8 Best Hunting Boots Brands in 2020
As a hunter, finding the best hunting boots can be a lengthy process. Having a wide range of options available means having more choices to choose from and distinguishing between them may not be an easy feat. We recognize your time is valuable, and we do not want you to spend hours combing site after site trying to find the best hunting footwear when we can help in your search.
Let us help.
We’ve compiled a carefully-researched list that details the best hunting boots available today. We have also made a thorough buyer’s guide to help you in your search for your hunting footwear.
Our top priority is getting you the highest quality boots, and we’ve done everything we can to make sure you make the right choice. As a result, our experts prepared the top models for you. All you have to do is read.
Top 8 Best Hunting Boots
| Product | Features | Rating | Checkout | ||
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| 1 |
Irish Setter Men’s 807 Wingshooter 7″ |
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| 2 |
Muck Boot Chore Men’s Classic |
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| 3 |
Rocky Men’s Bearclaw 3D LTT-M |
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| 4 |
Scarpa Men’s Kinesis Pro Gtx |
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| 5 |
Muck Boot Chore Men’s Classic |
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| 6 |
Maelstrom LANDSHIP 2.0 |
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| 7 |
Irish Setter Men’s 2870 Vaprtrek |
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| 8 |
Baffin Men’s Hunter PT |
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Maelstrom Hunting Boots
These imported Maelstrom Landships have been made of leather and fabric, but come with a rubber sole. The mesh top is breathable. They also come with a breathable lining that absorbs moisture inside. Can’t get in the head.
They are completely resistant to higher rubber soles. The removable cushion insert absorbs shocks very well and will absorb every step, all day, every day. Padded collar offers little extra comfort. Next to the removable footbed, the intermediate footbed also absorbs.
They are fairly lightweight and have a sporty cemented construction. This means that they were built to extend in order to increase their duration. Maelstrom Landships is a great buy for those who are looking for a comfortable hunting boots.
- Malestorm Hunting Boots are perfect for the midseason weather. Their rubber sole and breathable leather provide good support on rough surfaces but don’t disturb long walking.
- Walking hunts require shoes with great resistance, which in this case is achieved with cementing athletic construction of the boots. This way, legs feel comfortable on rugged and hilled terrains, while reliable insulation keeps feet dry and warm.
- The leather is polishable, therefore, easy-to-clean. The collar is just perfect – exactly what a hunter needs to protect feet from dirt.
- Slippery rubber, which is good for quiet walking but not that comfortable for mountain hunting.
- The cold protection is not strong enough for cold regions (but moist protection is practically flawless).
- If these boots fit you, you are golden. However, if something is wrong, chances are, it will stay this way. The shoes don’t adapt to the specific shape of a foot (or it takes a while) so find a pair that fits perfectly right away.
Irish Setter Men’s Hunting Boots
Irish Setter men’s hunting boots offers various traction to support downhill use as well as providing traction for heel strikes combined with a full-grain waterproof leather upper.
- Irish Setter hunting and fishing boots are known as top waterproof boots due to their unique UltraDry system. It creates a protective layer for feet to stay dry during rains or in the swamp. So, if you plan to trek through muddy water, this is just a fit.
- Shock absorbent cushion supports feet during long walks. The best part is, if you don’t plan on doing long walks, you can remove it. EVA midsole is definitely a plus for long walks.
- An insulating liner protects hunter’s feet from high moisture and cold weather.
- Even though the lining protection of this brand is truly exceptional, there is no need to buy UltraDry shoes if you don’t plan on hunting in swamps or rainy regions. The thing is, protective insulation makes your shoes heavier, therefore slowing down the walking process.
- While the boots are well-equipped for the moist climate, they won’t do much when it comes to freezing cold. For midseason, this option is great but for winter season you’ll need something much warmer.
- Irish Setter boots are not the best option for sitting and standing hunts – their insulation can hardly be named super strong. They also don’t provide an enhanced snake protection.
Irish Setter Waterproof Boots
If the previous Irish setter model is the perfect fit for uphill hunting, this one was specifically designed for hunting in moist regions. As well as the last one, it’s equipped with Ultra Dry protective technology – just the anti-moist insulation is stronger.
- These boots are definitely stylish. We talk so much about reliability and comfort here but hey, let’s just take a moment to appreciate the great design of this model. The print is not only practical but also definitely original. Cause well, if hunting is your big hobby, you might as well do it with style.
- The full-grain leather is 100% waterproof – exactly what a hunter needs in a moist swamp or rain forest.
- The comfort is provided not only with padded tongue and collar (that’s a must-have for any model of hunting boots) but also with EVA shock-absorbing midsole.
