TOP 7 LIST: Best Backcountry Hunting Boots in 2022
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High-quality hunting boots are great to protect your feet when traveling through rocky, sharp, or wet terrain. They are also great for protecting your feet and ankles from bites from insects and even snakes as you walk. If you plan on doing any backcountry hunting this year, take a look at the list we’ve gathered below of some of the best backcountry hunting boots available online.
What are the Best Backcountry Hunting Boots?
To find the absolute best backcountry hunting boots we have searched through most of the available boots for backcountry hunting and read all the comments left by people who bought and used them. Then we compiled the list of the top 7 backcountry hunting boots based on their pricing, specs and ratings by real users. Feel free to use the results of hours of our research now and thank us later in the comments.
Oh, and just so you know, there are also Buying Guide and FAQ sections below the top products that provide a handy overview of things you may need to know before and after you buy your new backcountry hunting boots.
1. Bogs Men’s Classic High Waterproof Insulated Rain Boot
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Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 2 Pounds (0.9 kg) Waterproof: Yes Material: Rubber Insulation: Yes |
Bogs Men’s Classic High Waterproof Insulated Rain Boots feature natural hand-lasted rubber construction that makes these ideal for wet conditions. The boots are great for use in snow and muddy conditions thanks to a completely waterproof design and self-cleaning outsole. For added performance, the shoes feaure a contour fit that offers good grip and support. However, the manufacturers have a hard time maintaing size consistency making it a hassle for people to return and exchange them to get the right fit. Moreover, the boots may not provide much arch support causing discomfort and fatigue.
Pros
- Completely waterproof,
- Natural hand-lasted rubber,
- Self cleaning outsole makes these boots good for snow and mud,
- Contour fit for comfortable grip and support.
Cons
- Smaller sizes create extra hassle for users to exchange/replace,
- Difficult to take off,
- No arch support.
2. Irish Setter Men’s Wingshooter Waterproof 9inch Upland Boot
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Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 4.5 Pounds (2 kg) Waterproof: Yes Material: Leather with Polyurethane footbed Insulation: No |
Irish Setter Men’s Wingshooter Waterproof 9″ Upland Boots are a versatile offering suited for a variety of conditions. The boots come with a stylish design and smooth leather finish making them good for day-to-day wearing as well as for occasional adventures into the wild. The high-quality laces provide for a good fit so you can be confident using them for longer journeys.
However, the material used for Irish Setter Wingshooter Waterproof boots is not breathable making them uncomfortable for use in dry and warm weathers. Moreover, poor quality craftsmanship means that the wear and tear starts off quickly with these boots.
Pros
- Stylish design makes these boots suitable for various settings,
- Removable polyurethane bed,
- Smooth leather finish,
- High quality long-lasting laces.
Cons
- Quality control issues mean the boots may not last long, The material is not breathable making them unsuitable for summer/hot weather.
3. R RUNFUN Men’s camo Waterproof Lightweight Hunting Boots
Specs |
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Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Waterproof: Yes Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (sole) Insulation: 400 gram Thinsulate Snake Protection: No |
If you prefer agility during your hunts, the R RUNFUN Lightweight boot might be to your liking. The boots are highly comfortable right out of the box; you won’t need to break them in.
The waterproof feature holds true, but only up until the lining; if water rises beyond that, you will have soggy feet.
The 400gram Thinsulate insulation will keep your feet warm in 30-40F. Along with protection from the cold, this hunting boot also offers protection from falls. The boot’s construction is good for the price, but it would be best to use it for milder terrains as the stitching might not hold on rough terrains.
This boot might be good for early-season hunting.
