How to choose boots for hunting and fishing

Wet feet are always unpleasant and can lead to unpleasant health consequences. Especially if you are on a hunt. It’s unlikely that you’ll have a change of clothes with you, and you won’t always have the opportunity to dry out. That is why it is so important to pay special attention to this part of the equipment. Making a choice can be very difficult. The market is voluminous and represented by dozens of brands. Prices for ordinary rubber boots can reach tens of thousands, and it is far from certain that an expensive model will be reliable. But shoes should also be warm, often able to cope with extreme temperatures.

We carefully studied winter boots and their manufacturers. Based on the knowledge gained, this rating was created, which includes only the best companies that can boast of the highest quality of their products. Both foreign and Russian companies are represented here. They are united by the well-established models they produce, but prices can differ significantly. Maintaining a delicate balance between the cost of a product and its quality is often very difficult, but looking ahead, we note that some companies still manage to do this.

Top 10. All-terrain vehicle

Rating (2021): 4.28

• Characteristics
  Price range: 1,600 - 2,900 rubles.
• Homeland of the brand: Russia
• Production sites: Russia
• Year founded: 2000
• Official website: vezdekhod.com

Men's and women's boots should be different in both design and construction. The Vezdekhod company understands this and produces the most diverse shoes aimed at a specific buyer. There are even children's models in the line, if you decide to introduce your child to hunting from early childhood. All Vezkhod shoes are produced in Russia, which allows them to keep prices at an acceptable level without sacrificing the quality of the products and the raw materials from which they are made. The plant has modern Italian and German equipment, which makes it possible to constantly expand the range and produce new collections with original designs from a variety of materials.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Numerous male and female models
• There are rubber shoes for children
• Constantly expanding range

• No models for extreme temperatures

A brief overview of the main manufacturers of hunting shoes and their cost

Prices are approximate, in Russian rubles.

As a rule, amateur hunters go out into nature occasionally, a couple of times a month, so it makes no sense to purchase separate autumn and winter options. It makes much more sense to buy shoes that are equally suitable for any season. But it’s hard to say whether it’s worth saving or focusing only on well-known manufacturers. This is relevant for commercial hunters who are constantly in extreme conditions.

For irregular trips, according to the author, you can limit yourself to buying budget shoes. Moreover, much is determined not only by the quality of the product, but also by the carefulness of the owner, the organization of appropriate shoe care, the conditions in which a person prefers to hunt, and a number of other factors. And since such models are relatively cheap, if they are unsuitable for further use, the next purchase will not be too burdensome for the family budget.

Moreover, branded models, along with their advantages, also have some disadvantages. It is pointless to list them, since each manufacturer’s shoes have their own positive and negative characteristics, which determine the specifics of their use (in relation to hunting conditions). In addition, this article is not an advertisement, and more specific information can be easily found on the website of the dealer or manufacturer.

Tips for choosing a watch for a hunter or fisherman: characteristics, functions and review of models

Among the “branded” products, one can highlight products from North American companies, for which professional reviews are more than laudatory - models under the brands “Baffin Trapper”, “Baffin Titan” . The price of boots starts from 6,680 (42 rubles).

If we focus on cheaper shoes for hunting, then in this price segment the products under the brand “Lemigo” (Poland) . Good boots can be purchased for 2,900 – 3,100.

Among domestic shoes for hunting, products under the brands “ Husky”, “ROKS”, “ARDT”, “NordMan”, “Jnt” and a number of others are in demand. In principle, the list of Russian manufacturing companies is quite impressive. For amateur hunters who travel outside the city only occasionally, shoes from the Russian Federation are even better.

• Firstly, domestic manufacturers take into account the specifics of our climate, which they know firsthand, unlike foreign ones.
• Secondly, in terms of basic characteristics, “native” shoes are not much inferior to their imported counterparts. And this is not advertising, but a statement of fact - market relations have forced companies to think about the quality of the final product.
• Thirdly, the cost of domestic hunting boots starts from 780 rubles. Even if they only last 2-3 seasons, there is no tragedy in that.

