Top 10 Best Hunting Boots Reviews 2024 – Guide and Review

Why do you need the best hunting boots?

Trekking over rough terrain takes a toll on your footwear, and it takes a rugged boot to stand up to that type of punishment. City shoes are fine for the daily grind, but they are not designed for the great outdoors. They go to pieces quickly when exposed to rocks, slippery surfaces, moisture, and loose ground.

Moreover, they lack the grip and traction you need to move comfortably. Slipping and spraining your ankle is not fun at all, and limping back to civilization is a bad way to end the weekend.

Hunting boots are your number one hunting partner as they are with you all the way on your hunting expedition. If the boots you are wearing are not friendly or comfortable, you cannot expect to use your other hunting equipment effectively. So, finding the best hunting boots for your feet is our first priority for a hunting preparation.

Comparison Chart of the Top 10 Best Hunting Boots

Here is a quick look at the top hunting boots we will review.

10 Best Hunting Boots in 2024

Here is more detail on the best hunting boots on the market today. There are a lot of choices so find the features that best fit your situation.

Here are my two favorite hunting boots: 1) Best Hunting Boots for Early Season 2) Best Cold Weather Hunting Boots

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What makes a good hunting boot? It has to be tough, well insulated, and have a good grip. It should be comfortable and fit well. These are the absolute essentials. Kenetrek’s Men’s Mountain Extreme provides all these benefits, and more.

Features

• The Mountain Extreme has a thick, durable rubber sole with k-talon outsoles for outstanding grip. The rubber sole guard is reinforced, to protect against extreme wear and tear.
• The 7mm nylon midsoles give the boot extra strength under heavy load and on rough terrain, adding to the durability. This is especially useful if you’re lugging around heavy bags!
• The attractive uppers are 2.8mm thick premium leather, providing natural strength and waterproofing. The single vamp and seamless tongue provide improved scratch resistance and waterproofing without sacrificing comfort.
• Insulation is really important if you’re hunting in cold conditions – and the Mountain Extreme has you covered. With 400 grams of “Thinsulate” insulation in each boot, you will be comfortable in all conditions. And the breathable Wind-tex insulation prevents your feet from cooking!

Pros

Things we like

• Comfortable fit after they are broken in.
• 400 grams of Thinsulate feels even warmer.
• Lightweight but very warm.
• Windtex membrane allows your feet to breathe.

Cons

Things that could be better

• Uncomfortable insole (can be replaced easily).
• You will have to break them in (you can say the same for most boots).
• Highest priced boot in the list.

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Overall, these are one tough pair of boots! They are also surprisingly lightweight, at only 4.2 lbs. As mentioned above, they are let down by the uncomfortable insoles – but they’re easy to replace. Overall, I can happily recommend these boots.

Check out our List of The Top 5 Warmest Hunting Boots for Cold Weather

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Hunting boots have to be tough. In the past, that would have meant they had to be uncomfortable and heavy. Today, boot makers have advanced materials that offer strength, waterproofing, and comfort, and are surprisingly lightweight. The LaCrosse Men’s AeroHead is a prime example. It provides amazing flexibility for easy walking while keeping all the benefits of a rubber boot.

Features

• LaCrosse has built these boots with Neoprene – the same material used in modern wetsuits. Neoprene is more resilient than natural rubber, and lighter, too. It’s completely waterproof and very flexible. And it’s a good insulator, keeping your feet warm in the bitterest cold.
• The choice of material is key to the success of these boots. Choosing a flexible material means the boots are easy to put on. They also flex naturally as you walk, which prevents strain and blisters.
• The Neoprene core is the first part of LaCrosse’s patented AeroForm technology. It is complemented with a liquid rubber seam, which resists abrasion and ensures waterproofing across the boot.
• The outer shell is made of tough Polyurethane, a material that is prized for its extreme durability, insulation, and waterproofing qualities. It’s tough and flexible, too.
• These are tall boots, measuring 16” from the arch. They’re completely waterproof and designed for comfort. They have an adjustable back gusset so you can adjust the fit.
• The midsole is cushioned with injected polyurethane. This helps to improve the stability of your boot and makes it much more comfortable.
• The soles have good grip, and the integrated shank adds extra support and durability.

Pros

Things we like

• Very comfortable for walking and standing.
• Multiple layers of waterproofing.
• Flexible neoprene makes the boots great for walking.
• Resistant to scratches and abrasion.

Cons

Things that could be better

• A little too cushy for rocky terrain.
• Can be difficult to take off.

