Rating of the best winter boots for hunting in 2022

Winter hunting includes not only increased attention to tracking prey, but also being in cold conditions for extended periods of time. Therefore, in addition to the necessary equipment and warm clothes, the hunter must choose high-quality shoes. After all, the whole hunting process will depend on the level of comfort. Consider what types of winter shoes for hunting are, the differences between them, as well as the rating of the best models, according to buyers.

Types of winter footwear for hunting

The right choice of footwear depends on the type of hunting and weather conditions. With a large layer of snow, felt boots used to be very popular: due to their height, snow did not get inside, and they were a fairly budget option. But now there is a huge selection of improved models, so felt boots are becoming less and less used type of hunting shoes.

Canadian boots are rubber bottoms and leather, synthetic or canvas uppers. Such models are great for severe frosts, as they are designed for temperatures of -40 degrees. Also, for such models, you can pick up special insulated insoles made of fur, wool or felt.

Rubber boots are more commonly used when hunting in wetlands or water areas. Equipped with wool, fur or felt liners to keep warm. But they are not suitable for harsh winter conditions - at temperatures below 10 degrees below zero, the legs will freeze and the material of manufacture loses elasticity, which significantly affects the comfort of walking.

Boots are preferred in weather with little snow. Thanks to lacing or special Velcro, this type of shoe can be adjusted to the foot for ease of movement on uneven surfaces. In addition to hunters, they are often used by climbers or ski lovers.

Criterias of choice

In order for the user to feel as comfortable as possible, winter shoes must meet certain requirements. Since hunting takes place in the cold season and with possible precipitation, one of these requirements is thermal insulation.The longer the heat remains, the longer the hunt will be.

In addition, winter boots must have soles that do not allow slipping. The hunter often has to overcome obstacles in the form of ice, so with a strong slip it will not be easy to catch up with the prey.

Often hunting occurs when it snows or rains. Another important quality that boots should have is water resistance.

Consider the main characteristics that hunting shoes should have in the winter season.

Material

There are many materials from which winter hunting boots are made. Each of them is designed for certain weather conditions and are used for specific types of hunting.

Winter boots made of membrane fabric are light and moisture resistant. Suitable for hunting near the water or in the snow. But they require some care - when interacting with strong heat or fire, membrane shoes lose their advantages and become unsuitable for hunting.

Boots made of polyurethane are made using the technology of seamless casting. Due to this, they are considered quite durable and do not allow water to penetrate into the shoes. In addition, such material does not allow slipping on the overcome surface and perfectly retains heat. The disadvantages include the weight of the product - such boots will be heavy compared to shoes made from other materials.

Rubber boots made of PVC are not suitable for wearing in cold weather without warming liners. Therefore, it is recommended to use only at the beginning of winter. At temperatures slightly below zero, the hunter will simply freeze. They have waterproof properties, but in case of overheating, moisture remains inside, which causes some discomfort to the owner.

Ethylene vinyl acetate (or EVA) boots are quite popular. They have many advantages: very durable, but at the same time they are light in weight, retain heat well and do not allow moisture to pass into the boot. This option is perfect for severe frosts, as well as in the presence of snow precipitation.

Neoprene shoes are quite elastic and light. It does not allow moisture to penetrate inside, and also perfectly retains heat.

Cordura boots are also lightweight and durable. The composition of this material includes nylon coated with polyurethane. To protect against moisture, the nylon fabric is coated with a special water-repellent impregnation.

Leather boots are very comfortable to wear, the material of manufacture does not allow the foot to sweat, retains heat, and also does not require special shoe care. High-quality leather will allow such shoes to serve a significant service life.

Boots made of nubuck are characterized by increased resistance to wear and durability, as they are made from the skin of large cattle. When treated with a special impregnation, the shoes have water-repellent advantages.

Height

Hunting in the winter season involves moving on a snow-covered surface. The higher the layer of snow, the higher the boots should be. The height of the shoe will prevent unwanted precipitation from penetrating into the boot.

In addition, the height of the boots serves as a barrier against damage when passing a given path, especially when the road has hills or a rocky surface. For the convenience of walking and fixing the ankle, the recommended shaft height should be up to 15 cm. With a higher height, the product will have a heavier weight, which will create discomfort while walking.

The top of the boots should not closely wrap around the hunter's leg.Firstly, it creates inconvenience when moving, and secondly, in order not to wet the bottom of the clothes, it is advisable to tuck the pants into boots.

Sole

For improved passage of the territory, the sole must be stable and have one important property - to have a deep tread pattern. This will allow you to confidently move on loose ground or snow. To overcome obstacles on rocks or on cultivated soil, it is recommended to use removable spikes. Such ice drifts will allow moving through any territory, including areas with ice.

The thickness of the sole and the material of its manufacture are responsible for the thermal insulation of the shoe. In addition, the sole should consist of several layers: a lining that is responsible for the ventilation of the insole, a polyurethane layer that takes the necessary shape of the foot, then there is a shock absorber with arch support to reduce springiness while walking.

