Footwear for winter fishing: the best men's and women's boots, felt boots, boots

Why does an angler need the right boots and other special shoes for winter fishing?

Science has proven that a large volume of blood passes through the legs, and their hypothermia leads to freezing of the entire body. Fishermen face the danger of frostbite especially in the dead of winter, when the fish are inactive, or, conversely, in the wild season. In both cases, he sits for hours over the hole with virtually no movement. Blood circulation in the legs is disrupted, heat loss from the body increases and the fisherman is guaranteed to get sick. Shoes that retain body heat will help him feel invigorated.

Often ice expanses cover gullies even in frosts, not to mention the spring thaw. If your feet are wet or sweaty, they will freeze even faster in the cold. Moisture is a conductor, and there is no fat layer on the feet that would retain heat, so it goes away faster. At the same time, there are many biologically active points that interact with all organs, which leads to their hypothermia. Considering the specifics of winter fishing, fisherman need shoes that are “breathable” and not waterproof.

Important! With prolonged hypothermia, vascular spasm occurs in the lower extremities, leading to serious diseases of the legs, kidneys, and joints.

Choosing a place for fishing often involves long walks through snowdrifts, compacted snow or slippery ice.

And you also carry a bunch of heavy fishing equipment with you. In this case, the weight, size and stability of the boots are important, otherwise the risk of “being left without legs” is guaranteed. Lightweight, durable, non-slip, comfortable, and always one size larger than what you wear in summer, boots are the key to comfortable ice fishing in winter.

Old-style fishing shoes - what fishermen used to use for winter fishing and hunting

Today, the classic shoes of the winter fisherman are becoming a thing of the past, but many still use these options, preferring the naturalness of the material:

• felt boots, protecting and modernizing them in every possible way;
• burkas;
• felt boots;
• high boots.

Moreover, now there are no problems in purchasing modern models for any pocket. Russian manufacturers and many foreign companies supply the market with high-quality models made of real felt, leather and fur, which keep feet warm and dry due to their breathability.

The table shows some models of shoes similar to the old ones, available for purchase at the beginning of 2021 for winter fishing:

Each model has its own purpose, pros and cons, but they have the right to exist.

…UP TO -70°C: NORDMAN QUADDRO

These boots are designed for extremely low temperatures. There are two versions of the QUADDRO model - with temperature conditions up to -50°C and up to -70°C.

These are the warmest boots for winter fishing from NORDMAN.

A two-layer insole and a foil liner in 5 or 9 layers (depending on the model variation) made of natural fur, fleece, foam rubber and non-woven fabric retains heat and wicks moisture away from the feet.

Punctures are excluded. The main material of the boots is DEC (Durable Eva Compound), which is a modification of EVA that is 30% stronger than conventional plastic. Thickening on the toe and heel further protects against side cuts.

The two-layer DEC+TEP sole not only provides durability and slip protection, but also protects against freezing.

The ergonomic spur and wide shaft make it easy to remove the boot without removing the mittens or without using your hands at all.

Additional advantages of NORDMAN QUADDRO:

• cuff made of water-repellent material Rip Stop with a lock,
• there is an option with spikes (remove - the ability to install spikes on the sole),
• cells at the bottom of the boot to collect condensate.

Size range: 41-46

New shoes for winter fishing: what are they?

Over the past 30 years, the market for modern models of boots, boots and other footwear for winter fishing has developed significantly and continues to gain momentum. Domestic stores are filled with models from both our manufacturers and global brands. The shoes have unique features:

• waterproof and shaped last;
• boot made of hydrophobic material;
• removable “breathable” insulation;
• non-freezing sole;
• anti-slip elements and inserts.

The materials used for manufacturing are lightweight, allow moisture to be removed from the feet, have high heat-protective functions, and retain their shape under temperature changes and mechanical stress.

Modern winter fishing shoes have many innovative solutions and technologies

Modern shoes for fishing and hunting in winter are selected in accordance with the wearable size of everyday shoes, do not compress the foot and do not dangle, so that the fisherman can move freely and enjoy fishing calmly.

Important! If your boots are too tight, your feet will quickly become sweaty and cold. An air gap of at least 5 - 7 mm will allow moisture to evaporate more actively and create an additional thermal barrier. Too large - waste of energy when walking, risk of slipping or tripping, and rubbing calluses.

Specific lacing, Velcro, carabiners are also important; waterproof zippers adjust the wide boot to make it easier to put on or take off; this feature is sometimes critical.

Size chart

Heated boots for ice fishing - a new trend in shoes for winter use:

EVA boots for winter fishing - top models

Polymer foam material ethylene vinyl acetate is light, elastic and hygienic. It has a dense porous structure. Has high insulating qualities. At low temperatures it does not lose elasticity. The products are hermetically sealed because they are cast integrally.

