Warmest Hunting Boots For Cold Weather In 2024

Written By John VanDerLaan 

Updated

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There is nothing worse than hunting with cold feet. Our team of experts weigh in with their top picks for the best cold weather hunting boots to help keep your feet warm in the tree stand, ground blind or even hunting on foot.

These are our the best hunting boots for cold weather. Click here for our picks for best hunting boots for all different situations.

After much cold weather hunting and testing,

Here's what we've found. 

Best overall

Irish Setter 860 Elk Tracker Gore Tex Hunting Boots

irish setter elk tracker 860

best for deer hunting

Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 1000 Hunting Boots

kenetrek mountain extreme

warmest for the money

Danner Men's Pronghorn 8 1200G Gore-Tex Hunting Boots

danner pronghorn 1200g gore-tex

List Of The Best Cold Weather Hunting Boots

Best Cold Weather Hunting Boots: Reviews And Recommendations

Below you will find our top picks for cold weather hunting boots, complete with reviews and a thorough buying guide.

Best Overall: Irish Setter Elk Tracker 860 Boots

Irish Setter 860 Elk Tracker Gore Tex Hunting Boots

The Irish Setter Elk Tracker has just about every feature you could want for hunting in cold weather. Most notably it has super thick 1000g 3M Thinsulate Ultra insulation. Thinsulate insulation provides a lot of warmth by weight, so a full 1000g of it is enough for freezing temperatures and snowy terrain.

In keeping with this design, the Bulls-Eye Air Bob Aggressive sole has deep treads to give you more traction in the snow and on wet ground and rocks. Plus, the long 12-inch ankle and memory foam insole give you more stability in the winter when the ground is softer.

Of course, another important aspect of cold-weather hunting is dealing with moisture, whether it's rain, snow or mud. For that, the Irish Setter Elk Tracker has a waterproof Gore-Tex lining. This keeps moisture out but is breathable so that sweat doesn't build up while you're walking, creating an odor that could give away your position.

Speaking of odor, this boot even has a ScentBan odor inhibitor. The insulation will keep you warm while you're sitting in a tree stand, but when you're hiking to it, you're likely to start sweating. This technology helps neutralize the body odor produced by your sweat so you stay better hidden from game.

Pros:

  • 1000g Thinsulate insulation
  • High-traction sole
  • 12-inch ankle
  • Memory foam insole
  • Waterproof Gore-Tex lining
  • ScentBan odor inhibitor

Cons:

  • They do require some breaking in

The Irish Setter Men's 860 Elk Tracker earned its place as the best hunting boot for cold weather because it has features to address multiple aspects of cold-weather hunting. For instance, it's not just warm thanks to thick insulation but also waterproof thanks to a Gore-Tex lining. We recommend this boot for bowhunting during the winter season, especially if that involves snow and rain where you live.


Warmest Boots For Sitting In A Tree Stand Or Ground Blind: Cabela's Inferno 2000 gram Insulated Waterproof Hunting Boots

Cabela's Inferno Insulated Waterproof Hunting Boots for Men

For tree stand hunting in cold winter weather, the first feature to look for is thick insulation. The Cabelas Inferno has some of thickest insulation you'll find with 2,000 grams of 3M Thinsulate insulation. You could probably fall asleep in your tree stand  or ground blind and still wake up with warm toes.

In fact, it's not just the insulation that keeps your foot warm. This boot has a SolarCore aerogel insulation on the underside, it's warm even in frigid winter weather.

At the same time, the 4Most Dry-Plus lining is one of the best at preventing moisture from entering the boot, not only important for your comfort, but for staying warm on a cold winter morning. It's moisture-wicking, too, meaning that if you do end up sweating, it pulls that sweat away from your foot so that it doesn't freeze later. 

Further proof that it's a great boot for winter weather from snow to sleet, the Inferno has an aggressive outsole that provides a high level of traction on slippery terrain. It also works with the waterproof lining to keep water outside of the boot and away from your feet. 

