Best Hunting Boots In 2024 Tested And Reviewed

Here at Deer Hunting Guide, we've seen all types of weather and terrain. We've hunted Nevada mountains in the snow, steamy Louisiana woods in the rain and dry Kansas plains in the early-season heat. Through all that, one thing has been constant: the right hunting boot is essential to a successful hunt. Our staff of hunters from across the country share their top choice for best hunting boots, complete with REAL REVIEWS and ratings for specific needs and situations.

List Of The Best Hunting Boots

How We Chose The Best Hunting Boots

We chose the best hunting boots by reaching out to our vast network of hunters across the country and asking them what their favorite boots are for different types of hunting.

These hunters comprise our staff members and writers, our readers that we contacted through our email list, and family and friends that hunt extensively in all types of conditions.

We then took the top choices from all of the respondents and evaluated them on the following criteria:

• Comfort
• Stability
• Waterproof
• Durability
• Value
• How well do they work for their intended purpose

The boots below are the ones that performed the best.

Best Hunting Boots: Reviews And Recommendations

Best Overall: Crispi Guide GTX Hunting Boot

Looking at the Crispi GTX, it's easy to see why it's our top pick for best men's hunting boot. At 10-inches tall, the quality seaming and construction is visible, and you can also tell it's lightweight and comfortable to walk in. In fact, it's just 2.15 pounds with a flexible design that adapts to your step. 

Despite the light weight and flexibility, the GTX is a warm and waterproof hunting boot. You can optionally get the boots in an insulated version with a 200-gram Gore-Tex lining that provides warmth while still letting your feet breathe. This is important because your feet are likely to sweat while you're moving, and you don't want this sweat to remain on the skin where it will end up making you cold once you stop moving. 

As for water resistance, the upper is made from water-repellent Nubuck leather. This way you can take on extreme winter terrain regardless of rain and mud. This is the terrain where you're most likely to find whitetails.

Finally, this boot can protect your feet in rough conditions as well. In addition to the Supergrip Vibram sole that absorbs shock and helps keep you from slipping on rocks or in the mud, the leather upper has a rubber border that also protects the side of the foot.

Pros:

• Quality craftsmanship
• Lightweight and flexible
• 100% breathable thanks to a Gore Tex Waterproof lining
• Optional insulation
• Water-repellant upper
• Supergrip Vibram sole
• Rubber border

Cons:

• Price. They are expensive, but you get what you pay for when shopping for the best.

Here's a great video that shows why the Crispi Guide GTX is the best hunting boot for men.

For those looking for a well-designed boot that's going to keep your feet warm, dry and safe, there are few models that match the quality of the Crispi Guide GTX. Not only does it combine extensive features to support your hunt in rough terrain from mountains to swamps, but Crispi provides a one-year warranty so you can buy with confidence. If your hunting style means you're on your feet a lot, this is a product likely to boost your performance for seasons to come.  

Staff Favorite: Danner Pronghorn

The most notable feature of these Danner Pronghorn boots is the 1200-gram Gore-Tex lining. This makes the boots warm even in extreme cold, complemented by the Vibram sole that provides superior traction even on icy surfaces. The Gore-Tex lining is both waterproof but breathable at the same time, maximizing temperature regulation while keeping out that same snow and ice and keeping feet dry.

That's not all, though. On top of the Gore-Tex lining, the Danner Pronghorn boot features PrimaLoft insulation. This advanced insulation mimics the great insulating properties of goose down but continues to function even if it gets wet. This is essential for staying warm in all conditions. 

We also like the Bi-Fit stability combined with the boots overall durable construction and the VibramSPE midsole. Together, these give your feet support even as you walk across uneven terrain, terrain you might not even be able to see very well due to snow cover. Plus, the cushioned footbed is generally comfortable, even if you're just sitting in your tree stand for long periods of time.

