Going for a hunting trip to the mountain? You will need boots specially designed to cope up with the rough terrain. Hiking means dealing with steep slopes and muddy patches. You have to wear boots that will protect your feet while you enjoy a comfortable hike.
However, you don’t really need to invest in an expensive pair of bulky boots because that is not the best solution. Just because they are expensive, does not mean that they are the best. You need to do proper research about the best hunting boots with good features and find yourself a good fit.
Research can be tiresome and boring. So, we decided to come to your rescue. We did the research for you and compiled a list of the best hunting boots for hiking along with all their features and specifications. What are you waiting for? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Top 9 Best Hunting Boots for Hiking 2021 Comparison Table:
IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
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1. Salomon Quest 4D 3
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Salomon Quest 4D 3
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2. Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3
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Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3
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3. Vasque Breeze AT
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Vasque Breeze AT
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4. La Sportiva Saber GTX
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La Sportiva Saber GTX
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5. Merrell Moab 2
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Merrell Moab 2
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6. Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX
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Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX
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7. Salomon Vaya Mid GTX
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Salomon Vaya Mid GTX
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8. Asolo Falcon GV
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Asolo Falcon GV
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9. La Sportiva NUCLEO HIGH GTX
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La Sportiva NUCLEO HIGH GTX
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1. Salomon Quest 4D – 3 GTX Hiking Boots:
Built from sturdy nubuck leather and nylon mesh, these boots will last a long time. You can trust them to stay loyal to for many years to come. They feature a 4D advanced chassis which helps in guiding the foot and help reduce fatigue while you walk on rough and rocky terrains. This feature ensures comfortable hiking so that you can focus on your hunting. Running shoe adapted technology has been employed to ensure that the boots are lightweight but at the same time offer good support to your feet.
The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots have a slightly raised heel which helps provide good ankle support so that you do not suffer from any fatigue. The solid lacing system helps secure your feet in place to give your boots a custom fit feel. The high collar offers additional protection while a padded layer helps increase comfort. These boots offer more space in the forefoot so that your toes do not feel jammed in place. The nylon and leather material of the boots makes them fully waterproof so that you can easily walk through puddles or ponds without getting your feet wet.
On the downside, these boots are slightly on the heavy side which might be uncomfortable for beginners.
All in all, the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots offer the perfect combination of comfort and protection required for hiking.
Features:
- Colour: Various
- Dimension: 12.5 x 11.1 x 4.5 inches
- Weight: 8 ounces
- Material: Nubuck leather and nylon mesh
- Insulated: No
- Design: Lace-up
- Breathable: Yes
- Waterproof: Yes
Specs:
- 4D advanced chassis
- Running shoe adapted technology
- Slightly raised heel
- Solid lacing system
- High collar
- A padded layer
- Boots offer more space in the forefoot
- Roomy forefoot
- Waterproof
- Good ankle support
- Reduced fatigue
- heavy
2. Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 – Mid GTX Hiking Boots:
The Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots are not your average hiking boots, they offer much more! Built using a 100% synthetic material, these boots offer the perfect mix of durability and classy looks. They break in very quickly which means you can use them right out of the box. The firm and sturdy midsole cushion your feet while you walk on rocky terrains. The rubber sole is flexible so that your boots remain intact when you walk on steep and rough grounds. The shaft’s measures are nearly mid-top from the arch. The tongue and ankles are well padded for a comfortable experience.
The especially designed last of the Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots works synergistically with the greatly reinforced upper arm of the sensitive. This helps hold your feet in place and prevent pressure on your toes when you’re hiking downhill. The chassis has an advanced design and is connected directly to the soles which help in stabilizing your heels. Two types of rubbers have been laid on the sole for increased traction. In addition, a patterned area printed on the heels ensures that the boots hold onto the ground better. They are also quite lightweight which makes them more comfortable to wear.
One issue with these boots is that they are only ankle-high which means that water can enter your boots if your standing in water which goes above your ankles.
Apart from that, we are quite satisfied with the features and performance of the Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots.
