For hunting in the rough and tough outdoors, you need a quality pair of hunting boots. Whether you are hiking through the forest, crawling through the undergrowth, climbing rocks or crossing a stream, hunting boots protect your feet in all types of outdoor conditions.
The Top 8 Best Hunting Boots
- Rocky Men’s Bearclaw Hunting Boot
- Irish Setter Men’s 807 Wingshooter Upland Hunting Boot
- Irish Setter Men’s 2870 Red Wing Varptrek Hunting Boots
- The Original MuckBoots Adult Woody Elite Hunting Boot
- Muck Boots Company Women’s Woody Pink Camo Real Tree Hunting Boots
- LaCrosse Men’s AeroHead Hunting Boots
- Kamik Men’s Hunter Boots
- Danner Men’s Pronghorn Uninsulated Hunting Boots
Our Top Pick for the Best Hunting Boots
Our top pick for the best hunting boots is the LaCrosse Men’s Aerohead Hunting Boots. For superior foot protection, support and waterproofing ability, the LaCrosse knee-high boots are designed with the hunting enthusiast in mind. When you are hunting on your feet all day, you need to take care of your feet so treat them to the best footwear protection on the planet.
LaCrosse also gives you a choice of two camouflaging patterns, which are designed to give you greater hunting success with your feathered or furry prey. For the girls, LaCrosse also offers excellent hunting boots.
Treat Your Feet to a Quality Pair of Hunting Boots
An essential investment for any hunter, hunting boots are the most important part of your hunting gear.
They should well-made, sturdy, strong, durable, waterproof and comfortable for wherever your hunting expedition takes you.
Hunting boots are not designed for normal everyday wear, so here are a few features you need to consider such as design, fit, construction, waterproofing, insulation, ventilation, traction, and cushioning support.
How to Choose the Best Hunting Boots
Design
Hunting boots come in three main designs: ankle length, mid-calf, and knee-high boots.
If you plan to do a lot of long-distance walking you will need a lot of flexibility and good ankle support in your hunting boots. Ankle-length or mid-calf hunting boots are an excellent choice. If you want a boot that is waterproof for navigating through a river or a boot that you can pull on like a pair of galoshes, knee-length hunting boots, like the LaCrosse AeroHead, provide the highest level of protection.
Camouflage
Another important aspect of the boot’s design is the color. Hunting boots come in plain brown or black or they may have special camouflage designs that keep you hidden from animals like deer, elk or wild boar.
Find Your Perfect Fit
Finding a pair of hunting boots that fit your feet perfectly can be a challenge. If they are too small they can cause blisters and squashed toes and ruin your hunting expedition. While most hunting boots come in a wide range of sizes, it is best to get one size up from your normal size so that the boot can accommodate thick socks. Your feet will have sufficient room to move and the boots will fit comfortably.
Construction
Hunting boots need to be made of strong and durable material like rubber, neoprene, full-grain leather, or hard-wearing nylon.
Full-grain leather conforms to the shape of your food to gives you good flexibility for walking along the trail.
Thick rubber protects you from bites from insects and animals and cuts from rocks, gravel, and thorns. If you need to wade across a stream, thick rubber has the best level of waterproofing.
Waterproofing
There is nothing worse than having wet feet while you are hunting for wild game. Hunting boots should give you great waterproofing protection but some have more protection than others.
Leather hunting boots are ideal for the early to mid hunting season and will provide you with 100% protection from water but they may not be suitable for full water immersion. If you want all-year round hunting boots that have 100% protection for water immersion, there is nothing better than thick rubber.
Waterproofing may be supplied by waterproofing membranes or linings like the Irish Setter’s UltraDry Waterproofing system or the MuckBoots CR flex-foam mesh.
GORE-TEX
GORE-TEX® is a high-performance insulation fabric that is used for outwear like rain jackets, winter gloves and footwear like hiking boots. Hunting boot manufacturers also use this revolutionary technology to make their boots windproof, waterproof, and breathable.