By weight

Depending on what type of hunting, weight has a certain meaning. For example, if a hunter must constantly move long distances on level ground to track down prey, then the boots should also be light in weight. If you wear heavy shoes for a long time, your legs will quickly get tired. But when overcoming mountain barriers or other hills, shoes must have certain criteria that affect weight and will be heavier.

In addition, the weight of the product depends on the material of manufacture, the sole, the height of the shaft, as well as the presence of laces or other small accessories.

To size

The right size of boots will be responsible for a comfortable feeling throughout the hunt. It should be borne in mind that hunting shoes should be taken one or two sizes larger than usual.This is due to the fact that in the presence of warm socks, the boots will become small and it will not be convenient to move in them for a long time. And the acquisition of a very large size can lead to falls and injuries, since the leg will not be fixed properly.

To understand that the shoes are perfect in size, the free distance near the heel when moving the fingers towards the toe should be about 1-1.5 cm, but no more.

Before the final purchase of the product, you should walk in shoes for at least 10-15 minutes and preferably with already selected insoles. The feeling of discomfort may appear gradually, after some time of wearing. Therefore, it is better to make sure of their convenience before purchasing.

The presence of lacing

If the choice fell on boots with lacing, one rule should be followed: for proper fixation, the foot must be laced a little stronger than the shaft. This is necessary so that the leg is firmly fixed in the boot, and trousers can be tucked into the top of the bootleg to prevent them from getting wet when it snows or when crossing shallow streams.

In addition to lacing, there are also other types of latches: push-button or Velcro. Some models have drawstrings at the top of the boot, allowing you to tighten them for comfortable movement.

In order to correctly choose what kind of characteristics shoe products should have, you need to focus on the type of hunting. For constant movement, some models with certain qualities are suitable, and for tracking down prey in a secluded place before it appears, there are already completely different options.

The best manufacturers of winter boots for hunting

In order to choose the right high-quality boots for hunting, it is necessary to study not only the existing characteristics of the products, but also get acquainted with the best, according to customer reviews, shoe manufacturers in this area. Trade brands that produce such products appear every year more and more. But there are certain brands that have already gained respect among many hunters. Therefore, having studied the opinions of buyers, you can choose the best manufacturers of goods for this area.

Nordman is a domestic manufacturer that started its activity in the 90s and mainly specialized in the production of rubber boots. At the moment, both shoes for everyday wear and products for hunting and fishing, including clothes and hats, are made. In addition to the Russian Federation, this company supplies its products to more than 20 countries around the world. This company is distinguished by its relatively inexpensive products.

Aquatic is also a Russian brand that originally produced products for fishing tackle: special bags or cases for the safety of equipment. Now the company is engaged in the production of fishing goods, backpacks, products for tourism and fishing, as well as the necessary overalls and footwear. The company is known for the excellent quality of its products, but its cost cannot be attributed to budget options.

Torvi is a manufacturer that specializes in the manufacture of products from EVA material. Therefore, boots of this brand should be taken for severe frosts, since this manufacturing material can withstand temperatures below 45 degrees. In addition, the shoes have excellent elasticity and can take the shape of the foot.This company produces clothes for hunting or fishing, as well as some goods for tourist recreation.

The all-terrain vehicle is another domestic brand that began operations in 2000, but has already established itself as a quality manufacturer. Manufactured products are men's, children's and women's PVC rubber boots, as well as shoe insulation.

Norfin is a Latvian company founded in 1995. Their products are delivered to 25 countries, which may indicate the high quality of products. In addition to footwear for hunting, they produce specialized clothing for fishing and tourism, tents, sleeping bags and other goods necessary for recreation.

Woodline is a manufacturer from Sweden that produces the necessary products for hunters and tourists. From this brand you can buy shirts, hats, sweaters, jackets, vests and other types of clothing needed for hunting.

KhSN is a manufacturer from Russia, which began its activity in 1993 and produces not only shoes and clothes, but also the necessary equipment for equipment. The price category of manufactured goods is medium and high, as the company works on the principle of "price-quality". The more expensive the item, the higher quality material it is made of.

MuckBoot - began its production in 1999, the main products at that time were all-terrain rubber boots, which were of very high quality. But, over time, the brand began to expand its products and improve models. Now you can buy not only boots for hunting or hiking, but also for riding or for work, as well as women's and children's models.

Rating of popular inexpensive models of boots for hunting

Let's review and consider the characteristics of both high-quality and budget models that are in demand among users.

Nordman Extreme

Insulated boots with an insert will help withstand temperatures up to -60 degrees, thanks to the EVA material. The height of the product is 44 cm, the wide bootleg allows, if necessary, tucking trousers into boots or fixing them in size with a puff.

The liner consists of natural fur and wool, as well as foil fiber. Such materials help to prevent the appearance of moisture inside. The kit includes a two-layer insole, necessary to prevent condensation. You can buy such a model within 2500 rubles.

• Convenient insert;
• Light weight product.