- This model is better insulated than the previous one but it provides less support for hunter’s ankle during hiking hunts. The boots are just not designed for mountain terrains- so keep that in mind if you live in hilled regions.
- Same with many Irish Setter models, it’s not adapted to long sedentary hunts in a freezing cold. For active walks – yes, for sedentary and stand hunts – not really, there are better options.
- Even though Irish Setter characterizes itself as a multi-weather boot manufacturer (and it might be so for southern regions), it can be hardly called most universal version for all seasons. It’s surely a perfect variant for rainy days, much less for hot and cold ones.
As you might notice, most cons are not actually disadvantages, but rather certain limitations. It’s connected to the fact that now most manufacturers focus on producing boots specifically for certain season and weather. Really, it’s reasonable to make a good pair for one season than ain to do a universal variant and end up with a mediocre design.
Baffin Men’s Waterproof Hunting Boots
Highly durable, reliable and well-insulated pair of hunting shoes. These are a great option for hunting – lightweight, comfortable pads, with full grain waterproof leather.
- The boots are made of abrasion resistant material which allows you to hunt on different surfaces – from moist forest to rocky mountain.
- Insulation is combined with protective warming lining (if you don’t need it, remove the layer), nylon collar and textured toe guard protect legs from sharp twigs.
- Camouflage boots keep a hunter out of sight (and yes, it’s very stylish).
- As a typical pair of lightweight walking shoes, these boots are not adapted to long sedentary winter hunts. However, you can improve the situation by wearing warm socks (but still, don’t expect these shoes to offer you 100% protections, they are just not made for winter cold).
- Abrasion resistant material is synthetic which often results in unpleasant shoes smells.
- Even though these boots are presented as a perfect option both for a small hunt or a big hunting game, this is not always the case. Yes, the model is comfortable but I wouldn’t recommend going on a long hunt without proper cold and snake protection.
This model is a perfect fit for small ‘with-friends-and-family’ field trips but if you are aiming for a deer or even something bigger, consider better-insulated options.
Original Muck Boots
What can be better than a pair of warm but stylish hunting boots for an avid hunter? Original Muck Boots are quality hunting boots for cold weather as they offer a custom fit against the leg to lock in heat.
- Original Muck Boots is a perfect choice for long walking hunts – and even for hiking. The best thing is, they are adapted to rough surfaces and mountain hills. The feet are perfectly stabilized with a cementing design providing perfect reliance during long field trips.
- Good arch support provided by steel shank and reinforced toe/heel.
- Lightweight, easy-to-walk-in, the shoes adapt to rugged surfaces and hilly terrains.
- Made of synthetic materials. I wouldn’t say that it’s always a disadvantage – quite often natural leather is tough to take care of, not mention the increased cost that comes along with it. But yet, synthetic materials create unpleasant smells and provide much worse leg protection.
- The collar is difficult to clean, so you’d have to think how to keep it clean (not the most comfortable thing for the hunter).
- As a typical pair of mid-height rain boots, the models are equipped with reliable waterproof protection but doesn’t provide anti-cold insulation.
The Original MuckBoots Adult Chore Hi-Cut Boot
Most models we reviewed are designed for men. That might get you wondering: what about women, what boots can they wear? Well, here is your answer: meet a comfortable unisex model of hunting shoes, Original MuckBoots.
- Surprisingly, designers managed to adapt the model both for specifics of men and women foot. It’s a pretty rare thing, actually (unisex models often suck resulting in being uncomfortable both for men and women). This model is a truly well-made exception, well designed and executed.
- 5″ from arch protect feet from dirt – it’s a comfortable model of water hunting boots. It’s especially comfortable if you hunt in fall. At rainy weather, every inch counts.
- Easy-to-walk-in, just like a previous model. It’s light, flexible enough to yet provide good resistance, adapts to feet shape. One pair can be in a good shape for much longer than one season which is an undeniable advantage.
- Synthetic materials (50% rubber and 50% nylon). It’s not a huge disadvantage (non-natural materials are proven to be more flexible and less demanded) but natural boots always feel better on the feet.
- Nylon is difficult to clean – take that into account while planning hunting route.
- The black color is good but if you want men’s camouflage boots, there is currently not much choice of prints available.
Scarpa Men’s Kinesis Pro
These boots are initially designed for hiking but are often used for hunting in warm regions. If you live in a mountain region, this option will suit just fine.
- Made from natural leather, the feet are protected by GORE-TEX lining and dual density PU midsole.
