Are you looking for the best lightweight hunting boots?
You have come to the right place!
There is nothing worse than spending a lot of money on a pair of boots only to find that they give you blisters, or they are not waterproof, or they fall apart after a year of heavy use.
Our staff of expert hunters have spent countless hours hunting in these lightweight boots so that they could provide you with REAL REVIEWS for each of the boots below, so that you can make an educated decision about which boots are right for you.
Best overall
danner pronghorn
lightweight rubber
Muck Fieldblazer
Staff Favorite
lacrosse clearshot
List of Lightweight Hunting Boots We Use
These are the lightweight boots that our staff uses on a regular basis. These are only the lightweight boots. Visit our best hunting boots page to see our top picks for all hunting boots.
The Pronghorn boot has been a reliable mainstay hunting boot amidst the Danner hunt line for the last couple of decades. Pronghorn’s name comes with a reputation and standard that customers love.
This is the fifth generation, and it combines many years of history with cutting-edge technology. Terra Force Next technology integrates an internal and external shank system to deliver arch support and torsion control.
These boots provide all-day comfort and durability, making the workday or the hunt a little easier. This genuine leather has passed extensive quality tests.
A GORE-TEX waterproof liner protects you from inclement weather in the field. Pronghorn keeps moisture out while allowing your feet to breathe to reduce sweaty feet. Pronghorn also offers boots with PrimaLoft insulation for those cold and rainy days.
Pros:
- Super lightweight weighing in at only 53 ounces per pair
- Waterproof, full-grain leather
- GORE-TEX waterproof breathable lining
- PrimaLoft insulation
Cons:
- Narrow fit
Pronghorn by Danner has been well loved over the last decade because of its reliable performance and comfort. We love the fact that it keeps us comfortably dry without causing sweaty feet. We also love the durability. Danner also makes a Pronghorn boot with 1200 grams of Thinsulate that tops our list of the warmest hunting boots.
Editor's Choice
Cabela's Treadfast GORE-TEX Insulated Hunting Boots
Cabela's Treadfast GORE-TEX Insulated Hunting Boots for Men are designed for the modern hunter. These boots have all the bells and whistles.
Treadfast boots are lightweight but are durable and rugged. The 600-denier textile uppers feature a support cage molded of thermoplastic, providing the highest abrasion protection.
The GORE-TEX lining is moisture-wicking and waterproof, with breathable membranes incorporating open-cell foam. This adds up to waterproof with excellent breathability.
3M™ Thinsulate™ Insulation inserts 800-gram insulation into the toebox, 400-gram throughout the sole, and 200-gram in the heel for the lightest weight possible and ideal thermic comfort.
Ultralight TC3 OrthoLite memory-foam insoles provide three layers of supreme cushioning, making those long treks in the field or mountains enjoyable. All-weather and all-terrain footing are possible with the inspiration of the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tire tread. This Treadfast's proprietary tread design performs in harsh terrain and inclement weather.
Pros:
- Rugged yet lightweight, 600-denier textile uppers
- Available in wide width
- Ultralight TC3 OrthoLite memory-foam insoles
- All-terrain outsoles - inspired by BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tire tread
Cons:
- Narrow
- Hard to break-in
Cabela is a name hunters trust because of its dedication to outdoor sports. The Treadfast Hunting Boot was designed with you in mind. It is an attempt to check all the boxes with the latest footwear technology, and they succeeded, in our opinion. These boots are all-terrain and all-weather. Summer or the dead of winter, these boots have got you covered.
Best Lightweight Upland Hunting Boots
Irish Setter Men's 838 Wingshooter Waterproof Upland Hunting Boot
For Irish Setter, hunting isn't just a pastime. It is a lifestyle and what they were made to do. They have committed themselves to that lifestyle for sixty years, and it has remained their focus.
Good hunters have instincts, and they have listened to theirs. They've never stopped living for the chase and perfecting their skill in order to bring you the most advanced and top performing hunting boots. For Irish Setter, the hunt never ends.
Created with 100% leather, this ankle high hunting boot from Irish Setter will keep you in style and comfort. This Wingshooter lace up boot is waterproof and has a moisture wicking nylon lining.
Add the shock absorbing EVA footbed and Goodyear welt construction, and you have this top performer from Irish Setter. With premium stability and durability, you can’t go wrong.
Pros:
- UltraDry Waterproofing technology
- Moisture-wicking nylon lining
- Ankle high
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Run small and narrow
Irish Setter Men's 838 Wingshooter Waterproof Upland Hunting Boots are the best lightweight upland hunting boots. They are constructed of 100% leather and are ankle high. Comfort and protection come standard in this pair of boots. These boots will keep you warm, dry, and in style.
Best Lightweight Waterproof Hunting Boots
Danner Vital Insulated Waterproof Hunting Boots
Charles Danner set out to build the greatest boots loggers had ever worn. This mission resulted in an iconic brand with a deeply ingrained renegade spirit. This spirit lives on in every pair of the well-known Danner boots made to this day.