Shoes made of EVA retain heat without letting moisture and cold in, and do not weigh down the foot during long walking. The relief block evenly distributes weight and provides shock absorption. The wide, short shaft and high instep make the boots easy to take off and put on. Thanks to these properties, EVA winter shoes are suitable for women, children and the elderly.

In boots without insulation, feet can withstand temperatures down to -10°C for a couple of hours. Use thermal socks rather than wool socks. Wool absorbs sweat, so your feet will soon become cold. Models for more extreme conditions (up to -60°C) are equipped with environmentally friendly lightweight insulation, in most cases removable.

Warm winter shoes are an important piece of equipment that will save you from hypothermia, along with gloves and a properly selected suit.

The disadvantage of EVA shoes is the rigidity of the last, which does not wear out over time. Boots must be tried on.

Advice! With prolonged walking or physical activity, the size of the foot increases to 1 cm. Buy EVA boots with a reserve so as not to rub calluses by the evening.

There is also another drawback to shoes for anglers who move a lot on ice - low anti-slip ability, despite the texture of the sole, but this can be easily solved with ice access.

The table shows the top models of EVA shoes for winter fishing from trusted manufacturers; many produce not only men's EVA winter boots, but also women's and children's boots:

In order for EVA shoes to serve for a long time, you should follow the operating instructions. It is not recommended to deform boots due to the porosity of the material; they are also easy to puncture or cut. Dry boots away from fires and stoves - EVA melts at high temperatures.

Important! Manufacturers state temperature limits based on high activity testing. When purchasing shoes, focus on a comfort temperature that is at least 10° higher than stated.

EVA boots are what a spinner needs

EVA is a microporous material similar to foam rubber. It is good because it has the lowest thermal conductivity, so the foot does not freeze. EVA is elastic, even at low temperatures.

EVA fishing boots are the best choice for a spinning player. They will be comfortable for long walks along the shore and in a boat for long hours. Your feet don’t get cold or tired in them, because the EVA material is very light and perfectly absorbs when walking.

There are many manufacturers of EVA shoes. Norfin, Russian and Polish company Lemigo - this is not a complete list of brands of such shoes.

Another undeniable advantage of such fishing boots is their price. They will, of course, be more expensive than rubber shoes, but many times cheaper than trekking shoes. The average price of such boots: 2-4 thousand rubles.

So, EVA boots are the right choice for a fisherman. You will feel comfortable in them, and you can focus only on fishing.

Ice fishing boots made of polyurethane foam

Shoes made of polyurethane foam will suit winter fishermen. The synthesized polymer is obtained from petroleum products using various additives using complex and expensive technology. Accordingly, the price of products will become higher. Due to impurities, shoe polyurethane has many faces:

• smooth;
• foamed:
• fluted.

Fishing winter boots are made of foamed elastomer. The material is stronger than EVA, but slightly heavier. Its porous structure is an excellent heat insulator, but does not allow air to pass through at all. The polymer has protective properties and high wear resistance. It is hypoallergenic, but at + 100°C it releases hazardous substances, and at – 70°C its structure is destroyed.

Elastomer foam winter boots

For Russian winter fishermen, you can’t imagine anything better than polyurethane boots. They are warm, durable, lightweight. It's worth mentioning that not all PU boots are created equal. Several types of polymer are used in the manufacture of extreme models. Considering the technological complexity of production, cheap copies lose in quality.

Many manufacturers use elastomer in the manufacture of boots, mainly for the sole, and only a few monoliths are cast. Our market is represented by the following shoe manufacturers:

1. Models from the Swedish campaign POLYVER , which specializes only in the production of boots. Its assortment includes models for all age categories.
2. The Norwegian company VIKING produces mainly children's winter boots from cast polyurethane.

There are subsidiaries of the companies in other countries. Their shoes are high quality and a little cheaper than the original ones.

Short warm boots POLYVER PREMIUM LOW

The LOW model, a related version of the PREMIUM, is excellent for winter fishing. Polyurethane boots are 30% lighter than similar rubber or PVC boots. Reducing weight by almost 1 kg due to shortening the boot allows you to save energy during long movements. The short, wide shaft makes it easy to tuck in your trousers and tighten the cuff with a drawstring. For people with full ankles and high insteps, they are more comfortable to put on, and a special tongue on the heel will help you remove the boot without hands.

Monolithic boots, unisex. The material is resistant to moisture and aggressive reagents. The special design of the sole with a heel increases traction on slippery surfaces, and the special pattern promotes self-cleaning when walking from dirt and snow.

Comfortable shock-absorbing pad and insole facilitates maneuverability. The inner surface is lined with faux fur, which dries quickly. Antibacterial additives used in the production of polyurethane do not allow microbes to multiply. Comfortable operating temperature is from 0°C to – 20°C, extreme limit is up to – 40°C.

The cost is steep and amounts to 14,100 rubles.

