The Kodiak Thane is a versatile boot that’s as good out on the town as it is at work or in the field. While it’s not the most waterproof, rugged, lightweight, or warm boot, it does an admirable job at all those things. Whether hiking or going to dinner, this boot is a Swiss army knife of footwear.

During my hands-on review of these boots I have hunted, hiked, sat at my desk, run errands, worked outside, driven extensively, and done many other usual and mundane tasks. What follows is my honest review of this product based on real-world testing.

Below are the main criteria I considered when trying these boots out along with scores I gave them in each category:

• Features: 4/5
• Comfort: 4/5
• Durability: 4/5
• Style: 5/5
• Versatility: 5/5
• Overall: 4.4

Kodiak Thane Boot

$93.57

Pros:

• Highly versatile, good for lots of different outdoor activities
• Look good with just about anything
• Feel good with a short break-in period
• Lightweight with high-quality materials

Cons:

• Some reported quality issues
• Waterproofing is limited
• Short heel shroud rubs on my achilles

View on Amazon View at Kodiak

08/16/2023 07:50 am GMT

Kodiak Thane Boots Hands-on Review

I’ve had my Kodiak Thane boots for about nine months as of the time of writing. Having used them for all sorts of activities, I’d say I know them pretty well by now.

Just so you know, Kodiak did give me these boots to use and review, but they didn’t pay for or sponsor the article. This review reflects my own assessment based on my own experience.

Disclaimer: The links in this article are affiliate links which just means if you click on one and later buy something from that website, we may get a small commission at no cost to you. 

Related: Kodiak Skogan Hiking Boot Hands-on Review

Features

Score: 4/5

These aren’t particularly feature-rich boots, but they tick all the important boxes with reasonable utility.

Laces

I like how the top two lace loops slide real nice to easily tighten up the top, while the lower eyelets keep things snug and tight. They even come properly laced up from the factory. You do have to tighten and loosen the laces rung by rung to get them on and off, but it’s a good system.

They aren’t speed laces like some boots have, but the tradeoff is a snug fit that doesn’t loosen up over time as you wear them.

Waterproof

These Kodiak boots are waterproof enough for everyday activities and some typical adventure, just don’t expect them to keep your feet dry in standing water. They’re not as good as full leather boots with Gore-Tex, but they’ll work for most things.

While out hunting, hiking, or trudging around the yard I’ve walked through wet grass, snow, mud, and rain puddles. None of those things penetrated and my socks stayed dry. 

However, the boots failed my basic one-minute test where I stood in a creek. They started leaking water after about 30 seconds. All the leaking was above laces starting at the lace rivets. My socks were wet, but not soaked. This was when they were brand new out of the box, so the waterproofing treatment should have been in full force.

The tongue is attached to the upper by canvas for the lower four lace holes, but the material is thin and perhaps untreated or poorly treated. Looking at it, I wouldn’t expect it to keep water out, but since they call them waterproof I tried it anyway.

Wherever there is leather seems good and waterproof. It’s the canvas and the seams that are vulnerable.

I think it’s safe to say they are waterproof below the lace rivets. Just don’t stand in water more than about two inches deep for any length of time. At that depth, it passes the one-minute test and beyond. I stopped the stopwatch at five minutes and got out without issue.

Traction

The outsole of the Kodiak Thane boot has a nice tread with good depth (though there are deeper) and grip.

The empty spaces in the tread are a bit barrow, though. Gravel gets stuck in them easily, which is a bit annoying, but not a deal-breaker. I slipped up a bit in thick mud or on steep trails with loose soil. But they were great on wet solid surfaces and for 90% of terrain.

The less aggressive lugs pay off in spades when you’re just wearing them around town because they give you a softer, lighter step. And I suspect the sole will wear more evenly and last longer the way I use them. After nine months of occasional use, they still look brand new. Although I have seen some online reviews where people had issues with wearing through the sole from heavy everyday use.

Insulation and Lining

The microfiber lining of these boots makes for a soft comfy feel inside that wicks away moisture pretty well. But they are not insulated. This makes them great for Spring through early fall, but don’t count on them keeping your feet warm in the cold.

Comfort

Score: 4/5

My first walk in these boots felt really good right out of the box. However, after the first day in them, I had potential concerns about the heel shroud and a hot spot right over the top of the ball of my foot. 

After a little break-in time (a few days), the hot spot was a non-issue. Maybe I just had the laces too tight at first.

Related: How Should Hunting Boots Fit? (Stay Comfy and Blister Free)

The heel issue let up quite a bit, but the other day when I was out climbing steep mountains turkey hunting, I definitely felt it. Not so much that it gave me blisters, just some discomfort and heat after a long day in the field. It’s like the heel cup inside the boot is just a little short, so it rubs my achilles a bit much.

Overall, break-in time wasn’t bad at all. While I wouldn’t go hike 10 miles in them on the first day, they are usable right away.

Kodiak Thane boots are comfortable. Your foot stays put well and doesn’t slide around. Even in steep, uneven terrain they were decent, though there is not much by way of reinforced ankle support. So if your ankles give you problems, you might not want to wear these in steep country.

Durability

Score: 4/5

One of the first things that impressed me about these boots was the weight. They look somewhat meaty but they don’t feel heavy. They’re definitely lighter than other work boots and many hunting boots.

The last of the boot is semi-stiff, giving you solid footing and providing adequate protection from sharp rocks underfoot. The soles and toe box feel rigid like a work boot, but they have decent flex at the ankle thanks to the canvas. So they feel more like a hybrid between work boot and light hiker.

Even after several months of use in the woods and rocky terrain, there are no major signs of wear. I expect they’ll last forever, though based on some online reviews not everyone agrees. This brings us to build quality.

Quality of Construction

The pair I got seem very solid and there are no tell-tale signs of poor quality. The sole isn’t separating from the upper. The outsole’s not wearing through, or even down for that matter. No seams are unraveling or rivets pulling out. Even the lining still looks almost new. Other than a few expected dings to the leather around the toe box, they still look great.

That said, I have read reports of the outsole separating from the upper starting at the toe and of the outsole wearing through and developing holes. These appeared to be daily wearers of the boots who were on their feet working all day. 

Perhaps these Kodiak boots are better suited for people like me who use them occasionally rather than as daily workboots.

A few of my own observations on quality:

• The canvas feels high quality and likely reduces the overall weight compared to full leather boots.
• Inside is a soft-to-the-touch synthetic microfiber liner that feels good, but I can’t help but wonder if it will wear out before the outer boot does.
• The leather-lined synthetic insole is of mediocre quality, but it’s functional, comfortable, and takes in the imprint of your foot right quick.
• Seams are double- or triple-stitched all the way around – nice!

Style

Score: 5/5

While I am no connoisseur of fashion, I think these boots look good. This is obviously a subjective thing when it comes to something you wear, but I’ve had a few compliments on them and they certainly don’t look bad or clunky.

The Kodiak Thane boot has sort of an old school, heritage look to it with a hint of a military vibe. I especially appreciate that they are not big or bulky. This is largely what makes them work for both casual and adventurous pursuits.

When I try anything on whether it’s a hat, a shirt, or these boots if it doesn’t immediately feel good I’m done considering it. If it feels good, then it’s got to look decent, according to myself, to pass the purchase test.

These boots passed both tests. They feel good and they look good. From the first person view above, they look good with jeans in particular.

The Thanes come in four different color schemes:

• Black leather with gray canvas
• Medium brown leather with light brown canvas
• Light golden brown leather with light brown canvas
• Dark brown leather with olive green canvas (what I have)

Versatility

Score: 5/5

My favorite thing about these boots is their versatility. As an aspiring minimalist, I can appreciate having one item that does many things and the Kodiak Thane boot is one of those things.

Here’s a list of things I either have done or would do in these boots:

• Camping
• Hunting
• Fishing
• Motorcycling
• Yardwork
• Office work
• Go on a date
• Hiking
• Go to church
• Physical labor
• Factory work
• Construction work

If you need safety toe or other certified work boots, these won’t work. But if you just want or need boots for work to provide a little more protection and support than your average shoe, these would be great. 

Besides that, they’re good for just about anything outdoors, rain or shine.

But as the saying goes, if something is good at everything, it’s probably not great at anything. 

That’s true for these boots. Some of the sidehilling I was doing in the mountains while turkey hunting made me wish I was wearing something with more support. And these wouldn’t be my first pick for an extended hike or backpacking trip. I’d probably wear my full leather, steel-toe boots if I were cutting wood or visiting a mine site for work like I used to do.

Nonetheless, these boots make for excellent go-to all-around footwear.

Price and Value

Retail price for a pair of Kodiak Thane waterproof boots is $155.

At that price they certainly aren’t cheap, but they’re not the most expensive either. Even a lot of running shoes will cost you that much anymore.

I do think they are worth the price since they aren’t made up of a bunch of cheap synthetic materials. With real full-grain leather, durable canvas, grippy rubber soles, and decent water protection, they are better than most boots you’ll find at that price or cheaper.

Kodiak Thane Boot

$93.57

Pros:

• Highly versatile, good for lots of different outdoor activities
• Look good with just about anything
• Feel good with a short break-in period
• Lightweight with high-quality materials

Cons:

• Some reported quality issues
• Waterproofing is limited
• Short heel shroud rubs on my achilles

View on Amazon View at Kodiak

08/16/2023 07:50 am GMT

Recommendation

Combined score: 4.4 out of 5

Kodiak Thane boots are a great choice for active, outdoorsy people. Whether you live in a city, the suburbs, or the country, they will be useful boots that you can wear anywhere for just about any activity. They are ideal for those days when you leave the house without knowing exactly what you’re going to be doing for work or play.

If you are seeking a boot for a very specific purpose like hiking, backcountry hunting, or working construction, you’ll probably be better off with a purpose-built boot rather than the Thane. Same thing for people who need to wear boots every day and spend the whole day on their feet. You might need something more robust.

I fit in that first category and for that reason, I love these boots. They are a great multi-purpose boot that saves me from buying five pairs of specialized boots for activities I only do occasionally.

Kodiak Thane Boots FAQ

1. Are Kodiak Boots True to Size?

Kodiak boots do fit true to size. I own two different pairs of Kodiak boots in my usual size of US 10.5 Men’s, and I found them both to be spot on in terms of sizing. They fit nice and snug without being too tight or allowing my foot to slip around. People with wider feet may need to consider trying a half size up.

The taller Kodiak boots like the Thane are slightly large for me around the instep, but that’s pretty normal as I have a low instep and I find that in all boots. The laces allowed me to pull that in so it is not a problem too. Some people have reported this boot to run slightly large.

2. Are Kodiak Thane Boots Good for Hunting?

For upland game, wild turkey, small game, coyotes, or early season whitetail, the Kodiak Thane boots are great for hunting. I have worn them chasing chukars in the desert and turkeys in the mountains of Southern Idaho and think they’re great for that.

What I like about them for hunting is that they are not loud and clunky like other work-style boots. The sole rubber is stiff enough for foot traction but soft enough for grip and noise reduction. There is enough waterproofing to keep your feet dry on a typical spring or fall day, even with the early morning dew on the grass or the occasional thunderstorm.

While you might want a more rugged sole and boot for long backcountry trips or mud boots for swamps or waterfowl, these are now my primary hunting boots for most things. I’ll even be wearing them deer hunting in the fall.

Recommended:

Best Hunting Boots Reviewed (All Purposes)

Pnuma Chisos Backpack Review

The post Kodiak Thane Boot Review (After 9 Months of Use) appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

I own two pairs of Kodiak Boots, some hikers and some hunting boots (see photo) that look good around town too. My wife also owns a paid of Kodiak snow boots that she has had for more than 5 years. In my opinion, these boots are well-made with stout soles and quality leather.

For more on why you should consider this line of boots, read our Kodiak Boots review below.

Kodiak Boots

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About Kodiak Boots 

Kodiak brands itself as “Canada’s bootmaker” since they’ve been in the business for over 100 years. To provide a brief history: Kodiak Boots was founded by Charles E. Greb under the name of Berlin Shoe Manufacturing Company Limited.

It only took six years for their name to shorten to Greb Shoe Company. After a few more acquisitions, including by the Williamson-Dickie Mfg. Co., the company that founded the famous Dickie’s workwear brand. The Kodiak Boots brand is now owned by VF Corporation, a huge conglomerate that owns other famous brands including Vans, The North Face, and Timberland.