Pros:

• Non-slip Vibram sole
• Waterproof and breathable Gore Tex lining
• PrimaLoft insulation
• Supportive and stable
• Comfortable boots
• Camo design

Cons:

• Limited sizing
• Not full leather

Whether you hunt at high altitudes or in remote northern locales with lots of snow, the Danner Pronghorn is an ideal waterproof boot if keeping your feet warm is your primary concern. Don't worry, though. In addition to great insulation and warmth, it also has other essential features for hunting rough terrain like foot support, an anti-slip sole and even a partially camouflaged upper. With these boots, you can take advantage of the hunting season all winter long.  These are some of the most comfortable hunting boots you can buy.

Most Versatile Hunting Boot:  Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 400

Cold weather and wet terrain often go hand in hand. This is precisely why the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 400 made our list of best hunting boots: it tackles both problems effectively. Specifically, the 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation provide as much warmth as much heavier boots, meaning you can stay warm but still walk farther into the woods without getting tired. 

Also, take note of the Windtex waterproof membrane and the reinforced rubber sole guard. These protect against abrasion and make it more difficult for water to enter between the upper and the sole. Speaking of the upper, it's 100 percent leather with double and triple stitching. This helps the boot last longer, even when it takes the abuse that extreme hunting requires.

Our only complaint about this boot is that the nylon midsole can be a bit stiff, but that is alwaso the reason for its excellent ankle support. In general, the boot is good for long hikes because it has a K-Talon sole that provides some of the best traction on the market. Walk across slippery rocks and snowy ground with confidence.

Pros:

• Thinsulate insulation
• Waterproof membrane
• Rubber sole guard
• 100% leather
• Enhanced stitching
• K-Talon sole for extra traction

Cons:

• Stiff midsole

Here is a great long term review of the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme.

Wet and/or cold feet can totally ruin a hunting experience to the point that they even compromise your success. That's why we recommend the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme leather hunting boots for anyone who hunts in cold environments, especially those where it rains a lot during the hunting season. In addition to advanced insulation and waterproofing, the extra traction from the insole will keep you on your feet even as you hike into the wilderness. These are the best insulated hunting boots we have used.

Best Upland Hunting Boots: Irish Setter Wingshooter

If we had to choose one word to describe these Irish Setter Wingshooter boots, it would be "comfortable." Even if you're upland bird hunting and putting lots of miles on them, the polyurethane footbed supports your feet while the UltraDry waterproofing technology keeps them warm and dry no matter the season.

Similarly, the 100-percent leather upper bends and adapts easily to your foot and its step movements. In fact, the boot doesn't even require much breaking in before it's ready to hit the dirt.

The only real issue with the boot is that the rubber outsole doesn't provide quite as much traction as others. It does provide a lot of shock absorption when you're climbing steep hills through brush, and the Goodyear welt along with the double stitching helps the boot endure numerous walking angles without wearing out.

Pros:

• Comfortable, flexible design
• UltraDry waterproofing
• 100% leather upper
• Goodyear welt
• Double stitching
• Stylish design

Cons:

• Slippery sole

Whether it's trekking through the thick upland brush where quail hide or a night on the town, the Wingshooter upland boots can do both. While they look stylish with 100-percent leather uppers and a quality Goodyear welt, they're also waterproof and have an extra-comfortable interior and flexible design that helps keep your feet going even on steep inclines and declines and in tall grass.

Best Hiking Boot For Hunting: Cabela's Instinct Mountain Hiker Hunting Boots

Cabela's Instinct Mountain Hiker Hunting Boots are an Italian made, all-around great piece of footwear that provides ankle support and safety while you're out covering miles in the field. The Vibram soles absorb shocks as you hike through the hills or the woods. Meanwhile the premium waterproof leather uppers are reinforced by a 1.25mm rubber rand around the foot protect your feet from the rocks, sticks and thick brush.

One unique feature we love about the Instinct Mountain Hiking boot is the rigid thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) heel support, which adds stability, protection and comfort on all day hikes.

The combination of Gore-Tex waterproof, breathable membrane and a unique, all natural cork footbed with moisture wicking cover keep your feet dry and comfortable regardless of the conditions.

