Hunting in cold weather is über fun, but your tootsies can freeze in an instant if you don't have decent boots. Finding the best cold weather hunting boots to keep your toes warm, dry, and comfortable out in the bush is critical. We cover why you need good hunting boots, how to select, and some of our favorite picks for the best cold weather hunting boots. Get started!
Why You Need State-of-the-Art Cold Weather Hunting Boots
When it's chilly outside, one of the first places you feel it is in your feet. When your feet are cold or wet, hunting isn't fun anymore in a hurry. Good hunting boots keep you warm, dry, and protected. They also enable you to move in complete silence, and animals won't hear you coming. The best cold weather boots for hunting have been designed to withstand snow, icy surfaces, and bitter cold, and you can concentrate on hunting and not on cold feet.
Hunting boots aren't ordinary boots. They're made durable for harsh areas such as mountains, forests, or snowfields. They come equipped with features such as insulation to retain heat, waterproof to prevent water entry, and good grip to prevent sliding. What makes one pair of boots the best cold weather hunting boots for you?.
What to Look for in Good Cold Weather Hunting Boots
Before you can buy hunting boots, you must think of why they are good to have in cold areas. The following are a few points to think about:
1. Insulation for Heat
Insulation works as an extra warm blanket for your feet. It catches heat and keeps your toes toasty even on extremely cold days. The majority of boots have an ingredient known as Thinsulate, which maintains heat without overloading the boots and making them too heavy. 400 to 800 grams of insulation in boots will keep you warm on cold days. On extremely cold days, such as below zero, you would want 1000 grams or more.
2. Waterproof Protection
Hunting in snow or rain will have wet boots if they aren't waterproof. Good cold weather hunting boots have Gore-Tex or another waterproof type material to keep moisture out and keep you dry. Cold, wet feet aren't much fun to experience, and this occurs in short order if they do happen to get wet.
3. Good grip for security
Snow and ice are smooth, so you need shoes with ground suns. See shoes with deep luxury (they are bumpy parts on the bottom). Rubber poles are great because they are hard even in cold weather. This helps you stay safe and not fall when you run on icy trails.
4. Fit and comfort
You can go for hours because you are hunting, so your shoes should be comfortable. Make sure they are comfortable, not too tight or too loose. Some shoes have a soft throne to keep them comfortable. Test them with rough socks to make sure they are comfortable.
5. Durability for hard adventure
Hunting shoes are also strong as they include walking on ice, mud and rocky terrain.Opt for those made from synthetic material or leather. Good cold-weather hunting boots can endure over an extensive amount of time, regardless of extensive use.
6. Lightweight Design
Heavy boots strain your legs. Good hunting boots are heavy but not extremely heavy, and this will enable you to cover long distances without being extremely fatigued. Be sure to check out the weight of the boots before you buy them.
Top Picks for Highest Ranked Cold Weather Hunting Boots
Now that you know what to look for, it's time to start discussing these amazing best cold weather hunting boots to purchase. These boots prove to be useful in maintaining one's feet warm and comfortable on chilly hunting trips.
1. Muck Boot Arctic Pro
The Muck Boot Arctic Pro is extremely popular among hunters. These boots can withstand very cold weather, and they have 800 grams of insulation to keep you warm on your feet. They are 100% waterproof, too, so you can trek through snow or ponds without having to think twice. The soles have excellent grip, and you won't slip down icy trails. What's more, they're comfortable on long walks, and they're durable to withstand for years.
2. LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro
The LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro is another great option. The boots are made of rubber and, therefore, waterproof and very durable. The boots also have 800 grams of Thinsulate insulation, ensuring feet stay warm even in subzero climates. The boots also have grippers and come in at lightweight, ensuring it's effortless to move through terrain. The best part of these boots, which hunters prefer, is silent walking, ideal for stalking prey.
3. Irish Setter Vaprtrek
Those who seek lighter but still warm boots can consider purchasing the Irish Setter Vaprtre boot. The boot possesses 400 grams of insulation and works best for cold days but not extremely icy days. The boot is waterproof and possesses a rugged sole to provide good traction. The boot also happens to be comfortable for long treks and happens to be quite fashionable as well!