For those who are interested in a more extensive list, as an example we can cite the following brands of high-quality hunting shoes from the category of budget models - “ATTACKER”, “Patboots”, “BERKUT ZIPP”, “CORPORAL”, “AKU”, “ARAVI MULTICAM” . There is a choice, and a very significant one. Moreover, the price for all of these models is quite reasonable - ranging from 2,000 to 9,800 rubles.

Top 9. CHF

Rating (2021): 4.34

• Characteristics
  Price range: 3,500 - 15,300 rubles.
• Homeland of the brand: Russia
• Production sites: Russia
• Year founded: 1993
• Official website: hsn.ru

Winter boots for hunting should not only be warm, practical and comfortable, but also stylish. This is the opinion of the Russian company HSN, which produces shoes and related equipment for fishermen, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Just look at the Shaman collection and the Cardinal lineup to appreciate how attractive the brand’s shoes look and how well the company’s designers work. In addition, the quality here is very high. All thanks to the presence of only one production site, which is easier to monitor. No factories in China or India. Only local raw materials and production in strict accordance with GOST standards.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Attractive design
• Thoughtful ergonomics
• Targeted at hunters and fishermen

• Rarely found on store shelves
• High price tag for a Russian company

Top 8. Woodline

Rating (2021): 4.39

• Nomination

  The most advertised brand A company that produces casual shoes, including, and places emphasis on brand awareness. And thanks to the release of boots, the company logo is becoming increasingly popular among fishermen and hunters.

• Characteristics
  Price range: 1,800 - 3,200 rubles.
• Homeland of the brand: Russia
• Production sites: Russia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia
• Year founded: 1992
• Official website: woodland-eva.ru

The Russian brand Woodline is better known as a manufacturer of casual shoes. Its logo can often be found on store shelves, and recently it has also been producing specialized boots for hunting, fishing and outdoor activities. The company is proud of its popularity and focuses on the environmental component. The boots here are not rubber, but made from EVA material, which is cleaner in production and in use. Of course, most models are produced outside of Russia, but as they assure us on the official website, they very carefully monitor all stages of work at other factories. Despite the budget price tag, Woodline boots are famous for their reliability.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Maximum use of natural materials
• Wide range of models
• Can be found in almost any store

• There is no division into male and female models

Top 7. Torvi

Rating (2021): 4.47

• Nomination

  The best shoes for the “Russian” winter The company focuses exclusively on the Russian market and produces shoes taking into account local climatic and financial realities.

• Characteristics
  Price range: 1,600 - 2,600 rubles.
• Homeland of the brand: Russia
• Production sites: Russia
• Year founded: unknown
• Official website: torvi.ru

Torvi is an exclusively Russian company that until recently produced rubber boots. Recently, modern Italian equipment was installed there, which made it possible to launch the production of shoes made from EVA material, which differs from rubber in reliability, high level of comfort, as well as elasticity and the ability to produce goods with virtually no harmful emissions into the atmosphere. Externally, Torvi's boots are not particularly original. The collection has both male and female models, but the difference between them, in addition to size, is only in the color palette. The main advantage here is the price. The boots are quite cheap, and besides, the company knows exactly what Russian winter is like and creates models taking into account local specifics.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Elastic EVA material
• Eco-friendly shoes
• Affordable prices

• Rarely updated lineup
• Little difference between male and female models

Criterias of choice

In order for the user to feel as comfortable as possible, winter shoes must meet certain requirements. Since hunting takes place in the cold season and with possible precipitation, one of these requirements is thermal insulation. The longer the heat remains, the longer the hunt will be.

In addition, winter boots must have non-slip soles. The hunter often has to overcome obstacles in the form of ice, so if there is strong sliding, it will not be easy to catch up with the prey.

Hunting often occurs during snow or rain. Another important quality that boots should have is water resistance.

Let's look at the main characteristics that shoes for hunting in the winter should have.

Material

There are many materials from which winter hunting shoes are made. Each of them is designed for specific weather conditions and are used for specific types of hunting.