Kodiak originally specialized in farming, logging, and mining boots. Their legacy of making quality work boots to meet specific safety standards continues. Rugged work boots remain at the center of their portfolio.

However they have also branched out as more of a lifestyle brand. Their footwear now appeals to everyday people, hipsters, and hikers. Lucky for Outdoor Empire readers, they even make great hunting boots.

Related:  Best Hunting Boots Reviewed (All Hunting Purposes)

Kodiak has remained renowned for its quality, style, and innovation throughout the years and corporate maneuverings. Even if you are unaware of the brand, if you’ve ever visited Canada and many parts of the northern United States, you’ve likely met someone either wearing Kodiaks or who has a pair in their closet.

Are Kodiak Boots Good? 

While the company’s history is interesting, it doesn’t necessarily lend an answer to the question of whether Kodiak boots are any good. Of course, there are still historical aspects to that question that can help us answer it. For instance, the boots become synonymous with the Canadian combat efforts during the Second World War. Kodiak boots were also worn on the feet of the fashion and style elite in the 1970s.

For a boot that’s played a role in industry, fashion, and culture, you might assume that their longevity eventually succumbed to a decline in quality. Yet, that doesn’t appear to be the case.

While there can be variations depending on the specific style you choose, Kodiak boots are still considered high-quality, comfortable, and stylish.

Recommended: Kodiak Boots Review: Skogan Mid Hiker (After Hiking Iceland)

Durability, Quality, and Workmanship 

Kodiak boots are known for their durability despite their low-cost point. Yet, that does mean that sometimes quality and workmanship take a slight hit to ensure that the boots remain economical for most.

Kodiak boots are designed to thrive in tough environments – like rainy, muddy trails or grimy, dusty manufacturing centers. They’re durable boots designed for professional use and should withstand at least a few years of rugged, everyday abuse.

That said, some reviewers have mentioned that their hiking boots suffer from a single issue: the outsoles are cemented (as in glued) on. This may you mean you’ll need to buy a new pair of shoes sooner than expected. Ideally, you want a hiking boot that’s either Goodyear welted or storm welted. The use of cemented outsoles limits how long you should expect your shoes to last — potentially to as low as two years, depending on how often they’re used.

Another potential issue is that the leather on some of their boots is remarkably thin, such as the Kodiak Rover II Arctic Grip Chelsea Boot. While the Chelsea-style boot isn’t necessarily a workman’s boot, the thin leather means they are more likely to get torn up or damaged.

Style 

Style can be subjective, but there are plenty of influencers out there who really love the style of Kodiak boots. Granted, these endorsements may be paid, but if influencers like the boots, then it’s likely that more mainstream audiences will approve of the style, too.

However, many reviewers express delight at how they can wear their Kodiak boots with anything. They look nice enough to wear with denim if you’re making a trip to town, yet are practically designed, so they also support your feet in harder circumstances.

Many of their boots also come with two pairs of laces in different colors. This allows you to customize your look right out of the box.

For more information about popular designs and styles, consider checking out their Gift Guide.

Waterproofing, Warmth, and Comfort 

Kodiak boots are an excellent choice if your goal is to purchase a pair that keeps your feet dry, warm, and comfortable. Most of their boots include a removable EVA insole, which adds comfort. If you prefer another brand of insole, you can easily swap out the included one for your preference to add to the comfort.

Some people report a minor issue with the comfort of Kodiak boots, that the sizes tend to run small. Personally I found both pairs of my Kodiak boots (acquired in 2021) to be true to size. I generally wear a Mens 10.5 US. That’s what I got and they fit perfect. My wife, who usually a Women’s 9 US, does find her size 9 winter boots from Kodiak a bit tight. She might have been better off with a half size bigger.

If you’re wearing thick socks, the shoes can feel extremely tight at your normal shoe size. Consider sizing up at least half a size. Or make sure to bring your thickest socks with you when trying on Kodiak boots.

For those who often trek in cold environments, you’ll have plenty of Kodiak options from which to choose. Many of their boots contain Thinsulate insulation. This keeps your feet warm without adding to the shoe’s weight, as well as a full interior lining. Some reviews have stated that Kodiak boots kept their feet warm even at degrees of up to negative 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

The waterproofing on Kodiak boots is also known to work well and last a long time. Even on a more casual style, such as the Kodiak Rover II Arctic Grip Chelsea Boot, the waterproofing should hold up even in repeated downpours.

Our Overall Kodiak Boots Review 

While Kodiak-brand boots are not necessarily perfect in every way, they are a great choice. They sell at a mid to low price point, typically under $200. You’re not likely to find another pair of boots that are as comfortable, stylish, and well designed for that price.

My Kodiak Boots have held up extremely well and I expect to use them for years to come. In my opinion, they’re worth the price and I recommend you consider the brand.[

Kodiak Boots

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Follow Outdoor Empire to Stay Informed 

Here at Outdoor Empire, we’re passionate about everything outdoors. Our goal is to share that passion with our readers through our well-researched and insightful articles, reviews, and first-person experiences. So, whether you’re looking for a new pair of boots or the best heated gloves to match, make sure to follow us on Twitter to stay updated with new posts.

The post Kodiak Boots Review: What to Expect From Canada’s Bootmaker appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

Hunting boots should fit snugly around the ankle and instep, have a footbed that secures the bottom of your foot without sliding, and have space in the toe box so you can wiggle your toes. Depending on the intended use and terrain, boots that are a half size bigger are often recommended.

Finding hunting boots that fit perfectly is important for a successful hunting excursion. If you want a good hunting boot fit, here are a few questions and tips to show you how hunting boots should fit.

First Consider Terrain and Weather for Hunting Boot Fit

The most important thing to remember when finding the right pair of hunting boots is that all boots are not created equal. You need boots specifically designed for the environment you regularly hunt in. 

Athletic-style boots may be great for traipsing through the backcountry, but they won’t keep your toes toasty warm in the winter. 

Related: Best Hunting Boots Reviewed

It’s essential to carefully consider your regular hunting environment to decide which type of hunting boots is right for you. A few environments and conditions you may hunt in include:

Cold Weather

If you often hunt during freezing temperatures, you need to keep your feet warm and dry. Cold-weather boots with extra padding and insulation may be necessary to keep your feet warm enough.

Warm Weather

You don’t need insulated boots when it is warm outside. Opt for breathable boots that are flexible and versatile, so your feet stay cool while you travel through the backwoods.

Upland

Tough, durable boots are essential for protecting you from snakebites when you hunt upland game.

Mountains

Flexible shoes are not suitable if traveling over rocky or mountainous terrain. You need boots that offer your ankles superior support to minimize the risk of accidents.

Water

If you’re duck hunting near the water, you need a pair of mud boots or waders to keep your feet dry.

When it comes to finding a comfortable hunting boot, the answer to the question of which type of terrain you plan to hunt on is the most crucial factor. If you can’t answer this question, then you can’t know what your individual needs are when it comes to hunting boot fit. 

The type of terrain you plan to hunt on has a direct impact on the type of boot you need, so it should be the first question you answer to avoid throwing away money on a pair of ill-fitting boots. And clearly, the terrain depends on where, when, and what you hunt.

4 Tips for Trying on New Hunting Boots

When trying on potential new hunting boots, do these four things to ensure you’ve found a good fit.

1. Twist the Boots

When you can physically get your hands on a pair of boots, you can twist them to test for support. 

The test is simple. 

Take the boot’s heel in one hand and the toe of the shoe in the other. Twist your hands in opposite directions. 

If the footbed moves more than two inches, it doesn’t offer much support. These boots are often athletic-style and may be suitable for traversing flat terrain. 

If the shoe’s footbed moves less than two inches, the boot has excellent support and is a good choice for hunting in rocky and mountainous regions.

Hunters need varying levels of boot support depending upon their hunting environment, so it’s essential to test any boots you may buy to see if they meet your needs.

2. Check for Ankle Support

Ankle support is the most important element to consider when finding a good hunting boot fit. 

A strong, supportive boot will keep your feet from being injured if they get tangled up in underbrush or stuck in a rocky crevice. However, if you’re hunting on flat terrain that is easy to traverse, you may need a more athletic boot that offers less support.

3. Match Your Foot to the Boot Last

Focus on finding a last that fits your foot instead of buying the right size to ensure your boot fits well. The last should fit securely against your foot and leave little room for excess movement. 

What is a Last?

In boot terminology, the last is the rigid structure in the sole that cradles your foot inside the shoe. Boot lasts were traditionally made of wood, but now they are often aluminum. Sometimes we think of this part of the boot simply as the footbed.

Lasts Vary by Brand

You’ll understand how hunting boots should fit when you match your foot to a last instead of simply choosing a boot in your normal size. This is also why different folks will prefer different boot brands because they each may have unique lasts that accommodate different feet better.

Lasts Vary in Width

Lasts come in several widths, and choosing the right one is imperative for a good hunting boot fit. The average person needs a standard last in a typical size such as 9, 10, or 11. However, some hunters have wide or narrow feet and need to choose boots accordingly.

Why Pay Attention to the Last?

The benefit of matching your foot to the last is finding a better fit. You could buy the same size boot you usually wear and still have an ill-fitting last that could cause your footwear to be uncomfortable. 

For example, if you usually wear a size 9 shoe, you may decide to size up for hunting boots and buy a size 10. If the last is too wide and doesn’t cradle your foot correctly, you could still have trouble with your hunting boot fit. 

4. The Finger Test

You know you have chosen the right last when your foot sinks easily into the boot. You should be able to fit a finger behind your heel, and your toes should have a little wiggle room. 

The boot shouldn’t constrict movement, but it needs to fit securely enough that your foot doesn’t slide around inside.

Should You Buy Hunting Boots a Size Bigger?

In most cases, it makes sense to buy hunting boots a half size larger than your daily runaround shoes.

If you want to make sure your boots fit correctly, it’s essential to find the right size. Buying boots that are too small for your feet is a surefire way to earn painful blisters, but purchasing boots that are much too big increases your risk of accidents while walking through the backcountry.  

You may wonder, “should I buy hunting boots a size bigger?” to ensure you get boots that fit correctly. The answer is yes, a bit, but it is not clear-cut. 

Feet Expand When Hiking

On average, a person’s feet expand up to half a size after walking around all day. This fact means that if you buy hunting boots in your normal size, your feet may start to ache halfway through your hunting excursion because they have no room to expand. Buying boots a half size larger is a good way to mitigate this problem.

Room for Thick Socks

If you’re hunting during cold weather, you may need to wear thick socks. A good rule of thumb for hunting and hiking sock thickness is that you shouldn’t be able to see through them when you hold them up to a light. 

The socks provide extra insulation to keep your feet warm, but they take up a significant amount of space in your shoe. In some cases, you should buy hunting boots that are as much as a full size bigger than your usual size. 

In any case, you’ll want to try boots on while wearing the socks you’ll wear to the field.

If you want your hunting boots to stay comfortable throughout the day, it’s best to size up half a size. Buying boots a size bigger can also be helpful. But if you go any larger, your boots may be too big to fit comfortably. Then you risk blisters from your foot sliding around in all that extra volume.

Give Yourself a Week to Break in the Boots

Hunting boots are just like any other type of shoe. You have to break them in before they can be completely comfortable. 

Even if they feel comfortable when you first try them on at the store, you should never take a brand-new pair of hunting boots with you for an all-day hunting trip, let alone a week at deer camp. Your boots may be broken in by the end of the first day, but your feet will be miserable. That defeats the purpose of buying high-quality hunting boots. 

There is no set amount of time it takes to properly break in hunting boots. But you should count on a solid week of regular wear to make sure your new boots are comfortable.

The breaking-in process varies depending upon the support of your boot. If you have athletic-style boots, you can expect them to be broken in within as little as an hour of putting them on. Sturdier boots made for hunting on mountainous terrain may take several hours or days to break in properly.

How To Break In New Boots

The best way to break in new hunting boots is to put them on for an hour at a time, several days in a row. The process is slow, but it will prevent your feet from hurting when you get the shoes broken in. 

Only take your boots along for a long hunting excursion once they are completely broken in and no longer hurt your feet after several hours of wear.

While you should expect it to take a while to break in new boots, it shouldn’t take more than a week to complete the process. If you still have concerns about how your boots fit after you have worn them every day for a week, it may be a sign that you need a different size or model. Consider returning or exchanging your boots for ones that fit better.