- You know how easy it is to get tired during a long hiking hunt, right? To prevent that from happening, this model is equipped with vibram traction outsole. Great resistance for long hikes.
- Waterproof insulation, micro-pulley lacing, and full rubber rand.
- As you probably already got from the name of the model, these boots are designed primarily for hiking. Hence, not an option for those who live in forest regions.
- The boots don’t protect ankles. For mountains – yes, perfect. For swamps – not so much.
- Natural leather doesn’t adapt to the feet form as well as synthetic materials do. Sure, if you give it some time, it’ll work. Just be precise while picking sizes to find the one that fits just right.
Rocky Men’s Bearclaw 3D LTT Hunting Boot
Remember, we discussed how important it is to find boots that fit for the specific kind of terrain? Meet Rocky Hunting Boots – a model designed for hunters on rugged hills.
- Made from natural full grain leather, reliable rubber sole provides good resistance.
- Equipped with bearclaw 3D outsole and waterproof membrane.
- Supportive ankle technology – exactly what a hunter needs in mountains.
- Not intended for winter hunts in cold regions.
- Weak insulation – not an option for sedentary or standing hunts.
- The upper part of an ankle remains unprotected.
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Best Boots for Hunting?
Do you know which features to consider when buying footwear for your hunts? Many people make the mistake of thinking if the boots fit they are good enough to get. This is not the case.
Let us explain. . .
Not all hunting footwear is created equally, and different types are meant to serve different purposes. You do not want to be wading water in a pair of boots meant for dry ground. Trust us – your toes will thank you.
There are nine key features you need to consider when shopping for your footwear:
- Size and fit
- Material
- Insulation
- Soles
- Support and comfort
- Height
- Weight
- Hunting style
- Hunting brands
We understand if this list looks overwhelming, but we’ve designed this buyer’s guide with you in mind. We will explain everything necessary for you to choose the best premium hunting boots, the best tactical hunting boots, the best archery hunting boots, the best bow hunting boots, or the best popular hunting boots for your hunts.
Main aspects of choosing hunting boots:
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Size and Fit
You do not want to be that person who walks through thick mud only for your boot to slip off: hello muddy sock.
Testing the fit of your boots in person is simple:
- Ensure you’re wearing the socks you’ll be wearing with your boots. Socks can affect fit and size.
- Next, put the boots on, walk around, and make sure they’re comfortable.
Buying comfortable hunting boots online can also be easy if you:
- Get your feet sized while wearing the socks you’ll use with your boots.
- Compare your foot measurements to the size chart of the online store you’re shopping at.
- Be sure the store has a return policy in case your boots need to be returned or exchanged.
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Material
Whether you are looking for the best waterproof hunting boots, neoprene hunting boots, leather hunting boots, or rubber hunting boots, it is important you understand the different materials used to make each boot and their pros and cons.
Canvas – An affordable, breathable, and lightweight material with excellent airflow. Canvas dries quickly when wet and is also sealable.
Suede – A pliable soft leather that is attractive and well-insulated. Suede is not waterproof and can stain or rot if not treated to repel water.
Leather – While not breathable, it provides unmatched support, sturdiness, and moisture protection. Leather needs to be sealed yearly to prevent damage or rotting.
Nylon Mesh – Incredibly lightweight and very durable, Nylon Mesh is water resistant and well-ventilated. This ventilation doesn’t allow for much warmth in colder temperatures but its airflow is unrivaled.
Gore-Tex – A completely waterproof textile that allows for insulation while providing ventilation.
Rubber – Thick, sturdy, heavy, and inflexible, rubber boots are superior at repelling water and perfect for trekking through bodies of water such as rivers or marshes.
Closed-Cell Foam – Typically used in insoles, it is lightweight, supportive, moisture-proof, and provides a springy cushion.
Neoprene – It has water-resistance parallel to that of rubber while maintaining warmth. It’s lightweight, but neoprene is not breathable.
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Insulation
Insulation refers to your boots ability to maintain warmth. Footwear is considered to be adequately insulated if it can hinder cold air from entering while also keeping warm air from leaving. On hunting boots, this is typically achieved via an included one piece upper. The boot may also be designed to fit snug, yet comfortably around your ankle to help prevent the unwanted flow of cold or warm air.
Proper insulation is necessary in colder temperatures where frostbite is a concern. In warmer air, insulated footwear can cause overheating or discomfort.
The best-insulated rubber hunting boots are ideal for cold environments including water. You may find suede in the best-insulated hunting boots. On the other hand, Nylon Mesh will likely be the material present in the best-uninsulated hunting boots.