Winter boots made of membrane fabric are lightweight and water-resistant. Suitable for hunting near water or in snowy conditions. But they require some care - when exposed to strong heat or fire, membrane shoes lose their advantages and become unsuitable for hunting.

Polyurethane boots are made using seamless casting technology. Thanks to this, they are considered quite durable and do not allow water to penetrate into the shoes. In addition, such material does not allow slipping on the surface being overcome and retains heat well. The disadvantages include the weight of the product - such boots will be heavy compared to shoes made of other materials.

PVC rubber boots are not suitable for wearing in cold weather without insulating liners. Therefore, it is recommended to use only at the beginning of winter. At temperatures just below zero, the hunter will simply freeze. They have waterproof properties, but if they overheat, moisture remains inside, which causes some discomfort to the owner.

Boots made from ethylene vinyl acetate (or EVA) material are quite popular. They have many advantages: they are very durable, but at the same time they are light in weight, retain heat well and do not allow moisture to enter the boot. This option is perfect for severe frosts and snowy conditions.

Shoes made of neoprene are quite elastic and light. It prevents moisture from penetrating inside and also retains heat well.

Cordura boots are also lightweight and durable. This material consists of nylon coated with polyurethane. To protect against moisture, nylon fabric is coated with a special water-repellent impregnation.

Leather boots are very comfortable to wear; the material they are made of does not allow the foot to sweat, retains heat, and also does not require special care for the shoes. High-quality leather will allow such shoes to last a significant service life.

Nubuck boots are characterized by increased wear resistance and durability, as they are made from large-sized cattle leather. When treated with a special impregnation, shoes have water-repellent advantages.

By height

Hunting in the winter season involves moving on a snowy surface. The higher the snow layer, the higher the boots should be. The height of the shoes will prevent unnecessary precipitation from penetrating inside the shoe.

In addition, the height of the boots serves as a barrier against damage when walking a given path, especially when the road has hills or a rocky surface. For ease of walking and fixation of the ankle, the recommended height of the boot should be up to 15 cm. At a higher height, the product will have a heavier weight, which will create discomfort while walking.

The top of the boots should not tightly wrap around the hunter’s leg. Firstly, this creates inconvenience when moving, and secondly, in order not to wet the bottom of your clothes, it is advisable to tuck your pants into your boots.

Sole

For improved traversal of territory, the sole must be stable and have one important property - have a deep tread pattern. This will allow you to confidently move on loose soil or snow. To overcome obstacles on rocks or cultivated soil, it is recommended to use removable spikes. Such ice drifts will allow you to move through any territory, including areas with ice.

The thickness of the sole and the material it is made of are responsible for the thermal insulation of the shoe. In addition, the sole should consist of several layers: a lining responsible for ventilation of the insole, a polyurethane layer that takes the required shape of the foot, then a shock absorber with instep support is located to reduce springiness while walking.

By weight

Depending on the type of hunting, weight has a certain meaning. For example, if a hunter must constantly travel long distances on flat terrain to track prey, then the boots should be light in weight. If you wear heavy shoes for a long time, your feet will get tired quickly. But when overcoming mountain obstacles or other elevations, shoes must have certain criteria that affect the weight and will be heavier.

In addition, the weight of the product depends on the material of manufacture, the sole, the height of the boot, as well as the presence of lacing or other small fittings.

Top 6. MuckBoot

Rating (2021): 4.52

• Nomination

  Iconic American shoes for hunting and more. A brand with a long history that has become legendary in the USA and Canada.

• Characteristics
  Price range: 5,000 - 10,000 rubles.
• Homeland of the brand: USA
• Production sites: USA, Canada, China, Malaysia
• Year founded: unknown
• Official website: muckbootcompany.com

Rubber boots can also be legendary. The American company MuckBoot has proven this. Initially, she developed shoes for rural areas. In these boots you don’t have to worry about mud on the roads or wet feet. The boots were quickly appreciated by fans of fishing and hunting, which is why the company began producing specialized shoes, which just as quickly won men’s hearts. In America this is the most popular brand, but in Russia and the CIS countries it is not represented so widely. Even production sites in Asia were unable to significantly reduce the price tag. And without legendary status in our country, these are ordinary winter boots that don’t stand out much from other brands.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Popular manufacturer in the USA
• High strength

• Unreasonably high prices

Classification of shoes for hunting

There are three main groups of it, depending on the intended use and performance characteristics.