Features:
- Colour: Various
- Dimension: 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 inches
- Weight: 1.23 Pounds
- Material: Synthetic
- Insulated: Yes
- Design: Lace-up
- Breathable: Yes
- Waterproof: Yes
Specs:
- Firm and sturdy midsole
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures nearly mid-top from the arch
- Well padded tongue and ankles
- Lasts works synergistically with the greatly reinforced upper arm of the sensifit
- Advanced chassis
- Two kinds of rubber laid on sole
- Patterned area printed on the heels
- Lightweight
- Good traction
- Good ankle support
- Waterproof
- Only ankle high
3. Vasque Breeze AT Mid – GTX Hiking Boots:
Good traction, great traction, and lightweight. Looking for a pair of hunting boots that has it all? Get the Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX hiking boots. They have a midsole which resembles the midsole of running shoes. It is made of ethyl vinyl acetate also called EVA foam. It has been rubberized for increased durability. This helps in making the boots comfortable, lightweight and so durable that they won’t break down even after 100 trips. They also feature a hard TPU shank which runs through the entire shoe, making it sturdy enough to offer support to you even under backpacking loads.
The 2mm nubuck leather uppers and Gore-Tex lining make the boots fully waterproof allowing you to walk freely through wet areas. The Gore-Tex lining is not only waterproof but also quite breathable. In addition, the air mesh in the uppers further increases ventilation. This prevents your feet from getting sweaty and developing foul odors. The Vibram contact grip along with the mega grip compound outsoles help provide better traction.
The ATC midsoles in addition to the EVA cushioning pods help provide added comfort. The dual-density EVA footbeds provide increased cushioning. These boots also feature thermoplastic polyurethane shanks which lend support and stability. However, they are expansive boots so you will have to make sure that your budget is enough.
Features:
- Colour: 3 colours
- Dimension: 13.4 x 10.4 x 4.4 inches
- Weight: 2.91 Pounds
- Material: Leather
- Insulated: No
- Design: Lace-up
- Breathable: Yes
- Waterproof: Yes
Specs:
- Rubberized EVA midsole
- A hard TPU shank
- 2mm nubuck leather uppers
- Gore-Tex lining
- Air mesh in the uppers
- Vibram contact grip
- Mega grip compound outsoles
- ATC midsoles with EVA cushioning pods
- Dual-density EVA footbeds
- Thermoplastic polyurethane shanks
- Good traction
- Breathable
- Waterproof
- Well cushioned
- Expansive
4. La Sportiva Saber – GTX Hiking Boots:
The imported La Sportiva Saber GTX Hiking boots are straight out of a hunter’s dream. The synthetic sole not only provides great support but is also super durable. The heel has a height of around 1.5 inches. The boot opening has a measurement of 12.5 inches around. The leather and mesh uppers make the boots breathable and also waterproof. The Gore-Tex extended comfort lining also adds to the waterproofing features. This means that you can easily hike through wet areas without worrying about your feet getting wet.
They are well ventilated so your feet will remain odor-free all day.
The La Sportiva Saber GTX Hiking boots also feature a rear gaiter along with an integrated tie-rod and soft and cozy fitting cuff. Shock-absorbent rubber toe caps help protect your feet from accidents and keep them safe in case you stub your toes somewhere. Perfect fitting is ensured by the back-lacing system which also helps increase flexibility near the toes. Flexibility and comfort are guaranteed due to the EVA midsole. The FriXion Blu ACT is used in the outsole along with the impact brake system lugs that help give you greater control over your movement on slippery grounds.
On the downside, they are a little narrow so they will not be suitable for people with wide feet.
In a nutshell, the La Sportiva Saber GTX Hiking boots are great for hiking trips and will ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
Features:
- Colour: Carbon/Chili
- Dimension: 2 x 4 x 7 inches
- Weight: 8 ounces
- Material: Leather and mesh
- Insulated: No
- Design: Lace-up
- Breathable: Yes
- Waterproof: Yes
Specs:
- Leather and mesh uppers
- Gore-Tex extended comfort lining
- A rear gaiter along with an integrated tie-rod
- Soft and cozy fitting cuff
- Shock-absorbent rubber toe caps
- Back-lacing system
- EVA midsole
- FriXion Blu ACT is used in the outsole
- Impact brake system lugs
- Greater control over the movement
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Durable
- Narrow
5. Merrell Moab 2 Mid – Best Waterproof Hunting Boots:
For lightweight backpackers and day hikers, we prefer the Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP hiking boots. The major selling point of these boots is the lightweight design in addition to a comfortable feel at a very reasonable price. You get durable Vibram outsoles, good cushioning underfoot, and also a waterproof membrane. Your feet will stay protected while you walk with comfort on rough terrains. The waterproofing feature keeps your feet dry in wet areas. A few changes were made when Moab was updated with Moab 2. Better underfoot cushioning, a new insole which has a higher arch, and a more durable and waterproof suede upper were some of the additions in the new design.
The Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP hiking boots feature a durable synthetic sole which will carry you along rough and rocky terrains with comfort and ease. Use of the M select dry helps seal out water while allowing moisture from within to escape into the atmosphere so that your feet can stay dry and fresh all day long. Closed-cell foam tongue and bellows help keep debris and moisture because getting a small rock in your boots is the most annoying feeling. 5mm deep lugs help deliver better traction so that you are in control of your movement. The rubber toe caps provide added protection to your toes.
One issue with these boots is that they take some time to break in so it is better not to wear new boots on your hunting trip.
We are satisfied with the features offered by the Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP hiking boots and we think you should give them a shot.
Features:
- Colour: Various
- Dimension: 13.7 x 9 x 4.8 inches
- Material: Suede leather and mesh
- Design: Lace-up
- Waterproof: Yes
- Breathable: Yes
Specs:
- M select dry
- Vibram rubber sole with 5mm outsole lugs
- Air cushion in the boot’s heel
- Bellows and closed-cell foam tongue
- Protective rubber toe caps
- Waterproof
- Comfortable
- Good traction
- Breathable
- Take long to break in
6. Scarpa Zodiac Plus – Best Hunting Boots for Women:
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is definitely our go-to boot for off-trail hiking and technical scrambling. Basically, it is a lightweight mountain boot but it can also be used by the average hiker due to its superior performance. The full leather uppers provide excellent durability and the Vibram sole provides a stable platform with good support. Durability is important in long hunting trips because if your boots break down mid-trip, you’ll be left helpless. In addition, good support prevents fatigue so that you can walk for hours without too many breaks.
Gore-Tex performance comfort makes the boots completely waterproof so that your feet can remain dry and warm even when you walk through puddles and wet areas. These boots can even be paired with a light crampon to be used on firm snow. Sock-fit DV construction helps in reducing bulk and therefore, creates a snug fit. The asymmetric lace system ensures that the boots have a precise fitting according to your feet. PU in addition to 3 densities of EVA within the midsole optimizes performance and also weight.
However, the sole is slightly rigid so it does not bend easily which makes it difficult to hike on smooth rock slabs.
If you’re looking for the perfect blend of hunting and hiking boots then the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX hiking boots are worth checking out.
Features:
- Colour: Shark/Maldive
- Dimension: 13 x 10 x 5 inches
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Material: Suede leather
- Design: Lace-up
- Waterproof: Yes
- Breathable: Yes
Specs:
- Full leather uppers
- Vibram sole
- Gore-Tex performance comfort
- Can be paired with a light crampon
- Sock-fit DV construction
- Asymmetric lace system
- PU in addition to 3 densities of EVA within the midsole
- Durable material
- Good support
- Lightweight
- Waterproof
- Sole is a little rigid
7. Salomon Vaya Mid – Best Women Hunting Hiking Boot:
Special thanks to some kickass engineering, Salomon designed the Salomon Vaya Mid GTX hiking boots specifically for women who were unable to find the perfect fit in the past. With a soft ankle collar in addition to two stretch panels that run along the top part of the boots to accommodate a higher instep and also dorsal which is typical of women’s feet. In addition, a slightly narrower heel cup cradles women’s feet beet as compared to general boots designed on men’s last. These features make the boots customized according to women’s feet for increased comfort and a custom-fit feel.
The Salomon Vaya Mid GTX hiking boots also feature a wider toe box because, after a long day’s hike, your feet may swell up. The contra grip outsole holds onto the ground even while you hike on a steep or slippery slope. This allows for better and increased control over your movement which prevents you from slipping. The Gore-Tex membrane makes the boots fully waterproof which ensure a dry and comfortable hiking experience even in wet areas. These lightweight boots are perfect for long hunting trips because no one wants to drag around bulky boots for hours on end.