Should You Buy Hunting Boots Online?

You can certainly buy hunting boots online. And that’s often the best way to price shop and get the best deal!

I like to buy boots online because you have a much larger selection of brands. Reviews can give you a pretty good first indication of which products are great, so you have confidence in what you’re buying. Besides, it’s always disappointing when you know what you’re looking for based on your online research. Then you go to a physical store only to find they don’t carry the model or size you want. 

Online shopping wins for variety and size availability!

Since you won’t be able to try the boots on first, here are some online boot buying tips:

1. Buy from an online retailer that offers free returns or one that has a retail store in your area so you can easily return what doesn’t fit. Sportsman’s Warehouse, Cabela’s, and Bass Pro Shops are good options. 

2. Order up to three pairs of the same boot.

3. Once received, try them on at home and walk around your house in them for a day or two.

4. Keep the ones you like and send or take the others back like new. Just leave the tags on!

5. When buying online outside of big retailers with generous return policies, you may want to make sure you are familiar with the brand of boots first. 

Related: Kodiak Boots Review: What to Expect From Canada’s Bootmaker

Buying Boots in a Store

Buying hunting boots from a brick-and-mortar store where you can try them on is also a great option. This is especially true if that store has a good selection and knowledgeable sales staff. They should know something about footwear that you don’t.

You may think that boot sizing is consistent regardless of the manufacturer, but the opposite is true. A size 10 boot from one manufacturer may fit more like a size 9 from another. So testing boots out in person is ideal. 

Instead of guessing on the sizing, you can see which size best fits your foot and will keep you comfortable. 

If you have a common shoe size, you can probably find high-quality hunting boots at any outdoor store. If you have special requirements, such as a wide or narrow fit, you may need to visit a specialty store or order online. 

Whenever possible, shop at small local outdoor retail stores.

Know the Return Policy

Whether online or in-store, generous return policies are your friend when it comes to footwear!

The primary benefit of buying hunting boots at a brick-and-mortar retailer is that you can try them on. So make sure they are comfortable. The hope is that you won’t have to return boots after you buy them. But if problems arise, you need to get your money back. 

It’s helpful to know the store’s return policy before purchasing boots. You want to be sure that you can exchange or return the boots you just bought. This could happen if you change your mind about where to hunt and have different footwear needs. And you don’t want to be out any money.

Every store has its return policy, and while most retailers are lenient about footwear returns, there are exceptions. Brick-and-mortar retailers tend to be more strict about footwear returns. It makes sense because you get to try them on first when you buy.

Buying boots in person minimizes the chance of needing to return them. Reviewing the store’s return policy ensures that you aren’t out a bunch of money if you need to return them.

Final Thoughts

If you want to have a successful hunting excursion, you need a pair of great-fitting boots that can protect your feet from the environment and the elements. You shouldn’t be thinking about your feet being uncomfortable while you are hunting so you can focus on tracking game. 

Hunting boots are a significant expense, so you want to ensure you get high-quality footwear that will last a while. If you’re worried about your hunting boot fit, our advice here on how hunting boots should fit will help ensure you make a good investment.

The post How Should Hunting Boots Fit? (Stay Comfy and Blister Free) appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

I had managed to limp along for a while but my pace was getting slower. Stopped on the side of the trail, I looked at the damage. A small parade of other zombie runners filed past as I fixed my foot so that I could continue. 

There is nothing that can stop you faster on a run, hike, or backpacking trip than blisters. And nothing causes blisters faster than poorly fitting boots.

Blisters are formed by friction caused by a shearing force between the outer and middle layer of the skin. The formation of blisters is accelerated by the presence of dirt and moisture. 

To mitigate blister formation when hiking, it’s important to:

• pick the right footwear for the right activity, and 
• have the right fit.

Hiking shoes make sense for easy hikes while boots are better for carrying a load. Hiking boots should fit snug and your foot should not slide around to avoid blisters.

There are several other tricks and tips to prevent blisters, but we will get to that later.

Hiking Shoes vs Boots

The first question you need to ask yourself is what you are going to be doing. It is important to pick the right tool for the right task. 

Hiking footwear comes in a dizzying array of options, but can be generally categorized as shoes or boots.  Shoes and boots can range from lightweight and flexible to heavy duty and stiff. Each category has its own pluses and minuses.

When To Wear Shoes While Hiking

Shoes can be a great choice for everyone from day hikers to the light and fast backpacking crowd. Like a solid hydration pack, trail running shoes have also become the favorite for thru hikers. 

It generally takes time for your body to become used to using shoes in the backcountry.

I might be a bit biased, but I love trail running shoes. I have worn them for everything from short hikes with my kids to multiple day, off trail backpacking trips in technical terrain. But as much as I love them there are some drawbacks.

Here are some pros and cons of wearing hiking shoes or trail running shoes when hiking:

Pros of Shoes for Hiking

• Lightweight 
• Relatively little break in time
• Cheaper than some options
• Good ankle mobility
• Good ground feel

Cons of Shoes for Hiking

• No ankle support
• Relatively little protection underfoot
• Wear out quicker than other choices
• On longer trips with heavy packs, they are more suited for experienced hikers

When your pack starts to get heavier than 35 to 40 pounds and the terrain becomes more technical, it might be time to look for a little more protection. That can be found in hiking boots.

When Hiking Boots Are Better Than Hiking Shoes

Boots have been the choice for outdoor adventures since outdoor adventure began. They are more stable than shoes and provide more protection. 

If the thought of wearing shoes while wearing a pack makes your feet hurt, you will probably be more comfortable in boots.

Boots also make more sense if you plan on hiking in the spring or the fall when the weather can turn bad. The trail can be covered with snow or mud from which hiking boots will provide more protection. 

Here are the main upsides and downsides to wearing hiking boots instead of hiking or trail running shoes:

Pros of Boots for Hiking

• Ankle stability
• Superior protection to the bottom of the foot
• Durable
• Warmer for three season hiking

Cons of Boots for Hiking

• Heavy
• Require more break in time
• Do not breathe as well as shoes

In recent years, the line between shoes and boots has blurred. You can find boots that fit like your favorite shoes and shoes that have plenty of beef in them. 

If you’re looking for a decent pair of all around hiking boots, check out our review of the Kodiak Skogans.

Be critical of your needs and think about buying different footwear for different types of trips if you can. For example, if you’ll be hunting you’re probably best off finding some good hunting boots and not just any hiking boot.

How Should Hiking Boots Fit?

Hiking boots should fit snugly around the ankle, heel, and arch of your foot. Your foot should not slide around, especially on a decline. There should be a little extra room in the toe box, but not so much that your toes slide or jam against the end of the boot. Overall, there should be no obvious pinch points or hot spots.

Last year I went to a podiatrist to look at some ongoing pain I have been having in my left foot. He only looked at it for a second before he said, “You are probably aware of this, but you have a large, ugly knob where your large toe attaches to your foot.” 

I was in fact unaware of this, but now I will be self-conscious about it for the rest of my life. Thanks, Doc! 

The moral of the story, beside the fact that I need a new podiatrist, is that we all have different feet with unique fitting issues. What works for me might not work for you. 

Fit is very important and individual to you.

It is always best to fit boots at a specialty outdoor shop with a competent boot fitter. They should also have a wide range of boots. I would suggest trying on as many boots as your significant other, or the store clerk will allow. 

The most important thing to me is that the boot feels good when I put it on. Any annoyances that you find in the store will be magnified each mile on the trail.   

How To Try On Hiking Boots

Here are the three things to look for in a well-fitted hiking boot:

1. The Thumb Nail Test

While wearing the socks that you plan on wearing while hiking, step into the boot and stand up. 

Next, push your foot forward until your toes are touching the front of the boot. 

There should be about a thumb nail width gap between your heel and the back of your boot.

Unless you are a contortionist this will require the help of someone else with similar sized thumbs as you. 

2. Forefoot and Ankle

This area should fit snug but not tight. It should also be comfortable with no pinching noted when walking around. The way you use the boot laces can make a difference here. 

Find an incline, most outdoor specialty shops will have one, and stand facing downhill. Your foot should not slide forward. 

If your foot slides forward and your toes hit the front of the boot this will lead to blackened toenails that will eventually fall off. No good!

3. Heel

The heel should be snug inside the boot and not slide up and down or side to side. Any sliding will lead to friction which, in turn, will lead to blisters.

More Hiking Boot Fitting Tips

Here are some other tips to help prevent blisters when hiking.

1. Choose Good Socks

Socks are just as important as shoes when it comes to blisters. It is well worth the money to buy several nice pairs of hiking socks. 

Avoid cotton at all costs. Cotton will absorb sweat and keep that moister next to your feet accelerating blister formation.

2. Break In Your Hiking Boots

If you are planning a long trip over multiple days with a pack, prepare your feet in advance. Your feet need time to adjust and toughen up, especially if you sit at a desk all day in normal life.

Wear the boot and sock combo on walks around your neighborhood trails to break in the boots. Take care of any problems that you find right away. Find terrain that is similar to your planned objective if possible. 

3. Keep Your Feet Dry and Clean

While on the trip make sure that you are taking care of your feet. Keep them dry and clean. 

Change into clean socks every day. On multi-day trips I bring 3 pairs of socks. Two pairs of socks to hike in and one pair that I only wear to bed. On day one I wear the first pair of socks. On the second day I wash and dry the first pair while wearing the second pair. Wash, rinse, repeat for as long as needed so that every day you start with clean socks.

If you choose the right footwear for your objective, get the right fit, wear appropriate socks and take care of your feet along the way, you should be well on your way to a safe, fun and blister-free adventure.

The post Avoid Blisters: Choose Hiking Shoes or Boots That Fit Right appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

In August, 2021, I took my family on a 10 day vacation to Iceland where everything we did was outside. Hiking, beaches, a live volcano, sightseeing, puffins, waterfalls, sheep, fishing villages, horses, glaciers, and city streets — we did it all!

The Kodiak Skogans were the only boots I wore the whole trip and this is my feet-on review.

The Kodiak Skogan Mid Waterproof Hikers are fantastic for day hikes, family hikes, camping, and travel. With athletic shoe comfort, these boots are more multi-purpose than others in their class. Though not a good pick for backpacking or wide feet, they are a solid all around boot worth buying for average outdoorsmen.

Kodiak Skogan Waterproof Boots

$60.50

Pros:

• Lightweight, making them easy to pack and comfortable to wear all day long
• Super comfortable footbed with cushion like an athletic shoe
• Excellent grip on solid and wet surfaces
• Sufficient waterproofing for typical outdoorsing
• Cool retro look
• Made of eco-friendly materials you can feel good about
• More versatile and multipurpose than other hiking boots

Cons:

• Took a couple days for my feet to get used to them
• Lugs are a bit shallow for hiking in real loose terrain or on rocky trails
• Not cheap, but they fall in line with pricing of competitors in their class
• Kodiak’s warranty is not overly impressive

View on Amazon

08/16/2023 09:29 am GMT

After many miles walking in the Kodiak Skogans in all sorts of weather and terrain, I can genuinely say that I recommend these hiking boots.

Read on and I’ll tell you all about them in this detailed review, which even includes some rigorous waterproofing experiments.

Kodiak Skogan Review

Let it be known that Kodiak gave me these boots to try out and review. The links in this article are affiliate links which means if you click on one and end up buying something, we may get a commission. In any case, this review reflects my own opinions based on actually using the boots. Nobody paid for my favorable opinion and this article is not sponsored. 

In the following review of the Kodiak Skogan Mid Waterproof Hiker, I share my firsthand experience and thoughts on the following criteria:

• Fit and comfort
• Waterproofing
• Traction
• Looks
• Competition and class
• Value

Related: Platypus GravityWorks Water Filtration System Review

How Do the Kodiak Skogans Fit?

Overall, the Kodiak Skogan Mid boots felt great on the first fit. The laces tightened up nicely, they were super cushy, and the break-in period was almost non-existent. They felt true to size with no slippage of the foot or obvious rub points. 

First impressions are everything for me when I try on a pair of shoes. Generally speaking, I will not buy any boots or shoes that do not feel good the first time I put them on. The Kodiak Skogans passed the test.

Sizing

The Kodiak Skogan Mid Waterproof Hiker is available for men in sizes ranging from 7-13 US.

