
Best Hunting Boots in 2021

A successful hunt requires more than the right weapon, more than experience and more than the patience of Job; although it requires those things as well. More often than not the key to a successful hunt comes down to what you’re wearing on your feet. That’s because hunting often calls for you to slog through miles of sloppy, hazardous terrain in all types of weather. If your footwear isn’t up to the challenge you’ll be calling it quits and heading back to the car or campsite to dry and warm your feet while that 12 point buck disappears over the ridge.
It’s your feet that carry you over hill and dale, through swamps and across rivers in pursuit of your quarry, not your rifle or sunglasses. As such the footwear you choose is of paramount importance. In this product review guide, we’re going to take a close look at the top hunting boots on the market in order to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision regarding footwear for your future hunting trips. Keep in mind that the opinions expressed here represent the consensus of our product review experts.
The Best Hunting Boot
1Muck Boot Woody Max Rubber Insulated Hunting Boot

Hunting in extremely cold weather can be quite discouraging if you don’t have the best equipment you can venture out with. Introducing Muck’s Woody Max Hunting Boots! It is specially built for cold weather hunting and a great gear you would absolutely love. It has a really cool design and is pretty much lightweight compared to similar products.
The exterior of the boots is made from high-quality, sturdy water-resistant rubber and also features a midsole made of EVA, giving your feet extra comfort and support whilst on the hunt. An outsole made of MS-1 material coupled with a strong base offers the needed aggression for tough surfaces. As for the uppers, they are composed of a sturdy Neoprene design and a flexible calf area strap to shield your feet from cold.
Made of water-resistant, shock absorbent, the high quality rubber material
Lightweight, flexible and comfortable to wear
Cold-resistant and protects your feet in freezing conditions
Features premium neoprene of 5mm, and easily adjusts to your feet shape
- BrandMuck Boot
- ModelWoody Max-M
- Weight2.3 pounds
2Irish Setter 808 Wingshooter Waterproof Hunting Boots

It comes as no surprise why Irish Setter 808 Wingshooter Waterproof Hunting Boots are much raved about and loved by many hunters. It features a fine, quality, ultra-dry waterproof leather exterior for durability. Add that to its tough sole made of rubber and shaft measuring 8.5mm from its arch and you have yourself a strong protective companion for your hunting trip. It also features a polyurethane footbed for ultimate comfort whether rain or shine and is easily removable.
You don’t have to worry about slipping and sliding in wet conditions as these boots have been designed for stability. It offers rubber soles and a stiff shank made of steel to cushion you whilst trekking on slippery terrains. With a moccasin toe in place, sharp objects have no chance of piercing. All in all, the Irish Setter Wingshooter Waterproof Hunting boots are a great pair that many hunters will love – it efficiently does its job to protect your ankles just as much as it does your feet.
Lightweight, easy to walk in and made of premium waterproof leather for protecting your feet
Sole made of rubber has stiff shank made of steel for stability on rough surfaces
Has a soft foot-bed made of polyurethane
Comes in an attractive, stylish design
- BrandIrish Setter
- ModelWingshooter 9 inch 894-M
- Weight80 pounds
3Lacrosse Men’s 4X Alpha Snake Boot-M

It is called Snake Boots for one reason: protection from venomous snakes. Now, venturing into the natural habitat of vipers is a tricky idea, but one that can easily be sorted out with the tough, resilient qualities and comfort these pair of boots deliver. It features a sturdy, durable, shock-resistant, and waterproof neoprene rubber build for your ultimate protection. What’s more, it’s 16-inch snake protection guard is one reason these boots are loved by many hunters. As for ease of use, the ninety-degree heel allows for easy climbing and comes built with a user-friendly buckle for easy fitting.
If comfort is what you are most after, you can be that the contoured section at the ankle area of these boots will hold your heel in place to avoid sliding and blisters while walking. And if that’s not enough, it also has a cushioning shin guard for extra protection, and really comfy in and midsoles. No doubt, these multifunctional hunting boots are totally worth your money, and we highly recommend it for your next hunting trip.
Made of hundred percent water-proof rubber for added protection and comfort
Features a 16 inch, 360 degree snake guard
Has a strong outsole for maneuvering rough terrain
Flexible, easy to use rubber buckle, can be worn and removed easily
- BrandLacrosse
- Model4x Alpha Snake Boot-M
- Weight4 pounds
4Irish Setter Men’s 2875 Vaprtrek Waterproof Hunting Boot