• Not sold separately inner liner;
• Slippery outsole.

Torvi EVA -45 °C

One-piece EVA boots are lightweight and warm. Thanks to the multi-layer interchangeable liner, which consists of several materials, there is reliable protection against cold and moisture: the foot does not sweat or get wet, there is no discomfort when walking. The height of the boot is 41 cm, so it will also be comfortable to sit in them for a long time. The tread on the sole allows you to confidently move on both loose snow and ice. The average price is in the range of 1600-2000 rubles.

• Excellent quality.

• The size of the liner is smaller than the size of the boot.

Nordman classic

Designed for temperatures up to -45°С. The upper and sole are made of EVA material, the removable inner liner is made of wool, fur and foil. This composition prevents the penetration of cold to the feet.The height of the product is 44 cm, which allows you to pass through a high layer of snow, and water-repellent cuffs do not allow the upper part to get wet. Puffs are used to adjust the width of the shaft. When buying, it is better to purchase a model one size larger. The price varies from 800 to 2000 rubles.

• Ease of walking;
• The tread on the outsole prevents slipping.

• The sole is punctured.

All-terrain vehicle Toptygin -45°C

Another model made of EVA material. It has a comfortable last, which is elastic enough, so walking in them becomes even more comfortable. When overcoming long distances, the boots do not rub at all.

The allowable wear temperature reaches —45°C. Thanks to the tightening on the cuff, snow or water does not get inside. Insulated with an internal multi-layer liner made of natural fur.

The weight of the product is slightly more than 1 kg, so when walking there is no feeling of heaviness or fatigue of the legs. You can buy for 2000 rubles.

• Ease of walking;
• Do not rub when moving.

• Slippery on ice;
• Legs get cold when sitting for a long time.

Northstar (-55°C)

At temperatures below 50 degrees, they also keep their elasticity, made of EVA material. Keep water out of the inside with a water-repellent cuff and drawstring. The removable stocking is made of fur, which, if necessary, can be pulled out and dried, and inside the boot there is a three-layer insulation. Due to the light weight of the product, walking in them will be easy and not noticeable. The sole is 3 cm high and the shaft height is 30 cm, which allows you to move through snow and water. The cost is within 2000 rubles.

• Easy to care for;
• Retain heat well;
• Lungs.

• Not detected.

Rating of the best expensive models of winter boots for hunting

 In addition to inexpensive options, you can consider models that are much more expensive. They are distinguished not only by better materials of manufacture, but also by reputable trade manufacturers.

Norfin AVALANCHE

Perfectly withstand temperatures up to -40 degrees, made of EVA material and rubber overshoes. The weight of the product is small, so there is no feeling of fatigue when walking. The inner three-layer liner has a thickness of 1 cm, consists of polyester, foil fiber and synthetic felt. Such materials help to perfectly retain heat and prevent the appearance of moisture. Adjustable straps will allow you to fix the comfortable position of the leg, and the tightening at the top will protect against snow and water. The price of this model is about 5400-5500 rubles.

• Adjustment straps;
• Convenient block;
• Available in black, gray and orange colors.

• Runs small, choose a size larger when buying.

HSN Profi Forest Shaman Premium

Ideal for driven hunting. Thinsulate synthetic insulation is very light, yet retains heat well. The outsole from the Vibram manufacturer is characterized by increased slip resistance due to the embossed tread. The outer material is high quality Matrix leather and Cordura fabric. The height of the product is 37 cm. Price range: within 13,500-14,000 rubles.

Comfortable;

• High-quality manufacturing materials;
• Non-slip sole.

• Very high price.

Polyver Premium+

This model withstands temperatures up to -50 C. The seamless design protects against moisture. Production material - polyurethane. The inner lining consists of wool and acrylic, thanks to which the warmth is retained inside. Anatomical polyurethane insoles are included with the boots. The stable outsole will help you to freely overcome slippery areas of the surface. A small heel helps to move along forest roads. The weight of a pair, depending on the size, is from 1.5 to 2 kg. Price: from 12,000 to 14,000 rubles.

• No seams;
• Comfortable;
• Durable.

• Large weight of the product;
• High price;
• No removable liner.

Norfin Hunting FOREST

Can be used at 40 degrees below zero. The product is made of EVA material, so it is quite light. Removable liner consists of three layers, perfectly retain heat and remove moisture. A deep tread on a rubber sole does not allow slipping. A push-button fastener at the top prevents snow or water from getting into the boots. Such a model costs about 7000-8000 rubles.

• Comfortable to walk.

• You can damage the material on bushes or a sharp surface.

In order to decide which model will be the best for a particular user, you need to carefully study all the offers and comparisons between the proposed options. Also, the choice will depend on the type of hunting: it involves constant movement or waiting for prey in a secluded place.

To understand which model of which company is better to buy, sometimes it is worth listening to the advice of more experienced hunters.They can tell you whether to focus on price, that is, the more expensive, the better, or choose according to the necessary functionality, depending on the needs of the hunter.