My typical shoe size is 10.5 US (44 EUR), sometimes 11 depending on the shoe. I got the Skogans in 10.5 and on the tongue of the boots they translated that to 43.5 EUR. I guess not everyone converts sizes the same way.

The boots do seem to fit true to size, as the 10.5 was a perfect fit for me. My feet are a bit narrower than average, which jives with how Kodiak says these boots fit. 

My toes fill up the toe bay, with just enough room to splay out. They don’t slide around or bang against the ends. Everything was looking good after my first downhill test. This is how hiking boots should fit.

Putting Them On

The Kodiak Skogan Mid Hikers have loops on the heels to help pull the boots on. The loops are practical and big enough to fit a finger in so you can easily get the boots on without crushing the upper. Many manufacturers have done away with these because of looks, I guess. Thank you Kodiak for favoring practicality!

When I put the Skogan boots on for the first time they fit snug, but not too tight. I hate tight. So much so that I tie the laces loose enough on all my street shoes that I can easily slip them on and off. That’s no good for hiking though, so I laced up the Skogans right away.

The lower laces tighten (and loosen) nice and easy. Being a mid-high boot, there are two lace hooks at the top. The lower hooks do a good job at locking in however tight you have the lower laces so you don’t need a third hand to tie your shoes. I did find the first lace hooks a little hard to catch though.

Even single-tied, the laces held tight all day and did not come loose easily. I liked the laces. They were thinner and lighter than some cheapo boot laces. Sort of like paracord compared to poly rope. Though these are flat and not round, which I like.

Are Kodiak Skogan Boots Comfortable?

The Skogans are, without question, extremely comfortable hiking boots. Granted, they are designed to be for light hiking as opposed to hard core backpacking. But even still, I think Kodiak did a nice job of making a hiking boot feel more like an athletic shoe.

Related: Kodiak Thane Boot Review (After 9 Months of Use)

What struck me most when I first put the Skogans on was that they are very lightweight at only 1 lb 2.5 oz (524 g) each. I have always thought of Kodiak as a maker of heavy duty work boots, so this was a pleasant surprise.

As soon as I stood up, the cushion hit me like a feather pillow. So soft! I was worried this would mean I would feel all the rocks beneath my feet, but not so.

The cushy KODIAK® Comfortzone® ECO footbed is apparently what makes for such a comfy fit right off the bat. The EVA midsole is compression molded and the insole adds to it. The end result is very plush.

To make sure the comfort was not a fluke, over the course of our Iceland trip I tried multiple different pairs of socks. I tried thick synthetic blend hiking socks, expensive performance athletic socks, and cheap worn out tube socks, each for two or more days. The Skogans felt good with every sock I wore.

Are Kodiak Boots Waterproof?

In all the marketing materials Kodiak put a big emphasis on the Skogan boots being waterproof. They even put a special tag right on the boot to point it out. We’ll see, I thought.

Some real world experiments seemed in order and Iceland offers plenty of water with which to test.

Waterproofing Experiments

Test 1: Walked through a shallow stream.

Observations: 

• Feet not wet.

Result: PASS

Test 2: Set a timer for one minute and stood in a slowly moving stream of water that went up to just below the laces.

Observations:

• Could feel the cold temperature of the water, but no wetness.
• Didn’t want to go up to ankle, over laces, or longer in case it failed, because I still had the whole day ahead. 
• No major discoloration of leather or boot afterwards.

Result: PASS

Test 3: Waterproof endurance test in front of the famous mountain, Kirkjufell. Stood in water about 3-4″ (8-10 cm) deep and started a stopwatch planning to stay in there until my feet got wet.

Observations:

• I got bored and the kids were antsy after 17 minutes, so I got out.
• Mesh toe showed some absorption and squeezed out a little water.
• Feet felt dry, definitely not wet. 
• Took boots off and feet were slightly damp on top of toe where mesh is. 

Result: PASS, but they are not wading boots.

Regarding Test 3, in real life there’s no reason I’d stand in water for that long, so they definitely pass the sniff test. However, over time I expect this will degrade and the boots will become less waterproof.

What Type of Waterproofing is Used

Kodiak uses some sort of waterproof membrane (not Gore-Tex) in their boots. It seems to me that the waterproofing is also bolstered by a treatment of the fabric and leather, though I could not confirm this.

Other waterproofing measures taken by Kodiak on the Skogan boots include:

• Rust resistant D-rings and hooks for the laces
• Premium full grain waterproof leather
• Breathable, waterproof membrane construction
• Sealed seams

Waterproofing Performance

Be aware that you can only go in water up to the laces. Any deeper, and water will pour in around the tongue which is not attached all the way to the top of the upper (see photo).

With prolonged submersion or trudging through really wet grass (think dew in a meadow in the morning), I think the water would get through and into these boots.

While I’m skeptical that the waterproofing will last as long as the boot itself, I am quite pleased with the waterproofing of the Kodiak Skogans for the type of boot they are. New out of the box, they got me through the rain, streams, beaches, and glacier lagoons of Iceland with dry feet.

I suspect the boots will need additional waterproofing treatments in time. But I suppose that is how most boots are. Even my 13 year old expensive Raichle (now Mammut) backpacking boots need to be treated with mink oil every year. And they are made from a single piece of leather with a Gore-Tex liner.

Traction Okay, Grip Amazing

The traction of the Kodiak Skogan Mid Hikers is just okay. The main reason being that the lugs on the outsoles just don’t dig deep enough in gravel, mud, or loose surfaces.

With all the volcanic activity in Iceland we were walking a lot on loose lava rock and granular substrates. Throughout the first week there I noticed I’d occasionally lose half a step, slipping backwards on loose dirt or rocks.

It really hit me when hiking on a steep section of trail up to the active Fagradalsfjall volcano. Thousands of people had been using this trail which passes through a very desert-like landscape to the tops of some foothills that sit next to the spewing caldera. 

By the way, this was one of the most amazing sites I’ve ever seen, an active volcano spitting hot lava out in front of my eyes!

With so little vegetation and so much traffic, the dirt was really loose with lots of equally loose gravel and small rocks. This made for a trail that was easy to slip on.

For every step forward I was losing a half step or so on the steepest part of the trail. It wasn’t as bad for me as it was for my son in his cheap hiking shoes, but I would have lost less ground with some deeper and stiffer lugs.

On the flipside, I was very impressed by the grippiness of the soles. I usually wear Vans on a regular day. I like the grip they have, but I wouldn’t expect that on a hiking boot. It may not be skate shoe grippy, but the Skogan boot can hang onto a solid surface amazingly well.

Walking all over smooth boulders on a beach was steady. Some wet, some sandy, the boots held very well.

Unlike some heavier and stiff-soled backpacking boots, the Skogans grip nicely. This also made it quite comfortable to walk around downtown Reykjavik in the rain. You don’t have to worry about your feet slipping out from under you on slick sidewalks.

At Least Your Feet Will Look Good

If you think flannel looks good, then you’ll think Kodiak Skogan boots are sexy too.

I’ll be the first to admit I am not qualified in the arena of fashion. However, I do have a sense of what I think “looks good” as a well-fed, middle-aged man of the outdoors. So if that’s your flavor, then these boots look great! 

Paired with plaid and blue jeans, you’re ready for an early night out with the old lady. 

Or add some moisture-wicking synthetics for a day hike in warm weather. At least your feet will still look good.

They come in two color schemes: gold/blue or gray/teal. Mine are the gold and blue variety.

With the retro vibe and the recycled materials, I have a feeling Kodiak is even going after hipsters and millennials with these city-worthy hikers. 

Kodiak made it a point to bring a lot of design elements from its old classic boots from back in the day into the Skogan. These look an awful lot like the first hiking boots I ever had when I was in Boy Scouts in the 1990’s and I love it.

Whether I was hiking trails around Iceland or strolling down the streets of Reykjavik, I felt like these boots were doing me a favor in the looks department.

As a map nerd, I’m especially a fan of the cool contours on the sole!

What I Didn’t Like

When brand new and all laced up for the first time, the top of the “mid-high” part of the boot seemed to dig into my skinny ankles. My left ankle ached a bit after a few hours of walking and driving. Nothing severe, just enough to bother me.

In the end I think I just tied the boots a bit too tight. Once I loosened them up that first afternoon, all was golden. That mid-high upper just needed a day or so to break in and I never thought about it for the rest of our trip.

The second minor issue I ran into was after the first day when we did a relatively easy hike in western Iceland on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It was a beautiful coastline trail between two fishing villages, Arnarstapi and Hellnar, lined with unique rock formations. 

The trail surface varied from compact sand and rubber mats to loose rocks and ruts. Out and back it was about a five mile hike and by the end I could tell I was developing a slight hot spot on the outside of my left pinky toe. This might have been due in part to the slightly narrower fit of the Skogan.

I was worried this would develop into a blister, but carried on anyway. The following day was one of waterfalls and sightseeing. We did lots of driving with walks to and around beautiful sites all day long. I could feel the hotspot from the day before, but the already slight discomfort waned even more. 

When I put my boots on the morning of day three, I didn’t feel a thing. The issue never returned for the rest of the trip, even after more rigorous hikes. Safe to say it was a slight break-in issue that worked itself out in short order.

An Eco-friendly Boot

Kodiak has positioned the Skogan boots as its debut eco-friendly product that is part of its Built for What Matters initiative. The company is making an effort to use more recycled materials.

I first realized there was an enviro angle with these boots when I noticed the label on the footbed which read “KODIAK® Comfortzone® ECO” featuring “FATES.” Turns out FATES refers to the type of foam used which is made up largely of biomass.

Here are all the “environmentally considered” materials in the Skogan boots:

• Upper mesh is 100% recycled plastic
• Laces are 50% recycled fabric
• Lining is 100% recycled plastic
• Footbed is 70% plant-based biomass
• Leather is sourced from a tannery that conserves water and energy
• Lug outsole is made of 15% recycled regrind rubber

I think this is cool. Those of us who love the outdoors ought to buy products and support companies that make an effort to conserve resources. Harvesting used plastic for new manufacturing is a sensible way to keep that same plastic from harming fish and wildlife habitat. This is crucial to sustain outdoor recreation such as hunting and fishing for generations to come.

Where Are Kodiak Boots Made?

While Kodiak is known for being Canada’s boot maker, most of its manufacturing is done overseas. Like many manufacturers in the footwear and textile industry, they have a complex network of suppliers all over the world, particularly in Asia.

There was a period of time where Kodiak ceased all production in Canada, but they do currently manufacture some of their flagship products domestically.

The Kodiak Skogan boots are made in Cambodia.

Related: Kodiak Boots Review: What to Expect From Canada’s Bootmaker

How Do the Skogans Compare to Other Hiking Boots?

Compared to a high quality backpacking boot, the Kodiak Skogans have lots of seams as opposed to a single piece of leather. While heavier and more expensive, robust and seamless backpacking boots ensure waterproofness and longevity better than the Skogans. 

Backpacking boots also have stiffer soles, more rugged tread, and better ankle support. This provides better foot support under a heavier load and in more diverse terrain. When on your foot, the Skogans feel closer to an athletic shoe than a backpacking boot.

There also exist even lighter duty hiking boots. The Kodiak Skogan Low Waterproof Hiker is a step down in terms of overall foot and ankle support, but remains a very nice shoe for light day hiking.

Many people wear trail running shoes when hiking because they are so lightweight and comfortable. I am one of those people. Before I got these Kodiaks, I typically wore Salomon trail shoes for most hiking I did. Going to the Skogan was a pleasant surprise as I got the additional support of a boot, but kept the comfort of my trail running shoe.

If you want to compare apples to apples, the following mid-high, waterproof hiking boots are in the same class and price point as the Skogan:

• Merrell Moab 2 Mid Gtx
• Keen Targhee II Mid Waterproof
• Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX

Among these, I’d say the Salomons are the closest to the Skogans due to the more athletic fit. The Keens and Merrells are more traditional than the Kodiaks in both construction and fit. 

Unlike its competitors, the Skogans offer that cool retro look, an innovative comfort sole, and are super lightweight.

When to Choose Kodiak Skogan Boots

Thanks to their light weight, comfort, traction, and overall build quality, the Skogan boots are great for the following types of use:

• Day hikes
• Family hikes
• Beach and coastal hikes
• Short weekend backpacking trips (load not more than about 30 lbs)
• 3 season camping (not winter)
• Adventure travel

They are comfortable enough to wear all day around camp, around town, and out hiking. They breathe well and keep your feet from getting too hot. Even in a car or on an airplane your feet will feel good.