Danner Vital 400 Insulated Waterproof Hunting Boots protect you through harsh terrain and changing weather. These boots are built to assist hunters in managing the unforeseen in comfort.
Vital combines rugged, durable leather and 900-denier polyester uppers with a Danner Dry waterproof/breathable lining to keep you dry and safeguarded in the woods. These boots incorporate Thinsulate Insulation to block cold temperatures.
Multi-density foam positioned throughout the boot eradicates trouble spots and pinch points. Vital provides a more standard athletic fit with a wide box toe and tight heel pocket.
They have tread that gives a multi-directional grip across many hunting planes and conditions. Hunters often find themselves trekking many different terrains such as rocks, moss, creek beds, and other slick surfaces.
Pros:
- Super Lightweight
- Danner Dry waterproof/breathable linings
- Eliminates hotspots and pinch points
- Multi-directional grip over multiple surfaces
- No break-in required
Cons:
- The rubber sole is thinner than other brands
- Cheap laces
Danner Vital Insulated Waterproof Hunting Boots are the best lightweight hunting boot available. They require no break-in period and have an athletic fit. You can eliminate blisters and pinch with the correct fitting pair of Danner boots.
Best Lightweight Rubber Hunting Boots
Muck Boots FieldBlazer Classic Hunting Boots
A necessity to build premium, protective, reliable boots that offer exceptional comfort in every element led to the founding of Muck Boots. The original muck boot company was founded to provide waterproof boots and footwear that resist the muckiest conditions in every season.
Nine out of ten reviewers gave Fieldblazer a five-star rating, making it one of the best Muck Boots for hunting. The classic Fieldblazer provides fit and performance hunters have come to love and appreciate, its superior construction keeps your feet dry while hunting, working, or exploring in the field.
Extra safety is offered by the Mossy Oak Country camouflage pattern, which has a roll-down Blaze Orange lining. Further defense and longevity are ensured by the triple toe reinforcement, double instep rubber, and quadruple heels. The lining of the Airmesh keeps feet warm but not sweaty.
Pros:
- 100% Waterproof
- 100% muck proof
- Breathable Airmesh Lining
- Roll Down Orange lining
Cons:
- Narrow calf
The Muck Boots FieldBlazer Classic Hunting Boots are the best rubber hunting boots and they are lightweight as well. Muck Boots are the ultimate in safety footwear. From horse racing to farming, to military operations, muck boots are the ultimate in protection in mucky situations. Their muck boots are absolutely waterproof. They're made for everything that weather can throw at you.
Best Rugged Lightweight Hunting Boots
LaCrosse Men's Clear Shot 8" Waterproof Hunting Boot
The Clear Shot waterproof boots are constructed of durable nubuck leather. They feature abrasion-resistant nylon upper and watertight lining with Dry-Core technology to make sure your feet are dry and shielded from the elements. Dry feet mean you can hunt longer without being
The rubber Crosshair outsole provides stability and traction across a wide variety of terrains with multi-directional lugs. You will appreciate the grip.
These boots sport the well-known Mossy Oak Break-Up Country pattern with larger limbs, leaves, bark, branches, and other natural elements that mimic real life. It masks your profile and blends you into the landscape in diverse forested settings.
Thinsulate Ultra Insulation is incorporated to safeguard from the elements. It is the warmest thin insulate available.
Pros:
- Multi-directional lugs for stability on uneven terrain
- True to size
- Comfortable
- 100% waterproof Dry-Core lining and Thinsulate Ultra Insulation for protection from the elements
Cons:
- Tread may wear rapidly
LaCrosse Men's Clear Shot 8" Waterproof Hunting Boots are the best rugged, lightweight hunting boots. These boots come in the popular Mossy Oak Break-Up Country pattern and include Thinsulate Ultra for warmth. Add comfort and 100% waterproof, and you have a great pair of boots.
Best Lightweight Elk Hunting Boots
Irish Setter Men's Vaprtrek 8" Waterproof Insulated Hunting Boots
Red Wing Brands has introduced the Irish Setter to its line of boots. These boots are the lightest in their class, weighing in at just 19 ounces each. Don’t let the weight fool you, though, because there are still loads of features.
Ultra Dry 100% waterproofing keeps your feet dry, and PrimaLoft insulation will keep them warm. Wet feet are miserable.
One of the best features is the Rubber-RPM composite outsole. It is a rugged outsole that provides a superior grip and the feel of an athletic shoe. EnerG is a dual-density midsole with high-rebound EVA, which means support for each and every stride. A fusion of a polyurethane foam insole and an energy-returning midsole help keep fatigue at bay on those long days hunting or scouting.