Insulation
Hunting boots may be insulated or non-insulated. Non-insulated boots are a good choice for the early hunting season in the warm to cooler months. If you plan on hunting in the colder seasons, your hunting boots need good insulation, to keep your feet warm and stop any frostbite from developing. When your feet are warm, the rest of your body will stay warm as well.
Manufacturers use different materials to insulate their boots like GORETEX, thermal foam underlay, like LaCrosses’ Brush Tuff insulation, or the internationally recognized Thinsulate.
Here is a good insulation/season guide, to give you a better idea of hunting boot insulation levels:
- No insulation to 200 grams- Early spring season
- 400 to 800 grams – Fall season to early winter
- 1000 grams and above – Winter season
Ventilation
Ventilation allows your feet to breath, keeps moisture out, stops blisters from developing, and eliminates foot odor.
Traction
When you walk up a slippery hill, a rocky slope or climb over rocks, hunting boots need to have good traction. The outer sole should be thick and durable. Thick multidirectional lugs also help the boot’s toe and heel connect to the rough terrain so that you do not lose your footing.
Extra Cushioning and Support
For even more support for when you need to stand for long periods, the MuckBoots Woody Elite have an additional protective Achilles overlay reinforcement that is built into the heel.
The Rocky Men’s Bearclaw hunting boots have an Air-Port® cushioned footbed.
The Irish Setter Red Wing hunting boots have CuShin™ comfort tongue technology that gives extra shin support.
The Irish Setter Wingshooter, the Muckboots and the LaCrosse hunting boots have an EVA molded midsole with a contoured footbed.
Danner uses their own unique TERRA FORCE X PLATFORM system that provides exceptional support and stability on uneven terrain.
Best Hunting Boots Reviews
1. Rocky Men’s Bearclaw Hunting Boot
The Rocky Men’s Bearclaw hunting boots provide great support and flexibility for hunting in rough terrain.
These rugged lace-up boots are designed for long-lasting durability and comfort. The high-quality full grain soft leather protects your feet and will maintain its shape even after hours of wear.
The breathable Rocky® Air-Port® cushioned footbed is comfortable and perforated for maximum moisture elimination and air circulation.
For hunting on cold days, the waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex fabric and 200-gram Thinsulate provides excellent insulation.
If you need to climb over slippery rocks, the aggressive 3D thick rubber outsole, which features Rocky’s exclusive 3D welt construction, also has a multi-directional, self-cleaning design.
Extra protective features include a steel shank and a removable brush-guard kiltie, which keeps out forest debris and ensures a solid lace-up.
The Rocky Bearclaw hunting boots come in a wide range of sizes and you can choose from brown or black.
All Rocky Products have a 1-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Excellent-quality
- Great value for money
- Super comfortable
- Very good waterproof protection
- Rocky® Air-Port® cushion footbed
- 200 grams of 3M™ Thinsulate™ Insulation
- Full-grain leather
- BearClaw 3D outsole with exclusive ROCKY® 3D welt construction
- Aggressive tread provides excellent traction
- Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX® construction
- Very good waterproofing ability
- Soft leather is comfortable to wear
- Easy to lace up
- Great fit
- Steel shank
- Removable brush guard kiltie
- Available in brown or black
- A wide range of sizes
Cons
- No sizes for women
- Could use a bit more insulation
2. Irish Setter Men’s 807 Wingshooter Upland Hunting Boot
The Irish Setter Wingshooter Upland Hunting Boot is an excellent choice for early season hunting expeditions.
Stylish yet functional, the ankle-length boots are made from rich brown full-grain waterproof Goodyear leather, which protects your feet from water and sharp rocks.
When you need to move fast along the trail while hunting wild game, the thick rubber Prairie sole reduces weight and provides excellent traction in any terrain. You can even replace the sole for long-term durability.
The removable polyurethane footbed and EVA midsole provide additional cushioning. The padded collar and steel shank protect your ankles and shins.
Your feet will stay dry and comfortable with the moisture-wicking nylon lining. The UltraDry waterproofing system effectively blocks out water if you have to walk on wet grass or through a few inches of water.
