Hunting is not for people who want to stay in the comfort zone. Often a hunting trip includes a lot of walking, sometimes in a hostile climate, stalking, waiting and not to mention shooting. This takes a lot of toils, but it also brings the purest type of joy.
Especially, elk hunting requires walking in higher and rougher terrain than the usual. And it contains greater challenge than whitetail hunting. The nature of the trip demand attention to your gears.
Specifically, the gear takes the most beating, your shoes. You don’t need the usual, you need the best elk hunting boots to boost up your chance of success.
People have been hunting from the beginning of the history. With each generation, hunting gears and weapons changed. But one thing didn’t change, the need for supporting gears. Be it a weapon or what you wear on your feet. You have to face hot and cold weather, blisters and a lot of walking. The better your shoes are, the more enjoyable your hunting trip will be.
Comparison Table of Best Hunting Day Pack :
Irish Setter Men's 860 Elk Tracker Waterproof 1000 Gram Boot
Best Sellers Rank
Package Dimensions:
12 x 8 x 4 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
Kenetrek Men's Mountain Extreme 400 Insulated Hunting Boot
Best Sellers Rank
Package Dimensions:
12 x 8 x 4 inches
Weight: 6 pounds
Irish Setter Men’s 882 Elk Tracker Waterproof 600 Gram 12inch Big Game Hunting Boot
Best Sellers Rank
Package Dimensions:
12 x 8 x 4 inches
Weight: 6 pounds
Best Elk Hunting Boots Buying Guide
Materials:
One of the main features you need to check is materials the boot made of. Because the materials will determine comfort, durability even waterproofness of a pair of boots.
Boots have been made of various materials. Each of them has their own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look-
Rubber- Rubber is used mainly for insoles. However, boots fully made of rubber is also available on the market. Rubbers are strong and durable, and they have an amazing waterproof ability. However, they lack the flexibility needed for a long walk.
Leather- Leather is known for comfort and durability. Leather boots can go for a lifetime, providing you a great ROI.
Nylon- We all know the properties of nylon. It is very lightweight while being resistant to extreme abuse and rough use. Boots made of nylon are lightweight, and they provide great breathability.
Gore Tex- Gore Tex is one of the most used materials for hunting clothing and boots today. The reason is, the material provides amazing breathability and durability, like nylon. But what makes it stand out is it has great insulation capability, which others don’t have. Usable for different seasons, Gore-Tex makes long hunting trips comfortable one.
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Weather:
You cannot have the jack of all trades when it comes to boots. Different types of weather require different types of boots. For summer, you need a boot that is breathable, while compromising on waterproof ability. An insulation of 200 grams will be enough for that.
If you’re going to hunt in fall, midseason boots will be enough. Those boots have an insulation range of 400-800 grams which should work just fine.
Winter season boots should come with heavy insulation. They should have protection ability against chilly winds while being able to contain heat inside. For that job, insulation around 1000 grams will be good.
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Waterproof:
Your boots should have a degree of waterproofness no matter what the season is. Because you might be needing to go through watery areas. Also, hunting in snow means you need that waterproofing ability to keep your feet dry. Gore-Tex and Leather provide good waterproof ability.
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Soles:
The soles are important because they will carry a whole load of your body. Elk hunting generally means walking in higher and rougher terrains. That’s why your soles need to be rugged. Also, you need to make sure they don’t make too much sound. Soles made of synthetic materials provide a good support. Do not forget to check if the soles have a good grip on the surface.
Learn More: 'Hunting Safety System'>>
Support:
How much support your boots provide you? If you wear a boot with a low support, you will be able to cover a long distance, but might experience blisters. On the other hand, boots with higher ankle provide good support for a long walk.
For rugged terrains like the mountains, steel shank support works best. It can absorb highest tortures. However, this type of support adds some extra weight.
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Height:
Many people don’t think of it when looking for the best elk hunting boots. But it’s equally important like other features. A pair of boots with lower height will not provide necessary support and insulation in the winter season. Also, when you’re crossing a wetland, the height will determine how much you can stay out of the water. That’s why we recommend minimum 8 inches of height of your elk hunting boots.
See More: 'Waterproof Hunting Boots'>>
Break-in Time:
If you’re going for an immediate hunting trip, you will get a little time for the break-in beforehand. It’s always better to buy a pair of boots before the season starts, wear for some time to be habituated and give the pair time to break in.
Purchasing right before a trip will hamper the chance of getting habituated. You might face blisters and sore toes because of the new materials. It’s always better to purchase boots that quickly break in, which will ensure a comfortable trip for you.
See Also: 'Waterproof Hunting Pants'>>
Best Elk Hunting Boots - Top Choices
1/ Irish Setter Men's 860 Elk Tracker Waterproof 1000 Gram Boot
The Irish Setter Men's 860 Elk Tracker is a heavy duty and ready to work hard for you. No matter how rough the situation might get, these boots will give you the support you need.
Features:
- Right off the bat, you’ve got a full grain waterproof leather body and lace-up style boot. If you prefer leather hunting boots, these are certainly good to go with.
- It has a synthetic sole and also comes with a moisture wicking nylon lining that prevents any moisture from building up inside your boots.
- This boot features 1000g Thinsulate Ultra Insulation which is great for cold environments.
- The insole of this boot is made using a memory foam. This foam acts as a cushioning at every step.
- Don’t worry about your feet getting cold because the Gore-Tex lining guarantees that not a single drop of water will get in the boots.
Pros
- Comfortable boots, perfect for long periods of walking.