VIKING polyurethane boots for winter fishing

The warmest children's boots were developed by the Norwegian company VIKING for extreme recreation. Manufactured in Vietnam from high-quality elastic Elastopan PU using the latest equipment and meet all safety requirements. The material provides 2.5 times more thermal protection than conventional polyurethane and is twice as strong.

Molded boots are 100% waterproof. The inner polyester lining with the addition of 30% Extreme wool will reliably keep children's feet warm down to – 20°C. The non-woven insole wicks away moisture. A comfortable anatomical last does not restrict the foot. The shock-absorbing PU sole with added deep TPU tread does not slip, will not break or burst in the cold.

Cost 4230 rub.

Shoes for winter fishing made of modern rubber

Technological rubber samples are obtained by vulcanization of synthesized rubbers. Science and innovative technologies create types of thermal rubber, boots, shoes and other winter footwear from which, meet the individual characteristics of each fisherman and are suitable for fishing, hunting, and tourism.

Rubber boots for winter fishermen are stylish, comfortable, durable, and relatively light, just like for winter fishing. The average weight of an insulated men's pair weighs about 2 - 3 kg. Products maintain flexibility and insulation in extreme temperatures. Manufacturers of our companies and the best global campaigns present their models on the domestic market.

Boots model Goliath 1 KAMIK, -60C

The Canadian brand KAMIK has an excellent reputation in the world market and presents many of its products. Boots of the Goliath 1 model are made by casting in compliance with high-precision parameters from durable elastic thermal rubber. All parts of the model are completely waterproof. Maximum thermal protection up to – 60°C. Durable. The pair weighs 2.9 kg.

The rubber shock-absorbing sole is self-cleaning and promotes comfortable movement on both hard and loose soil.

The last with a wide foot and high instep is designed for any anatomical foot type. The toe of the boot is raised and thickened, covered with a special notch that protects the boot when walking on crushed ice. The boot (42 cm) ends with a nylon cuff with a drawstring cord. The inside surface of the boot removes condensation. Inside there is a 4-layer removable 13 mm liner that ensures dryness and warmth.

Cost 9000 rubles.

Baffin Trapper Forest Ice Fishing Boots

The Canadian company BAFFIN, familiar to our extreme sports enthusiasts, presents a model made of elastic rubber, designed for operation in the temperature range from -5°C to -60°C with active use.

Monolithically molded boots are characterized by increased strength, insulation, and waterproofing in the open air. Stylish unisex model, retains flexibility in extreme cold. Weight 2.37 kg.

The functional design of the last, which retains its flexibility at -60°C, ensures a comfortable stay in the shoe for a long time. Ultra-durable sole made of premium Polar Rubber (for polar conditions) with maximum anti-slip effect.

The cellular EVA insole absorbs shock loads when walking, and Thermatuf textile material helps collect condensation. Removable original 4-layer stocking retains heat and wicks away moisture.

Cost 7000 rubles.

Size chart for men's shoes Baffin

There are also high-quality children's boots Baffin Hunter Junior on the market:

Important! Boots should not be worn with woolen socks. Rubber does not allow air to pass through at all, and wool absorbs moisture. Your feet will sweat and get cold faster. An insulating sandwich and thermal socks will reliably keep your feet warm.

Children also need high-quality winter shoes - among them there are also ice fishing enthusiasts

How to choose boots for winter fishing?

There are a lot of criteria by which to choose the best winter boots for fishing.

Shoes should have a small weight so that you can easily move in them on snowy terrain and through drifts.

Sustainability

The sole must be anti-slip and have good grip on any surface to ensure the safety of the fisherman. The thicker it is, the higher and wider the tread, the more stable a person will feel when walking on ice. It would be great if there were also special spikes on the sole.

Thermal insulation

Since during winter fishing you will have to spend quite a long time in the cold, your feet should not freeze. Therefore, you need to choose shoes with high-quality membrane or fur insulation with breathable properties.

Comfort

The boot should not get wet and it is better if it is high and wide enough so that the legs of a fishing suit can be tucked into it. An excellent option is lacing along the upper edge of the boots with a protective cuff .

Ease of care

So that over time the shoes do not acquire that specific smell of sweat that few people like or rot, it is better if the insulation is made as a removable liner . If necessary, as it wears out, it can be replaced with a new insert.

Size

To prevent frostbite, boots for winter fishing should not be too tight . But excessive freedom will also become a problem, since wearing large boots reduces comfort and stability, plus calluses may appear. Therefore, the size must be selected especially carefully.

Material

Specialized stores today offer models made of rubber and EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate). Shoes made of rubber will be cheaper, but then experts recommend giving preference to finely porous lightweight material. More expensive models are made from EVA, but the price is justified by the higher quality characteristics. For example, EVA is lighter, has thermal insulation qualities , is more durable and can withstand temperatures down to -50 degrees (rubber generally retains its properties down to -25°C).