How necessary is a waterproof boot for western/mountain hunting? Specifically Colorado in October.
Most of my years of hiking have been in either dry areas or the southeast. In either place, snow is not a problem. I've found that typically the breathability and better air-dry properties of more breathable footwear has been better for me in these places. Waterproof boots make my feet sweat, which leads to blisters. I avoid creeks if I can, and if not, the non-waterproof boots definitely "walk dry" much quicker.
So my question is, will those things be big benefits in the mountains? Or will the waterproofing help keep my feet much drier and therefore warmer in the snow? Maybe feet sweating isn't an issue with a slower hunting pace and frequent stops for glassing. I know its probably a super basic noob kinda thing to ask, but despite all my hiking, I just haven't got the experience in Fall/winter in the mountains yet.
Most of my years of hiking have been in either dry areas or the southeast. In either place, snow is not a problem. I've found that typically the breathability and better air-dry properties of more breathable footwear has been better for me in these places. Waterproof boots make my feet sweat, which leads to blisters. I avoid creeks if I can, and if not, the non-waterproof boots definitely "walk dry" much quicker.
So my question is, will those things be big benefits in the mountains? Or will the waterproofing help keep my feet much drier and therefore warmer in the snow? Maybe feet sweating isn't an issue with a slower hunting pace and frequent stops for glassing. I know its probably a super basic noob kinda thing to ask, but despite all my hiking, I just haven't got the experience in Fall/winter in the mountains yet.