The Irish Setter is well known as a great pair of hunting boots, and this model is no exception. A hundred percent synthetic leather build and a strong, durable rubber sole make these hunting boots a must-have and a great companion. It is surprisingly lightweight for a boot built with high-quality materials for its outsoles, midsoles, and exterior. What’s more, the incorporated RPM technology ensures it doesn’t weigh your foot down, offering all the freedom and convenience needed to maneuver difficult terrains with absolute ease.
No doubt the best pair of hunting boots should not only deliver durable results but must also have the ability to handle wet and nasty terrains that bring an onslaught of bacteria. With the Irish Setter 2875, odor-causing bacteria will have no place to breed thanks to the incorporated ScentBan Technology. And we can’t leave without mentioning the waterproof and ultra-dry build – two additional features any good hunting boot must-have.
Made of hundred percent water-resistant leather that dries quickly
Lightweight with a thick rubber outsole for utmost protection
Has 17 inch snake guard, protecting you against fangs even in the marshiest areas
Features ScentBan inner lining that kills odor-causing bacteria
- BrandIrish Setter
- Model2875 Vaprtrek-M
- Weight2 pounds
5LaCrosse Grange Hunting Boots





If you spend any time in the woods you know how quickly 2” of standing water can turn into a foot of water. When that happens you don’t want to be wearing ankle high hunting boots that will let in the deluge and end your hunt before it even begins. The LaCrosse Men’s Grange 18 inch Hunting Boots will provide you maximum flexibility to go where you need to go.
There’s nothing worse than slogging through muddy terrain and having the bottom fall out. When you’re unexpectedly up to your calf in water or muck you need to know your hunting boots have you covered. The LaCrosse 18-inch hunting boots are some of the tallest on the market and designed especially for those who need their hunting boots to provide optimal flexibility but don’t want to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars to get it. Our handy guide to the best Muck boots features more great hunting products like this.
Made of waterproof and durable rubber that doesn’t tear or crack easily
Keeps feet dry even in wet, marshy areas
Lightweight, easy to wear and fits well, holds feet firm
Built to function well under the toughest, harshest conditions
- BrandLaCrosse
- Model18
- Weight4 lbs
The outsole lugs shed debris and provide you constant, effective traction.
The boot rubber is tear resistant and ribbed for enhanced durability.
Form fitting to the ankles to ensure these hunting boots stay in place once you put them on.
Sizing can be an issue for some customers as they tend to size a bit small.
No longer made in the USA if that matters to you.
6Irish Setter 2870 Vaprtrek Hunting Boots





The Irish Setter 2870 Vaprtrek Men’s hunting boots are another eye-catching creation from the company that makes footwear design seem effortless. The most effective camo boot on our list and one of the best on the market the 2870 is made for less than ideal conditions when you need to remain unseen.
It’s fitting that the Vaprtrek 2870 from Irish Setter are the last hunting boots we’re profiling because in many ways they embody what’s best about today’s hunting footwear. They’re incredibly lightweight hunting boots, with a waterproof upper and plenty of support and they take a tight hold on the terrain, whatever it may be. They embody the versatility and innovation that are the hallmarks of modern hunting boots and they do it all for an extremely affordable price.
Camoflaged
Ankle high hunting boot
RPM technology to help reduce the weight of the boot
Added with ScentBan to help kill bacteria that cause odors
UltraDry construction helps waterproof the boots for long last comfort and performance
- BrandIrish Setter
- Model2870 Vaprtrek-M
- Weight5 pounds
Great looking camo hunting boots that embrace what they are.
Vaprtrek technology makes for a lighter boot that nonetheless stands up to the weather.
Waterproofing system is one of the most effective out there.
The tread, while effective, is not the most durable one on the market.
Can be a bit narrow so you may want to consider going up a size.
7Kenetrek Mountain Extreme Ni Hunting Boots





