Every hunter needs many critical pieces of gear for a successful outing. Three essentials stand out above the rest for any western hunt: a reliable pack, quality optics, and a great pair of boots. While we at IA have an undeniable passion for packs, and everyone appreciates the importance of good optics, today, I want to focus on one item that can make or break your hunt: boots.
The wrong boots can derail a hunt faster than anything else. Blisters, discomfort, or inadequate support can turn a promising trip into a frustrating ordeal. That’s why getting your footwear right is paramount. With fall hunts still months away, now is the perfect time to find the right boots and ensure they’re up to the task. Breaking them in, testing their fit on uneven terrain, and seeing how they perform in varied conditions will give you the confidence you need when the season arrives.
Your Hunt Dictates Your Boot Choice
Before purchasing your boots, you must have a clear idea of the type of hunting you’ll be doing, as this can heavily influence your choice. For example, an early-season archery mule deer hunt typically requires lighter, more breathable boots built for warm weather and long hikes. In contrast, a November elk hunt may demand insulated, waterproof boots to handle cold, wet, and rugged conditions. Matching your footwear to the hunt improves performance and saves you from unnecessary discomfort in the field.
Beyond the type of hunt, consider specific factors like the terrain, your hunting style, and your personal needs. For instance, if you’re planning a backpack hunt and expect to carry a heavy pack, a full-leather, stiffer boot with excellent ankle support is often the best choice. Similarly, if you have a history of twisted ankles or foot issues, the added stability of a stiffer boot can help prevent injuries in uneven or rocky terrain. On the other hand, if your focus is on being light and quiet, such as when stalking during an early-season archery hunt, a lightweight, flexible boot may be more suitable.
If a western hunt is new to you, consider reaching out to others with experience in the specific hunting style you’re planning. Ask them what boots they wear and, more importantly, why. Learn about what has worked for them and what hasn’t. Personal recommendations can save you time and money, giving you insight into details you might not consider, such as how a boot performs on steep terrain or holds up after days of wear.
While it’s true that you could buy a pair of boots and get by, the right pair will do much more than that; they’ll make your hunt significantly more enjoyable. With the right boots, you can focus on the hunt, not the blisters on your feet or the ache in your arches.
Personal Choice
I’m not here to say what I choose is right for you or anyone else. Boot selection is a personal decision that depends on several factors. However, I think it’s worth sharing my preferences to help clarify why I make my choices.
I primarily hunt western big game—elk, mule deer, antelope, black bears, etc. I’ve never had issues with weak or twisting ankles, and my feet tend to run hot most of the time. Because of this, I prefer a mid-height hiking boot style for nearly all of my hunting. I like my boots to be Gore-Tex or have waterproofing equivalent to Gore-Tex. Years ago, I used to wear 10-inch boots exclusively, but these days, I gravitate toward six to eight-inch boots like the Lacrosse Ursa ES, Crispi Summits, Lowa Renegades, or Kenetrek Corrie 3.2. I find them lighter, quieter, and less “clunky,” which makes them better suited for my hunting style.
This type of boot works well for me during most of the hunting season, from August through late October. If I anticipate snow during this time frame but plan to stay active, I’ll pair my mid-height boots with quality gaiters rather than switching to a taller or heavier boot. However, if I expect to sit for extended periods, I might consider insulated boots, but only in specific cases, as I generally don’t need them.
For late-season hunts, though, I do advocate for a taller, insulated boot. When the weather turns cold, and conditions are harsher, I’ll often wear heavier boots like the Kenetrek Extreme Guide or the Schnee Beartooth 400g. Because my feet tend to run hot, 400 grams of insulation is more than adequate to keep me comfortable, even in colder weather. This might not be your reality, and you may be more comfortable on a late-season hunt with an 800-gram insulated boot. You can find other boots to strike a balance in between with 200g of insulation or go even warmer than the 800g. It’s all about your personal preference and comfort level.
I share all this to highlight that boot selection isn’t as simple as buying the first pair that fits. Your choice of boots should be based on your hunting style, time of year, terrain, and conditions. For example, insulated boots might be necessary for nearly every hunt if your feet run cold, like my wife’s. If side-to-side stability is your priority, an ultra-light boot might not be the best option. It’s all about finding what works for you and your unique needs. Instead of buying boots that are the latest craze of the internet, your shoes should suit your body, your hunt, and your environment.
Now is the Time
Now is the perfect time to get the boots you’ll need for your fall hunts. With the season still a few months away, you’ve got plenty of time to find the right pair and get them broken in properly. New boots might feel great when you first try them on, but until you put some miles on them, you won’t know if they’ll hold up or cause you problems. Hotspots, blisters, or a lack of support can ruin a hunt faster than anything else, and you don’t want to find that out when you’re miles from the truck.
Take the time now to wear your boots on hikes, test them on uneven ground, and see how they perform in different conditions. Whether it’s rocky trails, wet grass, or steep slopes, the more you can mimic hunting terrain, the better. Breaking them in isn’t just about making them comfortable; it’s about ensuring they’re the right tool for the job. When fall rolls around, you’ll be glad you put in the time now so you can focus on the hunt and not your feet.
Final Thoughts
Boots aren’t flashy or fun to think about, but they’re one of the most critical pieces of gear you’ll take into the field. The wrong boots can ruin a hunt before it even gets started, while the right ones let you focus on what matters. Take the time to figure out what works for your style of hunting, the conditions you’ll face, and your needs. When fall rolls around, having the right pair of boots under you won’t just give you peace of mind; it’ll let you stay out longer, hunt harder, and make the most of your season.
Zach Bowhay is known as a hunter and writer who has successfully hunted many species all across the western states and beyond. Specifically he is highly regarded in the western hunting community as an expert in DIY elk hunting on public lands. For 15 years he has been a well-published writer, sharing his love of the outdoors and expertise in both gear and tactics through his writing as well as video and photos. When not spending time with his wife and three kids he can be found roaming the mountains of the west in the pursuit of adventure.
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