We really like the cushioned EVA midsoles toe caps and heel caps that protect your foot from the unexpected dangers of unfamiliar ground or ground hidden under the snow. That said, it may not be the best bet for those with wide feet. Hopefully Cabela's will release a wide size soon.

Pros:

  • 2000g Thinsulate insulation
  • SolarCare aerogel insulation
  • Waterproof lining
  • Moisture-wicking lining
  • High-traction sole
  • Protective heel and toe caps

Cons:

  • Narrow fit

This was the warmest boot we tested for warm feet in a tree stand or blind during cold weather. Not only does it keep you warm and dry with two different types of insulation and a waterproof lining, but it's extra tall to work with your pants and prevent snow or water from leaking in through the ankle. Plus, you can handle the icy ground with agility and silence thanks to the treaded sole and protective heel and toe caps.


Cabela's Zoned Comfort Trac 2,000-Gram Insulated Hunting Boots

As hunters, we want to reduce the human scent that we leave behind. However, most boots of this type aren't as warm as their leather counterparts. That isn't the case with the Cabelas Zoned Comfort Trac, which features zoned insulation so that you have warmth where you need it the most.

These boots feature 2000 grams of 3M™ Thinsulate™ Ultra Insulation in the toes, 1200 grams in the heels and 1600 grams everywhere else.Insulation strategically placed where you need it the most.

With warmth and a design reinforced at the toe and heel, this boot is excellent for trekking through deep snow or long sits in a tree stand or ground blind. 

Our favorite feature are the wool felt frost plugs that provide a thermal barrier between your feet and the ground.

Other than that, we found that Cabelas did a good job making this boot comfortable. In addition to a cushioned midsole that absorbs the impact of each step, the liner is also moisture wicking so that you don't overheat if the hike is particularly grueling or the day warms up.

Pros:

  • 3M™ Thinsulate™ Ultra Insulation
  • We love the side gussets with cinch buckles
  • Completely waterproof
  • Wool Felt for additional cushioning
  • Moisture wicking
  • Odor fighting technology

Cons:

  • Not available in wide sizes

One of our staff members used these boots on a deer hunting trip to Alberta Canada and they performed flawlessly. He spent all day in a ground blind with frigid temperatures and these boots kept his feet toasty warm. We highly recommend them.


Warmest Deer Hunting Boots: Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 1000

Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 1000 Hunting Boots

If you hunt in the cold, chances are you're doing so in some extreme conditions. For that you need a boot like the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme. It's made with a 2.8mm full-grain leather upper with double and triple stitching so it can handle scrapes, impacts, and the general abuse of hiking off the beaten path. 

Plus, the toe cap protects your toes in case you accidentally kick a rock buried in the snow. Along with the corrosion-resistant boot construction that bends instead of breaking, this also helps the boot last a lot longer even if you hunt frequently and in conditions that would get the better of other boots.

Similarly, the K-Talon outsole helps you take on the mountain because it has great traction even on loose inclines. Meanwhile, the nylon insole cushions your foot even when you're walking on rocky ground. 

Of course, to make it onto our list, the Mountain Extreme also had to be warm. It has 1,000 grams of Thinsulate insulation in addition to a Windtex waterproof membrane. This keeps your foot warm whether you're dealing with snow, wind, or just high altitudes and thin air. In fact, it can even be a bit too warm, so we recommend only using it in cold weather that lasts all day.

Pros:

  • Tough leather upper
  • Strong, protective toe cap
  • Flexible design
  • High-traction sole
  • 1000g Thinsulate insulation
  • Windtex waterproof membrane

Cons:

  • Expensive

If we had to use one word to describe the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme boot, it would be "tough." Give it a look if you've had trouble with your cold-weather boots wearing down quickly in the past. Its durable construction involves triple seaming, full-grain leather and a flexible construction that can contort to demanding terrain without breaking. Plus, it's a warm boot with thick insulation and waterproofing. 