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The LaCrosse Men’s ArrowHead are great waterproof hunting boots. They are ideally suited for long walks to your tree stand that you will be in for hours. The souls are well cushioned and great for standing long periods of time. However, they’re not the best shoes for hiking or climbing over rocky terrain – the soles are a bit too soft for these conditions.

Check out our List of The Top 5 Best Rubber Hunting Boots

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In many parts of the world, venomous snakes are a real hazard! Getting to a hospital is pretty tough when you’re in the middle of the wilderness, so it’s very important to protect yourself.

With good tough boots and clothing, the risk of getting bitten are reduced. These boots feature a flexible snake guard to give you an extra layer of protection.

Features

• These boots come with LaCrosse’s patented neoprene core, offering warmth, flexibility, and waterproofing. They have a rubber sole and 2” heel, so they have great traction on wet or muddy surfaces.
• The uppers are made from tough fabric and leather, so they’re resistant and allow your feet to breathe. The Dry-Core lining keeps them waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about leakage.
• As I mentioned above, these boots feature a 360-degree snake guard, which could save your life!
• LaCrosse also makes the AeroHead, which I reviewed above. One of the downsides of the AeroHead is that it’s hard to take off – you have to pull quite hard. The Venom Scent APG HD has a zip on the side so you can remove your feet more easily – it’s a nice feature, and it’s a shame the AeroHead doesn’t have them.

Pros

Things we like

• 360 Snake Guard protection from snake bites.
• Insulated for cold weather and wet conditions.
• Scent free antimicrobial treatment.
• Easy to remove boot with side zipper.
• Low lugged outsole for quick movement.

Cons

Things that could be better

• Multiple people have had issues with waterproofing after a period of time.

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These are great all-round hunting boots, and they’re snake proof! They offer great insulation and allow your feet to breathe in hot conditions. They’re easy to put on and take off, but they are not fully waterproof. So bear that in mind if you intend to stand in running water.

Read the full detailed review of the LaCrosse Men’s Venom Scent APG HD Snake Boot

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Sometimes, you need a boot with great insulation. They’re ideal for cold weather and wet climates. But in the heat, you need a boot that can breathe. These boots are uninsulated. They’re a great all-round boot that’s suitable for all terrains.

Features

• Danner’s Pronghorn features a leather and nylon upper, so it’s tough and flexible. It comes with a Gore-Tex lining that allows your feet to breathe in even the hottest conditions. It protects against the buildup of sweat, which is uncomfortable and unhealthy.
• The heel cap and toe are made from thick full-grain leather, lending them strength and protection from scuffs and scratches. This is especially important on rocky terrain or thick undergrowth.
• The Pronghorn has Danner’s newest Terra Force Next platform, which is designed for comfort and support. It features Vibram SPE cushioning in the midsole so your feet will remain comfortable on rough ground.
• The specialized Vibram outsole is designed to provide good traction on a variety of surfaces, including muddy or wet ground, rough surfaces such as rock, and in thick undergrowth.

Pros

Things we like

• Breathable design keeps you comfortable in hot weather.
• GORE-TEC waterproofing membrane to ensure you feet stay dry.
• Vibram SPE midsole provides extra cushioning and comfort.
• Vibram outsole provides great traction.

Cons

Things that could be better

• Although the leather toes and heels are tough, they will eventually scratch and wear.

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The Danner Pronghorn uninsulated boots are great for a wide variety of terrains. They’re designed for hot weather or high-exertion – they are not insulated. Instead, they let your feet breathe and cool down. They are extremely comfortable with great flexibility, and quality of craftsmanship.

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MuckBoots have a great reputation for toughness, and the Muck Wetland Premium Boot carries that tradition proudly! They’re well waterproofed, and offer plenty of support and comfort.

Features

• These boots are made from high-quality rubber, with tough, flexible fabric. The rubber sole has high-traction treads, lending you stability in mud or wet conditions. They are equally at home on dry surfaces, loose ground, etc.
• The neck has a stretch fit comfort topline – this helps to keep the heat in, and the water out. The boot also features a breathable airmesh lining, which keeps your feet ventilated in warmer weather. These boots are comfortable in warm and cold conditions, from -20 up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
• The vulcanized rubber sole is quick cleaning and tough, standing up to scratches and general wear. Combined with a rubber overlay that extends up to the calf, the boot is tough and will protect your foot.
• There is a lightweight EVA midsole to keep your feet comfortable.

Pros

Things we like

• 5mm neoprene for comfort, flexibility and heat retention.
• 100% waterproof to the top of the boot.
• Comfortable thanks to the EVA midsole.
• Airmesh lining keeps the foot dry from perspiration.
• Pull tabs make it easy to put the boots on.
• Stretch fit opening ensures a tight fit – no leakage or heat loss.