Because they are more multipurpose than many hiking boots, I loved them for traveling to and from Iceland. Plus they’re not heavy or bulky so they were easy to pack in my duffle bag. 

Grippy outsoles with medium lugs make the Skogans great for walking on slippery boulders, beaches, and rainy city streets. The waterproofing will keep your feet dry in most rainy conditions or when trudging through puddles on a hike.

These boots are now my go to camping boots because they’re so versatile and comfy.

When NOT to Wear the Skogans

As much as I sincerely like these boots, there are plenty of times when I would not wear them. For example, they would be okay for some hunting trips, but there are better suited hunting boots out there.

Here are some activities where the Kodiak Skogans are not your best option:

• Extended backpacking trips with heavy loads
• Cold or snowy winter outings
• Hikes in really wet conditions
• Very steep, rocky, loose terrain
• Serious mountaineering
• Wide feet
• Weddings and formal events

The Skogans are not designed to support a heavy load. That super cushy midsole would likely compress and degrade more quickly under a heavy load. I think the boot would wear out faster because of this. 

To support a load and preserve your feet during extended backpacking trips, you want a stiffer midsole as well as heel and toe protection.

No insulation, shallow lugs, and mid-high uppers make the Skogans too cold, slick, and short for snow. Unless you are in a warm climate, these boots are a poor choice for winter.

While I haven’t tested it yet, I suspect the Skogan boots would be disappointing on muddy trails and in wet grass. The lugs aren’t deep enough to manhandle mud. And I’m not convinced the waterproofness would hold up and keep me dry walking through wet grass for a prolonged period of time.

The traction is great in a lot of areas, but not on steep trails with loose dirt and rocks. These boots are not even trying to be for serious mountain climbers. 

If you have wide feet the toe box will probably feel too tight.

And your wife or mother will confirm, they don’t pair well with a tux.

Are Kodiak Skogan Mid Hikers Worth the Price?

Retail price on the Kodiak Skogans is $155. This is very comparable to similar hiking boots from other reputable brands as described previously. 

When it comes to value, I think the quality, comfort, and utility are worth the price.

Will They Last?

I also like to look at how long they’ll last and my expectations are pretty high here. Only time will tell for the Skogans. However, looking at the build quality, I expect I’ll get several years of use out of them. Especially since I don’t wear them every day.

My main concern is how they will hold up over time, particularly the EVA midsole and the glue between the sole and the leather upper.

After 10 days of use in Iceland the tread has hardly worn at all, but I see some noticeable creases in the midsole and a touch of glue between the sole and the leather. This is normal, but it makes me wonder if that midsole will compress more rapidly like a running shoe as opposed to lasting years like a boot.

I expect the laces won’t last forever either, but that’s an easy fix. 

Kodiak Boots Warranty

Kodiak’s warranty looks just okay. “Kodiak products are warranted to be free of defects in material and workmanship for 6 months from date of purchase.” As one would expect, regular wear and tear, abuse, neglect, and more aren’t covered. 

You don’t have to register the product to maintain warranty coverage. But you do have to send multiple photos, proof of purchase, and a bunch of other info to them for review before a warranty claim can be pre-approved. 

The short time frame and burdensome process favors Kodiak, with several outs. I’d love to see a more progressive warranty policy, like that of Patagonia or REI, that really shows commitment to product quality.

Are the Kodiak Skogan Boots for You?

• Fit and comfort: 5/5
• Waterproofing: 4/5
• Traction: 4/5
• Looks: 5/5
• Competition and class: 5/5
• Value: 5/5
• OVERALL: 4.7/5

While I hadn’t considered this before getting them, I found the Skogans to be exceptional boots to take on a trip. The fact that they are so lightweight, comfortable, and multipurpose made it so I did not need to pack as many pairs of shoes for different activities on our trip to Iceland.

Being a versatile, all around boot has its drawbacks too. You cannot be great at everything for every use. The Skogans’ outsoles feel good on all surfaces and are grippy, but they sacrifice a little traction. They are ultra comfy, but not as supportive as some other hiking boots. These aren’t the best choice if you want a serious backpacking boot for use in rugged terrain.

If after a day of hiking you typically find yourself sleeping in a bed that you didn’t carry on your back, the Skogans would be a great boot for you.

The post Kodiak Skogan Boots: Feet-on Review After Hiking Iceland appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

This article will provide recommendations for hunting waders across multiple price-points, an explanation of why picking the right duck waders is essential and some guidelines regarding how to make your wader style and brand selection.

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DISCLOSURE: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Links in this article are affiliate links. If you click on a link we may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

The 6 Top Hunting Waders: Outdoor Empire Reviews

These are our top recommendations for duck hunting waders:

1. Best cheap #1: Frogg Toggs Amphib Bootfoot 
2. Best cheap #2: Cabela’s Classic Series II Neoprene Boot-Foot Waders
3. Best value #1: Cabela’s Men’s Ultimate II Hunting Waders
4. Best value #2: TideWe Hunting Wader
5. Best overall #1: USIA Waders
6. Best overall #2: Hodgman Aesis Sonic Digi Stocking Foot

*Looking for a specific feature? Check out our quick-reference chart below:

Product	Frogg Toggs Amphib Bootfoot	Cabela’s Classic Series II Neoprene Boot-Foot Waders	Cabela’s Men’s Ultimate II Hunting Waders	TideWe Hunting Wader	USIA Waders	Hodgman Aesis Sonic Digi Stocking Foot
Thinsulate Insulation	600 g	600 g	1, 200 g	800 g	N/A	not specified by manufacturer
Neoprene	3.5 mm	3.5 mm	5 mm	3.5 mm	N/A	5 mm
Available Fit	- Regular - Stout	- Regular - Stout	- Regular - Big	not specified by manufacturer	custom-built	not specified by manufacturer
Sizes	7 - 14	6 - 14	8 - 14	7 - 14	S - XXXL	S - XXL
Cost	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price		Check Price

1. Best Cheap #1

Frogg Toggs is a brand that’s well known for making breathable rain gear that’s lightweight, packable, and even recyclable.

But rain comes from the sky. Does Frogg Toggs have the know-how to make high-quality duck hunting waders?

Yes! Though, the Frogg Toggs Amphib waders aren’t as revolutionary as the Frogg Toggs rainwear.

Best Cheap #1

Frogg Toggs Amphib Bootfoot

View on Amazon View at Sportsman's

The Amphib wader has a 3.5-millimeter Neoprene upper. It goes up just as high in the back as in the front, so you can wade as deep as your armpits — especially with the easily adjusted hook and loop suspender straps.

There is a front chest pocket for your hands with another inside pocket for anything you want to keep dry, such as your wallet and hunting license.

There are also two D-rings, but they are placed right under the Velcro suspenders, so loading them down with something heavy can cause the Velcro to undo.

The legs are on the long side, meaning shorter hunters may feel scrunched in the Amphib.

Other features on the Frogg Toggs Amphib Bootfoot include:

• 600 grams of Thinsulate insulation
• Three colors/camos (Green, Realtree Max5, and Mossy Oak Bottomlands)
• Reinforced knees
• Velcro suspenders
• Sliding gravel guards

2. Best Cheap #2

For roughly $150 at Cabela’s, you can get a set of waders that will do most of what you ask them to for a lifetime.

That is not to say that Cabela’s 3.5mm Neoprene Waders might not have some issues over the years, but Cabela’s stands behind them with their Lifetime Guarantee. The protection of their guarantee makes them a bargain at a price.

Best Cheap #2

Cabela’s Classic Series II Neoprene Boot-Foot Waders

View at Cabela's View at Bass Pro Shops

The neoprene waders come in 3 color options (True Timber Prairie, Mossy Oak Bottomland, and TrueTimber DRT with 600-gram insulated lug-boots for comfort and traction. For the price, they do not lack features:

• Reliable performance at a great value
• Flexible, insulating 3.5 mm neoprene/nylon jersey laminate construction
• Wider crotch pattern for better comfort
• Rubber boots with cleated outsole and 600-gram 3M Thinsulate Ultra Insulation
• Adjustable webbing suspenders with quick-release YKK buckles
• Built-in wading belt loops for included nylon wading belt
• Front handwarmer pocket with built-in shell holder
• Front pocket features a hook and loop closure
• Reinforced knees

3. Best Value #1

Best Value #1

Cabela’s Men’s Ultimate II Hunting Waders

View at Cabela's

The Ultimate II Waders are a neoprene wader with an Armor-Flex covering that helps them stand-up to the harshest of conditions.

Cabela’s boasts their patented Armor-Flex protection as “tough as steel,” while remaining flexible and unrestricted. You only need to read a handful of reviews from happy customers to find out that the Armor-Flex is as good as advertised.

The Ultimate II’s have 1200-gram insulated boots as well as fleece-line hand-warmer pockets. Paired with the overall 5mm neoprene construction, you get a wader that is designed to keep you warm even in the worst conditions.

To fall into the “Best Value” category, a product needs to last more than the two or three seasons that most hunters expect to get out of their waders. The Ultimate II should exceed those expectations, and if they do not, they come with a lifetime guarantee from Cabela’s.

They come with a list of great features for waterfowling that includes:

• Air-bob outsoles for traction
• No-buckle suspender system to eliminate interference with your gun
• Body-contouring neoprene straps
• Mossy Oak camo patterns

4. Best Value #2

It can be difficult to find the best value for your money, especially when considering gear that can cause more than a temporary inconvenience when it fails. This is especially true for duck hunting waders.

TideWe hunting waders are a great value for the money, though. They have the features and quality of a wader twice the price.

Best Value #2

TIDEWE Hunting Wader

$89.99

View on Amazon

08/15/2023 08:36 pm GMT

TideWe’s waders are all bootfoot waders with slip-resistant, soft rubber boots for comfort and good footing in the water. You have four insulation levels: 600, 800, 1400, and 1600 grams, all Thinsulate.

The 600- and 800-gram waders use 3.5 millimeter Neoprene for the upper, while the 1400- and 1600-gram waders use 5 millimeter Neoprene for the upper.

There’s a chest pocket to keep your hands warm, and six shell loops hold onto spare ammo. Two D-rings let you attach more shell carriers, if you want. Plus, there’s a built-in zip-up pocket.

The back rides higher than the front to help prevent water from spilling into your wader. There’s also a handle for your hunting partner to grab when you accidentally step into the deep end!

Specifications

• Adjustable belt
• Shell carrier
• Realtree Max5 camouflage
• Your choice of 600, 800, 1400, or 1600 grams of Thinsulate insulation (ASINs B07H1HDPNC, B07D2DSXG5, B07RW259J8, and B07RW2YW99)

5. Best Overall #1: USIA Waders

If there were a section in this article for “Best Kept Secret” of the waterfowl wader world, waders by USIA would win that award too.

Unlike some brands that have been famous exclusively for waterfowl waders or gear, USIA has historically focused on extreme gear for military and rescue personnel.

Their waders get a nod for “Best of the Best” because they share the quality and heritage of other products that are designed for professionals in extreme conditions where cost is a non-factor.

USIA waders are basic and utilitarian. They are not insulated, or breathable, so the layers you wear under them will determine how warm you stay.

They are, however, extremely rugged and waterproof. They are rated as “Class B” waterproof, meaning they are waterproof even in depths over 12 feet. Since you can be assured that you are going to stay dry, you just layer underneath to keep warm in a variety of conditions.

They offer a long list of add-ons that will increase the cost, which can be around $500 if you throw enough options on them. Stock and available features are:

• Stock 400D Nylon Cloth with 1000D Cordura in high wear spots
• Upgraded Techniflex Base Fabric (quieter and more flexible)
• Kevlar Knee Pads
• Stainless or plastic D-Rings
• T-Zipper
• Shell Holder
• Stock 6 x 9 chest pocket
• A variety of outside pockets
• Inside pockets
• Belt loops
• Insulated Bogs boots

Ordering USIA Waders is a little like ordering a pizza — just keep adding whatever options you like. Your boot size selection is separate from the 11 stock sizes; and if you wish, you can measure for custom-fitted waders in all dimensions.

