Getting to the top of the mountain, across the farm, or miles into the backcountry takes more than tough leather. Conversely, the best hunting boots are packed with features to keep your feet warm (or cool), dry, and comfortable, and at the same time are rugged enough to handle the abuses of harsh weather and rough terrain.
Face it, although often overlooked, footwear is the gear item that goes with you on every hunt. Therefore, having the best available should be at the top of your list this fall. Depending on when and where you hunt, and personal preference, hunting boot specs like style, height, and insulation will be a personal choice. On the other hand, without question, the best hunting boot should have the following five features.
Best Hunting Boot Features
- Materials to accomodate harsh environments
- Footbed with foot comfort in mind
- Shank made of durable components
- Breathable liner to keep water out
- Outsolematched to the intended terrain
Best Hunting Boot by Category
Best Hiking Performance Boot
Garmont Vetta Tech GTX
Hiking boots designed for iron ways and hikes on mixed terrain and rock faces.
• GoreTex Waterproofing
• 1.6 mm suede leather upper
• Extra forefoot volume for added comfort
• Extended lace-to-toe closure for improved controlFrom Garmont
CONTACT: www.garmont.com
Best Big Game Boot
Danner Thorofare
High-altitude hunting demands the very best of those who venture there. The stakes are as high as the rewards and trustworthy gear is essential for success. The Thorofare is designed to keep the hunter safe and stable when steep angles and heavy packs enter the picture. The 10” tall boot is one of the most supportive we’ve ever built with components from industry-leading partners like Vibram and GORE-TEX. When the mountains get treacherous and the rewards greater, know the Thorofare will get you there and back without breaking a sweat.From Danner
CONTACT: https://www.danner.com/men/hunt/thorofare-10-sage.html
Best Whitetail Boot
LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro
The Alphaburly Pro proves that durability and flexibility can comfortably coexist in a boot. It features three layers of rubber in the toe guard and heel to make it more durable in these high-stress areas and two layers of rubber in the instep for added flexibility where it’s needed most. So no matter where the hunt takes you, rest assured that your boots will be durable, flexible, and, of course, comfortable.From LaCrosse
CONTACT: https://www.lacrossefootwear.com/productfamily/alphaburly-pro/
Best Western Boot
Hanwag Trapper Top GTX
The go-to choice for cold days and tough terrain. With its very high upper, the Trapper Top GTX stabilises and protects the ankle. In addition, it also offers outstanding protection from rain, snow and slush. The GORE-TEX membrane mean that even streams, marshes and bogs get taken in its stride – with dry feet. Inside, a cushioning midsole provides excellent insulation and prevents cold from underfoot. And the robust, but supple nubuck leather ensures a pleasant, comfortable fit.From Hanwag
CONTACT: https://www.hanwag.com/us/en-us/men/trekking/trapper-top-gtx
Best Tactical Boot
5.11 A/T 8″ Arid Boot
The 5.11 A/T 8” ARID is a performance boot built from the sole up to increase performance. The All Terrain Load Assistance System (A.T.L.A.S.) is a force multiplier for those who carry heavy weight on long shifts. The boots were developed to work with your “work weight”. This boot is constructed of nylon for high abrasion and a durable suede upper. Additional features include a YKK side zipper and a locking ankle eyelet, and a high traction outsole so you can take those corners in a foot pursuit or run headlong into whatever challenge you’re up against.From 5.11
CONTACT: https://www.511tactical.com/5-11-a-t-8-arid.html
Best Mid-Height Boot
Crispi Nevada
The story of the Nevada GTX goes back over 40 years ago when Alessandro Marcolin started hand-constructing Crispi boots. The Nevada has been a staple in Crispi’s lineup ever since. Add the latest cutting-edge technology in footwear with the handcrafted precision and comfort we are known for and you get the hands-down best hunting boot on the planet. No wonder why the Nevada has withstood the test of time and continues to conquer every mountain it faces.From Crispi
CONTACT: https://www.crispius.com/nevada-non-insulated-gtx
Best Extreme Boot
Kenetrek Mountain Extreme
When you’re hunting Dall Sheep in the Mackenzie Mountains of the Northwest Territories, you may be surprised with six inches of snow in August. Others may wait it out in the tent, but your Extremes give you the wherewithal to continue hunting no matter what. There’s nothing tougher than high altitude sheep hunts and no boot tougher and more comfortable than these. Made in Italy. 4.2 lbs.From Kenetrek
CONTACT: https://kenetrek.com/products/mountain-extreme-400
Best Spot-and-Stalk Boot
Lowa Renegade GTX
The Renegade’s fit, comfort and versatility have set the standard for multifunction boots for over 20 years. With its accommodating Derby-cut styling, DuraPU MONOWRAP frame construction for stability, full-length stabilizer for underfoot support, sleek yet rugged nubuck uppers for durability, and a VIBRAM® Evo sole for sure-footed traction, it’s no wonder that the Renegade is our best-selling model. Durably waterproof/breathable.From Lowa
CONTACT: https://www.lowaboots.com/mens/hiking/renegade-gtx-mid-sepia-sepia
The Best Hunting Boot Wrap-Up
No matter what species you pursue or what terrain you traverse, make sure you are wearing the best boot available.