Cons

Things that could be better

• Neoprene might not hold up in thick brush.
• Traction is good, but not as good as other options on the list.

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The Muck Boot name is well trusted for a reason – they are well-made boots, suited for wet conditions and very comfortable. The tough exterior can stand up to a lot of punishment, and the excellent traction means you are stable and secure in water or on muddy land.

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These are ruggedly built big boots! They mean business! That doesn’t mean they’re uncomfortable, though – quite the opposite. With multiple layers of insulation and cushioning, as well as arch support, the Irish Setter 860 Elk Tracker Hunting Boot provides great comfort and support for harsh outdoors conditions.

Features

• These are very attractive boots, with a full grain leather upper and a high-grip synthetic sole. The sole is supported by a steel shank, so it can stand up to plenty of rough treatment.
• There are several layers of waterproofing. The rugged saddle leather upper is well stitched with a flex welt construction. This protects against leakage. Inside, there is a waterproof GORE-TEX lining, that keeps water out while allowing your feet to breath. This is complemented by a moisture wicking nylon lining, which draws moisture away from the interior.
• The boots are well insulated, with a 1000 gram Thinsulate layer. They will keep your feet warm in most conditions, whether you are static or in motion.
• The cushioning is fantastic, with high-quality cork EVA and memory foam. This ensures support where you need it, as no two feet are exactly alike.
• The boot also makes use of ScentBan, which kills odor-causing bacteria. So you can keep your feet snug without making them smell like ripe cheese!

Pros

Things we like

• Very tough leather exterior that is attractive and flexible.
• 100% waterproof GORE-TEX lining will keep your feet dry.
• 1000g of Thinsulate for extra warmth without the bulk.
• ScentBan technology to kill bacteria that causes your boots to stink.

Cons

Things that could be better

• For some people, they may be a little too heavy.
• The laces tend to wear out quickly, but they are easy to replace.

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These are great boots if you need all-terrain flexibility and extreme insulation. The tough construction resists scratches, knocks, and scrapes. The Irish Setter 860 Elk Tracker Hunting Boots are very comfortable, providing arch support and a memory foam insole. And the steel shank ensures it won’t fall apart after especially rough treatment.

It’s also worth noting the excellent after sales support from Irish Setter. In many cases, they have been happy to replace the boots for free and allowed the customers to keep the old ones, too!

Read the full detailed review of the Irish Setter Men’s 860 Elk Tracker Waterproof 1000 Gram Boot

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These boots are named after the outsole, which does remind me of a bear’s claw. They are designed for extreme traction, making them ideal for slippery surfaces and flaky rocky surfaces. The Rocky Bearclaw Hunting Boot also has great insulation, making them ideal boots for active hunters.

Features

• The design is camo and leather, with a welt construction.
• The most outstanding feature is the outsole, which offers amazing grip on a variety of surfaces. This makes these boots the best all-terrain choice on this line-up.
• These boots are insulated with 1000 gm Thinsulate Ultra, just like the Irish Setter boots I reviewed above. Generally, the Irish Setter boots are warmer, but the Bearclaw has much better traction.
• They feature a GORE-TEC lining for breathable waterproofing, which is complemented by Polartec. Polartec is designed to quickly draw moisture away from the skin, so you remain dry even in wet conditions.
• The foam footbed offers comfort and support, whether you are standing statically or climbing over rough, sharp terrain.

Pros

Things we like

• Bearclaw 3D outsole provides incredible traction on many different surfaces.
• 1000 grams on Thinsulate Ultra insulation will definitely keep your foot warm.
• Steel shank for support.

Cons

Things that could be better

• Depending on your fit, they may feel a little tight at first. But they break in quickly.

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If you tend to trek over rough terrain, over rocky surfaces, through overgrowth, and on icy ground then the Rocky Bearclaw Hunting Boots are the perfect for you. They are the best all-terrain boots on the list ideally suited for hunting, hiking, and general use. They’re also well insulated and durable, too.

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You need a different hunting boot depending on the season. The Danner Vital 8″ Hunting Boot is a great choice for the early season when temperatures can vary greatly. This hunting boot is designed to light and fast, which is perfect for all the scouting you are going to do. Here are a few features for why this is a good choice:

Features

• The Danner Vital is modeled after hiking boots. It includes a Plyolite midsole which offers plenty of cushioning while you walk, but it is also very light.
• The Vital outsole will give you plenty of grip while hiking on multiple surfaces. It is specifically designed to grip rock, moss, and other slick surfaces so you don’t have to slow down.
• You are guaranteed to stay dry with the Danner Dry liner. This is a 100% waterproof boot that can easily walk through streams and puddles while keeping your foot dry. Waterproof boots can make your feet sweat, but the Vital’s have a floating tongue for good airflow to keep you feet dry from the inside too.
• The boot is made of a combination leather and textile upper. The leather is specially treated to resist abrasions from walking through thick brush or on sharp rocks.