These hunting boots are as effective as they are attractive and, as you might guess, they’ll set you back a bit more than most other hunting boots. But they’re worth it. Whether you’re bounding over rocky crags or silently working your way into position along the riverside, Kenetrek’s Mountain Extreme Hunting Boot has your back. And more importantly, your feet.
There’s a lot to like about the Mountain Extrem Hunting Boot from Kenetrek. From the waterproof, breathable membrane that underpins the thick, 1 piece leather outer to the nylon midsoles that ensure support regardless of the load or terrain and the extra grip of the K-talon outsoles. They’re also warm, comfortable, durable as all get-out, they provide excellent ankle support and they don’t weigh a ton so they won’t become a drag on your pursuit. Just a great hunting boot. Be sure to combine this with a cool hunting backpack from our list.
- BrandKenetrek
- ModelKE-420-NI
- Weight5 pounds
Excellent traction on all surfaces regardless of composition or whether it’s wet or dry.
Full grain leather uppers reach to your lower calf muscles for support and protection.
Sole is comprised of reinforced rubber.
At less than 4 pounds per pair they won’t tire you out on long slogs.
One of the most expensive mass produced hunting boots on the market.
They’re going to take time to break in.
8Lowa Men’s Tibet GTX Hunting Boots





Lowa has been around for nearly a century and in that time they’ve outfitted everyone from serious mountaineers to hunters and everyone in between. Their Tibet GTX Trekking Boot is just the latest in a long line of high-quality outdoor footwear from Lowa and a boot that understands that hunting is more than just getting out of the car and aiming: it’s pursuit and hazardous terrain and long days of scurrying through the underbrush in all types of weather.
Like all great hunting boots, these will start out stiff and soften with wear. Also like any great hunting boot, they’ll provide you with plenty of support and a warm, dry platform to work from. The Vibram sole can handle any terrain with aplomb and the snug fit makes these hunting boots feel like natural extensions of your feet. The flexible ankle, anatomically accurate tongue and rock-solid lacing ensure your footwear will never be the thing to hold you back. Be sure to also check out our list of the best hunting binoculars for more great hunting items.
- BrandLOWA Boots
- ModelTibet GTX-M
- Weight2 pounds
Beneath the classic mountaineering boot profile lurks the heart of quality hunting boots.
Seamless upper keeps you warm while the Gore-Tex lining keeps you high and dry.
Vibram outsole lasts until the cows come home and provides a sure footing on any surface.
Plenty of support in the ankle.
As with a lot of hiking/hunting boots they tend to be narrow so you may want to consider going up 1 size.
You’ll need to wear them a lot to soften them up.
9Irish Setter 880 Elk Tracker Hunting Boots





Irish Setter makes some of the best-looking hunting boots on the market today. They also happen to be some of the most durable, comfortable and effective as well. The Men’s 880 Elk Tracker is a perfect example of the company applying its years of know-how to create hunting boots that are an asset and not just something to wear on your feet.
Anyone who’s worked in the trades will recognize the work boot-like profile of the Elk Tracker and that makes perfect sense because these are work boots. Hunting work boots. As such they employ aspects of both standard work boots and classic hiking boots with a few other features thrown in for good measure. Comfortable, waterproof, warm, high topped and lined with genuine Gore-Tex these hunting boots will get you where you need to be every time. Anyone who’s worked in the trades will recognize the work boot-like profile of the Elk Tracker and that makes perfect sense because these are work boots. Hunting work boots. As such, these Gore-Tex boots employ aspects of both standard work boots and classic hiking boots with a few other features thrown in for good measure.
- BrandIrish Setter
- Model880
- Weight2 pounds
Lined with 200 gram thinsulate for both warmth and breathability.
The genuine rubber sole never lets you down regardless of how gnarly the terrain gets.
Being 100% waterproof there’s no having to chart detours around water hazards.
Steel shank provides additional support.
Support in the arch is not the greatest and could cause fatigue over a long pursuit.
Customer service is okay, but not great.
10MuckBoots Woody Sport