Pros
- Breathable materials for comfort,
- Anti-slip outsole for protection,
- Durable construction for bushy terrain,
- It comes with a long-term warranty
Cons
- Weak in-soles,
- Stitches might not hold on rougher terrain
4. Manfen Men’s Thermator Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boots
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Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 2.6 Pounds (1.2 kg) Support Height: 8 in Waterproof: Yes Material: EVA, rubber Insulation: Yes |
The Manfen Thermator Mid-Rise Hiking Boots have an 8-inch shaft and are constructed of waterproof EVA materials. They have a 200 gram insulation to offer warmth in cold temperatures without causing your feet overheat in warmer weather. The textured rubber sole offers traction on various terrains and provides extra waterproof protection. The molded TPU ankle support will ensure maximum comfort while keeping your feet warm and dry no matter the climate. Be sure to use the sizing chart to get the correct size as these boots run on the smaller side. Being a budget friendly option, there may be a compromise in long lasting durability.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable,
- Budget friendly,
- Waterproof material to keep feet dry,
- Molded ankle support
Cons
- Questionable durablility,
- Runs small
5. XPETI Men’s Thermator Waterproof Insulated Outdoor Boots
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Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.5 Pounds (0.2 kg) Waterproof: Yes Material: TPU & Rubber with fabric upper material Insulation: Yes |
XPETI Men’s Thermator Mid-Rise Waterproof Insulated Outdoor Boots come with rubber sole that provides optimum traction for rugged outdoor use. The boots have a mesh lining made from waterproof membrane that helps keep the feet dry in muddy and wet conditions. The boots are very easy to fit thanks to a lace-up closure. All this comes with a cushioned footbed that makes these boots very comfortable for regular use. Although the boots are designed for rugged use, the boots are not very durable because of which they do not last long with rough use. They are also designed to be narrow that may cause discomfort with regular use.
Pros
- Waterproof membrane for upper mesh and mesh lining keeps feet dry,
- Rubber sole with multi-directinal lugs provides good traction,
- Lace-up closure makes these boots easy to fit,
- Cushioned footbed makes these boots comfortable.
Cons
- Narrow design and inconsistent sizing makes them difficult to fit,
- Not very durable for long term use.
6. TIDEWE Unique Design Neoprene Outdoor Boots for Men
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Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 5.4 Pounds (2.5 kg) Support Height: 15 in Waterproof: Yes Material: Neoprene, rubber, ethylene, vinyl acetate Insulation: Yes |
The TIDEWE Neoprene Outdoor Boots for Men offer 100% waterproof protection with a 15-inch rubber shaft that also offers warmth in the cold. They have a contoured EVA sole that provides maximum comfort with ample arch support. The sole is also rubber and is designed to ensure traction on all terrains, even in water and snow. They have a loop in the back to help get them on, and a kick plate on the back of the heel to help remove them. While the reinforced rubber material is extremely durable it does lack in support. Also, be sure to follow the size chart as these tend to run big.
Pros
- Durable rubber material,
- 100% waterproof,
- Comfortable for all day wear,
- Keeps feet warm in the cold
Cons
- Runs large,
- Lacking in support
7. Huntrite Men’s Insulated Waterproof Hunting Boots
Specs |
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Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 2.2 Pounds (1 kg) Support Height: 8.5 inches Waterproof: Yes Material: Leather, nylon, and rubber Insulation: 1200 gram Thinsulate Snake Protection: No |
The Huntrite Men’s Insulated Waterproof hunting boot is an expensive shoe that packs a punch. Constructed with a mix of full-grain leather and quality nylon, it will survive wear and tear. The waterproof lining ensures dry feet regardless of how wet it becomes.
The slip and oil-resistant rubber outsole provide good traction, but the inner sole might need replacing.
Comfort is well-established with this boot with a moisture-wicking mesh inner lining keeping your feet sweat-free. Additionally, with a padded tongue and collar, breaking these boots in won’t take much time.
This Huntrite Men’s hunting boot might be a good choice for those who prefer treestand hunting.
Pros
- The insulation is highly effective in keeping your feet warm,
- A padded color makes these boots comfortable for hunting,
- Well constructed with double stitching where needed,
- The outer sole facilitates rugged tread
Cons
- Boots are on the heavier side,
- Laces wear out fast
Verdict
We went through most of the backcountry hunting boots available today and considered what people who used them are saying about these boots for backcountry hunting. We also looked closely at their pricing and specs to find that Bogs Men’s Classic High Waterproof Insulated Rain Boot is the overall best backcountry hunting boots out there.
However, R RUNFUN Men’s camo Waterproof Lightweight Hunting Boots is a very good affordable alternative for those who want to get one of the budget boots for backcountry hunting.
For those who need the absolute best of the best, regardless of the price, Irish Setter Men’s Wingshooter Waterproof 9inch Upland Boot is the premium pick.
What You Should Know Before Buying Backcountry Hunting Boots
Insulation
Insulation is what keeps your feet warm. While there are many insulating materials in the market, the most common are shearling and thinsulate. If you are going to be walking through snow, then insulated boots containing these materials are the way to go. You can find out if a boot will keep you warm in the cold by looking at the grams of insulation. The thicker the insulation on the boot, the higher the gram value. You can find insulation ranging from 200 to 2000 grams based on your seasonal needs. Boots with 200 grams of insulation are best suited for the mild cold, whereas 2000 grams is for extremely cold weather conditions. Keep in mind the more insulated the boot is, the heavier it will be and the more difficult it will be for you to walk.