ArmaTec XT abrasion-resistant material at the toe and heel guards your boots for durability and long-wear. ScentBan scent-control technology defends your feet from that awful stink at the end of the day. Cushin Comfort tongue innovation helps reduce pressure on the top of your feet. This means no more blisters or sore spots.
Pros:
- Waterproof full-grain leather upper
- Mossy Oak Country camouflage
- Cushin Comfort tongue
- ScentBan scent control system kills odor-causing bacteria
Cons:
- Laces are too short
- snug-fit, so size up and go wide
Irish Setter Men's Vaprtrek 8" Waterproof Insulated Hunting Boots are the best lightweight elk hunting boots. These are our go-to boots along with lightweight hunting pants when we are chasing elk up and down the mountain in september.
These boots have a feature those around you will appreciate. ScentBan technology kills odor causing bacteria. Ultra Dry 100% waterproofing keeps your feet dry, and PrimaLoft insulation will keep them warm.
Best Value Lightweight Hunting Boots
Rocky Men's Ridge Stalker 9" Waterproof Insulated Hunting Boots
Many reviewers applaud the throwback to the original Rocky Boot. These Rocky Ridge Stalkers are guaranteed to keep water out with proven Rocky Waterproof Construction.
900D Cordura nylon may be light, but it is tough. Add a PVC outsole, and you have a boot that can withstand the long haul. You can be confident in those long hunts in the backcountry.
The PVC outsole was designed to be resistant to oils, slippery terrain, heat, and abrasions. 800-gram Thinsulate Ultra Insulation makes sure your toes stay warm while chasing the big one. A cushioned footbed gives comfort for those long treks.
Pros:
- 800 grams of 3M Thinsulate Ultra Insulation
- Rocky Air-Port cushion footbed
- Durable, heavy duty polyurethane outsole
- Affordable
Cons:
- Must be broken in
- Not leather
Rocky Men's Ridge Stalker 9" Waterproof Insulated Hunting Boots are the best value lightweight hunting boots. These boots may look like a throwback, but their cutting-edge technology is a part of the future. They are 100% waterproof, durable, and warm.
Best Lightweight Snake Proof Hunting Boot
Rocky Men's Lynx Waterproof Snake Hunting Boot
Rocky Men’s Lynx Waterproof Snake Hunting Boot was developed to be snakeproof. When hunting or scouting in known snakey areas, protecting yourself from dangerous snake bites is imperative.
CORDURA fabric is rugged enough to be able to endure rough conditions but also lightweight. These boots with rubber Lynx outsole are able to endure many diverse terrains while remaining comfortable.
Rocky Lynx boots offer abrasion protection on both the toe box and heel. The Terra Suspension polyurethane footbed absorbs shock and provides comfort. With laces and a side zipper, these boots are easy to get on and off. These boots are perfect for swampy and dense terrain to stay dry and protected.
Pros:
- Lace-up hunting boot featuring D-ring hardware and cushioned footbed
- Reinforced toe and heel cap
- Snake proof
Cons:
- We have had a zipper fail
- Requires break-in
Rocky Men's Lynx Waterproof Snake Hunting Boots are the best lightweight snake proof hunting boot. These are a must if you know you will be trekking through a known snake-infested area. This pair of boots provide protection from snakes and are 100% waterproof.
Best Lightweight Hunting Boots For The Money
Cungel Men's Camo Waterproof Hunting Boots
Cungel Men's Camo Waterproof hunting boot durable camo upper stands up to the harsh environments. The all-terrain outsole provides excellent grip and works well whether hiking or hunting in the jungle.
They are lightweight and comfortable enough to walk extensively in all weather conditions. With a water-resistant upper, you will never have wet feet again in these boots.
A removable, washable, and breathable insole helps eliminate stinky, sweaty feet. Because they are maneuverable, they ensure grip on slick moss-covered rocks, wet leaves, and icy banks with a deep lug rubber outsole.
CUNGEL hunting boots have remained a customer favorite with customers all over the world. They are enhanced with a very realistic camouflage to minimize detection.
Pros:
- They're lightweight and maneuverable
- Removable/washable/breathable cushioned insole
- Comfortable
- Waterproof
- Affordable
Cons:
- Inconsistent sizing
Cungel Men's Camo Waterproof Hunting Boots are the best lightweight hunting boots for the money. One of our favorite features is the removable, washable, and breathable insole. These boots are a customer favorite, and check all the boxes.
Final Thoughts
The best lightweight hunting boots for you can only be chosen with consideration of your hunting style, terrain and weather conditions. The most important thing is to find a good fit that provides comfort and protection from the elements.
With proper care, cleaning and storage, your boots should last through years of heavy use.
Your boots are one of the most important pieces of hunting gear. Take the time to choose the right pair for the kind of hunting that you do.
If you are having trouble breaking in a new pair of boots, you can try this trick. Soak them in hot water, put them on, and wear them until they are dry. This will help to form them to your feet for a quick breaking in period.