MuckBoots Woody Sport Hunting Boots are another tall boot that is perfect for duck hunters or even treestand hunters. With the rubber foot overlay and cushioned midsole they’re the perfect combination of outdoor waterproof practicality and thoughtfully designed comfort. They’ll slip on easy and provide you all day protection from Mother Nature.
You can wear this boot all day slogging through mud and marsh in the cold and your feet will stay dry and comfortable the whole time. This is a unisex design that incorporates 4-way stretch nylon, a 100% waterproof upper, plenty of padding for all-day comfort and is surprisingly breathable. It takes virtually no time to wear these hunting boots in and they make sure you always have solid footing wherever your pursuit takes you. For more waterproof options, check out our waterproof boots guide.
- BrandMuck Boot
- ModelWDM
- Weight2 pounds
Fully breathable lining keeps your feet dry and comfortable.
The waterproof camouflage upper provides you stealth above the mud-line.
High abrasion outsole is tough as nails and provides sure all-terrain footing.
They’re not going to win any style points but they’re comfortable and effective for what they are.
11MuckBoots Camo Camp





Our second MuckBoots entry on this “Best Of” list, these MuckBoots Camo Hunting Boots are for less intensive forays into the wild or for relaxing around the fire after the sun goes down. The air-mesh lining is extraordinarily breathable so your feet stay nice and dry whether it’s below freezing or 85 degrees out.
We’re probably not going to go chasing wolves up the mountain with these but you might see them on our feet when we’ve got an elk in our sights. They’re ideal for less extreme pursuits but that doesn’t mean they’re a slouch. The waterproof protection makes them great fishing gear whether you’re on foot or in a boat while the camo upper lets you slip them on for some duck hunting as well. All for a very attractive price. Check out our review of the best rain boots for our top picks.
- BrandMuck Boot
- ModelCamo Camp Boot-M
- Weight1 pounds
A comfortable, flexible booty that can be worn in pursuit or simply when gathering firewood the end of a long day.
Perfect for wearing while clearing the yard of heavy wet leaves in the autumn.
Upper has a stretch fit binding that holds it close to the ankle to avoid environmental intrusions.
It’s a low boot so don’t go wading into the shallows without putting something over it.
Don’t expect a ton of traction from the sole.
12LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro





The LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro 18” Hunting Boots are- like their men’s Grange boots profiled above- for those who need their hunting shoes to provide them options as much as warmth and comfort. With the Alphaburly you won’t be caught off guard if you encounter an area of standing water or if your foray into the shallows turns out to be deeper than you imagined.
The LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro 18” Hunting Boots are- like their men’s Grange boots profiled above- for those who need their hunting shoes to provide them options as much as warmth and comfort. With the Alphaburly you won’t be caught off guard if you encounter an area of standing water or if your foray into the shallows turns out to be deeper than you imagined. Find more great hunting products like this by checking out our guide to the best hunting GPS.
- BrandLaCrosse
- ModelAlphaburly Pro 18 Realtree Xtr-M
- Weight7 pounds
Genuine rubber hunting boots provide an impenetrable barrier against water.
Liner is specifically designed to promote air circulation and keep your feet dry from within.
The form fitting profile gives the Alphaburly the feel of custom made hunting boots.
They tend to size large which means you may want to try one size smaller than your normal.
Not for the style conscious.
13Under Armour Speed Freek Bozeman





Under Armour has made a name for itself by outfitting some of the world’s top athletes and now they’ve set their sights on competing in the outdoor footwear business. The good news is that they have done a remarkably good job with these Bozeman hunting boots. They’re just about everything you want in a pair of hunting boots: breathable, waterproof, tough and comfortable. Oh, and they look great too.
All in all the UA Bozeman is an impressive foray for the company into the field of hunting boots. The Bozeman has a distinctive look that is part hiking boot and part running shoe but it’s all business when it comes to keeping your feet dry and providing outstanding grip in all conditions. It’s a surprisingly light shoe as well which was a welcome surprise and will do you well over the course of a long day in the field. You can pair these boots with a good Under Armour Backpack from our list.
- BrandUnder Armour
- Model1250115
- Weight4 pounds
Upper comprised of tough abrasion resistant nylon and suede.
Lugs on the solid rubber sole grip the terrain so you always have solid footing when taking aim.
Under Armour’s trademark scent control technology keeps your hunting boots smelling as good as they look.
Tongue is somewhat clumsily attached.
Shock absorption is better on other similarly priced hunting boots.
14Danner Pronghorn Realtree