The boots come in wide range of sizes. Irish Setter offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 12-month limited warranty.
Pros
- High-quality
- Very good value for money
- Strong and durable full-grain leather
- Provides good level of comfort
- UltraDry waterproofing system for dry, long-lasting comfort and performance
- EVA midsole provides underfoot cushioning
- Nylon lining provides good breathability
- Stylish and robust design
- Lightweight
- Good fit
- Repels water very well
- Very good tread design
- Ideal for 3-seasons
- Removable polyurethane footbed
- Steel shank
- Padded collar gives very good ankle support
- Resoleable
Cons
- Not a lot of arch support
- Non-insulated for winter
- Rounded soles can feel a little uncomfortable for long distance walking
- Not waterproof enough for full water immersion
3. Irish Setter Men’s 2870 Red Wing Varptrek 8-inch Hunting Boots
The Irish Setter’s Red Wing 8-inch hunting boots are the perfect choice for the big game hunting enthusiast.
The hunting boots combine the strength of a hunting boot with the flexibility of an athletic shoe, which has resulted in a high-performance boot that is made for the active hunter in mind.
Delivering extreme comfort, ground-breaking RPM technology features a four-way stretch material that is engineered to significantly reduce the weight of the boot so that is 40% lighter than traditional big game boots. You will experience greater maneuverability, flexibility, balance, and traction on almost any type of surface.
To make the boots extra tough, the innovative ARMATEC™ protective covering improves abrasion-resistance and lengthens the life of the boot.
The special CuShin™ Comfort tongue minimizes pressure on the shin, and the internal padded waffle mesh offers premium breathability. The thick rubber RPM™ outer sole and sharp lug design give you good support and traction for rough terrain.
For long-lasting comfort in any weather, the exclusive ScentBan technology eliminates odor-causing bacteria in the footbed, and the UltraDry lining provides excellent waterproof protection.
Your wild game will never see you coming as the Realtree Xtra Camouflage helps you to blend in with the foliage like a soldier on military maneuvers.
Pros
- High-quality
- Very good value for money
- Lightweight
- Ideal for early-season
- Breakthrough composite material reduces the weight of the boot by 40%
- High level of comfortability
- Very good breathability
- ScentBan scent control
- UltraDry waterproofing system
- Athletic maneuverability
- Great balance and traction on slippery surfaces
- Thick sole
- CuShin™ Comfort tongue technology
- ARMATEC™ protective covering
- Attractive Realtree Xtra Camouflage design
Cons
- Expensive
- Maybe a little narrow for some feet
- Not ideal for heavy-duty terrain or walking in the snow
4. The Original MuckBoots Adult Woody Elite Hunting Boot
The Original MuckBoots are a favorite with many hunters due to the boot’s high level of protection for all types of terrain and weather conditions.
Whatever your choice of hunting adventure, the knee-length boots provide you with superior foot protection and comfort. The boots are made from natural 100% waterproof thick rubber that protects you from snake bites and sharp rocks and thorns. For winter season hunting, the boots have a fleecy lining. The stretch-fit topline binding fits snugly and the thermal foam underlay in the instep area provide much-needed warmth in chilly temperatures.
If you need to wade across an icy stream – no problem. The 4mm cushioned CR flex-foam air mesh offers exceptional comfort, flexibility, and heat retention.
For when you have to stand for long periods, the EVA molded midsole with a contoured footbed, a reinforced toe, and the Achilles reinforcement in the heel provides additional support. For excellent traction on slippery surfaces, the Realtree molded rubber outsole has a rugged, aggressive tread.
Your feet will stay fresh all day as the antimicrobial treatment on the footbed prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria. To mask your scent in the field, the unique Inscentible® scent-masking technology conceals any odor from your prey.
For the perfect stealth concealment so that you can sneak up on your hunting prey, the Wood Elite boots have a New Mossy Oak Break-Up® camouflage pattern.
The MuckBoots come in sizes suitable to both men and women.
