A successful hunting session requires you to have more than just the right weapon, experience, and patience. If you’ve ever been out in the rough woods or gravel terrain for hunting, you know how important it is to have a pair of good boots. For beginners, it may sound extravagant that you must invest a hefty amount in hunting boots.
It’s not about only getting the right fit for your feet; it’s more about staying comfortable throughout the day for long hours. It has to keep your feet warm and safe from the dangers and hazardous terrain in any weather. As there are many types of hunting boots available in the market, it can confuse choosing the right one. Stick to the article to know about the major boot options for you and what you should consider while getting your first hunting boots.
Types Of Hunting Boots
Let’s face it; you cannot get a successful hunting experience unless you have the right boots for the job. However, you must make sure the pair of boots you’re getting are capable of serving the purpose well. Here are the different types of hunting boots that you’ll have in options while shopping:
Field/Upland hunting boots
Upland hunting boots typically come with construction with more balance, breathability, and durability in mind. Most of the time, they come constructed with nylon, mesh, and full-grain leather; combined, they are very durable. You’ll usually use them on flat terrain where you have fewer ups and downs on the ground with grass around. They aren’t a great option if you’re a mountain lover, especially an elk hunter. These boots typically go just over the ankle, which you’ll find similar to regular hiking boots.
Mountain hunting boots
If you’re planning to go hunting on the mountain or a hunting area with many ups and downs of hills, get a pair of mountain boots. These boots come with more traction than the upland boots that can help you stay firm even on loose terrain and keep climbing. They will have better insolations inside since the mountains are usually cooler than the lower grounds. These boots’ height is usually the same as the field or upland boots, sometimes higher than that.
Snake boots
Snake boots are a special type of boot specially designed for the wet and marshy areas where you need protection from snakes. Since these boots are meant to protect you from snakes, they will come way higher than the mountain boots or the upland boots. Usually, these boots’ height passes way above the angles up to the knees to give you full protection to the lower limbs. The build materials of these boots are typically scent-resistant and insulated or not, depending on the season you’re hunting in. If you’re hunting in an area where rain is a common thing or have marshes around, don’t forget to get a pair of snake boots.
Rubber/Wading hunting boots
Rubber boots, aka wading boots, are a perfect choice if you plan to go all-terrain hunting, no matter the situation. If you have to run across different ground types, especially wade, it should be your choice to go. Usually, duck hunters tend to choose this type of boots because they are suitable for damp areas. They are typically shorter than the snake boots and higher than the upland boot.
How To Choose Hunting Boots?
You must invest in good apparel for a successful hunting career, and it’s worth the investment in the long run. Here are the things you must know and consider when you go buy a pair of hunting boots the get the best support from it:
- Weather/ Season: Not every weather and season will suit the same boots as they have different situations. Consider having 2-3 pairs of hunting boots for all year round.
- Hunting area: You need different types of hunting boots for different types of terrain and area. If you’re a mountain hunter, wading boots aren’t a perfect fit for you.
- Weight/Insulation: The insulation mostly affects the weight of the boots. The summer season doesn’t need boots weighing 400-800 grams, which is common for the winter.
- Construction: The build construction of the boots determines how long the boots are going to last. A good construction also ensures great comfort and ease of wearing.
- Height: Consider the height of the boot carefully, especially if you’re getting snake boots or wading boots.
- Waterproofing: Waterproofing is pretty important to consider if you’re going to hit the lower grounds, muds, and wade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most frequently asked questions about hunting boots that you might find useful to know about:
How long do hunting boots last?
Good hunting boots are sturdy enough to last you about 10 years long or more. However, you must make sure the boots are in mint condition with proper care after using them each season.
Should hunting boots be tight or loose?
The ideal tightness of hunting boots should be neither too tight, nor too loose. You should be able to move our toes inside the boots comfortably while wearing them for a long time.
Should you buy hunting boots a size bigger?
Getting hunting boots a size bigger than the feet size or two can be a good way to go. It’s better to have room for the feet to expand if it’s swollen. However, don’t get it too loose that doesn’t fit you.
Are rubber hunting boots warm?
Rubber hunting boots are usually waterproof and have proper cushioning inside. They can protect you from the water and keep you warm while walking on wading for hunting ducks.
Final Thought
Getting the wearables for your first hunt can become a daunting job as many types of hunting boots are available. Depending on what purpose it’s going to serve, where, and how you’re going to use it, you can determine which boot type you need.
The right hunting boots can surely increase your hunting capability and get you the best hunting experience. If you’re an all-year passionate hunter, getting multiple pairs of hunting boots is a thing you should consider. While pairing your hunting boots with the rest of your appearance, be sure to match the color to get a good camouflage.
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