One year I was trying out new boots on an early season elk hunt, honestly can't remember the brand, and after two days I had to switch to my water resistant nike running shoes (being a broke college student limited me to one pair of boots lol). My feet were much more comfortable, and the increase in stealth (i.e less foot noise) made it worth it. On early season hunts I would highly recommend a sturdy hiking or trail running shoe, maybe not a Nike Air Pegasus. I also keep my Gore-Tex Asolo or Salomon boots on hand for days with moisture. The shoes don't bother me on ruck marches when I train with a weighted pack so I would be comfortable wearing them when packing meat, but that to me is a personal choice you probably should make based on your own testing.