Most importantly, the fit on these is excellent. There are half sizes even up through size 14, something you rarely find. The flexible open cell foam padding adapts quickly to the shape of your foot, for a very comfortable fit.

Pros:

• We love the comfortable fit of these boots.
• Vibram soles
• open cell foam padding molds to your foot
• Gore Tex
• All natural cork footbed

Cons:

• They are on the expensive side

If you have a piece of property or nearby public land and hunt on a regular basis, these are a straightforward choice that's good for your budget and your feet. For warmer climates, they'll keep you cool and cut down on body odor. Meanwhile, the great fit will keep you comfortable so you can enjoy the hike while hunting.

Best Elk Hunting Boot: Danner Vital Hunting Boots

Danner is one of the most popular hunting boot brands for a reason. They're made to be tough but comfortable boots with hunting in mind. That means proprietary waterproofing along with a leather-textile upper that protects your feet from the thick brush that elk usually migrate through. 

The textile design specifically allows for mesh ventilation that keeps your feet cool by letting sweat evaporate. Since many states' elk seasons are early in the fall, overheating can still be a problem. Minimizing sweat build up simultaneously minimizes odor.

We felt like the traction was pretty good, which is important when looking for elk over rough, mountainous terrain. Plus, the lock and load lacing system easily makes up for it. This is in large part because it's quiet. If your laces come undone while you're hiking to find the elk herd, you can retie them without making excess noise.

Pros:

• Danner Dry waterproofing
• Mesh ventilation
• Lock and load lacing
• Comfortable foam

Cons:

• Less traction

Depending on your state, getting an elk hunting permit might be a rare experience. You definitely don't want to waste it by having the wrong gear. The Danner Vital boots are just what you need for elk hunting due to their odor and noise elimination and comfort that lets you hike up and down the mountains in search of bugling elk.

Best Classic Hunting Boot: Irish Setter 860 Elk Tracker Gore Tex Hunting Boot

Water always seems to find its way into boots, even ones that are rated "waterproof." That's because there are so many places for it to enter the boot, from seams to the tongue to the ankle. The Irish Setter 860 addresses all these problems.

For example, the rubber sole and Goodyear welt help prevent water from entering the bottom. Meanwhile, the full-grain waterproof leather upper along with the Gore Tex lining keep water out throughout the interior and shaft of the boot.

On top of that, Irish Setter made the boots warm with 1,000-gram Thinsulate insulation. Plus, the Bulls-Eye Air Bob Aggressive sole provides traction even on slippery surfaces. Altogether, this means you can trek across snow-covered terrain agilely.

Oh, just one last thing. This boot actually has ScentBan technology that helps eliminate odor. That's essential for a cold-and-wet boot like this one because the thick insulation and multiple membranes may make your feet sweat, which can create foot odor that deer and elk can pick up on.

Pros:

• Goodyear welt
• Gore Tex lining
• Full-grain waterproof leather upper
• 1,000g Thinsulate insulation
• High-traction rubber soles
• ScentBan technology

Cons:

• No ventilation
• Inflexible

No matter what type of hunting you do, you need warm, waterproof hunting boots designed for all conditions like the Irish Setter Men's 860. In fact, this boot and its extensive waterproofing along with the high-traction sole is a great option for anyone who plans to hunt through the winter and rugged terrain.  

Best Mountain Hunting Boots: Kenetrek Mountain Extreme

The Kenetrek Mountain Extreme has a number of features focused on stability and support. For example, the thick K-Talon sole has deep grooves and ridges that give you better traction even on loose rocks. Additionally, the 7-mm nylon midsole supports your foot on hard and uneven ground.

There are other features that are great for hiking rugged mountain terrain as well. These leather mountain boots have a reinforced rubber sole guard that protects both the boot and your foot from the sharp rocks it's bound to scrape against. Moreover, the construction, which includes double and triple stitching and full-grain leather, is highly durable even when it's bent and flexed in multiple directions after hiking up rough mountain slopes.