- Lasts for a long time.
- You can use these boots on your normal activities.
- Gives good traction on rough terrains.
- Good for cold environments.
Cons
- Take a little time to properly break in.
Verdict:
The Irish Setter Men's 860 Elk Tracker boots are the top of the line model boots that offer a great value for the money.
2/ Irish Setter Men’s 882 Elk Tracker Waterproof 600 Gram 12inch Big Game Hunting Boot
The Irish Setter Men's 882 Elk Tracker is for big game hunting. This 12-inch hunting boot has everything you want in a perfect pair of boot. They made this one for the big hunters. These will be a great companion in your next elk hunting.
Features:
- These boots are constructed entirely of super premium work-grade leathers. This certainly for the big game hunters out there.
- It has a whopping 600 g’s 3M Thinsulate insulation. No matter how cold the environment gets, these will keep your feet warm.
- Goodyear Leather Welt Construction makes this one of the most durable boots out there.
- The GORE-TEX lining prevents water from getting in the boot & the ScentBan odor control keeps feet healthy and fresh.
- It features a removable Comfort Cork EVA Footbed that is made using Memory Foam for extra comfort.
Pros
- Very comfortable to wear.
- Only for the pro hunters.
- Good for cold weather.
- Requires less time to break in.
- Fits perfectly.
Cons
- A little expensive than your average hunting boots.
Verdict:
As the name suggests, the Irish Setter Men's 882 Elk Tracker is a Big Game Hunting Boot for the pro hunters. These are for the serious outdoorsman.
3/ Irish Setter Men's 880 Elk Tracker Waterproof 200 Gram 12" Big Game Hunting Boot
In the hunting boots industry, the Irish Setter is a popular name. They are known for making incredibly comfortable insoles and tough outsoles. The Irish Setter Men's 880 Elk Tracker is popular boot in their Elk Tracker line up.
Features:
- Like the Irish Setter Men's 882 these boots are also constructed entirely of super premium work-grade leathers.
- These boots will keep your feet warm thanks to its 200 Gram 3M Thinsulate insulation.
- The Gore-Tex lining makes this boot 100% waterproof. Gives you protection from elements while maintaining a cool, breathable environment.
- The memory foam EVA insole makes this one of the most comfortable boots out there.
- The Bulls-Eye rubber outsole has multi-directional lugs for superior traction performance.
Pros
- Super durable boots for long time use.
- Breathable boots make your feet healthy and fresh.
- Very comfortable to wear.
- It will give you premium footing and balance.
- It has the steel shank for added support.
Cons
- This boot weighs 2lbs at the most. Some of them think these are heavy.
Verdict:
Out of the three Irish Setters boots, this 880 Elk Tracker Big Game Hunting Boot gives you the most value for your money.
4/ Kenetrek Men's Mountain Extreme 400 Insulated Hunting Boot
Features:
- In terms of comfort, these boots are very comfortable. It has reinforced rubber sole guard. This adds extra abrasion resistance.
- It is also insulated. It uses Wind-tex waterproof and breathable flexible membrane. It features 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation to keep your feet warm in winter.
- These boots are made using top grain leather. This leather offers better abrasion resistance and waterproofing.
- Lightweight K-talon outsoles provide excellent traction. It features 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation to keep your feet warm in winter.
- In terms of support, it has 7mm nylon midsoles that provide support in rugged terrain with heavy loads. These are also Lightweight.
Pros
- The USA made quality boots.
- Good durability.
- Exceptional traction.
- Genuine leather boots.
- Very comfortable.
Cons
- They are relatively new in the boot industry. Don’t know how long they will last.
Verdict:
If you are looking for a premium quality boot with an affordable price tag than Kenetrek Men's Mountain Extreme 400 Insulated Hunting Boot is a good choice. These are extreme boots for the hunters that choose the harsh trail.
5/ LaCrosse Men's 8" Silencer HD Hunting Boot
Features:
- LaCrosse Silencer HD Hunting Boots offers an insulation capacity that goes well beyond 800 grams. Don’t worry about your feet getting cold.
- This boot features Cordura nylon lining that provides additional physical resistance in extremely rough situations.
- This boot has Dry-Core technology that is 100% waterproof while the lining allows vapor to escape.
- The Scent Suppressing antimicrobial fibers are great for fighting odors and bacteria that builds up inside your boots.
- The LaCrosse boots provide a superb grip control. You will feel protected in these boots.
Pros
- Good for long time use.
- Lasts for years.
- Good traction.
- Lightweight and comfortable.
- Good insulation.
Cons
- Some people complained about the waterproof issue. Although this was rare, you should check if your boots are waterproof after purchase.
Verdict:
If you're looking for comfort and durability than going for the LaCrosse Men's 8" Silencer HD Hunting Boot. These are the ideal choice for some serious elk hunting.
Final Verdict:
Hunting is a challenging job, but that doesn’t mean it cannot be fun. In fact, no other joy can match the feeling when you achieve the target in your hunting trip.
Nobody wants to be a part of an unsuccessful trip. But veterans know, it happens every now or then. Sometimes the reason is pure luck, most of the times it apparently includes lack of preparation.
One of the most important elements for a hunter’s preparation is the hunting boots. It’s the boots that will absorb the load and the torture. It’s truer for elk hunting. It requires preparation and patience, also, the best elk hunting boots. Together these things will increase the chance of a successful trip.
We have compiled a list for you, each of them is top of the market. We hope this list will help you determine the choice for your next elk hunting trip. Happy Hunting!!
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