First pair of boots

[ryndxt]

Southeast whitetail hunter that wears rubber boots year round.

Planning for first out west hunt next year or year after, but getting my legs ready with rucking, day hiking, etc. So want to go ahead and get a good pair of boots and break them in.

I understand that good fitting boots are important so I was hoping to try a few different pairs on in person to get a general feel for types that would fit well. In looking online, I don't have anything that looks to carry what I am looking for. Boot Barn carries work boots and Basspro I am unsure of the quality of boot.

Should I just pull the trigger on 2-3 pair of Crispis and plan to return?

 

[butcherboy]

Crispi, Lowa, Kenetrek, Hanwag, Zamberlan, Sportivia, Meindl, Lathrop & Sons, etc. All good boots but I prefer Meindl and Crispi.

 

[WoodOgre]

I have messed up feet (broke both heels) and have tried a bunch of boots. For a mountain boot I had good luck with Schnee Beartooth,

 

[Pacific27]

I have a narrow foot and Lowa fits me really well.

I've found over the years that there is usually one boot brand that fits my foot best. Once I find it that's what I go with. I know REI carries Lowa so if you have one in your area you may be able to try on in store.

Good Luck! A good pair of boots is foundational!

 

[TXRascal]

Had a pair of Danner Pronghorn's for over 15 years until i recently lost the sole. May not be same as some of the more expensive brands, but sure worked well for me as a more affordable option

 

[OctoberHouses]

Muck boot's rule the ground here in the bottomlands of Arkansas.

Picked up my first pair of Crispi's a few weeks ago to start breaking in for a Ozark National Forest and Wyoming hunt coming up. So far, so good. I went with the Lapponia 3's. They aren't going to be as comfortable as the Mucks when you are first starting out, but give them 10-20 miles of good break-in. I've been wearing mine to my 9-5 office job, and while walking at the gym. I didn't really have a good place to purchase from local, so I ended up going to the shoe store in town and having the gal measure my foot, both for length and width. I then used that info to order online. Just pick a retailer that won't have any issues with you returning or exchanging.