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Soles
The best quality hunting boots will have soles that are pleasant yet still maintain their sturdiness while providing foot support. Your soles need to be adaptable enough to provide firm footing on a wide variety of terrain.
Soft-soled hunting boots can still be high-quality and offer acceptable firmness and support. If you’re searching for the best slip on hunting boots make sure the sole is constructed with material that will last. You do not want to have to shelve out more money because of poor-quality soles.
The best-rated rubber hunting boots will likely have soles that are sturdy and long lasting without sacrificing comfort.
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Support and Comfort
Some features that may be incorporated into the most cozy hunting boots are padded tongues and collars or a cushioned insole. If zippers are uncomfortable for you, then slip on hunting boots may be a valuable option since they typically do not have zippers.
If you have wide feet we recommend specifically searching for the best hunting boots for wide feet. This will narrow your time spent searching for your footwear.
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Height
Height is an important feature of any boot as it can serve many purposes: protection, support, comfort, etc.
A tall hunting boot not only provides additional leg support, it can also protect you from the elements around you. If you’re a hunter, you’re no stranger to the woods. Twigs, branches, and who knows what else can impact you and cause damage to your leg.
Having a boot with height can prevent this. Tall hunting boots can also be invaluable when hiking through deep snow. The height of the boot can add an extra layer of protection from frostbite and provide more support and warmth.
A shorter boot will suffice on a warm, dry, or flat terrain such as in a desert or on a well-maintained grass field. The best grouse hunting boots come in an array of heights with some even being 6” hunting boots.
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Weight
It is wise to consider the importance of weight when looking for hunting footwear. Ultralight hunting boots are ideal if you will be walking long distances. A heavy boot may weigh you down and drain your energy before you reach your destination.
The best lightweight hunting boots will provide support and have a cushioned sole that is agreeable for your feet.
As a hunter, it’s invaluable to factor in walking distance and the time you’ll spend on your feet when considering which hunting boots to buy. A heavier boot may seem sturdier, but the best designed lightweight boots will be just as sturdy as heavier footwear.
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Hunting Style
When shopping, consider your hunting style. Do you actively hunt for your prey or do sit and wait for it to come to you?
If you are an active hunter ensure your footwear is lightweight. We recommend searching for the best hunting boots for hiking or the best mountain hunting boots. On the contrary, if you are a sedentary hunter (especially in a cold climate) the best winter hunting boots may be what you need.
The larger height of winter hunting boots provide warmth that may be necessary during your hunt. A lightweight hunting boot may not be necessary for a sedentary hunter, but they can still be useful. You can also search for the best warm hunting boots.
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Hunting Brands
The best hunting boot brands are all established with proven reputations:
Lowa – This is a German hunting boot brand that was founded in 1923 in Jetzendorf, Germany. They specialize in making lightweight hunting boots that rival the benefits and support of heavier footwear for hunters. Their boots are well-fitting and pleasant to wear while providing shock absorption thanks to the softer polyurethane incorporated into their midsoles.
Lacrosse – They make quality hunting gear and have been established for over 100 years. Their vinyl and rubber hunting boots are great for trekking through snow or water since they are waterproof, and they come with a variety of insulation and safety features.
Muck Boot – They make 100% waterproof footgear that is durable, comfortable, and high-quality.
Kamik – This is a family-owned, Canadian company that designs their footwear with hunters in mind. Each hunting boot is built to withstand harsh weather conditions and elements.
Under Armour – Their boots live by their motto “Go where you don’t belong.” Under Armour is a top manufacturer of lightweight and quiet military and tactical boots that are undetectable and can withstand freezing temperatures and rough terrain.
Irish Setter – This brand was founded in 1956 and since then they’ve introduced industry-changing technologies such as Exo-Flex and RPM. The Exo-Flex technology was added to their rubber boots while their RPM technology reduces the weight of their boots.
Bogs – They are an American company that creates boots for every element and condition including water and tough terrain. They offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee and were established in 2002.
Wrapping it all up
Now, with our reviews and advice in mind, you are informed enough to pick a good, no, even a great option. Let’s just go over main points one more time – and you are golden.
- Determine criteria for your search. These are a season, location, type of a hunt, frequency of use.
- Find a perfect size. Since most boots are made from leather, they are not adapting well to specific feet shape. Hence, pick a pair that fits just right.
- If possible, buy three good pairs for all three hunting seasons. If no, go for a mid-season model.
- Look for models with removable insulation. This way, you can put it on if you are cold but not burden your walking hunt.
Congrats, now you are an expert in hunting shoes! Looks like it’s time to pick something and go for a hunt. If hunting is your hobby, we also recommend you to read best combat boots reviews.