Rubber boots

Unlike traditional rubber boots, they are equipped with special liners that simultaneously serve as insulation and shock absorber. But they are only suitable for autumn and early winter, since at temperatures below -8 ºС they lose elasticity, and their feet begin to freeze. Typically purchased for hunting waterfowl or in wetlands.

Canadian boots

A modernized version consisting of two “structural” parts. The bottom is galoshes made of high-quality rubber, the top is leather (expensive models of shoes for hunting), tarpaulin or synthetics. These boots are ideal for winter, especially since you can choose the most suitable thermal insulation insoles from the same manufacturer for local conditions - wool, synthetic, felt and even fur.

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In such boots the hunter will be comfortable, even if the temperature outside is extremely low - down to -45. Your feet will definitely not freeze. Such models are popular among winter fishing enthusiasts, polar explorers, and ski tourists.

Boots

Not only specimens are suitable for hunting if the documentation for them (or on the tags) indicates exactly this purpose. Similar shoes are produced for climbers, skiers, and military personnel. The main thing is that it (and its equipment) meet the requirements for it.

Top 5. Polyver

Rating (2021): 4.55

• Nomination

  The most reliable shoes A brand that carefully monitors the entire production process. Shoes of the highest quality.

• Characteristics
  Price range: 8,000 - 15,000 rubles.
• Homeland of the brand: Sweden
• Production sites: Sweden
• Year founded: unknown
• Official website: polyver-boots.com

The Swedish winter is a real test for both a person and his clothes. In addition, manufacturers from this country are famous for their scrupulous approach to quality. These factors are intertwined in the products of the Polyver company, which produces rubber, or rather polyurethane, models with the highest level of reliability. These are very warm boots that can cope with the most severe frosts. They feel great at higher temperatures. All thanks to the unique thermoregulation technology developed by the company’s engineers. There is only one drawback here - the price. But if you want your winter boots to last for many years, it makes sense to pay a premium for Polyver products.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Highest quality
• Unique temperature control technology
• Attractive design
• Exclusively Swedish production

• Very high prices

Top 4. Rapala

Rating (2021): 4.62

• Nomination

  A brand with a great history. The oldest manufacturer of goods for hunting and fishing. Has been on the market since 1936.

• Characteristics
  Price range: 2,200 - 3,000 rubles.
• Homeland of the brand: Finland
• Production sites: Russia, Finland, China, Estonia, France
• Year founded: 1936
• Official website: rapala.ru

If you have the most ordinary rubber boots, bought on the market for 300-500 rubles, we can say that you are familiar with the products of the famous Rapala brand. On store shelves they differ only in price. Otherwise, ordinary warm boots with lining, not trying to stand out as individual. The fact is that the company specializes in the manufacture of fishing baits. Shoes and other accessories for them are just one of the areas of activity, and not the most important. They don't bother with design here. Winter models have a lining, summer ones are supplied without it. That's all the difference. It doesn't even matter whether the models are male or female. In general, the most ordinary product from the most famous manufacturer.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Winter lining made of natural wool

• Complete lack of originality
• Low variety of models
• Overcharge

See also:

• 15 best brands of fishing suits

Baffin Titan 100C Black – the best insulated rubber boots

Photo: top-fish.ru

Approximate price: 6000 rubles.

Rubber boots - "extreme" Baffin Titan - a recognized leader among footwear for tourism, hunting and fishing in difficult and winter weather conditions. According to the manufacturer, they retain heat even at super low temperatures. These rubber boots are completely waterproof and sealed. They are made from several polymers - polyurethane, rubber and thermoplastic form. These shoes are specially designed for use in difficult conditions. The boots are very durable, i.e. they are not afraid of ordinary threats - twigs, ice, stones - in a word, everything that can easily tear apart ordinary rubber. The insulation system of rubber boots is based on the ability of the material to retain its own body heat, for which a removable insulating liner is provided, consisting of eight layers (including moisture-absorbing), as well as Thermatuf insoles. Premium Polar Rubber soles won't let you easily lose your balance on ice.