Pros
- Premium-quality
- Great price
- Designed for men and women
- Natural rubber upper for added durability
- Fleece lined
- Ideal for temperatures between -40°F to 60°F
- Stretch-fit topline binding snug calf for warmth and protection
- 5 mm CR flex-foam air mesh
- 100% waterproof
- Additional Achilles overlay for added protection
- EVA molded midsole with contoured footbed boosts comfort
- Reinforced Toe
- Realtree molded traction outsole
- 2 mm thermal foam underlay added to the instep area for additional warmth
- Antimicrobial treatment prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria
- Inscentible® scent-masking technology for improved concealment
- Very comfortable and lightweight
- Very good fit
- New Mossy Oak Break-Up® camouflage pattern
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy-duty outdoor use
- Sizes run small
5. Muck Boots Company Women’s Woody Pink Camo Real Tree Hunting Boots
The Women’s Pink Camo Hunting Boots from MuckBoots are designed with the huntress in mind.
Just because you are hunting in the wild does not mean you have to sacrifice style.
The knee-length boots are made from 100% waterproof thick rubber that give you excellent protection from rough weather conditions. You will look super cool in your boots as the Realtree/Pink design will add a special touch of style to your hunting gear.
The rugged MS2 bobbed, two-color molded rubber outsole is specifically designed for a woman’s foot, and provides optimal traction on rough, slippery terrain.
You will enjoy all-day comfort and support for any type of hunting activity. The boots have a stretch-fit topline binding that provides a snug fit to keep warmth in and cold out. The EVA midsole with a contoured footbed gives good arch support. The 4mm CR Flex-foam is 100% waterproof, lightweight and flexible, and breathable PK mesh lining offers essential ventilation in warmer weather.
The boots come in sizes 5-11 but the sizes can be hard to determine so choose half a size down to get the perfect fit.
Pros
- High-quality
- Very good value for money
- Good price
- Designed for all-day comfort and support
- Ideal for spring and fall
- 100% waterproof
- Rugged MS2 two-color molded outsole gives good traction in slippery terrain
- EVA midsole with contoured footbed
- 4mm CR Flex-foam
- Breathable PK mesh lining
- Stretch-fit topline binding
- Stylish Realtree/Pink design
Cons
- Sizes tend to run big
- Not a lot of insulation for very cold temperatures
6. LaCrosse Men’s AeroHead Hunting Boots
Whether you are hunting in the wilds of Africa or bird shooting in Canada, the Lacrosse hunting boots offer you an incredible level of support and comfort.
With an unparalleled design, LaCrosse has created a superior hunting boot with quality materials. Armor Weld technology features a unique 3.5 mm neoprene core and polyurethane shell, which is extremely flexible and supportive. The boots require no break-in period and they are ultra-lightweight so you can stalk your prey knowing that your feet will be comfortable.
If you need to hunt in rough terrain, the boots have a removable EVA cushioned footbed and an integrated polypropylene shank board. The thick rubber outsole gives you good traction for stalking a deer or wild boar in wet, muddy conditions.
Your feet will stay warm and dry in weather conditions that range from -60 to 30°F with the unique BRUSH TUFF insulation, which is a unique combination of spandex and Lycra. The quick drying, moisture wicking jersey knit liner will keep your feet dry and comfortable. The double stitched seams are coated with an abrasion-resistant liquid rubber that delivers uncompromising waterproof protection and durability.
The boots are easy to slide on and off as the full rubber gusset accommodates different calf sizes.
The LaCrosse AeroHead hunting boots come in 11 different sizes and there are two attractive designs: Mossy Oak Break-up Infinity and Realtree Xtra Green. Each colored pattern has been specifically designed to blend into marshes and open fields.
LaCrosse also offers a limited warranty on their fabulous hunting boots.