It's worth pointing out that this mountain boot doesn't have any insulation, so it's not ideal for snowy peaks. However, this actually makes it better for most mountain hunting and hiking because your feet will heat up more with the extra effort, so the lack of insulation cuts down on smelly sweat. There's a Windtex waterproof membrane, too, so stream crossings are not an issue.

Pros:

• Ultra-high-traction sole
• Supportive nylon midsole
• Reinforced rubber sole guard
• Durable full-grain leather
• Flexible construction
• Windtex waterproof membrane

Cons:

• No insulation

Hunting and hiking in the mountains requires boots that give you balance and support while minimizing noise, which is exactly what the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme does. Plus, it's designed with rough terrain in mind, so it's durable and can handle scraping against rocks and bending at various angles. Ideal for mountain hunts, you can hike up and down slopes with comfort and stability.   

Best Deer Hunting Boot: Rocky Bearclaw 3D LTT Hunting Boot

The most striking feature of the Rocky Bearclaw is its titular sole. Thick and grooved, it provides traction as well as support in rocky and muddy terrain. This gives you the versatility to hunt whitetail deer regardless of the season, weather or environment.

Also, this is an especially comfortable boot. The lace-up design is secure without being too tight, and there are multiple sizing options including wide sizes, so you can get the right fit for your feet. 

As for construction, they are 100% waterproof thanks to a Gore-Tex lining as well as 200 grams of thinsulate insulation. Meanwhile, the full-grain leather is highly durable and can hold up to frequent use.

Pros:

• 100% waterproof Gore Tex lining
• Thick Bearclaw sole
• Comfortable lacing
• Wide sizes
• Full-grain leather boots
• Great value

Cons:

• One of our staff members had a pair of these boots that leaked and were not 100% waterproof. They were replaced by Rocky with a new pair that was waterproof.

If you're a passionate deer hunter, you probably hit the tree stand a lot—every weekend if not more often. For that you need a boot like the Rocky Bearclaw because it's versatile and can handle changing weather and tough terrain. Plus, its full-grain-leather design is tough and durable for regular deer hunting.

Best Budget Hunting Boot (Highest Rated On Amazon): Rocky Retraction Hunting Boots

The Rocky 800G hunting boot is frequently one of the highest rated on the market, and not just because it provides rugged quality at a great value, but because it has specific features that give you an edge when you're hunting. For instance, it has 800 grams of Thinsulate insulation to keep your feet warm during the coldest months of bowhunting season in addition to waterproofing that keeps them dry in rain and snow.

Now, one of the reasons this boot is such a great value is that it's synthetic rather than leather. While that means it isn't quite as durable as other boots, it does mean it's comfortable and flexible. It also has a rubber outsole for support where you need it most.

Of course, our favorite feature is probably the Realtree camo. This makes the boot especially great for wearing in your tree stand since it camouflages the part of your gear most visible from the ground.

Pros:

• Great value
• Thinsulate insulation
• Waterproof
• Leather sole
• Realtree camo
• Wide sizes

Cons:

• Not real leather
• Short ankle

You don't have to wreck your budget to get waterproof hunting boots that fit comfortably and keeps your feet comfortable. With the Rocky 800g hunting boot, you get a top-rated design that combines insulation, waterproofing and camo to help you reach your potential as a hunter and outdoorsman.

Best Western Hunting Boot: Hanwag Tatra Top GTX Boots 

Hunting out west can be intense if you're not prepared for it. The Hanwag Tatra has a lot of features specifically designed to help you take on the type of terrain you find in the backcountry.

First of all, it's made of waxed Nubuck leather that keeps working even after the abuse of a mountainous environment. Plus, it's flexible enough to not just move with your foot but actually help it bend and step like a spring.

Next, the Vibram sole combined with the stiffening shank midsole supports your feet while giving them traction over rocks, mud and uneven ground. Plus, it has a memory insole that adapts to your foot shape and absorbs shock, especially in the heel, to keep your feet fresh even if you're going on a multiple-day hunting trip.