Their waders are as custom as you can imagine. The drawback? Expect to wait 4 weeks for these waders built just for you. However, for the avid hunter, USIA waders are probably worth the wait.

6. Best Overall #2

Between hunting and fishing, Hodgman has been a household name in the wader market for a long time. Now, they have brought their brand new Sonic 2.0 seam system to the hunting wader scene.

Instead of stitched seams, the Sonic 2.0 system double-welds all of the seams to prevent leaks and enhance durability.

Best Overall #2

Hodgman Aesis Sonic Stocking Foot Wader

View on Amazon

While many stockingfoot waders are a compromise when it comes to durability, Hodgman has overcome that disadvantage with the introduction of the Aesis wader.

The legs and seat are five-layer constructed for durability and puncture resistance. The upper is composed of four breathable layers to keep you comfortable even when you are required to be active.

While the hunting market these days is dominated by boot foot waders, many people still have a need for stockingfoot waders based on styles of hunting that require more hiking and wading.

The durability, flexibility, and concealment of the Aesis in Digi camo are the perfect solution for those hunters. For the money, you get a versatile, option-rich wader, including:

• Top loading external pocket
• Zippered internal pocket
• Anatomically correct left and right neoprene stockingfeet
• Can be paired with core INS removable insulation system

Related: What’s the Cheapest Shotgun Gauge to Shoot

The Importance of Good Waders 

In  A Coast to Coast Walk, author Alfred Wainwright famously said, “There is no such thing as bad weather, just unsuitable clothing.” This saying is often applied to outdoor gear, and it is never more accurate than when discussing waterfowl waders.

Hardcore waterfowl hunters know that some of the very best hunting occurs at the same time as the very worst weather. Because of this, choice of gear is crucial.

Many hunting days have been abbreviated because the conditions got the best of the hunter. Lots of waterfowl hunting scenarios call for the hunter to spend part or all of their day standing in cold water which makes wearing quality waders crucial.

A variety of factors will contribute to which waders are the right choice for you:

• weather
• how far you walk
• type of territory you hunt in
• budget
• how many times a year you hunt

If you make the wrong wader selection for hunting in muddy conditions, you can pretty quickly pull your stockingfoot waders right out of your boots when they stick in the mud. Breathable waders exposed to thorny brush can tear or develop pinholes and leak.

Selecting waders that are not well-enough insulated from the conditions is another commonly made mistake.

While there are a lot of ways that wader selection can go awry and be the cause of an uncomfortable day in the woods, the right choice can be warm, dry, durable and unrestricted.

Picking the Right Waders 

When it comes time to make your wader selection, consider the following questions and answers guidelines:

• How often do you plan on hunting?

Several wader options on the market are affordable because the manufacturer sacrificed product durability and longevity in favor of lower price.

In many cases, these waders are suitable for a handful of trips a year over a few years but not the abuse of multiple trips on a weekly basis. A couple of the very best waders from this affordable category are reviewed above.

Some products are designed for more avid hunters and many of those come with some warranty protection.

The peace of mind that your waders are designed for heavy use and come with manufacturer product support is a distinct value to the right buyer. Waders that fit into this category are discussed as “The Best of the Best.”

• Do you plan on hunting warm or cold weather/water?

For this question, make sure you consider not just the air temperature, but if you will be required to stand in cold water. Apparently, some hunters spend their time in flooded fields where waders are helpful but the hunter is not paying their day in the thigh-deep water.

If you will be hunting in cold weather and water, a thicker neoprene wader is preferable. Also, attached boots may be a good choice because they are offered with thick insulation.

As a rule, rubber boots with thick padding and space for both warm socks and air will be warmest.

Wearing super warm waders on hunts in warmer weather or where lots of moving is required can be as bad as being too cold. Profuse sweating can lead to being very uncomfortable.

If you plan to be in warm weather, consider a breathable wader or a wader with at least breathable uppers. With lighter waders, layering underneath for warmth is possible. You are more stuck in the situation if your waders are too warm for the conditions.

• How much will you be moving around?

Some hunting requires driving an ATV or boat right to your blind, and some require wading, hiking or paddling to a spot. Many hunters have dogs to retrieve their down birds but some must wade or use a boat to recover them.

You might be a hunter that avoids the blind altogether and simply hikes to ponds and jump-shoots waterfowl.

The answer to this question will turn up similar results as the weather conditions question. If you are going to be doing a lot of sitting with minimal movement, a very warm wader will probably be needed to keep you comfortable.

On the other hand, if you will be moving around a lot, a cooler, breathable wader will be necessary to help you ventilate and regulate your body temperature.

If covering ground or lots of wading is required, a stocking-foot wader with a good pair of lace-up wading boots is a smart choice for comfort and traction. When much sitting is required, the warmer attached boots are likely better.

• What environments do you hunt in?

A few environmental factors that come into play when considering which waders to choose are thorny bushes, ice on the water and thick mud.

Both thorns and jagged ice edges while wading are hard on waders, particularly those made of breathable materials. If you plan to spend much time encountering either, you need waders that are reinforced to deal with the abuse or neoprene waders that are at least more durable.

The type of surfaces you are required to walk on will be a significant factor in whether you go with bootfoot or stockingfoot waders.

If the conditions are muddy, you need a stockingfoot wader that can be tightly laced to stay on your feet instead of staying in the mud.

Many have made the mistake of wearing loose-fitting bootfoot waders in thick mud and have continually struggled to pull their boot from the mud instead of removing their foot from their boot.

Crawling through the mud to keep from walking out of your waders is an unpleasant scenario you should try to avoid.

• How much money are you willing to spend?

Because wader price varies so significantly, the price is likely to play into your selection. There are some great values on the market, and some of those are reviewed above. However, for the most part, the very best waders are going to cost you some coin.

If you are not willing to shell out for the best available, determine your priorities for what you need in a wader, and that will show you where you can compromise to find something in your budget.

These questions represent some of the basic parameters for making your wader selection. As you answer them, you may find that your answers do not point you to one particular wader.

Like many kinds of gear, if you often hunt and in a variety of situations, more than one pair of waders may be required to do the job right. In your own experiences, you might find other contributing factors to future wader purchases.

Leading Brands

Depending on when you are reading this article, some products reviewed above may no longer be available. In many cases, the products heralded as the best are made by a brand that has made industry-leading products for a long time.

Whether you are looking for an alternative to a product that is no longer being produced, or you are looking for other options that may be suitable for your needs, consider the following brands.

USIA

As discussed in the “Best of the Best” wader section, USIA has not been historically known for making hunting waders. However, they are very well known for making dry suits, dive suits and survival suits for a variety of military and government applications.

If a brand is trusted to create products that keep professionals alive, they can be trusted to make a product that keeps recreational waterfowl hunters dry.

In almost any product category, “custom” manufacturers typically sell less volume than a brand selling stock waders off shelves all over the country. However, USIA has plenty of customers that are beyond satisfied with their products.

It is a sure sign that a product is superior when the price is on the high end of the spectrum, but the product is still viewed as a good value by its consumers. Such is the case with USIA products.

They stand behind their products and offer excellent customer service should you run into a problem. Their waders are made custom in the USA.

USIA products, background, and business model are all unique to the market, but certainly worth consideration if you are searching for top of the line hunting waders.

Cabela’s

Depending on the product, or who you ask, Cabela’s waders are said to be made for Cabela’s by a variety of different brands.

Some of their waders are sourced from factories overseas that are likely the same factories that produce same or similar products for big name brands. What is clear is that Cabela’s offers a wide variety that are of comparable quality to the competition at lower prices.

Cabela’s is unique because they most likely offer a wader that matches your needs, regardless of what they are. While many brands are known for producing a specific style of wader, Cabela’s has an offering in almost every category.

They are also known across the market for having excellent customer service and a reliable warranty policy. In many situations, they apply a “no questions asked” policy, where you simply send them in for replacement if you have a problem.

If they have this policy on your purchase and you take the time to go through the process, their waders become an even greater value.

LaCrosse

Whenever you come across a company that has been in business for over a century, you know they are doing something right.

In 2017, LaCrosse celebrated its 120th year in business, a clear cornerstone of the boot and wader industry. Adding to that is their merger with Danner Boots which has been in hunting boot business since 1932.

With over 200 years of combined history in the market, it is not hard to see why they are renowned for quality products.

You can reasonably expect LaCrosse to have a product on the market that is at the leading edge of advancement. They continually strive to be market leaders, and they stand behind their product as the best available to consumers.

Recommended reading: Pros and Cons of Hunting: Ethics, Culture, and Conservation

The post 6 Best Duck Hunting Waders Reviewed (Hands-on Guide) appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

Many of the most popular hunting seasons are cold, wet, and located in less than favorable conditions like open plains, ponds and lakes, and mountains.

However, since no two seasons are alike, we are going to take a look at a variety of boots to tackle whatever game you hunt and where you hunt it.

The 12 Best Hunting Boots Reviewed [October, 2021 Update]

Here are reviews of the top hunting boots of 2021:

1. Best Boots for the Money: Rocky Core Waterproof 800G Insulated
2. Best Inexpensive Boots: Free Soldier
3. Best All-Purpose Hunting Boots: Kodiak Thane
4. Best Rubber Boots: Muck Boot Chore Classic
5. Best Boots for your Elk Hunt: Danner Powderhorn 10″
6. Best Insulated Hunting Boots: Irish Setter VAPRTREK 3870
7. Best Boots for Upland Hunting: Wingshooter Men’s 7-inch
8. Best Mountain Hunting: Under Armour HOVR Dawn WP
9. Best Waterproof Boots: Muck Boot Arctic Sport
10. Best Lightweight Hunting Boots: Under Armour’s Valsetz RTS 1.5
11. Warmest Hunting Boots For Winter: Guide Gear Monolithic
12. Best Hunting Boots for Women: Muck Boot Muck Woody PK

Category	Best Budget	Best for the Money	Best Rubber Boots
Product	Free Soldier Hunting Boots	Rocky Core Waterproof 800G Insulated Outdoor Boot	Muck Boot Chore Classic
Pros	Very inexpensive! Good protection of foot Worth what you pay	Inexpensive for a name-brand boot 100% waterproof Heavily insulated	The best on the market Waterproof Comfortable 100% rubber lower
Cons	Not great for long hikes or intense multi-day hunts Standard insoles are poor quality and you might want to upgrade them	VERY heavy, weighing in at over 4.5 lbs. Some reviews indicate the insulation is sub-par Bulky and not form-fitting	You pay for the best—EXPENSIVE
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

1. Best Hunting Boots for the Money

We’re not necessarily looking for the cheapest boots here, rather the boot with the highest quality and best features for the price. There are a lot of excellent brands on the market (Danner, Rocky, Irish Setter, Muck Boot, etc.), and you will generally pay for that quality workmanship.

Rocky Core Waterproof 800G Insulated Outdoor Boot

Rocky has a long tradition of making quality western boots, hunting boots, and tactical boots. I chose their C4T lightweight summer boot as my uniform boot and found them to be extremely comfortable and fit well.

They had no loose spots or sloppiness, so no problems with blisters or even need for a break-in period.

For the money (around $100), you are not likely to find a waterproof, fully insulated boot to compare to the Rocky Core. In fact, you may want to consider light athletic socks when wearing these above 20 or 30 degrees due to the 800G Thinsulate insulation.

These 8-inch boots fill the void between ultra-budget boots, which are thin and light to reduce costs, and premium boots that cost around $300, a bit more than the casual outdoorsman may want to spend. These are fairly free of frills, but this is the field we’re talking about here. I’ll take a plain boot that keeps my feet warm and dry any day.

Pros

• Inexpensive for a name-brand boot
• 100% waterproof
• Heavily insulated

Cons

• VERY heavy, weighing in at over 4.5 lbs.
• Some reviews indicate the insulation is sub-par
• Bulky and not form-fitting

This is a good boot for the hunter who goes out to fill their tag to fill their freezer. Considering the weight, they are not a good pick for the avid stalker who plans to track their prey for miles.

It is a good selection for going to the tree stand in crummy weather, bagging the game, dragging it to the truck, and then tucking these boots away for 12 months until the season opens again.

View at Sportsman’s Warehouse

2. Best Inexpensive Hunting Boots

We can all relate to this one. No matter what our checking account ledger reads, we would rather be outfitting our weapons than our feet.

Ironically, it is our feet which will most impact our memory of the hunt! A $1,000 rifle and optic or shotgun won’t matter any if you turn back early because your feet are frozen, soaked, or blistered.

