A good pair of boots is one of the most important pieces of gear that you can purchase for hunting.
If your feet are uncomfortable or improperly protected, it can ruin your entire hunting trip. That is why it is essential to find boots that not only fit well but that also perform the way that you need them to.
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Types Of Hunting Boots
Hunting boots come in three basic types: high, mid, and low-cut.
This distinction has to do with how far up the leg the top of the boot ends.
High-cut boots extend well beyond the ankle and partway up the calf, covering a good portion of the lower leg.
High Top Hunting Boots – LaCrosse Men’s Venom Scent APG HD Snake Boot
Mid-cut boots, on the other hand, typically end just above the ankle.
Irish Setter Men’s Vaprtrek 8″ 400 Gram Hunting Boot
The final option, low cut boots, are cut below the ankle like a pair of shoes.
MuckBoots Men’s Excursion Pro Low Shoe
Although there are advantages and disadvantages to each style, low-top hunting boots provide some unique benefits. Because they allow the ankle to move freely, they are ideally suited to conditions where you will be walking up steep slopes or over extremely uneven terrain.
Buying Guides On Best Low-top Hunting Boots
When it comes to how to choose the best low-top hunting boots, there are several things that you need to keep in mind.
First and foremost, you need to think about the conditions in which you will be hunting. The time of year has a lot to do with the challenges that your boots will need to overcome.
For instance, if you are doing early season hunting in the fall, the weather outside may still be quite warm. Because of that, you should look for boots that are breathable so that your feet don’t overheat. On the other hand, if you are hunting later in the season, temperatures will probably be a lot lower. That means that your boots should have plenty of insulation to keep your feet from feeling too cold.
Cold Winter Hunting Boots – Western Chief Men’s Cold Rated Neoprene Boot
- Vibram sole
- Shaft measures approximately 10.75″ from arch
- Platform measures approximately 1.0 inches
- Boot opening measures approximately 13.5″ around
Waterproof boots are essential when you are spending time outdoors. Even if it isn’t raining out, you most likely will be walking through grass that is covered with dew.
By opting for waterproof boots, you don’t have to worry about your feet getting wet, which can be extremely uncomfortable. Look for boots that are made with materials like Gore-Tex.
This unique material is not only waterproof but is also breathable, ensuring that your feet get adequate airflow.
Bogs Mens Urban Farmer Low Waterproof Work Rain Boot
- Rubber sole
- 100% waterproof rain boot
- Lined with 2mm EverDry and Bogs Max-Wick to keep feet dry
- Durable hand-lasted rubber over a four-way stretch inner bootie
- Dual density EVA footbed with DuraFresh bio-technology that activates to fight odors
The sole of the boot is another important consideration. It should have plenty of traction to keep you from slipping and sliding. Most hunting excursions involve navigating trails that are muddy, icy, or that are covered with loose gravel.
At the same time, however, the sole needs to be flexible enough to allow your foot to easily bend. You should be able to bend the toe of the shoe back toward the heel with your hand quite easily. If you can’t, it is probably too stiff.
ECCO Men’s Track Ii Low
The last tip for choosing the best low-top hunting boots is to ensure that you get the right fit. This not only includes the length of the boot but also the width. To ensure that you are buying the right size, always have your feet professionally measured before you begin shopping for boots.
