Hiking style Elk Hunting Boot decision: KEEN vs Salomon vs Merrell

[Nwihunter]

I have owned a pair of gore Tex merell hikers and couldn't even walk through my yard when the grass was wet without getting soaked feet. Even when they were brand new they leaked terribly.

 

[sneaky]

Don't overlook the Zamberlan 230 Crossers. Not too expensive and i put a ton of miles on mine in 2 and a half years. Just retired them actually.

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[sneaky]

They are still waterproof, if that helps. My hunting buddies went through several pairs of Quest 4D's in the same amount of time I had my Zamberlans. Their boots started leaking pretty quick and soles came unglued.

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[Beendare]

I like the merrill hikers in the breathable versions for dry hiking the hills...but their "Waterproof" versions have been anything but...so stay away.

I think boot selection is more about fit than anything else. The all leather versions definitely last longer than cordura....I go through those cordura boots in 2 seasons....which is about all you will get out of the waterproof liner anyway- if that.

The leather boots are so much heavier...especially when wet....but they do last longer if you use a boot treatment.

 

[sharpshooter269]

My vote is for the Meindl's Denali's personally but have heard great things about the 4D's.


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[Sapper]

Love my Solomon quest 4d

I second that! Mine were comfortable right out of the box and my feet felt fine with a pack on for a week in CO. My buddy had Danners on and was hurting.

 

[colobow]

I have the KEEN Oakridge Mid WP. For me, they are great for hiking ON trail. The tread is not as aggressive as I would like for steep off trail use. I trail run and hike in Altra Lone Peaks and am thinking of switching to Altra Lone Peak Mids for archery but I'm also looking at salomons.

Keep on mind I don't like a stiff boot and specifically avoid them during training to strengthen my feet.

Also, I haven't packed out an Elk and will be leaving stiffer boots in my truck in case my feet get tired after carrying that amount of weight.