Of course, not everyone is overly excited to drop upwards of $200 on a pair of Irish Setters. While the hunting and outdoor sports industry has revenue nearing $40 billion annually, this does not mean that every hunter has endless discretionary funds to throw around. Just like the widespread popularity of no-frills hunting rifles sold by most major firearms manufacturers (including a number of high-end manufacturers), you can find decent budget hunting boots as well.

FREE SOLDIER Outdoor Tactical Suede Hunting Boots

Sometimes we get irritated by seemingly cheap Chinese-made knockoff hunting gear. But then we see the price and we reconsider our negativity.

If you’re like me, this is generally the moment your eyes wander to the review rating just under the product name. You look at how many stars based on how many ratings. If more than 4 stars and more than a couple dozen reviews, you might decide to look into it a bit further.

This is very much the case with the Free Soldier hunting boot on Amazon. The jumbled English and hot button words packed into the product name are indeed cause for skepticism. But read deeper and well over 1,000 people have bought and liked this boot well enough. So for around $60, this is our pick for a decent inexpensive hunting boot.

Modeled after modern tactical footwear, these are similar in appearance to name brand hunting boots, but at a much lower price point. You really cannot go wrong with at least trying out a pair of these. They are lightweight and waterproofed with a basic camo print on the canvas portion of the boots. And unlike many products in 2021, they are readily available in all common sizes.

However, the materials are cheaper quality including suede instead of full grain leather. low quality laces, and plastic or no rivets where high-end boots would have metal. They really aren’t insulated enough for real cold weather. You’ll have to rely on good socks for insulation. But for less than $100, this isn’t all that surprising.

Good toe protection, solid ankle support, comfy cushion, and excellent grip make these boots worth a try. While they are waterproof, don’t expect to wade through rivers without risk. People who have them agree they are comfortable and durable enough for day use, but not for long extended hikes or hunts.

In summary, the Free Soldier hunting boots are best suited for hunting areas which will not be exposed to extreme cold or extremely wet conditions.

Pros

• Very inexpensive!
• Good protection of the foot with the outsole
• Cost-benefit is good with decent waterproofing, durability, and light weight for the money

Cons

• Not suited for long hikes or intense multi-day hunts
• Factory insole is pretty stiff, so you should probably add a pair of quality third party insoles for all day comfort

For the money, these are about as good as it gets. Even if they are only moderately comfortable and mostly waterproof, these are still a great deal.

Let’s be honest: serious, avid hunters are going to put up the cash for high-end boots because hunting is a lifestyle. These are geared towards the novice who is trying out hunting and aren’t ready to pull the trigger on a bigger purchase. These offer great bang for the buck for that hunter.

3. Best All-purpose Hunting Boots – Kodiak Thane Waterproof Boot

I had the pleasure to receive a pair of Men’s Kodiak Thane Waterproof Boots to try out and I have been pleasantly surprised so far. While something that is decent at many things is not often excellent at any one thing, these boots will make a fine all-purpose hunting boot.

Read Full Hands-on Review of Kodiak Thane Boots Here.

Kodiak is known for making rugged and long lasting work boots in manly industries like mining and logging. This ruggedness has carried over into some of their newer boots, like the Kodiak Thane, which can be used for anything from work, to hunting, to going out on the town.

I wanted these boots specifically for hunting because I don’t like to have tons of stuff. I’d rather have a few quality things that can serve many purposes. I’m not a full blown minimalist, but I don’t want a dozen pairs of hunting boots each with a niche purpose. My first impression of this boot is gonna be great for 75% of the hunting I do.

Pros

• Good support from heel to toe
• Little to no break-in time required, they felt good on first fit
• Relatively lightweight for a mostly leather boot
• Outsole has nice grip, is stiff enough for steep/rough terrain, but is versatile enough to go anywhere
• Look nice and can be used for more than just hunting

Cons

• Really only good for fair weather hunts – waterproofing is not amazing and no insulation for the cold
• Not as comfortable as some athletic-fit hunting boots

The Kodiak Thane is made of full grain, high quality leather and canvas. This type of boot can often be stiff and take time to break in, but the first couple days I wore them, no hot spots or issues at all.

Related: Kodiak Boots Review: What to Expect From Canada’s Bootmaker

The waterproofing is just okay on these boots. When I stood in water more than about 2″ deep, water came in pretty quick through the canvas under the laces. And with no insulation, if you’re looking at inclement weather, you might want another boot from this list.

A lot of the hunting I do is upland game, like when I take my dog Huck out to the desert looking for chukars. These boots will be great for that with stiff enough soles to sit between my feet and sharp rocks as well as a well protected toe box to keep me from bashing my toes on the boulders.

The boots aren’t too hot so they’ll be great for early season big game hunts or spring turkey season. With a good pair of socks I think I’ll even wear them on my late fall whitetail hunt in Idaho.

If you’re like me and you don’t want to collect multiple pairs of expensive boots that are each singular in purpose, the Kodiak Thane might be the best hunting boot you never thought of before.

View on Amazon

4. Best Rubber Boots – Muck Boot Chore Classic

No real surprises here: Muck Boots Chore Classics are simply the best insulated rubber boot, bar none. There are other brands out there that have copied them, but they are just imitations. The standard is Muck Boot.

The characteristic boot has a tall shaft that is either fully rubberized or part rubber and part neoprene. The superior fit and comfort set these apart from traditional rubber galoshes.

An elastic cuff on the top of the shaft keeps the shaft tight to your legs, keeping water and muck out of them. Rubber galoshes . . . are made of rubber. They feel exactly like you’d expect: akin to wearing surgical gloves or a tire.

Muck Boots are designed to wick away moisture, i.e. sweat, and are built to offer the comfort of a regular field boot while retaining the weather resistance of a traditional rubber pair of wader boots.

Key Characteristics

• Airmesh lining to keep feet and legs dry
• 5 mm neoprene lining
• 100% rubber lower

Pros

• The best on the market
• Waterproof
• Comfortable

Cons

• You pay for the best—EXPENSIVE

Muck Boots Chore Classics are very versatile boots, equally adept in the pens or the deer stand. They are warm, waterproof, and very durable and are capable of handling just about anything you want to throw at them.

You will pay for the quality but also rest easy knowing they are light years ahead of the knock-offs.

View on Amazon

View at Sportsman’s Guide

5. Best Boots for your Elk Hunt

Elk hunting takes place in some of the most beautiful country in North America. These same places, the Rocky Mountains and even the Great Plains, also come with some of the most challenging weather.

A fall hunt in the Rockies can rapidly transition from a crisp, golden morning to a snowstorm in no time. Your trek across the plains that was supposed to be cool and refreshing can just as easily be a gray quagmire of unending mist and rain.

The other constant of elk hunting is the walk. You are going to spend some serious time on your feet because elk are mobile creatures.

Let’s have some #realtalk right quick about hunting elk: they are not a cheap species to hunt. Deer are a relatively inexpensive hunt; elk aren’t. Don’t cheap out on your feet because you will regret it. You’ll want boots that are:

1. Comfortable for long miles;
2. Warm—not arctic warm, but insulated enough to stay consistently warm over a very long day;
3. Waterproof, and I mean really waterproof—not just waterproof through a puddle, but waterproof for five miles of hiking over wet trails.

Danner Powderhorn 10″ Brown Insulated 1000g

Understanding that elk hunts are going to be pricey, we are going to accept that and not skimp on boots. Danner boots are some of the best on the market, so let’s have a look at the Powderhorn hunting boot.

The Powderhorn is fully insulated with 1,000G of Thinsulate and is lined with GORE-TEX for maximum waterproof capability. The tall 8-inch shaft laces tightly to provide positive stability, and the deep lugs ensure excellent traction in all conditions.

Pros

• Full leather construction.
• 1,000G Thinsulate insulation.
• GORE-TEX waterproofing.

Cons

• Very heavy, weighing in at 65 oz. per pair.
• With an MSRP of $250, this isn’t a terrible con but they are certainly not cheap.

Danner Powderhorn boots are built for battle. Yes, they are heavy as a result, but this is due to the superior construction. Nothing is worse than a blown-out boot when you are miles from camp or pulling your trophy bull back to camp through wet grass.

6. Best Insulated Hunting Boots – Irish Setter Men’s Vaprtrek 3817

Irish Setters are ridiculously warm. The company is a derivative of the world-famous Red Wing boots, ensuring quality and standards that are unparalleled. But in hunting, boots need to be both well insulated and light.

Working in frigid temps is one thing, but moving while hunting has special requirements. Hunting is much more akin to operating in a tactical environment where ounces mean everything.

Working an industrial jobsite usually entails spending a lot of hours on your feet, but not necessarily moving around a lot. Hunting is an activity which mixes miles of hiking over rugged terrain with hours of still observation.

A dedicated hunter who is looking to track and take game overland in the late months needs lightweight boots which breathe well yet can be relied upon to keep feet warm and dry for hours of waiting.

The Irish Setter VAPRTREK 3817 was released in the fall of 2020 and fits the bill perfectly. It features a molded, rubberized foam, athletic outsole, similar to popular hiking boots and tactical boots, like the Rocky S2V, rather than the ultra-durable Vibram lug style.

The Vibram lug is tremendously durable, making them great for work, but they have little flex and are very heavy, keeping them from forming well the contour of the foot and making them too cumbersome for long hiking endeavors. So it’s not a big deal that the Vaprtrek has something different.

This is why the VAPRTREK boot comes in over a pound lighter than the Danner Powderhorn (reviewed above) yet offers the same insulation value.

Pros

• Very light, 21 oz. lighter per pair than the comparably featured Danner Powderhorn
• Designed for the long haul, well suited for hunts which required extensive tracking

Cons

• The athletic outsole is great for hiking and trekking but is less durable than stiffer outsoles
• Has waterproof properties but is not designed for the water

Irish Setter boots are tremendous, and their owners will attest to their fantastic comfort, warmth, and dryness. They offer a full line of boots to suit many different purposes, but the purpose of this evaluation is not to give a broad overview of the lineup; it is to look at the best insulated boot for hunting.

This is difficult to do because they are not all created equally, so I took the best all-around boot which can be used for multiple purposes.

The VAPRTREK, as the name implies, is best suited for trekking, although it would certainly suffice for upland bird hunting and maybe even some predator hunts. This is an entire Vaprtrek series of hunting shoes from Irish Setter. You can select the camo pattern and the amount of insulation (or not) according to the environment and type of hunting you’ll be doing.

If you go with the option with 1,200 grams of insulation, the one we are recommending as the best insulated hunting boot, your feet are going to get hot in early season hunts no matter how well they wick. If your muzzleloader and archery seasons are open in September and early October, you might consider getting a pair of non-insulated Vaprtreks or something like the Kodiak Thane boots.

Boots with over 1,000 grams of insulation are for prolonged exposure in cold weather, so keep that in mind when you buy them; they aren’t a year-round boot.

These are also not boots for waterfowl hunts since they entail prolonged exposure to cold and water; for those you should consider the Muck Boot line of waterproof boots, which are specifically designed for cold slop and direct exposure to water.

With these caveats in mind, the Irish Setter should serve you well for many cold hunts.

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7. Best Boots for Upland Hunting

Upland bird hunting is some of the most rewarding hunting there is. It is a highly social experience built around a group of hunters walking and working together with their dogs. This is a far cry from the near solitude of silently tracking wary prey in big-game and active hunting.

Therefore, upland hunters dress much differently than big game and active hunters who put considerable effort into camouflaging themselves visually and masking scent and sound.

Upland birds are commonly hunted in the Great Plains states, where wide open parcels of land are the rule, not the exception. Upland hunters will spend a lot of hours on their feet walking mainly through tilled fields, which often have remnants of the previous harvest. Corn, a notoriously tough and fibrous construction, can murder foam boot soles.

Consequently, an upland boot is usually something like a hybrid of a durable hiking boot and a traditional work boot, often a Chukka-style boot. Some folks simply even use a lightweight mid-high hiking boot.

Upland boots usually don’t have camouflage patterns because upland hunting does not employ these patterns to start with.

While temps can certainly dip and become quite cold in these seasons, it is generally cooler than cold, so thick insulation is not usually a concern.