Pros
- Superior quality
- Excellent price
- Unparalleled design
- Ultralightweight and comfortable
- Great fit
- ARMOR WELD 3.5 mm neoprene core and polyurethane shell
- Removable EVA cushioned footbed
- Integrated polypropylene shank board
- Double stitched seams are coated with an abrasion resistant liquid rubber
- Brush Tuff insulation
- Quick drying and moisture wicking jersey knit liner
- Thick rubber sole provides good traction
- Durable, full rubber gusset makes the boots easy to pull on and off
- Two camouflage designs
- Limited warranty
Cons
- Not ideal for rough outdoor conditions or extremely cold weather
7. Kamik Men’s Hunter Boots
The Kamik 12-inch Men’s Hunter Boots are an excellent choice for hunters as they offer superior all-day comfort, support, and protection.
Made in Canada, the insulated hunting boots are designed for wet and snowy conditions and will keep your feet snug in winter and cool as a cucumber in summer.
The 100% recyclable synthetic rubber is waterproof, oil and acid resistant while the adjustable snow collar keeps your feet extra dry as you walk in deep snow and slush.
Keep your feet warm in freezing temperatures with the 8mm Thermal Guard waterproof liner that locks out moisture and locks in body heat.
For walking in rough and tough environments, the injected PU cushioned midsole provides extra comfort and support. The thick rubber EXPLORER outsole with round rubber lugs give you a great level of traction.
The sleek and smooth synthetic rubber gives the boots a glossy and stylish finish. You can choose from glossy black or black with a dark green upper trim.
Pros
- High-quality
- Extremely affordable price
- 100% recyclable, waterproof synthetic rubber
- Ideal for wet and snowy weather
- Waterproof adjustable nylon collar
- 8 mm Thermal Guard removable liner
- Very good insulation for hot and cold conditions
- Injected PU cushioned midsole
- EXPLORER synthetic thick rubber outsole has round rubber lugs
- Excellent tread and grip and ankle support
- Available in glossy black or black with dark green-black upper
Cons
- Heavy
- Insoles are not very comfortable
- Not ideal for people with plantar fasciitis
- Feet may get overheated and sweat profusely in hot weather
8. Danner Men’s Pronghorn Uninsulated Hunting Boots
The Danner Pronghorn hunting boot features a rugged design and durable performance which makes these boots the perfect choice for any hunting adventure.
The full-grain CAMOHIDE™ leather upper is strong and waterproof and the lightweight 1000 Denier fabric has a special marbling finish for extra durability.
The cushioned polyurethane Ortholite footbed offers superior comfort and the 100% waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX liner wicks away any moisture.
The solid rubber sole provides a good grip on slippery surfaces, and the innovative TerraForce platform gives your feet exceptional stability, which eliminates the traditional weight of a bulky hunting boot. The abrasion and shock-resistant reinforced leather toe and heel cap will keep your feet protected from rocks and debris.
Danner has opened up the toe box to create a wider platform, which gives you an improved easy-wearing fit. The softened collar, and the pull loops and semi-locking laces make the boots easy to put on and take off.
The boots have a very good waterproof ability, but they can leak if you immerse them in water. To keep the boots fully waterproof, use a quality waterproofing spray.
The hunting boots come in a wide range of sizes, and Danner provides a 1-year warranty.
Pros
- Great quality
- Very good value for money
- Attractive rich brown color
- Rugged and durable design
- Long-lasting performance
- Waterproof full-grain CamoHide leather upper
- Lightweight 1000 Denier nylon
- More space in the toe box for a wider platform
- Improved easy-wearing fit
- Leather toe and heel cap
- 100% waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining
- A wide range of sizes
Cons
- Expensive
- Not ideal for full water immersion
- Non-insulated
- Cannot be re-soled
Our Top Pick for the Best Hunting Boots
Our top pick for the best hunting boots is the LaCrosse Men’s Aerohead Hunting Boots. For superior foot protection, support and waterproofing ability, the LaCrosse knee-high boots are designed with the hunting enthusiast in mind. When you are hunting on your feet all day, you need to take care of your feet so treat them to the best footwear protection on the planet.
LaCrosse also gives you a choice of two camouflaging patterns, which are designed to give you greater hunting success with your feathered or furry prey. For the girls, LaCrosse also offers excellent hunting boots.