The Danner Men’s Pronghorn hunting boots bring both looks and functionality to the table and do so at a price point more amenable to those who don’t want to spend the kid’s college fund on a pair of hunting shoes. The tough high-quality leather of the upper perfectly complements the hungry rubber lugs of the outsole with the end result being a boot that will take you wherever you want to go in style and comfort. Like a limo for your feet.
This is a pair of hunting boots that is greater than the sum of its parts and one that will provide you years of reliable service. From the sure-grip rubber sole to the way the boot cradles and embraces your heel, everything about the Pronghorn is intended to ensure that your footwear is never an issue. And all for significantly less than you’d likely expect to pay. If you are looking to upgrade your hunting equipment, then make sure you read our hunting knives or our hunting crossbows guides.
- BrandDanner
- ModelPronghorn Realtree Xtra 1200G-M
- Weight4 pounds
Outstanding, high quality combination hiking/hunting boots for changeable terrain.
Triple cushioning in the footbed for enhanced comfort.
Gore-Tex lining provides a waterproof environment for your feet.
High top delivers excellent ankle support when the terrain gets tough.
Like a standard hiking boot they’ll take a little while to break in so patience is required.
The camo segments are nice but unnecessary.
15Kamik Men’s Hunter Boot

The Kamik Hunter Boot provides a bit of everything, whether you’re an avid hunter, farmer, or just someone who loves to stroll through the wilderness. These waterproof boots ensure excellent satisfaction and come with a knee-high design that will give you adequate protection from mud, dirt, and everything else you might stumble across when on the hunt.
It also boasts a 40-degree Fahrenheit rating, ensuring total comfort even when the mercury meter drops well below what would typically be considered normal. Furthermore, the removable thermal guard liner also makes these boots ideal for Spring, Summer, and Fall expeditions without risking overheating or weighing you down.
The adjustable snow collar is another great feature that you can take advantage of whenever you need, but also doesn’t impede you when it’s not required. With five colors, a wide range of sizes, and a consistent fit, any self-respecting hunter would do well to make these boots part of his everyday gear.
40-degree Fahrenheit temperature rating
Waterproof knee-high design
Removable thermal guard liner
Adjustable snow collar
- BrandKamik
- ModelHUNTER-M
- Weight12 ounces
Hunting Boots Buyers Guide
Buying hunting boots isn’t like buying sneakers or loafers or even work boots. Hunting boots need to answer a very specific set of functional calls. They need to stand up to the elements, prevent your feet from getting soaked, prevent your feet from freezing and give you copious ankle support so that you don’t have to be airlifted out of the woods. On top of all that they need to be comfortable enough and lightweight enough so that your feet don’t feel like anchors at the end of a long day. Oh, and they need to provide rock solid footing on every type of terrain from swamp to bare rock. Now that we’ve clarified that, here are some common questions people have regarding hunting boots.
Features To Look For In Hunting Boots
When shopping for new hunting boots there are an array of things you’ll want to look for and keep in mind so that you get the right pair for you. Here are the most common considerations that go into choosing the perfect hunting boots.
Fit – This kind of goes without saying for any type of footwear but even more so with hunting boots. If your wingtips are pinching you can take them off while you’re at your desk and give your feet a break. If, however, you’re pursuing a big buck through the woods in the winter and your hunting boots are doing funky things with your little toe there’s no taking a seat for a couple of hours and taking your hunting boots off. You’re stuck with them. So making sure your hunting boots are a good fit before you go out with them is crucial. Also, if they’re brand new you should wear them around the house for a while to break them in before taking them out the first time.
Waterproofing – If you’re fond of spending long stretches in the woods in pursuit of game and your hunting boots are not 100% waterproof, you’re going to be in for some long miserable experiences. When your hunting boots possess high quality waterproofing you can confidently make your way across rivers and streams as well as through muddy patches, puddles and areas of standing water. When they don’t, you can’t. It’s about as simple as that. Boots that contain Gore-Tex linings will cost a bit more than other hunting boots but in the long run you’ll be happy you spent the extra money to get the right level of waterproofing.