Our rating : 9 points out of 10.

Rubber boots are only for sub-zero temperatures - in warmer weather they will be hot.

Reviews : “I bought Baffin Titan Canadian rubber boots for winter fishing based on reviews from experienced people - they are a super thing! At minus 40, my foot is dry and warm, I don’t feel anything at all, like at home in slippers.”

Top 3. Nordman

Rating (2021): 4.69

• Nomination

  Best prices The company produces the cheapest winter boots with excellent quality.

• Characteristics
  Price range: 1,000 - 2,000 rubles.
• Homeland of the brand: Russia
• Production sites: Russia
• Year founded: 1997
• Official website: nordman.ru

The Nordman company appeared at a difficult time for our country. A period when factories closed rather than opened. But it was then that the market became more transparent, which allowed the company to quickly occupy its niche. Initially, the plant produced galoshes and the simplest rubber boots, but with the purchase of modern Italian equipment in 2000, it launched a line of special shoes for hunting and fishing. The factories are located in the city of Pskov, where winter is real, so the models clearly correspond to their intended purpose. Nordman boots look especially attractive in price comparison with other brands. You are unlikely to be able to find a quality product cheaper.

Advantages and disadvantages

• The most affordable prices
• Really warm boots

• Only a few models in the collection
• Not particularly attractive design

See also:

• 10 Best Winter Boot Brands for Men

Top 2. Aquatic

Rating (2021): 4.81

• Nomination

  The most popular Russian brand A Russian company that confidently occupies the Western market. A popular brand with great ambitions and goals.

• Characteristics
  Price range: 2,500 - 3,000 rubles.
• Homeland of the brand: Russia
• Production sites: Russia
• Year founded: 1993
• Official website: aquatic.net

Once upon a time, Aquatic was a small atelier engaged in sewing covers for fishing rods. At that time, such a product was not the most common, and the company was experiencing financial difficulties. But at some point everything changed. Aquatic developed quickly and over time even launched the production of clothing and shoes. Today, winter rubber boots are not the main focus, but the company knows exactly what men's hobbies require. They closely monitor the market and try to keep up with the times. You will not find old-fashioned models in the collection. This allowed us to go beyond the Russian market and conquer Western countries. Apparently, in their homeland they have already achieved everything they wanted. It's time to open new horizons.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Attractive appearance
• Following modern trends
• Constant expansion of the range

• Only men's and only winter shoe models

See also:

• 10 Best Brands of Boots for Ice Fishing

Top 1. Norfin

Rating (2021): 4.87

• Nomination

  Best value for money A renowned brand that knows how to combine reasonable prices and high quality products, focusing on the market of a specific country.

• Characteristics
  Price range: 1,500 - 7,000 rubles.
• Homeland of the brand: Latvia
• Production sites: China, South Korea, Finland, Latvia
• Year founded: 1988
• Official website: norfin.info

In most cases, rubber boots are produced by companies for which hunting is only one of their activities. Norfin is different from them because he knows much more about it. Let's start with the fact that the brand is a subsidiary of the world-famous Salmo brand, which until recently produced fishing accessories. Now the range has expanded thanks to the production of equipment, including shoes. Norfin knows exactly what equipment should be. The company produces warm and regular boots of high quality and at an attractive price. This is all thanks to the location of production sites in Asia, which does not in any way affect the reliability of the product.

Basic criteria for choosing shoes for hunting

Boots

Possibility of adjusting them to fit your feet. Even if two hunters have the same foot size, one will find the shoes he likes just right (which means they are comfortable to wear), while the other will feel some discomfort. If not in the store, then later, at home, after the next fitting. It is believed that this is not critical, and is often perceived only as a temporary inconvenience - nothing, they are carried away (although it is not a fact that this is exactly what will happen). Now imagine that you will have to spend the whole day outdoors in such shoes. How long will the hunter hold out, will he give up the race in a couple of hours?