Lastly, the Tatra even has a Gore-Tex lining. This provides waterproofing and insulation to keep your feet warm and dry. You wouldn't want to head out into the wilderness only to soak your boots the first day.

Pros:

• Waxed Nubuck leather 
• Vibram sole
• Stiffening shank
• Memory insole
• Shock absorption
• Gore-Tex lining

Cons:

• Limited sizing options

We highly recommend the Hanwag Tatra Top GTX leather boot for anyone hunting out west, be it in the Rockies or the deserts of the Southwest. Its flexible leather design on top of the shock-absorbing memory insole helps you keep going even as the days get long and the terrain rugged. We especially suggest getting this boot if you're planning to take multi-day hunting trips in unfamiliar backwoods areas.

Best Early Season Hunting Boot: Zamberlan Lynx Mid GTX Boots

These Zamberlan boots are a shining example of hunting boot comfort. For one thing, the shape and fit is ideal for hiking through the woods. Specifically, the Vibram soles have an uplifting forward rocker that provides braking when you're walking downhill. Similarly, the upper's flex system lets the ankle bend forward while still keeping it stable. This relieves your leg muscles and also makes your movements a lot quieter.

Furthermore, the Lynx GTX is a comfortable boot as far as temperature regulation. The Gore-Tex membrane is breathable meaning that sweat can easily evaporate off your skin. Plus, the Microtex collar wicks sweat away. Altogether, this keeps your feet cool and odorless, one of the most important factors for keeping you hidden in the woods.

This boot helps you stay hidden in other ways as well. Most notably, it has an attractive camo pattern imprinted into the leather upper, and the sole is even camouflaged.

Pros:

• High-traction Vibram sole
• Forward rocker 
• Zamberlan flex system
• Breathable Gore-Tex membrane
• Moisture-wicking collar
• Leather imprinted with camo

Cons:

• Limited sizing

The Zamberlan Lynx GTX are our favorite hunting boots for the early season. That's primarily due to its industry-leading temperature regulation. It's breathable and moisture-wicking in addition to a comfortable design that takes effort and pressure off your legs and feet so they don't over-exert and therefore overheat. This, along with the camo pattern, is ideal for hunting in the early part of the season when it's warm and there's still some green. 

Best For The Money: TIDEWE Rubber Hunting Boots

If hunting season means rain and mud for you like it does the majority of us, you need a boot like this one to keep out the water while giving you traction on slippery terrain. The TIDEWE hunting boot does this with a sealed rubber shell that continues all the way to the top with a neoprene liner. That's all attached to an EVA sole that, while not rubber, helps you trek across wet ground.

You should ideally wear this rubber boot with thick hunting pants since it's not particularly warm, and the calf is loose to provide for it. You can then make it secure, though, thanks to cinch buckles that keep it stable even if the ground is uneven.

We also want to mention the camo. Although we found that it tends to fade quickly, we loved the design that helps such a large rubber boot blend into the environment and match the rest of your hunting gear. Rarely does a boot in such a low price range have such an elaborate design.

Pros:

• Sealed rubber shell
• Neoprene liner
• Secure cinch buckles
• Realtree camo  

Cons:

• Loose calf
• Camo fades

If you're looking to get the biggest bang for your buck when choosing hunting boots, look no further than this TIDEWE boot. For a low price, you get both water resistance and traction to take on muddy, backwoods terrain. It even has an elaborate camo design to keep you hidden from game so you can also get the biggest buck for your bang.

Best For Walking: Crispi Nevada GTX

Whether it's through the mountains over several days to get your trophy buck or just through the woods to your tree stand, hunting involves a lot of walking. Plus, many of us like using our hunting boots for hiking or otherwise enjoying our natural surroundings. For that, the Crispi Nevada GTX is a supportive boot that keeps your feet going mile after mile.