Irish Setter Wingshooter Men’s 7-inch Boots

Back for an encore are Irish Setter boots with their Wingshooter waterproof upland hunting boot. There are a few different models, but we’ll take a look at the original Wingshooter.

It offers a 7-inch shaft, full leather upper, and a Christy wedge style outsole. While they are a hunting boot by definition and design, they are a direct descendant of parent-company Red Wing’s Moc Toe work boots. The Wingshooter is built with a steel shank to prevent sharp crop stalks from piercing your feet, and they are waterproof thanks to UltraDry material.

Pros

• Manufactured using the same design as iconic and high-quality Red Wing boots
• Very comfortable boots, great for the long walks associated with upland bird hunts
• Has steel shanks to prevent punctures from the hazards of the field
• Fully waterproof

Cons

• Soles become very hard in cold weather, losing flexibility.
• Poor anti-slip qualities.
• At 57 oz., they are quite heavy.

These boots are more closely related to their Red Wing cousins than traditional hunting boots, but then again, upland hunting has more in common with the work of farmers in the field than other forms of active hunting where stalking and trekking rough terrain are commonplace.

This boot is for the dedicated upland bird hunter and would be a fine general farm and landowner boot, too. It is not designed for tracking, and while waterproof, it is not a cold-weather boot. If pheasants, quail, and prairie chicken are your game of choice, this is your boot.

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8. Best Mountain Hunting

Mountaineering is about as physically demanding an activity gets before becoming an extreme sport. Adding the rigors of hunting, however, crosses that threshold. Top athletes train in the thin, mountain air of Colorado Springs to prepare their bodies for harsh conditions.

Mountain trekking is an inherently athletic pursuit, which is why it makes sense that a dedicated athletic apparel manufacturer can properly outfit hunters for this environment.

Under Armour is very new to the athletic apparel scene, having only been around since 1996. Since exploding into the sportswear scene, Under Armour has refused to slow down or yield to monster competitors.

They have been fearless in expanding to areas where their competitors have no tread, including into hunting gear. They have taken on stalwart hunting manufacturers and are gaining ground, especially with young hunters who recognize the brand and already own other Under Armour products.

Under Armour HOVR Dawn WP

Under Armour’s HOVR Dawn WP hunting boot is a real contender for mountain hunting. When you are up in the mountains, gasping in that thin mountain air, every ounce of gear works against you. Your gear needs to be lightweight, and these are practically weightless at less than 35 oz. for the pair!

Just as important as the weight is form. The HOVR Dawn takes the HOVR cushioning from their running shoes and incorporates it into these hunting shoes. The seams are welded for complete water repulsion, yet the high abrasion textile upper is very flexible, breathable, and laces up to perfectly conform to your feet and ankles.

While the roots of the insoles are athletic shoes, the rubber outsoles have a molded rubber toe cap to protect from abrasion.

Pros

• Built using proven technology from running shoes, these boots are made to conform tightly to your feet, preventing blisters and weary feet.
• Extremely light and made for people who are going to put a lot of long, arduous miles on them.
• While many lightweight hunting boots use a foam outsole with key contact points being rubberized, which do not seem to hold up well, these outsoles are full rubber with beefy lugs.

Cons

• The entire Under Armour hunting line is still rather new, so there are not many buyer reviews compared to Danner or Irish Setters, which routinely have hundreds or even thousands of reviews.
• It is tough to get a good picture of how well these will hold up.
• No internal shank means somewhat less support than heavier more rugged boots.

The Under Armour HOVR Dawn WP has all the makings of an excellent mountain boot. It is very light, waterproof, and built to conform to the wearer’s foot.

There are few things worse than being miles into a mountain hike and suffering wet feet, feet slipping inside ill-fitting boots, or a combination of both.

This is not just a dedicated mountain hunting boot; it is very adequate for the avid general outdoorsman who enjoys a hike in the mountains as much as a hunt in the mountains.

However, it is a non-insulated early season boot. There is also a mid-season version with 400 grams of insulation. But if late season mountain hunting is on your agenda, you will need to purchase an insulated boot.

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9. Best Waterproof Boots – Muck Boot Arctic Sport

With almost 1,000 Amazon reviews, the Muck Boot Arctic Sport is easily the best waterproof boot.

While most reviewers purchase the tall Arctic Sport, the mid Arctic Sport is identical in every way besides the shaft height, so it’s included in this review; the important parts are all the same. Here are the most important specs for the Arctic Sport:

• 100% waterproof
• Fleece-lined for warmth, plus 2 mm thermal foam under the foot bed
• Outsole is built more like an army boot than a chore boot, offering support, rigidity, and excellent traction

Pros

• Proven ruggedness, comfort, and durability.
• Can transition seamlessly from your late-season goose hunt to cleaning out stalls in the barn.

Cons

• It is tough to find any. The only thing that might be a con is that they will roast your feet if you wear them outside of cold weather.

Muck Boots are not pretty in the classical sense, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder. When it is 5 degrees outside and the oozing mud is lapping at my ankles, Muck Boots are beautiful.

Muck Boot’s Arctic Sports are for anyone who appreciates dry, warm feet in the worst conditions. If you are stuck out in the elements, or choose to be in them as a sportsman, these should be your go-to.

Really, the only area they might not be ideal in is long treks across rough country where you need a boot that laces firmly in place. Other than that, they are perfect for anything cold and wet.

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10. Best Lightweight Hunting Boots – Under Armour’s Valsetz RTS

I should begin this review by stating that these will be the best non-insulated, non-waterproofed lightweight boots. These will be your early season boots, good for spring turkey or early deer seasons (muzzleloader, archery, etc.).

What we are looking at here are ultralight, unlined boots. They are going to let you move quickly and feel as if they are barely there.

Under Armour’s Valsetz RTS 1.5 weighs in at a scant 20 oz. per pair. That’s right. Just over a pound. These are practically like wearing trail runners on a hunt, except they aren’t just brown cross-trainers.

The Valsetz is a real-life, bona fide, military duty boot built to handle the rigors of the field. Under Armour has used many of their athletic shoe processes and materials in the Valsetz to make it not only feel like and athletic shoe, but perform like one in the field.

The Valsetz uses memory foam in the sock liner for maximum comfort, UA ClutchFit to securely wrap your ankles for support, and a TPU shank for rigidity.

Pros

• Incredibly lightweight at 20 oz.
• Made to replicate the feel and action of a quality athletic shoe
• Cool and breathable for early season hunts

Cons

• A lot of the reviews say they have low durability.
• The price to pay for light weight is using a lot of foam and mesh, which simply cannot hold up to brushes and brambles like genuine leather.
• Not an all-purpose boot; good for warm, dry weather.
• Not waterproof.

The Valsetz RTS is primarily a lightweight, summer duty boot for cops and soldiers. However, those jobs share a lot of characteristics with hunting, like demanding environments and lots of mileage off of the beaten path.

This is a really nice, light boot for warm hunting seasons, like spring turkey hunting (if it isn’t a wet spring) or bow hunting in September. Thicker hunting boots will just roast your feet in September on the Great Plains where the Indian summer temperatures routinely hit the high 70s and 80s.

They are not going to be durable like a pair of Danner Pronghorns, but they aren’t made to be. The tradeoff is about two pounds per pair, which is a highly desirable quality in a warm weather boot.

As with all pieces of gear, buy according to your needs. All-purpose, all-season footwear tends to be okay for most seasons but great for none. These are warm, dry weather boots that will keep your feet feeling fresh.

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11. Best Winter and Cold Weather Hunting Boots

In this review, we are going worst case scenario: think January in Fairbanks or Fargo. It’s the worst winter on record, but you are going to sit in that tree stand until you get that elusive 10-point buck lined up.

These are not the best insulated boots for trekking; we are looking at the boots that are going to protect your feet from your lifted F-350 to the tree stand for six hours in an arctic blast.

For this metric, we are going back to the budget-friendly Guide Gear brand of boots. Not only are they cost effective, but they one of the warmest hunting boots.

Guide Gear Monolithic Extreme Waterproof Insulated Boots

The Guide Gear Monolithic is one of the very few boots available with this much insulation. The monstrous 2,400 grams of Thinsulate is not light and makes for a very bulky boot, but it does what they are intended to do: keep your feet warm.

Pros

• Extremely warm, with 2,400 g of insulation
• Silver heat-reflective sheet in insole to reflect as much body heat as possible
• 8 mm frost barrier between midsole and outsole

Cons

• Bulky, but it’s impossible to make a boot this insulated and have it not be bulky: a trade-off for warm feet
• Some cheap fittings (lacing eyelets, cheap laces, etc.)

The Guide Gear Monolithic is made for the Great White North: ice fishing in Minnesota and Michigan, late seasons in Canada and Alaska, etc. They are not for the fair-weather outdoorsman.

If you buy these for temps in the 20s and 30s, your feet with roast. These are designed for warmth, not comfort during a trek. These are there to keep your feet warm when you are sedentary.

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12. Best Hunting Boots for Women – Muck Boot Muck Woody PK

Women represent the largest growing demographic in the outdoor industry, and equipment is catching up to that reality.

Hunting clothing is now available that fits the female form and isn’t. Boots are no exception, and this is really important: believe it or not, the female body is built differently than the male body! For exposure to field environments, they do not need (generally) smaller models of a male boot; they need a boot made for women.

The Muck Boot Muck Woody PK takes the cake in this category. Like their other boots, they are of the pull-on variety and are 100% waterproof.

The great best part of the Woody PK is that they are made intentionally for female hunters and how they move. Also, these boots are more attractive than the male-specific models.

Pros

• Excellent reviews for comfort and durability
• 100% waterproof
• Can pull double duty on the hobby farm or during a monsoon

Cons

• Pull-on rather than lace-up, which could impede some hunting trips requiring extended trekking
• Not insulated for cold weather

Muck Boots are excellent, and a pair of proven waterproof boots are a wonderful asset, regardless of season. The added bonus is that they are designed to wick perspiration and do so very well.

They are probably the most versatile women’s hunting boot on the market, which is probably why they are the top seller; women who hunt also tend to be women who farm, garden, and homestead, and they will appreciate Muck Boots for any of those activities.

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Related: How Should Hunting Boots Fit?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you use hiking boots for hunting?

A: Sure! That being said, not all hiking boots are well suited as hunting boots. Hunting boots are built with the hunter and the rigors of hunting in mind; hiking boots are just built to hike.

Hunters often hike long distances, but they also are sedentary for long periods and need a boot to stay dry or keep their feet warm when they aren’t moving.

If you want a hunting boot that can double as a hiking boot, the lightweight Under Armour Valsetz is a good crossover due to its athletic construction and light weight.

Q: Can you wash hunting boots?

A: The best answer to this is to read the tag on your boots. As a rule of thumb, better safe and sorry, so don’t.

If you have a pair of hunting boots that are mostly leather, don’t wash them. Instead, wait until they are completely dry and brush them off thoroughly with a horse hair brush. Then take some saddle soap or leather cleaner and apply with a cotton cloth.

Then remove the cleaner with a separate dry cotton cloth. I like to then use some good leather conditioner like Otter Wax or Huberd’s Shoe Grease and then spray them thoroughly with a silicone-based shoe protectant. Trust me, it works and looks awesome.

Q: How do you break in hunting boots?

A: Wear them! Miles are the only way to break in your new boots. Those of us who went to Boot Camp know that.

The only way to break in those infamous black leather jungle combat boots by Rothco (or whichever contractor had it at the time) was to march around the drill pad. Wear double socks or moleskin on key contact points like heels and the back of your ankle. There are no shortcuts here.

Q: How do you lace hunting boots?

A: Good question. I’d recommend Army lacing most of the time because it is a style which resists snagging on brush and bramble. Check out industry leader 5.11 Tactical’s article on this to decide which way you like best.

Conclusion

We have taken a look at a wide cross-section of various hunting boot styles, purposes, and brands. There is not a single, all-purpose boot that will support all seasons for every hunter; a duck hunter in Mississippi may love Muck Boots but has no reason for a pair rated for arctic conditions.

A pronghorn hunter on the dusty plains really needn’t worry about water protection that much, but he knows how many long miles he’ll be on his feet.

Consider what, where, and when you hunt, and buy accordingly. If you hunt over more than one or two seasons, you should expect to pony up the cash and buy boots to fit your different needs. Cold feet are awful. Wet feet are awful. Blisters are hell. That’s why this review exists: so you can buy the best boots for what you do.

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