Best Cold Weather Hunting Boots For The Money: Danner Pronghorn 8" 1200G Gore-Tex Hunting Boots

Danner Men's Pronghorn 8 1200G Gore-Tex Hunting Boots

Aside from the great low price, the first feature we noticed on the Pronghorn 8" was the Vibram outsole. This doesn't just provide traction so you can go off the beaten trail, but it gives your feet high-tech support so they can keep hitting the ground step after step, mile after mile. This is only reinforced by the Terra ForceNext platform.

We also found that the upper was comfortable as well. It's made of a combination of leather and nylon, so it's not quite as tough as other models, but it does have a Gore-Tex lining that's both waterproof and breathable. That means your feet don't get wet, but they don't overheat either. Plus, the PrimaLoft insulation keeps them warm even in rainy weather.

Finally, we liked how lightweight this boot is, partly due to the nylon design as well as the short ankle. This makes it less stable, but it also makes it more flexible and conducive to long, fast hikes. In other words, it's a good choice for hunters who like to combine hiking and hunting or who like to use their hunting boots for hiking on the side.

Pros:

  • Vibram sole
  • Terra ForceNext platform
  • Gore-Tex lining
  • PrimaLoft insulation
  • Lightweight
  • Partial camo upper

Cons:

  • Less durable upper
  • Short ankle

If you want top-shelf and high-tech features, you're unlikely to find as many packed into such an affordable package. With Vibram soles and a Gore-Tex lining, the Pronghorn 8" is both comfortable and supportive, ideal for hunting. They are comfortable, lightweight insulated boots. One of our top picks for best lightweight hunting boots.



Warmest Women’s Hunting Boots: Kenetrek Women's Mountain Extreme 1000G

Kenetrek Womens Mountain Extreme Insulated Hunting Boots with 1000 Gram Thinsulate

The Kenetrek Women's Mountain Extreme boot has exactly what a woman needs to hunt in cold weather. Most importantly, it has 1,000 grams of Thinsulate insulation that traps in body heat at low temperatures even if you're sitting in a tree stand. Plus, the Windtex waterproof membrane keeps out moisture like snow and rain that would freeze your feet.

We also liked that Kenetrek designed this boot with the female foot and step in mind. For example, it has an appropriate eight-inch upper that's better for the female ankle and a narrower heel that helps prevent the heel slip many women experience in unisex boots. Additionally, the nylon midsole along with the supportive insole provides support step after step while the flexible design allows the boot to actually work like a spring and help your foot move.

Finally, the Women's Mountain Extreme does as good a job as the men's version when it comes to foot protection. It has the same full-grain leather upper attached to a sole guard that provides abrasion resistance high up on the foot, meaning you can go off trail. The sole itself also has deep treads for improved traction.

Pros:

  • 1000g Thinsulate insulation
  • Windtex waterproof membrane
  • Female-specific fit
  • Supportive insole
  • Protective sole guard
  • High-traction sole

Cons:

  • Expensive

Female hunters should definitely look for a women's boot because the female foot is shaped differently and the female step is a slightly different movement. The Kenetrek Women's Mountain Extreme addresses this with an expertly designed fit that includes a lower ankle and narrower heel. Combined with the general support and durability of a Kenetrek boot, this gives you stability on your feet and a secure fit that keeps you warm and comfortable for long periods. 


Cabela's Trans-Alaska Insulated Waterproof Pac Boots

The first reason we chose the Cabela's Trans Alaska as our favorite pac boot is that it has an effective pac design. The 3 layer abrasion resistant outer guards cover the the toes and heals for protection and durability. A durable, waterproof leather shell and reflective nylon uppers keep cold out and the warmth in. 

Inside, these boots feature NASA-inspired SolarCore® insulating aerogel barriers under the feet and around the toes which retain more heat than other boots with traditional insulation. Next is layers of EVA foam on top of 3 inches of cold blocking insulation between you and the cold ground, but that's not all. Finally there is a 13mm Wool felt liner and heat pack pockets. Cabela's really thought of everything with these boots.

I have personally worn these pac boots in tree stands and ground blinds when the temperature was below zero. My feet were incredibly warm and comfortable, and that is not the norm for me.

