Membrane waterproof

Comfort

This one is obviously given and straightforward, but it is actually something that you need to figure out on your own.

Do not listen to that hunting pal who says that a particular pair of boots are the best just because it works on them? Consider the advice, but do not bank on it. Everyone’s feet are different, there is no way around that. This implies that you have to try the boots for yourself before sacrificing your game on another person’s word.

Another important aspect to consider to help in comfort is changing the insole. This can do wonders and make boots that feel like you’re stepping on concrete feel like stepping on cushions. However, take note that whatever you gain in comfort often makes you lose in durability. In terms of great durability and comfort, the boots below will be your best choice:

Under Armour Men’s SF Bozeman 2.0 Hiking Boot

best archery boots

  • 100% Leather and Textile
  • Rubber sole
  • Shaft measures approximately 7″ from arch
  • Waterproof nubuck & textile upper for lightweight support

I would advise you to consider how often you will be hiking and hunting before balancing comfort and durability. A happy medium, however, is usually the best spot.

These are of course not all the factors to consider when it comes to choosing the best boots for hiking or hunting. However, they are the most important and will certainly help you make the best selection.