Most importantly, it has a rubber Vibram sole supporting a micropore shock-absorbing midsole. Your feet take a lot of force with each step, so this helps relieve the pressure. It also has an ankle bone support system to provide stability and take some of the work off your lower leg muscles. That means you can put more miles in without getting worn out or developing an overuse injury.

It's not just comfort, though. The Nevada GTX has other features important to hunting like a protective rubber rand and a water-repellent Nubuk leather upper that lets you hunt regardless of how the weather changes. The Gore Tex lining with the non-insulated design, in addition to keeping you cool while walking a lot, is good for hunting because it's breathable and cuts down on odor.

Pros:

• Rubber Vibram sole
• Micropore shock-absorbing midsole
• Ankle bone support system
• Protective rubber rand
• Water-repellent Nubuk leather
• Gore-Tex lining

Cons:

• Limited sizing

Due to its comfortable and supportive design, we suggest the Nevada GTX boot for anyone who does a lot of walking, whether it's while you're hunting or hiking. It stabilizes your foot and absorbs the shock of each step, helping your feet endure longer and more difficult hikes. Plus, it's not insulated and highly breathable so that you don't overheat even after the miles pile up.  

Best Whitetail Hunting Boot: Muck Boots Fieldblazer Classic

A whitetail deer's two best defensive weapons are its two best senses: hearing and smell. This rubber boot from Muck Boot helps you beat both those senses. It has a specific enzyme treatment that helps control human odors that deer can pick up on. Additionally, it has a full rubber overlay that's quiet as you walk through the woods.

This rubber hunting boot is exemplary in two other areas as well. For one, it's tough yet easy to clean. Even if you get them extra muddy, just hose them down with water at home. They also have a camo finish, though it doesn't go all the way to the soles.

We found that the boot could have been made wider at the calf to accept thick pants, but it's otherwise comfortable thanks to a breathable Airmesh lining. Plus, it's 100-percent waterproof to increase its usefulness in the mud.

Pros:

• Anti-odor treatment
• Full rubber overlay
• Camo design
• Breathable Airmesh lining
• 100% waterproof

Cons:

• Narrow calf

The whitetail deer don't stay in just because of a little rain and wind, so neither should you. The Muck Boot Fieldblazer fully waterproof construction means you don't have to worry about the weather. Plus, you can stay out of sight thanks to the camo finish, out of smell thanks to the enzyme treatment, and out of hearing thanks to the quiet rubber design. The Fieldblazer was our top pick for best Muck Boots for hunting and is the best rubber hunting boot for whitetails.

Best Boot For Hunters With Foot Problems: Kenetrek Everstep Orthopedic Boot

If you've had a foot injury, you know how disheartening it can be to have to stay off your feet. Plus, you know it makes it more likely you'll have another injury in the future. That's why it's essential to get a boot like the Kenetrek Everstep that is orthopedically designed by physicians to support and protect your foot even after an injury.

Things like plantar fasciitis can absolutely ruin a hunt, but not if you have these boots from Kenetrek that were developed and tested by physicians.

Aside from the incorporated orthopedics, the Everstep also supports your foot with lateral bar stabilizers that keep your ankle from wobbling as well as a rocker bottom that helps take the pressure off tendons and ligaments when going downhill. Plus, the K-Talon sole absorbs shock and has traction so you don't slip and bend your foot or ankle unnaturally.

Lastly, consider how durable the Everstep is. On top of being waterproof, the uppers are full-grain leather that's double and triple stitched. Plus, it's resistant to corrosion and can handle miles upon miles of stress. That's great for hunting in the mountains.

Pros:

• Professionally incorporated orthopedics
• Lateral bar stabilizers
• 19-degree rocker bottom
• High-traction K-Talon sole
• Waterproof membrane
• Full-grain leather upper
• Double and triple stitching

Cons:

• Top-shelf price

If you're recovering from a foot injury, don't be afraid to get back out there. The Kenetrek Everstep can get you back on your feet because it has an orthopedic design developed by physicians that supports your feet with ankle stabilization and a shock-absorbing sole. Plus, it's waterproof and tough so you can return to hunting in the rough terrain you love. 

