OBOZ Beartooth and WindRiver 2 Backpacking boots

[cj5122.68]

Hi all! Just thought I'd throw my 2 cents in- For years I've use designated "Hunting" boots and while some have performed well- some have been seriously lacking!

Some of the brands I've used include:
Irish Setter
Lowa
Vasque
Danner
Crispi
Kenetrek

My hunting is primarily Backpack Hunting in wilderness areas- mostly off trail steep and nasty with a pack from 60 lbs going in then about 20-30lbs for daily then -Hopefully- coming out heavy 80-120 lbs- for about a week or so at a time.

I realize that boot preference is all about personal fit and there is no "Best" boot for everyone- I ran onto a company called OBOZ- stands for Outside Bozeman- making shoes and boots on a smaller scale- (compared to the huge manufacturers)

Anyway, I tried their backpacking boot- WindRiver 2- Phenomenal Boots for backpacking- plenty stiff and supportive with just the right amount of flex and with a heel lock system far superior to any boot I've used.

These are BACKPACKING boots not to be confused with hiking boots- made to be used with a significant amount of weight AKA not quite a mountaineering boot- but definitely leaning that way.

Anyway- their customer service is outstanding as well- definitely worth a look!

CJ

 

[dble07]

I just bought a pair of the Beartooths last weekend to use as a training/scouting/backup. I haven't really had a chance to put them to use yet but I'm hoping the will be a good fit.

 

[cj5122.68]

I was back and forth on the Wind river 2 or the beartooth.

The beartooth is stiffer and offers even more support. May take a bit to break them in, but they are awesome.

 

[Tiger Rag]

I've got a pair of the low cut Firebrand II's and they are actually fairly stiff and offer good support. The surprising thing is how good the stock footbed is in them. I usually pull out whatever flimsy insole comes with boots and shoes and put in something else however these are great! Not need to swap them. I've debated on picking up the Beartooth for lighter duty work. I need to try a pair on and see if they'll fit the bill for me.

Only negative I can say is their proprietary B-Dry membrane doesn't seem to breathe very well, however I will say I pretty much only wear them in the warmer months. If it's cool enough for long pants, I've usually got boots on.