Pros

Things we like

• Extremely light boot modeled after hiking boots.
• Danner Dry Liner makes the boots 100% waterproof is streams, puddles or rain.
• Outsole is designed for walking on slick surfaces such as wet rocks or moss.
• Boot tongue is breathable and comfortable.
• Virtually zero break-in period – use them heavily out of the box.

Cons

Things that could be better

• Durability and boot life is shorter than all leather boots.
• Inconsistent experiences with hunters regarding waterproofing. Test them out when you first get them to be sure.

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The Danner Vital 8″ Hunting Boot is best during the early season when you are doing a lot of walking. They are light so you can walk long distances without getting tired. They are aggressive enough to give you great traction and protection, but they are designed to allow you to move quickly and stealthily. They are a great addition to your boot selection.

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We all hate sitting in our stand or blind with freezing feet just trying to make it 30 more minutes in case that big buck walks by. Freezing feet is a thing of the past with the LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro with 1600g of insulation. You want to hunt longer but you also want to be comfortable. You can have both with the Alphaburly Pro. Check out the features below to discover why this is the go to cold weather hunting boot.

Features

• Loaded with 1600 grams of Thinsulate Ultra to retain the heat in your boot. This is an extreme cold weather boot that is best for temperatures from -70 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Embossed neoprene liner for better air circulation in the boot. Temperature regulation is important with this much insulation. The neoprene liner on the upper boot allows your foot to breath and can even be folded down if you need to release some heat after walking to your stand.
• Contoured boot around the ankle holds your heel in place so you don’t get blisters from rubbing. The adjustable neoprene gusset secures the boot on your calf and allows for easy on/off.
• Great scent protection as the outside of the boot is made of rubber that is hand-laid over the neoprene inner. The rubber wont hold scents like other types of hunting boots.
• The midsole is made of lightweight EVA to provide comfort while standing or walking.

Pros

Things we like

• Warmest boot in the category with 1600g of Thinsulate Ultra.
• Rubber over neoprene provides great durability and flexibility.
• Great scent suppression with outer rubber layer.
• Adjustable neoprene gusset for a perfect fit around the calf.
• Extra protection on the heel and toe.

Cons

Things that could be better

• Boots are only meant for weather below freezing or they will be too hot.
• Camouflage print fades quickly for some owners.

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You need a specialty boot for cold weather or you are going to be miserable. The LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro is the boot that will keep you warm and in your stand long after everyone else has given up. It’s simple, hunt longer and stay comfortable.

Check out my complete list of best Cold Weather Hunting Boots.

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Thorogood has been producing high-value hunting boots for 60 years now, so it’s safe to assume they know a thing or two. The Thorogood Snake Boot is the second snake-proof boot on the list. Hunters in snake country know how important that features is for safety!

Features

• These boots are fully waterproof, with a cement construction to ensure there are no seams for water to leak through. The exterior is protected by 3M Scotchgard.
• They have an EVA/PU cushion for added comfort. The sole is made of slip resisting rubber, which is essential for waterproof boots. The high-traction treads mean you will be stable on rough terrain, too.
• The main feature is the 100% snake proof design, which is pretty important if you tread on a sleeping copperhead. In some parts of the country, that isn’t an issue. However, when hunting in snake country, you’ll be glad you have bite-proof boots.
• There’s a side zipper that makes it very easy to take these boots off.

Pros

Things we like

• SnakeGuard Extreme snake bite protection.
• Easy to remove with the side zipper.
• Fully waterproof with Thorogood X-Stream Waterproofing.

Cons

Things that could be better

• Poor ankle support makes these a bad choice for vertical terrain
• Zippers are not as durable as I would like.

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If comfortable snake boots are on the top of your priority list, then you can grab a pair of these boots. Though the ankle support is a bit poor, but these are light, extremely waterproof, and very well constructed. They are a great choice for flat to semi flat terrain. You can also use these for hiking in the areas you are worried about snake bites.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Hunting Boots

Which hunting boot is best? It all depends on your requirements. Sometimes you need an all-terrain boot. Sometimes insulation is important. Will you spend most of your time standing still, or will you be trekking over rough terrain?