Best Pac Boot For Hunting

Kenetrek Grizzly 10 Inch Pac Boot

This Kenetrek boot takes insulation to the extreme. It has three layers to keep your feet toasty warm. 

First, there are six millimeters of moisture-wicking liner that you can actually remove. This means you don't have to overheat if it starts to warm up in your stand after the sun comes out.

Next, there are 400 grams of Thinsulate Ultra insulation that traps in body heat even if you aren't moving. 

Finally, there are three millimeters of wool. Wool is an excellent insulator because it continues to work even if it gets wet.

However, you shouldn't have to worry about that because the thick rubber outsole helps prevent water soaking into the thick leather uppers. Plus, it provides traction even if it gets muddy.

Pros:

• Moisture-wicking removable liner
• Thinsulate Ultra insulation
• Wool insulation
• Extensive rubber
• High-traction K-Talon sole

Cons:

• Heavy

If you hunt in a tree stand, you probably aren't moving for long periods of time, maybe even all day. Without extensive insulation and quality hunting socks, your feet will almost certainly get cold. That's why stand hunters can really benefit from the Kenetrek Grizzly and its three layers of insulation, one of which is even removable for maximum temperature control. These are the best insulated boots for sitting in a tree stand in cold weather. 

Types Of Hunting Boots

Rubber Hunting Boots

Many deer hunters and bow hunters in particular like to wear rubber boots because they deposit less scent on the ground and tend to keep scent confined to the boot. 

Lightweight Hunting Boots

Some hunters prefer a lightweight boot, particularly hunters that put on a lot of miles while hunting, like elk hunters, upland hunters and more.

Pac Boots

Pac Boots are some of the warmest hunting boots available. They often come with multiple inserts for use in different weather conditions.

Muck Boots

Muck boots are a brand of rubber boots that are preferred by many hunters. They excel in design and durability.

Choose Your Hunting Boots Based On When You Hunt

Early Season Warm Weather Hunting Boots

In some states, archery season for whitetails begins as early as September. The weather during the early season is warm. While it may cool off a bit at night, you're likely to see summer temperatures after the sun comes up. 

If you're hunting during the early season, you want boots without insulation. Additionally, look for hunting boots that are breathable to help keep your feet dry.

Mid Season Hunting Boots

In many climates, the mid season means autumn rain. The most important feature to start looking for on mid-season hunting boots is waterproofing. On top of a waterproof lining, check to make sure the rubber sole can handle wet ground and has enough traction that you won't slip.

In mid season, you need a pair of hunting boots that are versatile enough to handle cold conditions as well as midday warmth.

Think breathable inserts like Gore-Tex that allow moisture to escape to help keep your feet dry. We feet equal cold feet, even under cool conditions.

RELATED: Best Base Layer For Hunting

Late Season Cold Weather Hunting Boots

The late season means winter weather. In addition to biting cold, you may face snow and ice. This means you need a boot with thick insulation. Ideally, this insulation should also be breathable so you don't overheat, and it should continue to work even if it gets wet. 

To deal with the snow, you need the same features as in the mid season. Look for a waterproof lining and a sole that will provide lots of traction.

Late season hunting requires the warmest boots that are also breathable to keep your feet dry and warm.

RELATED: Best Barometric Pressure For Deer Hunting

Criteria We Consider When Rating The Best Hunting Boots

Comfort

Comfort is one of the first things we looked at when picking the hunting boots for our list. It isn't just important for enjoying your hunt. It helps you walk carefully, quietly and accurately without hurting your feet.

Comfort isn't just one factor either. It involves looking at a lot of features. Most significantly, we considered:

• Fit
• Lacing
• Sole and midsole support
• Ankle stability
• Lining and padding
• Temperature regulation

Easily Broken In

Most boots require some breaking in, but some need more time than others. During the break-in period, wearing the boots for too long can start to hurt your feet and even injure them. We specifically picked boots that break in fast so that you can hit the tree stand sooner.