Pros:

  • We love the SolarCore insulating barriers and the wool felt liners 
  • Ripstop gaiters with a drawstring are ideal for deep snow
  • We love the foot warmer pockets, although you only need them in the coldest weather
  • Waterproof, breathable 4MOST DRY-PLUS lining
  • 1-pull ball-bearing lacing system

Cons:

  • No wide sizes

Pac boots are ideal for climates where winter means frigid temperature and snowfall. These Cabela's Trans Alaska pac boots have the insulation and features that keeps the cold and snow out while creating a perfect environment for your feet inside. This means you stay warm and dry whether you are on your feet or sitting in a ground blind or tree stand.


Warmest Muck Boots For Hunting: Muck Arctic Pro

Muck Arctic Pro Hunting Boots

These Muck Boots are rated for temperatures as low as -60 degrees. That's cold. This should serve the majority of cold-weather hunting purposes including long treks through the snow in arctic climates from Alaska to Canada to Montana. First and foremost, that's due to the eight millimeters of neoprene in the boot's interior. That means warmth, waterproofing and even cushioning for your feet.

Additionally, there's thermal foam under the footbed and a stretch-fit calf that seals around your lower leg to keep warmth in and snow out. Plus, it's extra tall at 17 inches so there's a lot of overlap between your boot and pant leg and more insulation for your ankle.

As for the outside of the boot, we were a little curious as to why it was made with a Mossy Oak Country camo finish when something with more white and gray would have been more appropriate for a boot designed for arctic climates. Nonetheless, the design is fully waterproof so you can walk through snow or even standing water.

Pros:

  • Thermal foam and neoprene insulation
  • Stretch-fit calf
  • 17-inch high ankle
  • Waterproof design
  • Bob-Tracker sole

Cons:

  • Forest-based camo

The Arctic Pro is our recommendation for sub-zero hunting. That doesn't necessarily mean the arctic or tundra. If you hunt at high altitudes or even in deep Midwestern snow, the tall upper keeps snow out while the neoprene and thermal foam traps enough heat in to handle temperatures well below freezing. 


What To Consider When Choosing Hunting Boots For Cold Weather

Warmest Hunting Boots In the Snow

Insulation

If you're getting hunting boots specifically for cold weather, insulation is probably going to be the biggest factor you look at. Insulation prevents your body heat from radiating out of the boot so it stays trapped in, warming your foot. 

The main downside of insulation is that it's heavy. Plus, too much insulation for the temperature might make your feet sweat, which is a problem for hunting since sweat can mean body odor that scares away game. In other words, more insulation is not always better.

Let's look at the main types of insulation and their pros and cons.

Types Of Insulation

There are four main types of insulation you'll find in winter hunting boots. They all have advantages and disadvantages.

  • Thinsulate: Thinsulate is a synthetic insulator that provides great insulation by weight. You'll usually see it measured in grams.
  • PrimaLoft: PrimaLoft is meant to be a synthetic alternative to goose down, one of nature's best insulators. That means it's lightweight, but unlike goose down, it continues to work even if it gets wet. 
  • Wool: Wool is a natural insulator that holds in a lot of warmth. Plus, it continues to insulate even when it's wet. Its primary downside is that it's heavy.
  • Neoprene: Neoprene is an extreme insulator that traps in most of your body heat. As a result, it's probably overkill unless you're hunting in temperatures below freezing.

Warmth

Of course, if you're hunting in cold weather, you need warm boots. This means primarily looking at the insulation, but there are other features to consider as well. Most notably, you should check the ankle and fit. A warm hunting boot should fit snugly at the ankle so that cold air or snow and water don't enter in through the top.

Warm hunting boots will help to keep the rest of your body warm if you follow these tips.

RELATED: Best Base Layer For Hunting

Comfort

You usually spend a lot of time in your hunting boots. Whether it's hiking long distances in to your tree stand or just sitting in it, your feet are going to be in those boots for hours. You want them to be comfortable.

Comfort is not the same for everyone and has a lot to do with your foot and its size and shape. Before you choose a boot, measure your foot's length and width so you can compare it to the brand's sizing chart. Also make sure to go for wide sizes if you have a wide foot.