Insulation – Cold feet are no fun when you’re miles from the campsite or car. Frostbite is an ever bigger threat and a very real possibility when you’re in the wild in the middle of winter. In such conditions it’s crucial that your hunting boots have adequate insulation, that they have a one piece upper to prevent cold air from seeping in and warm air from leaking out and that they fit fairly snug around the ankle, again to prevent warm air leaking out. When the weather is warm insulation is not such a big deal and may even be a hindrance that causes you to overheat.
Soles – Ultimately it’s the soles of your boots that bear the brunt of your treks and it’s the soles that need to be able to both withstand the pounding and provide you firm footing regardless of the type of terrain you encounter. If you hunt heavy, that is, if your backpack is loaded down with gear, the sole will need to be heavy and somewhat stiff. If you are a light traveler you can typically get away with a thinner sole for your hunting boots although even then it will need to provide adequate arch support as well as stability. The depths of the lugs will also depend on the type of terrain you anticipate encountering.
Height – We covered the issue of boot height to an extent in the Buyer’s Questions section above so we’re not going to spend a lot of virtual ink on it here. Suffice to say that the height of your hunting boots will depend on what you plan to do with them. High hunting boots if you think you’ll be encountering water, mud and even snow. Shorter boots in a warmer, drier environment. But even then you should make sure whatever hunting boots you buy have adequate ankle support.
Lacing – Lacing is maybe the most overlooked aspect of picking the right hunting boots. The average hunting boot will be 6 or 7 inches high and lace to the ankle. For the most part an average height boot like that laced to the ankles will be fine for non-extreme hunting trips. It keeps everything in its place without constricting your ankle movements for no good reason. If, however, you typically carry a heavy pack over changeable terrain it’s in your interest to get a boot that laces higher; up almost to the lower calf like the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme boot featured in our list. This will buttress the lower leg and help prevent twisted and broken ankles.
Breaking in Your Hunting Boots – Many of the heavier hunting boots with thicker soles and all leather uppers need to be adequately broken in before you head out into the wild with them. If you skip cathis important step your first foray into the woods with your new hunting boots is going to be a painful one. Wear your new boots around the house and around the neighborhood until they stop generating blisters and sore spots and your legs have acclimated to the new motions you’re asking them to perform.
Hunting Boot FAQ
Q: How Tall Should Your Hunting Boots Be?
A: This will depend in large part on what you plan to use them for. If you plan to spend time wading into the marshes after duck and geese you’re probably going to want a pretty tall boot just to be safe, even if you plan to wear waders. If on the other hand you’ll be waiting stealthily in a blind for deer to eat the alfalfa you planted months before, you’ll have no need for such a high boot. Many hunters suggest that an 8 to 10 inch boot is plenty high for the majority of hunting activities and you should only go higher if specific conditions demand it.
Q: What Is A Good Weight For Hunting Boots?
A: First of all there is no “ideal” weight for hunting boots. A good weight for one person might be too much for someone else depending on their size, age and physical condition. That said, however, as a general rule you want the lightest boot possible so that your legs don’t feel like lead weights at the end of the day. Material advancements in recent years have led to ever lighter, more breathable and more water resistant boots, with some pairs now tipping the scales at just over a scant 2 pounds. Basically if you can keep the weight under 4 or 5 pounds for a pair of boots you’ll be doing okay.
Q: What Is The Best Design For A Hunting Boot?
A: It depends on the function the hunting boots are intended to fulfill. If wading through the shallows or navigating muddy forest in pursuit of your quarry are in the cards you’ll want a 100% waterproof boot that’s pretty high. On the other hand chasing elk into the mountains during the fall and winter will call for hunting boots that are both waterproof and well insulated against the cold and wind. If you’re hunting moose you’re going to need waders or hip boots. If you’re hunting deer during gun season you might want a tall-ish, warm boot with excellent traction like the Danner Pronghorn profiled above.
Conclusion
Hunting boots will play a large role in determining if your hunting trip is a success and whether it’s even any fun. Slogging through the woods all weekend with wet socks, cold feet and a sprained ankle isn’t going to be any fun regardless of how many trophies you bag. Follow the above tips when selecting your new hunting boots and your trips should turn out fine.
We hope you found this information helpful and that you check back regularly for more product reviews, comparisons and guides from gearhungry.com.