4. Danner Alsea 8" Gore
They're excellent for hunters who want rugged, warm boots. They have Gore-Tex to keep moisture out, and 800 grams of insulation to keep you toasty on chilly days. The bottoms have good traction, and they'll stick in snow or rocky ground without coming out from under you. They're heavier, but they're very tough and long-lasting
5. Kenetrek Mountain Extreme
For very tough hunts in very cold climates, there are few better than the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme boots. These have 400 grams of insulation but are made to take very harsh climates, mountain snows, for example. These boots are waterproof and have tough bottoms for hiking rough trails. These boots do cost more, but it's worth it if you have to do your hunting in very cold climates.
How to Choose The Ideal Boot Height for Hunting
You want to have just the correct size for good cold weather hunting boots. If they run too small, you will have cold feet. If they run too big, you can end up having blisters.
What follows is how to select the correct size:
Wear thick socks: Chances are, you'll be wearing thick socks during hunting, so attempt boots on wearing thick socks.
Check for wiggle room: Your toes ought to have room to wiggle, but not slide.
Wear around: Make sure the boots feel comfortable on you as you move around. If it pinches or irritates, buy another size or another brand.
Buy one-half size larger: Certain hunters prefer to have boots a little bit larger to accommodate extra insoles or socks.
How to Take Care of Your Hunting Boots
In order to keep your best cold weather hunting boots long, they have to be taken care of. The following are simple pointers:
Clean them after each hunting: Remove dirt, snow, or mud using a wet cloth. This maintains the boots' appearance and functioning properly.
Dry them out properly: Never put wet boots in front of a heater or fireplace as it can destroy them. Hang them out to dry in a cold place.
Apply waterproof spray: It doesn't matter if you have waterproof boots; it can't hurt to have an extra coating of waterproof spray to keep them dry.
Store them properly: When you're not wearing your boots, store them in an airing closet or dry, cool room. Never put them in an overheated car or humid basement.
Why Cold Weather Hunting Boots Are Worth Every Penny
You may think, "Why pay an arm and a leg for hunting boots?" Good boots can make all the difference in the world. Cheap boots can leak, fall apart soon, or keep your feet cold. The best cold weather hunting boots are worth it due to the fact they keep you safe, warm, and comfortable.
These boots can also last longer, so you do not have to purchase new ones annually. Additionally, if your feet feel good, you can concentrate on hunting and have more fun!
Hunting in Freezing Weather
Hunters facing
Your boots are just one aspect of keeping warm as you're out hunting. These are some other ways to keep warm:
Wear thick socks: Wool or synthetic thick socks will keep your feet warm.
Layer clothing: Wear several layers of clothing to remove or add clothing as necessary if you overheat or cool down.
Use hand warmers: These little packets can be warmed up to heat your hands or even your feet if you put them in those.
Stay dry: You'll soon cool down if you're wet. Pack yourself in a waterproof jacket and trousers to stay dry.
Rest stops: When your feet begin to feel chilly, rest and wiggle your toes to allow blood to circulate through them.
How to Purchase the Highest Rated Cold Weather Hunting Boots
You can get good hunting boots anywhere. Equipment stores for hunting like Cabela's, Bass Pro Shops, or REI have an assortment to choose from. You can also shop online at stores like Amazon, Backcountry, or directly at the brand sites. Do research on other hunters' reviews to know if the boots are good quality. There can be sales or clearance at times, usually after hunting season closes.
Last Thoughts on Top Cold Weather Hunting Boots
Hunting in cold climates is great, as long as you have the right gear. The best cold weather hunting boots will keep you comfortable, warm, and dry, and you'll have an easier time out in the woods. Get boots that have good insulation, waterproof boot construction, and grippy bottoms. Good options are the Muck Boot Arctic Pro, LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro, and Danner Alsea. Get the ones that fit and take good care of them and they'll last long.
Wear good boots and you'll be good to go hunting in snow, ice, or bitter cold without having to fear for your feet. Get out there, keep warm, and have a great time hunting!