Another aspect of comfort is the step. Most everyone can benefit from features like support insoles or interior cushioning that help take some of the pressure off your feet by absorbing the impact of each step.

Waterproof

For most climates winter means water in some form or another. Whether it's rain, snow or ice, your cold weather boots should definitely be waterproof.

Most boots accomplish this with some kind of waterproof lining like Gore-Tex or Windtex. Additionally, many boots have waterproof outsoles that keep any water from entering in the bottom.

That said, the best way to waterproof a boot is to make it entirely waterproof, or neoprene, like waders. That's why boots designed for wading through standing water have full neoprene uppers. However, neoprene isn't usually as tough as leather, so consider your needs.

RELATED: Best Rain Gear For Hunting

Breathable

Even in cold weather, you want your boots to be breathable. Since hunting usually involves periods of intense hiking followed by periods of not moving, the temperature of your feet is going to fluctuate. In fact, they might even get hot. 

In this case, breathability helps sweat moisture escape which keeps your feet cool and comfortable. Plus, it keeps sweat from building up on your feet which could lead to body odor that could give you away to your quarry.

Easily Broken In

Heavily Used Hunting Boots

All boots need to be broken in. Everyone's feet move differently, and the boots have to adapt to that movement. Usually, you should do this by wearing the boots for just an hour or two at a time for a couple of days.

However, some boots go through this process faster than others. If you're buying your winter hunting boots last minute, check to make sure they break in fast or you'll end up with sore feet.

Durable

Here at DeerHuntingGuide.net, we can't stand hunting boots that don't last. We only recommend high quality, durable boots that we have actually used and can vouch for their durability.

Make sure to check the construction of a boot before deciding on it. Any hunting boot should be durable, but cold-weather boots even more so. In the case of leather boots, that means quality, full grain leather with double or triple stitching that holds up to bends and scrapes. If they're not leather, it should be flexible but thick enough to handle rough terrain.

It is best to buy your boots from a reputable hunting apparel brand to ensure that you get quality boots that will last a long time.

Boot Height

For cold-weather boots, a taller ankle is usually better. It prevents snow or water from entering into the boot and provides warmth farther up your leg. That said, if you have shorter legs—as a woman, for instance—a taller boot could make it harder to maneuver. Consider your personal situation as well.

Budget

You usually get what you pay for when it comes to hunting gear. Cheaper boots are less durable, less comfortable and less warm. However, you can sometimes calibrate your budget to your needs. For instance, if you hunt infrequently, you may not need to pay top dollar for the most durable boot that's made to handle daily hikes.

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

Warranty

A warranty is always a great thing to look for with a hunting boot. Not only does it give you a time period during which you can repair or exchange the boots if they happen to be faulty, but it shows that the manufacturer stands by their product and trusts it to last. 

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 best cold weather hunting boots available. They often come with multiple inserts for use in different weather conditions. Couple them with a good pair of wool socks and your feet will be toasty warm in cold temps.

Muck Boots

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

Final Thoughts

There is nothing worse than cold feet, so hunting in cold weather requires special boots. In our experience, we've found that the Irish Setter Elk Tracker 860 is an ideal boot for keeping your feet warm, comfortable and supported. However, we also found a number of other boots good for specific cold-weather situations. 

The warm boots are only one factor for keeping your feet warm while hunting. You will also need quality hunting socks and in the extreme cold temperatures of the late season, you may even want heated hunting socks.

Make sure you consider the conditions you'll be hunting in to find the best boot for you. 

Photo of author

John VanDerLaan

John VanDerLaan is the managing editor here at DeerHuntingGuide.net. He oversees a team of editors, writers and pro staff that are subject matter experts in hunting and hunting gear. John's expertise includes thoroughly testing all types of hunting gear, as well as hunting all over the U.S. and Canada. While his hunting expertise includes game birds, small game and large game, his favorite game animal is the whitetail deer and he loves to share the knowledge that he has gained over 40 years of chasing the wily whitetail with both archery gear and firearms. John is an active member of the Outdoor Writers Association of America.

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