Stability In Wet Conditions
The rainy or snowy season can make things a little challenging in the outdoors. The last thing you want is to constantly slip on the wet ground or have your feet soaked by stepping in a puddle.
To get around this, invest in shoes with rubber outsoles. Not only does the rubber provide good traction, it keeps the water out, keeping you warm and steady.
If you are in a bind and need your slippery boots to get a grip, you can use a hack as a temporary solution. We recommend applying double-sided tape or adhesive bandages on the ball and toe of your shoe.
Waterproofing
Waterproof boots are a must-have for rainy conditions or hunting in wet areas. Waterproof boots will keep your feet dry even when fully submerged. Luckily, most boots come with a water-repellent coating. If you don’t have waterproof boots or if the coating has worn off, you can waterproof them yourself. You can waterproof your new boots with a silicone spray and your old boots by applying a wax sealant. Buy a spray that is appropriate for the material of your boots. Make sure to thoroughly clean and dampen your boots before treatment.
Boot Size
Finding the right size is essential when shopping for footwear. If you buy a size too small or too large, you will be too uncomfortable to enjoy your new boots. When buying shoes, pay special attention to the toe region. There should be some space left between your longest finger and the tip of the shoe. Some people recommend that this gap should be as broad as your thumb. If you are buying knee-high boots, go half a size up as it will be easier to slip your feet into the boot. Some people have one foot larger than the other. In this case, buy the size that fits the larger feet. If ever you find yourself between sizes, always buy half a size larger shoes but never a smaller size. With a larger size, you can always fit insoles. But a smaller size will be too tight for you to be comfortable.
Questions and Answers About Backcountry Hunting Boots
What is the difference between a hunting boot and a hiking boot?
You might wonder if there is any difference between hunting and hiking boots. Since the activities are indeed different, the boots, in each case, serve a distinct purpose. Hiking boots are made from lighter materials and have a stiff construction. While these boots are usually not insulated, they have good traction. These boots facilitate walking on rough terrain and up steep hills. Hunting boots, on the other hand, are heavier, well-insulated, and usually camouflaged. Unlike hiking boots, hunting boots can be higher than ankle height, protecting you from animal bites.
Why do my feet get cold when hunting?
When one starts experiencing cold toes and feet while hunting, it might be due to your hunting boots or socks being too tight. In this case, your blood supply might get restricted, keeping your feet from getting warm. To avoid this, make sure your shoes and socks are a comfortable fit – neither too tight nor too loose. Lace shoes can help you regulate the tightness better too. Also, make sure to keep your hunting boots and socks dry, especially so in winter time.
How do you keep hunting boots waterproof?
Waterproof boots are an excellent choice when you are hunting in wet areas. However, you must look after your boots to maintain this feature. Over time, dirt and grit will cause the boots to lose their waterproof layer.
To avoid this, clean your shoes as soon as possible. If you notice water leaking through the seams, clean them as soon as possible and apply wax.
Before applying wax, heat your shoes using a hairdryer, making sure to keep it at a distance of at least 6 inches. Sparingly evenly layer the wax, and let it dry for an hour. Then, buff off the boots using a clean cloth.
How warm is 5mm neoprene boots?
Boots made of neoprene, a synthetic rubber, keep your feet dry and warm. You will find neoprene boots come in various thicknesses, mostly 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm. The thicker the boot, the warmer your feet will be. How warm you want your feet to be is a matter of preference- but 5mm is suitable for a temperature range of 43-53 F. However, if you plan to explore outdoors in colder weather conditions than this range, consider wearing 7mm thick neoprene boots.
What should I look for in a backcountry boot?
You don’t want your feet to be in a world of pain and end up cutting your backcountry hunting trip short. To prevent any injuries or discomfort, consider getting a backcountry boot, focusing on four factors: quality, support, traction, and protection. You will need a backcountry boot made from thick, high-quality leather that provides solid support to your ankle and feet. Boots with rubber soles are good for traction for going up or down an incline. As for protection, look for something waterproof and insulated. But most importantly, buy a backcountry boot that fits your feet.
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