All of the boots on this list have their own strengths and weaknesses. Before you can choose the right one, you need to think about your exact requirements.

Here are the points you need to keep in mind:

Terrain

Different terrains put different strains on the boots you choose. Some boots are better suited to rocky terrain, others work well on relatively flat terrain.

Rocks require a good grip, and they tend to scuff and abrade the boots you wear. If you’re planning to walk over rocky terrain, or up mountains, you need hiking boots or hunting boots that are well suited to this type of ground.

At the other extreme, you find swamps. These are extremely demanding terrains that require waterproof boots. Traction is important too – wet soil and water make it easy to slip and fall.

Weather and Climate

Are you planning to hunt in the winter, or during hot weather? For that matter, are you in a hot or cold part of the world? Some boots are insulated against the cold, and others are designed to lose excess heat quickly.

Making the wrong choice here can lead to a world of discomfort, and possibly injury. So understand your needs, and remember – it’s a good practice to use different boots for different seasons.

Usage

Are you planning to use your boots for hunting only, or do you plan to hike? Are you looking for something that’s appropriate for everyday use? 

Some of the boots on this list are great all-purpose boots, and others are designed with hunting in mind. This is an important consideration, because a high-quality pair of boots is a considerable investment. If you can use them for more than one purpose, then that’s a definite bonus.

Snakes

In many parts of the world, venomous snakes are a real risk. While it’s true that there are effective anti-venoms, it’s hard to get rapid medical treatment when you’re in the middle of nowhere. And even if you’re close to a hospital, poisonous snake bites are extremely painful. It can take a long time to recover from them, too.

If you’re planning to hunt anywhere near poisonous snakes, then snake proof boots are an absolute necessity.

Water

Water covers 80% of the Earth’s surface. Water also tends to attract game. So it’s not surprising that we run into it quite often when out hunting.

Getting water inside your boots is more than a mere discomfort. In cold weather, it can be a serious impediment. Given enough time, it can lead to frostbite.

And in hot weather, it can lead to fungal infections. These are extreme cases, of course. For the most part, wet feet are uncomfortable and blister more easily.

In any case, you will be grateful for waterproofing if your hunting takes you into a wet environment.

Support

How are your feet? Do you get pains after standing up all day, or after trekking for long distances? If so, you probably need extra support. If you have a medical condition, you need the right kind of support.

Modern materials such as memory foam and synthetic foams are great for supporting your feet. But they can store heat, so if you’re hunting in a hot climate, you will need a boot with better ventilation.

Weight

If you’re planning on covering a lot of ground, heavy boots can quickly become a drag. This isn’t an issue if you will be hunting from a static position.

Many of the more rugged boots on this list are quite heavy. Some are very lightweight. Of course, there’s always a trade-off. Heavy boots are made of thicker materials, making them more durable and often warmer.

Flora

Will you be hunting on the plains, or trekking through thick underbrush? Rough, thorny plants can tear a weaker boot to shreds. They can damage the outsoles, and leave unsightly scratches on the exterior. And they can compromise your boot’s waterproofing. So you need to take the plant life into consideration when you choose a boot.

Appearance

I have left this point to last for several reasons.

First of all, fashion and appearance are a matter of personal taste. Nobody can tell you what looks good and what doesn’t.

Secondly, a nice appearance will not impress a snake, or protect you from a twisted ankle.

And finally, all the boots on this list are attractive and suitable for hunting.

However, if you’re planning to use your new boots for day-to-day use, then you may want to choose something that looks good in all situations. Again, it’s better to choose the right boot for your requirements rather than the prettiest one. But it’s also great to choose a great looking pair of boots that you like.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Take a look at my list of the best Rubber Hunting Boots.

Wrapping It Up

All of the boots on this list are great for one purpose or another. That makes it hard for me to make a definitive recommendation for everyone – I don’t know your needs and desires. That said, here are my top recommendations.

Best Cold Weather Hunting Boot

The LaCrosse AlphaBurly Pro offers great insulation while providing you with the flexibility to tackle all types of terrains.
In addition to great insulation, it allows your foot to breathe, preventing an uncomfortable buildup of sweat. And it has great traction, which is essential on all types of terrain.

In cold conditions, it’s important to choose a boot that will keep you warm and comfortable for long periods of time. The AlphaBurly Pro will not let you down.

Best Early Season Hunting Boot

Before it gets cold, you need a boot that will allow you to scout for miles without getting your feet hot. The Danner Vital Hunting Boot is great choice for a hunting / hiking boot for that is light and waterproof.