Hiking boots

Staywild

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Joined
Oct 13, 2024
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14
What is the best boot for out west backcountry hunting. Looking for something lightweight and waterproof? Thank you in advance
 

SloppyJ

WKR
Joined
Feb 24, 2023
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1,779
Oh lord. There is no right answer. You need to go find the boot that fits you the best. Doing research will leave you dizzy. I ended up with some Zamberlin Tofanes but that's not what you're looking for.

Do some research to get an idea of what good brands or models are and then go try them on. That's the only answer.
 

CC55

FNG
Joined
Dec 5, 2015
Messages
47
You’ll get answers from ranging from trail runners to ultra stiff/full shank boots. It depends on a ton of factors for what people prefer: lower leg and foot mobility, strength, conditioning, foot shape/volume, training time in boots with pack, terrain, etc.

Would second SloppyJ and recommend trying on a ton of boots if possible to get a feel for what you like. The Exo guys had a good podcast on what to look for in a boot I’d check out too. Gohunt has some good stiffness classifications as well to get a better feel for what to look for as well as a few podcasts on it.

What are you wearing now?
 
Joined
Jun 3, 2024
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Location
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Have you ever worn rubber hiking boots? They are great and comfortable. Better than the normal leather ones I own before. Rubber boots are lightweight and waterproof, they are what you need.
 
OP
S

Staywild

FNG
Joined
Oct 13, 2024
Messages
14
You’ll get answers from ranging from trail runners to ultra stiff/full shank boots. It depends on a ton of factors for what people prefer: lower leg and foot mobility, strength, conditioning, foot shape/volume, training time in boots with pack, terrain, etc.

Would second SloppyJ and recommend trying on a ton of boots if possible to get a feel for what you like. The Exo guys had a good podcast on what to look for in a boot I’d check out too. Gohunt has some good stiffness classifications as well to get a better feel for what to look for as well as a few podcasts on it.

What are you wearing now?
I am currently running a pair of Vasque Talus hiking boots. They are super comfortable and lightweight but the waterproofing I found is not the best. Anytime there is a heavy morning du they instantly become soaked inside. Do you by chance remember the name of the podcast that the exo guys did on boots is? I will for sure check that out. Thank you!
 
OP
S

Staywild

FNG
Joined
Oct 13, 2024
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14
Have you ever worn rubber hiking boots? They are great and comfortable. Better than the normal leather ones I own before. Rubber boots are lightweight and waterproof, they are what you need

Have you ever worn rubber hiking boots? They are great and comfortable. Better than the normal leather ones I own before. Rubber boots are lightweight and waterproof, they are what you need.
I have not checked out the rubber hiking boots yet. Have you ever had to worry about the durability of the boot holding up against the terrain and habitat ripping or anything at all? Thank you for your reply
 
Joined
Jul 20, 2019
Messages
2,612
I am done with hunting boots. They are heavy, stiff and uncomfortable. Look at Hoka hiking boots.
 

CC55

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Joined
Dec 5, 2015
Messages
47

CoWapiti

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Joined
Apr 2, 2019
Messages
46
I've been using Lowa Renegade GTX boots for years, and have loved them. One thing I'd suggest is checking any stores in your area that sell second hand gear. We have several here in Co Springs and you can get some gently used boots for great deals. Easy way to try something out without a huge commitment.
 
Joined
Jun 3, 2024
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Location
California
I have not checked out the rubber hiking boots yet. Have you ever had to worry about the durability of the boot holding up against the terrain and habitat ripping or anything at all? Thank you for your reply
I was worried about durability before buying one, but rubber is a tougher material than I thought. They handle rough terrain really well and those boots will have extra layers built up for durability. Worth a shot.
 

Run13

FNG
Joined
Feb 26, 2023
Messages
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Really don’t think you can go wrong with any of the big name boots unless they just don’t fit your feet! I am currently on my second pair of crispi guides and still love them
 
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