Whether you’re a beginner, an experienced, or an occasional hunter looking to make a successful hunt deep into the woods, proper planning beforehand is one surefire way that will definitely seal your success or failure.
According to most hunters, successful hunting requires you to have the right weapon, a handful of experience, and some patience. Now, although these three factors are key, wearing protective gear such as the right hunting boots is one way of increasing your hunting success as they help you tackle sloppy and hazardous terrains with ease.
So, if the hunting region you’re getting ready to explore will involve trekking through mountainous, swampy, and rough terrains, here are five tips you need to be keen on when choosing the right hunting boots.
The different types of hunting boots and what they are best for?
There are several different types of hunting boots on the market, each designed for a specific type of terrain or weather conditions. Some of the most popular types of hunting boots include:
Rubber Hunting Boots: These boots are designed to keep your feet dry and provide good traction in wet or muddy conditions. They are usually made from a waterproof material and have a thick rubber sole.
Insulated Hunting Boots: These boots are designed to keep your feet warm in cold weather conditions. They usually have a thicker insulation layer and may be made from a waterproof material as well.
Snake Proof Hunting Boots: These boots are designed to protect your feet from snake bites. They usually have a tall shaft and come in a bright color so that you can easily see them.
Camouflage Hunting Boots: These boots are designed to help you blend in with your surroundings. They usually have a camouflage print and may be made from a waterproof material as well.
Hiking Hunting Boots: These boots are designed for comfort and traction while hiking over rough terrain. They usually have a higher ankle support and a thicker sole.
How to choose the right pair of hunting boots for you?
When choosing a pair of hunting boots, there are several factors you will need to consider in order to find the right pair for you. These include:
The Terrain
Hunting terrains differ from state to state. Some regions have steep terrains while others have flat terrains with varying weather conditions. If you’re hunting for, let’s say antelopes; you’ll probably be hunting in flat regions. Here, flat, light, and flexible boots/sneakers will generally be the best as these regions don’t require a lot of hassle.
On the other hand, if you’re hunting for deer or elk in steep terrains, mountaineering boots with high supportive characteristics are the best as they have high ankles and stiff soles that endure tough conditions much better.
The Right Fit
Proper sizing is highly paramount when you’re buying the right hunting boots. Unlike in an office where you have the freedom of removing your shoes to give your feet a break, the wild doesn’t permit that meaning you have to endure the pain and discomfort for long periods.
So, to avoid buying too small or too large boots, it’s really important that you first wear the boots late in the evening when your feet are swollen to see whether they’re the right fit. If temperatures are low out there and you need to keep your feet warm, you can try wearing the boots with your hunting socks on to give you an idea of how the boot feels.
Lacing Techniques
If your boot is the right fit and you’re still experiencing some discomfort when walking, then the problem might probably be the lacing. Most hunting boots have a height that ranges from 6 to 7 inches. To ensure that your boots support your ankles without constricting them when moving, you need to experiment with the various lacing techniques to find one that offers the right support.
Waterproofing
There’s nothing as annoying as walking for stretches in the pursuit of finding the right hunting spot with your feet soaked in water. If you’re hunting in wet swampy regions or during the early seasons of the monsoon storm, investing in high-standard waterproof hunting boots is the best approach as these boots are insulated to prevent moisture from penetrating through thus leaving your feet dry throughout your hunting expedition.
The Style/Type of Boot
According to CWB blog, men and women hunting boots are grouped in various categories depending on the type of terrains you’re looking to explore. Here are some of these categories;
- High Country Boots: These types of boots are usually ideal for hunters looking to explore the rough mountainous regions. They have thick supportive soles and backbones that support your ankle when you’re traversing through the challenging terrains.
- Snake Boots: If you’re hunting in snake-infested regions, snake boots are the best to consider as they protect your feet and lower ankles from toxic snake bites that can be lethal. These boots are mostly made of tough materials such as leather making it impossible for sharp snake fangs to penetrate through.
- Rubber Boots: Those looking to hunt in swampy regions will enjoy the services offered by rubber boots as they’re waterproof meaning no water can pass through.
- Upland Boots: These boots are some of the most gentle with nothing fancy about them. They’re super light and best suited for long-distance and open field hunting.
How to take care of your hunting boots?
Once you have chosen the perfect pair of hunting boots for your needs, it is important to know how to properly take care of them in order to ensure that they last. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your hunting boots:
1. Store them in a cool, dry place: This will help to prevent the material from drying out or cracking.
2. Clean them after each use: This will remove any dirt, mud, or debris that could lead to deterioration.
3. Inspect them regularly: This will help you catch any issues early on so that they can be fixed before they cause major damage.