However, these boots are not as breathable as other models on this list.
All in all, these boots offer optimum comfort and the perfect fit for women hunters.
Features:
- Colour: 2 colours
- Dimension: 10.3 x 7.5 x 3.8 inches
- Weight: 1.7 Pounds
- Material: Synthetic
- Design: Lace-up
- Waterproof: Yes
Specs:
- Soft ankle collar
- Two stretch panels that run along the top part of the boots
- The slightly narrower heel cup
- A wider toe box
- Contragrip outsole
- Gore-Tex membrane
- Customized for women’s feet
- Waterproof
- Wide toe-box
- Good traction
- Not very breathable
8. Asolo Falcon GV – Hiking Boots:
With new state-of-the-art features, the Asolo Falcon GV hunting boots are perfect for the modern hunter. Made from suede leather, the boots are super durable so that you can put your trust in them for many more hunting trips to come. The synthetic sole is sturdy and durable and hence, perfect for hiking on rough and rocky slopes. These boots also feature a Gore-Tex lining which seals out all moisture to keep your feet dry. The Vibram outsole delivers amazing traction so that you can have a safe hiking experience.
The radiant sole on the Asolo Falcon GV hunting boots is specially designed to cater to the need of hiking enthusiasts. The mid-cut design of these boots offers superior ankle protection. Nylon panels in the boots have high tenacity and are also abrasion-resistant. The boots are non-insulated so they are suitable for moderate to warm climates. The material of the boots is quite breathable and allows for good ventilation so that no bad odors develop in your feet over long hours of hiking. Plush tongue and collar offer added protection and comfort. The heel pull loop makes it easier to put them on and take them off.
On the downside, the boots don’t offer much stability so don’t use them steep slopes.
We are satisfied with the quality and durability of the Asolo Falcon GV and we would recommend them.
Features:
- Colour: 3 colours
- Dimension: 13 x 10 x 5 inches
- Weight: 1.25 Pounds
- Material: Suede leather
- Design: Lace-up
- Waterproof: Yes
- Breathable: Yes
- Insulated: No
Specs:
- Synthetic sole
- Gore-Tex lining
- Vibram outsole
- Radiant sole
- Mid-cut design
- Nylon panels
- Plush tongue and collar
- Heel pull loop
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Ankle protection
- Easy on and off
- Not stable enough
9. La Sportiva NUCLEO – HIGH GTX Hiking Shoe:
A majority of hunting boots are waterproof but not all of them allow moisture from within to escape. However, that is terrible news for people whose feet tend to get super sweaty. If you are one of them, don’t worry because we have got you covered with the new and improved La Sportiva NUCLEO HIGH GTX Hiking Shoe. They feature the Gore-Tex surround which not only seals out all moisture but at the same time ensures that sweat can evaporate easily so that no bad odors develop in your feet.
In addition, the La Sportiva NUCLEO HIGH GTX Hiking Shoes come with nubuck uppers which are quite durable so that you can enjoy hunting trips in these boots without fear of them breaking down. The EVA midsole makes the journey very comfortable as your feet are protected against the harsh terrain of the mountains.
However, if you intend on carrying heavy loads, these boots will not be able to support that.
These are great hunting boots for casual hunters who don’t carry too much load.
Features:
- Colour: 3 colours
- Dimension: 14 x 14 x 5 inches
- Weight: 4.3 Pounds
- Material: Leather
- Design: Lace-up
- Waterproof: Yes
- Breathable: Yes
- Insulated: No
Specs:
- Gore-Tex surround
- Nubuck uppers
- EVA midsole
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Breathable
- Not for heavy backpackers
Final Verdict:
When buying hunting boots for hiking, look for stability and traction as mountain tracks tend to be steep and rocky. Invest in a good pair of boots but stay away from overpriced hacks. We have tried to give you the best options available and we hope this article proves useful to you in your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions:
2. How many miles does it take to break in hiking boots?
You should wear your boots for at least a month before you take them out to hunt.
3. Should your size up in hiking boots?
You should get at least one size bigger than standard.
Originally posted 2020-08-22 22:21:46.
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