What is the reason for this discrepancy? There are no absolutely identical people. Even twins have characteristic differences by which their mother recognizes them. This fully applies to anatomical features, including the foot. That is why hunting shoes should be purchased from well-known manufacturers who do not miss this nuance. Their boots have special lacing or Velcro fasteners that allow for a precise fit to the foot.

In addition, the seasonal factor should also be taken into account. Unlike in autumn, during winter fishing you will have to additionally insulate your feet. As a rule, thick socks help out, since a second insole in such a situation is not the best solution.

Protection against moisture penetration inside. In this case, it does not mean the material from which the hunting shoes are made, but the location of the fasteners or lacing. It is this part of the boots that is the most vulnerable in terms of security. When choosing shoes for hunting, you should find out whether they have so-called protective valves. Otherwise, even when walking across the field, your feet will quickly get wet, since the chain (with rare exceptions) lines up and starts moving early in the morning, when there is still dew on the grass. By the way, neglect of this “detail” is one of the main reasons why novice fishermen quickly leave the race.

Air permeability. If autumn hunting is not carried out in wetlands, then you need to pay attention to the material. Natural rubber, rubber varieties are clearly not the best choice. In such sealed shoes, a greenhouse effect occurs quite quickly. The result is sweating of the feet, wet socks, insoles and hypothermia. You won’t be able to withstand walking hunting in such boots for long, especially in winter. Execution of the sole. An equally important component of high-quality hunting shoes, especially in winter, when there are often areas with hardened soil or ice along the way. The sole must have a tread pattern, and a distinct one, with deep cutouts. Otherwise, it is impossible to achieve reliable adhesion of shoes to the soil. If boots have smooth soles, then they are definitely not suitable for hunting, no matter how good they are in all other respects. Although there are shoes with removable spikes, which are convenient to move on any soil, be it rocky rocks or plowing.

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There are a number of other parameters that influence the choice, but they are not decisive. For example, the color design of a product. Many hunters wear camouflage robes and overalls over their clothes. In this case, is camouflage shoes really necessary if they are hidden? To select the optimal model of boots for hunting, the criteria listed above are sufficient.

Boots

The main criteria (as far as relevant) have already been noted. What should be assessed further?

Height. For autumn hunting in wetlands, you should choose boots with tops that go above the knees. This ensures that even if you have to walk through water in some area, it will not get inside. These boots are also suitable for those who hunt in snowy areas, when periodically falling into ice almost up to the waist is a common occurrence. Boot construction. They should not fit tightly to the leg. This allows you to tuck your trousers into them, thereby providing additional insulation for the lower leg. And the bottom of the pants will not gradually get wet.

Ease of removal from the foot. In some situations, perhaps the main criterion. For example, if in winter a chain of hunters crosses a river (wide stream) on ice, and someone falls through. The distance to a neighbor is usually at least 20 m. By the time he has time to come to the rescue, precious time will be lost. Therefore, high-quality hunter's shoes are also those that you can easily get rid of. For this reason, many experienced fishermen are quite skeptical about high boots - they are heavy (which means their legs get tired quickly) and you can’t just take them off. Therefore, such shoes are purchased mainly by those who fish in winter and on skis.

Insoles

Regardless of the material of manufacture, the requirements for them are identical:

• hygiene;
• low thermal conductivity;
• elasticity, which implies good shock absorption.

For people with flat feet, insoles with arch supports are preferable when hunting.

Socks

The best option for winter fishing is 3 pairs in the following order: wool (to improve blood circulation, since during hunting the fibers constantly massage the feet), cotton (to accumulate moisture if the feet begin to sweat) and synthetic (to protect previous layers from increased abrasion ). In addition, such a complex “design” creates air layers that serve as additional thermal insulation.

There are special socks on sale for hunters, tourists, and so on, that is, people who spend a significant amount of time outdoors. It is advisable, when purchasing shoes, to buy them at the same time. There are several options for hunting socks - neoprene, with a gore-tex layer and a number of others.