4. Use proper cleaning products: This will help to prevent any damage that could be caused by using the wrong cleaning products.
5. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: This will help to ensure that you are using the boots properly and not causing any damage.
What to do if you get a blister while wearing your hunting boots?
If you experience a blister while wearing your hunting boots, there are a few things you can do in order to help alleviate the pain and prevent further damage. Here are a few tips:
1. Rinse the area with clean water: This will help to remove any dirt or debris that could be causing irritation.
2. Apply a bandage: This will help to protect the area from further friction and allow it to heal.
3. Place a cold compress on the area: This will help to reduce swelling and pain.
4. Take ibuprofen: This will help to reduce inflammation and pain.
5. Change your socks: This will help to prevent further friction and irritation.
6. Break in your boots: This will help to prevent future blisters from forming.
FAQs:
Do you size up for hunting boots?
No, you should not size up for hunting boots. Hunting boots should fit snugly and comfortably, without being too tight or too loose. If you size up, the boots may be uncomfortable to wear and may not provide the support and stability you need when out in the field.
What is a good gram for hunting boots?
A good gram weight for hunting boots depends on a number of factors, including the type of terrain you’ll be walking in and the weather conditions you’re likely to encounter. In general, lighterweight boots are best for warm weather and relatively level terrain, while heavier-duty boots are better suited for cold weather and rougher terrain.
Are expensive hunting boots worth it?
This is a matter of personal preference. Some people find that they get what they pay for in terms of quality and durability when they invest in expensive hunting boots, while others are just as happy with less costly options. Ultimately, it’s important to choose a boot that fits well, feels comfortable, and meets your specific needs.
How do you measure for hunting boots?
To measure for hunting boots, you’ll need to know your foot length (in inches or centimeters) and your width (narrow, medium, or wide). You can determine your foot length by measuring from the heel to the tip of the longest toe; for width, simply trace the outline of your foot on a piece of paper and compare it to a sizing chart.
What is the best all around hunting boot?
There is no one “best” hunting boot for everyone. The best boot for you will depend on factors such as the type of terrain you’ll be walking in, the weather conditions you’re likely to encounter, and your own personal preferences.
Why are hunter boots expensive?
Hunter boots are typically more expensive than other brands because they’re made with high-quality materials and construction. Additionally, the company offers a wide range of styles and sizes to choose from, which can add to the cost.
What kind of boots do hunters wear?
There is no one answer to this question as different hunters will have different preferences for their footwear. Some hunter may prefer rubber boots for their waterproof and scent-free properties, while others might opt for leather boots for durability and comfort. Ultimately, the best hunting boot is the one that fits the individual hunter’s needs the best.
What are the best hunting boots for cold weather?
Again, there is no definitive answer as different hunters will have different preferences. Some might prefer insulated boots to keep their feet warm, while others might find that lighter weight boots are more comfortable to walk in. Make sure to try on a variety of boots before making a purchase to ensure you find the right fit for you.
Can deer smell rubber boots?
Deer have an incredibly strong sense of smell, so it is possible that they could detect the scent of rubber boots. If you are concerned about your scent, there are a few things you can do to reduce the likelihood of being detected by deer. First, make sure to clean your boots thoroughly after each use to remove any lingering smells. You can also try spraying your boots with a scent-eliminating product before heading out into the woods.
What to put on hunting boots?
There are a variety of products available to help keep your feet comfortable while hunting. Some hunters prefer to wear thick socks made from wool or other materials to keep their feet warm, while others prefer to wear thinner socks to prevent their feet from getting too sweaty. You can also try using a boot liner or footbed insert to help improve the fit of your boots and prevent blisters.
How do you keep hunting boots scent-free?
Scent is one of the main ways that deer are able to detect hunters, so it is important to take steps to reduce your scent when out in the woods. First, make sure to clean your boots thoroughly after each use. You can also try spraying them with a scent-eliminating product before heading out. Finally, avoid wearing your boots in areas where deer are likely to be present, such as bedding areas or feeding areas.
Conclusion
Apart from the five tips we’ve mentioned above, there are other factors you need to consider when buying hunting boots such as the level of comfort and the type of socks you’re looking to combine the boots with. Just as we mentioned at the beginning of this post, your feet are the wheels that keep the entire body moving.
So, with the right boots down there, you don’t have to worry about anything as everything has already been taken care of.
