Boots

twp1224

Active Member
Mar 6, 2011
224
1
Central Coast
I have always used cheap hiking shoes (Hitec, Cabelas). Figured I could just buy a new pair every season. I'm really wondering if it's worth the money to buy a good pair of hunting boots. Does it really make a difference? I've had no problems with foot or back fatigue with my cheap boots. Will i notice the difference? I'm looking at trying a pair of Lowa Ranger GTX this year if i make the switch. Anyone using these boots? How do they hold up?
 

ceby7

Active Member
Feb 21, 2011
177
1
Laurel, MT
I used the Rangers last fall and I really like them. They're comfortable and they've held up great so far. They are more of an early season boot since they're uninsulated, I used mine for archery elk and antelope in Oct. If you're going to hunt in very steep and rocky terrain, you might want a little stiffer boot with more ankle support like the Tibets. As with any quality boot, if you take care of the leather, you will prolong the life of the boot significantly. I've had a pair of the Tibets for 4 years and they've never let water in.
 

*******

Active Member
Feb 21, 2011
163
0
Edmonton AB.
I was using cheap boots as shoes for a few years and I finally made the break and bought some Kenetrek mountain boots before going on a high country hunt. At the end of the season I swore up and down I would never go back to a cheap shoe or boot. My feet were in great shape, my ankles and knees felt amazing. I didn't have to break in a new pair of boots the next year because the Kenetreks were still in great shape. Not a scratch on them. I've never had a better season as far as my feet, legs, and back were concerned than the years I have been in Kenetreks. I also have a pair of Irish Setter Elk trackers for stalking in the low country bush. I love them to. Softer souled for better sneaking.
 

twp1224

Active Member
Mar 6, 2011
224
1
Central Coast
thanks for the input guys. I bit the bullet and bought the Lowa Ranger GTX on sale at Shoebuy.com for $187. To good of a deal to pass up. They had a 20% off code and if you sign up for email updates they give you an additional 10% your first order.
 

Elkoholic307

Banned
Feb 25, 2011
1,217
1
Base of the Bighorns
I'm on the fence whether to get Cabela's Pinnacle or something a little more legit like Cabela's Alaska Hunter or something from Lathrop & Sons. The Pinnacle is $120 and Alaska Hunter is $290.
 

abrowland

New Member
Mar 9, 2011
10
0
I had to give up my trusted boots after 13 years of hunting. Two soles and several re-stitching attempts couldn't keep them together. I paid about $160 back then. That works out to about $12.50 a year. With the resole and restitch, my annual cost was around $20 per year. This year I dropped $190 on new Vasque boots. I tried a pair of Zamberlan for 2 months, but the heel cup was never right. I expect to get at least 10 years out of these boots. Again, my costs should be around $20 per year. Cheaper than cheap tennis shoes.

I generally put about 50 miles per year on the trails, plus around-town time during the winter. I feel like I get my money's worth out of a good pair of boots.
 

abrowland

New Member
Mar 9, 2011
10
0
This year I bought new boots after 13 years in my old boots. Original cost back then was $160. I had a restitch and resole done two years ago for $100. Per annual cost is $20.

This winter I bought a pair of Vasque for $180. I expect to get 10 years out of them with proper care and feeding. With any luck, I should be into these boots for about the same price - $20/year. In my mind, it is better to buy a quality boot and get years out of them rather than a cheaper boot every couple of years. I think you save money in the long run. In the scree and granite of Colorado, tough soles and outers are a must.
 

wolftalonID

Very Active Member
Mar 10, 2011
679
0
Idaho
I tried two different boots with Cabelas lable on them, they both were horrible boots, and tore up my feet. I switched to the Danners Pronghorns with the 400 gram thinsulate. Waterproof, light, no breakin period, quiet, and allows for good stalks with shoes on. The difference was amazing to say the least!!! My first pair I have owned for three seasons and still going on them as winter boots where I live. I bought a second pair a few months ago and put aside as they changed the style and I loved the original so much. Im keeping them for this upcoming season or maybe save them for next year. Either way I now have a great pair waiting to fill the slot when my first pair are done.
 

Elkoholic307

Banned
Feb 25, 2011
1,217
1
Base of the Bighorns
I was also thinking about the Danner Pronghorns but read some reviews that said they're not really water proof. But then again, others say they love them. Just about anything would be better than what I'm using right now though.
 

jhpam3117

New Member
Mar 8, 2011
31
0
In transition
You can't go wrong with Lowa period. They make an outstanding boot and although I have not used the Ranger I have the Tibet and Sheep Hunter. Both are exceptional boots and keep your foot secure in the boot and provide great support. Yes...a good pair of hunting boots is crucial.
 

wolftalonID

Very Active Member
Mar 10, 2011
679
0
Idaho
I was also thinking about the Danner Pronghorns but read some reviews that said they're not really water proof. But then again, others say they love them. Just about anything would be better than what I'm using right now though.
As with any goretex product. Dont wash them in a machine or put them in a dryer. If you feel the need to wash the boots, use goretex approved detergents or wash aids or the material will be compromised instantly.
Secondly, for those that dont understand water and gravity, they probably waded across a stream and cant understand how waist high water got into their boots ! lol.
 

Pronghorn73

Member
Mar 7, 2011
130
0
Franklin, Idaho
I have owned several different Danner boots over the years, last pair I bought were Pronghorn uninsulated. Just like all Danners, never hurt my feet from day one, but seem to wear out faster than some of the other Danner styles. Have been thinking of trying another brand, not sure what yet, but you do get what you pay for in boots.
 

Ikeepitcold

Administrator
Staff member
Feb 22, 2011
10,026
1,612
Reno Nv
I have a pair of Lowa Tibets and Lowa Sheep hunters. I love them! the most comfortable boots Ive ever worn. I also tried Rockys, Cabelas, Chipawa and Whites but none have performed as the Lowa. Ive had mine for 5 years and as long as I keep them waxed up before each late season hunt my feet never get wet from the outside weather. They also have a life time warranty, if the fail in any way all you have to do is call Lowa, send them is and they will repair or replace with no questions asked. I know for sure cause my buddy had a pair and the rubber started to pull away from the toe from being draged over a rock and they repaired at no cost but shipping.
 

Livesilly

New Member
Feb 22, 2011
40
0
Currently Alaska
Well....I broke down yesterday and picked up a pair of Kenetrek Mountain Extreme and I can't wait to get them on the mountain!!! This dang-ol snow and ice needs to leave!!!!!!!!!!!
 

Jerry

Active Member
Feb 21, 2011
248
0
74
Joseph Or
Schnees outfitter II, sell for $229. Good to 20 below zero. They have removable liners so you can air them out at night or swap out with a spare. They come in 10", 13" or 16" tops. Extra liners cost around $40.
I have ridden horses in these in a driving blizzard and been comfortable. Never a problem after hiking.
I have the 16" tops and love them for cold weather. They are kind of a pain to put on, but other than that nothing but good luck.
 

iowashedhunter

New Member
Feb 21, 2011
27
0
Iowa
I have been wearing cabelas meindle's and love'em! I just got a pair with 400gr thinsulate and will be using them on my next Wyoming hunt but have no doubts I will have no problems at all.They are pricey but to me they are worth every cent.
 

twp1224

Active Member
Mar 6, 2011
224
1
Central Coast
Got the Lowa Ranger's in the mail. Fit great out of the box. I'm going to try hiking in them with a 30lb pack on this weekend, if the weather stays decent. I will post my review next week.