9" vs 12" boot choice

[roymunson]

I'm not sure which boots to get for my west boots. I have a pair of Kenetrek Hardscrabble for my everyday wear work boot. Love the boots. I had a pair of Mountain Extreme but they were the wrong size so I sold them.

Planning on using these as a hunting boot and they'll probably be used 2 weeks out of a year.

I have severely deteriorated ankles and so I'll take every advantage I can get in boots. My hardscrabbles do great in Ohio if I'm at work or spending a day swinging a chainsaw in the woods, but for a week long hunt, are the 12" gonna help? I know they're harder to get in and out of, but would like to hear from you guys on your experiences.

 

[WeiserBucks]

It's all personal preference and specific to your needs. If you need a taller boot then you need a taller boot, no way around it. I like 10" minimum and feel like my ankles are going to fail in shorter boots.

 

[swampthing]

I certainly prefer a taller boot for hunting with a pack. I just feel I get more protection from both physical damage and rolling an ankle. I also like the deeper water/creek crossing ability. I do wear and ankle high hiker for training hikes just so as to strengthen up those muscles that dont get used as much with the taller boot.