Warmth

Warmth is important for both mid-season and late-season hunting. Feet get cold easily, even if you have learned how to keep your feet warm while hunting.

We took a close look at the level of warmth the boots provide when putting them on our list. Those we picked for cold-weather use have thick insulation that's comfortable and breathable. Not only will they keep your feet toasty, but warm extremities are one of the keys to keeping your whole body warm while hunting.

Waterproof

If you're a serious hunter, it's very likely you're going to end up caught in the rain. You don't want your feet getting wet. It could ruin your hunt to the point you may even have to head home.

This is why we checked the waterproofing of the boots we looked at. Many have full waterproof linings like Gore-Tex that keep water out while allowing moisture, in the form of sweat, to escape.

Gore-Tex is used in all of the best rain gear for hunting.

Breathable

Regardless of the weather you hunt in, you want boots that are breathable. That's because the temperature inside the boot is likely to change dramatically depending on whether you're hiking or sitting in the stand. If your feet heat up, you want the sweat to be able to escape so they don't overheat or start to smell, which could give away your position. Plus, it makes the boots more versatile since you can use them in a wider range of weather conditions. We specifically looked for highly breathable boots.

Durable

Whether it's the woods, the plains or the mountains, your hunting boots are going to take some abuse. They're going to get wet, get twisted into weird positions, scrape against rocks, and, above all, impact the ground over and over and over.

You definitely want boots that can hold up to all this, so we checked the durability of the boots on our list. This meant analyzing the toughness of the upper, be it leather or some other material, as well as that of the sole. We also checked the stitching and construction.

With proper care and storage, your hunting boots should last you for many seasons.

Boot Height

We also took boot height into account when rating the hunting boots on our list. A particular height isn't necessarily better than another. It just depends on what you need them for.

For hunting in especially wet terrain, you want extra tall boots that will keep out water. Otherwise, boots with nine or 10 inches of ankle height provide both flexibility and support for general hunting purposes. However, if you're very active and hike extensively, especially aside from hunting, a slightly shorter ankle can allow for more dynamic movements. 

Budget

There are a wide range of prices when it comes to boots. Don't worry. We looked at all of them when choosing our boots to give you budget, mid-range and top-shelf options. 

It's worth pointing out that you generally get what you pay for, but that doesn't necessarily mean you have to get the most expensive boot on the market. Instead, consider the features you need and how often you'll use the boot. If you're a serious hunter who's going to put in a lot of miles, you may need a pricier boot. On the other hand, if you just hunt once or twice a season in easy, dry terrain, a budget boot can save you a lot of money.

RELATED: What Is The Hunter's Most Important Item Of Clothing?

Warranty

If a boot has a warranty, it means you can buy with confidence. And not just because you can repair or replace them if they're faulty. It means the manufacturer stands behind their design and trusts it to last. When possible, we tried to find boots with warranties.

FAQs

How long do hunting boots last?

The best hunting boots last 2 to 4 years on average. Of course, this depends on how often you hunt, what type of hunting you do, and how well you take care of your boots.

Should hunting boots be tight or loose?

Hunting boots should fit snug around your ankles and instep, while wearing hunting socks. Ideally, there will be a little room around your toes, which will help to keep your feet warm. You don't want them to be loose, as that will lead to blisters.

What shoes do you wear deer hunting?

You should wear boots while deer hunting. Our favorite boots for whitetail deer hunting are rubber Muck Boots. They are dry, warm, and the rubber helps keep the human scent from getting to the deer.

Final Thoughts

To be ready for whatever the hunt has in store, you need your feet to be comfortable, protected and supported. You need a quality hunting boot. Our top recommendations for the best hunting boots that money can buy are either the Crispi Guide GTX Hunting Boot or the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme Hunting Boots, but we found many options on the market that suit specific needs and situations. Find the right boot for you, add it to your hunting gear and start this hunting season out on the right foot.