Last Updated On: February 1, 2024

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In this guide, I'll show you 5 best hunting boots for cold weather with detailed reviews. Then I'll help you to quickly choose warmest hunting boots basing your needs.

Especially some pro tips to keep your feet warm while sitting on a tree stand or ice fishing. Sounds good? Let's dive into it...

Best Winter Hunting Boots:

Top Rated Cold Weather Hunting Boots Reviews:

Not all snow hunting boots are right for your feet. Some can even cause blisters that'll keep you from hunting for weeks!

To help you make a right choice, I've compiled a list of some of the best hunting boots for cold feet here for you. Then, in later section, I'll show you a bunch important factors you need to consider. But first...

1. Warmest Boots: LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro

LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18” 1600G Hunting Boot

Via Amazon.com

The insulation in this boot is a total joy and a luxury of comfort. You will get a thin layer and lightweight Thinsulate Ultra insulation of 1,600 grams, that prevents cold to -70 degrees F, which is amazingly incredible.

Toe and Heels

LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18” 1600G Hunting Boot - 3 layers

Via Amazon.com

The toe, heels, and instep of your feet are high-stress areas. To ease some of these stress, the LaCrosse Alphaburly features a three-layer rubber design in the toe and heel and two at the instep.

So no matter how hard you trek or runabout, you can be comfortable in this best rubber hunting boots.

Sole

LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18” 1600G Hunting Boot - sole

Via Amazon.com

In fact, this boot is made from the inside out to be perfect. I’m so into the LaCrosse Alphaburly removable EVA footbed hunting boots that I started recommending them for my friends.

They have remarkable comfort in the soles, even during extended treks or runs in the bush.

The unique tread sole helps you move through demanding terrain and is also designed with deep ridges to help you keep your balance. Muds and debris quickly fall off the sole thread.

What about the embossed liner feature?

embossed liner feature

Via Amazon.com

This feature is a pretty spot on. This will give you a good air circulation and ventilation in your boots during winter or rainy season when the air is very damp and also keep them warm and dry.

In fact, the LaCrosse Alphaburly is one of those best extreme cold weather hunting boots that you don’t know you need until you have it, and then you wonder how you ever lived without it.

neoprene gusset at the back

Via Amazon.com

As a knee-high boot, the manufacturer ensured that it’s fully equipped with neoprene gusset at the back.

How can this benefit you? It means it can accommodate any calf size and still provides enough room for you to tuck in your pants. Amazing, right?

Drawback

But, sadly the LaCrosse Alphaburly does not come with any lug in the heel or toe kick to help you get it off easily and as such you may find it a bit difficult to pull off.

Pros

  • 1,600g Thinsulate for better air circulation
  • Removable sole
  • Embossed liner
  • Waterproof
  • Insulating neoprene features a scent-free rubber
  • Allows you to tuck a thick pair of pant legs inside and strap down
  • Sturdy, rugged and way warmer

Cons

  • Hard to get on and off
  • Size runs small

2. Best for Medium Insulation: Rocky Men's Sport Utility Pro Hunting Boot

Rocky Men's Sport Utility Pro Hunting Boot

Via Amazon.com

We went hands-on with the Rocky Men's Sport Utility Pro Hunting Boot, and while it's a bit heavy, it does offer a flagship-level design and high-end features to help keep your feet warm and dry all day.

Chief among the new perks is the Leather and textile design to give you great warmth and utility during your hunting spree.

Below 0 Temp Rating

Yes, the boot is below-zero wind-chill, and the ultra-warm 1000g is readily in place to keep your toes warm without being too bulky or heavy.

Waterproof and Quick Drying

In case you're wondering if this is a waterproof boot. Yes, it is. You will shove through snow, rain and still have your feet dry and warm, chiefly protected from the elements.

When it comes to high performing moisture-resistant and quick-drying design, the Rocky Men's Sport got your back.

If you wear it with a pair of any redhead wool socks designed by Bass Pro, your toes will be toasty even in an icy environment.

Slipping on any terrain

Slipping on any terrain

Via Amazon.com

One thing I look for in a boot is a very aggressive sole. I think the Rocky Men's Pro Hunting Boot crossed the pass mark.

I will give it 7 out of 10 on the sole, which is not bad. The outsole is well designed for traction and based on our findings; it will certainly keep your feet from slipping on any terrain.

Comfortability does matter on a hunting boot, and the Rocky Men's Sports Utility Pro Hunting Boot proves it.

This is the type of hunting boot that will make you walk in any terrain with ease and great comfort--thanks to the combo of the cushioning and the rubber insole that make this a reality.

Comfortable Lacing System

Comfortable Lacing System

Via Amazon.com

The Speed lacing system is also another included feature that adds to the comfort of the hunting boot. And the heel guard is also well present to let you walk freely on all kinds of terrain.

No sweat Boots

No sweat boots

Via Amazon.com

Unlike other hunting boots that have one boot bigger than the other, our research shows that the Rocky Men's Sport does come with the perfect size just for your feet.

And the most surprising thing is that your feet will not sweat in these boots while offering a long-lasting use.

At first, we did notice a bit of discomfort and tightness around the calves.

But due to the included Mossy Oak Break-Up camo, the stiffness loosened up after 3 times of use in the wood.

Downsides

Don't let the advertised "26 ounces lightweight" design tag by the company fool you.

Yes, the Rocky Men's is noticeably more lightweight than most of its competitors, but our findings show that it actually weighed 49 ounces.

Of course, this weight is way too much for seniors that are above 65 years of age.

Also, even if it was advertised as waterproof, we can't vouch for how long the waterproofing feature will last.

We don't know if waterproofing ability is going to last for years. But for now, they have kept our feet dry and nice.

We also noticed that the laces fray a little after few uses, and the hooks also cut through the laces. You might want to have the laces replaced if it does cause a little bit of discomfort.

Pros

  • Lots of ankle support
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Perfect for late season
  • Soles have great grip
  • 100% waterproof

Cons

  • A bit heavy
  • Not durable
  • Poorly designed lace system

3. Most Budget-friendly option: Guide Gear Giant Timber II

Guide Gear Giant Timber II Men's 1,400 Gram Insulated Waterproof Hunting Boots, Mossy Oak

Via Amazon.com

One unique feature that sets the Guide Gear from other hunting boots on this list is the included ScentMask that helps to control scent, so you don't get spotted out by a prey.

1,400 g Thinsulate

1,400 Gram Insulated

Via Amazon.com

Unlike the Rocky Men's Sports Utility Pro Hunting Boot that has 1000g Thinsulate, the Gear Giant sports a 1,400-gram Thinsulate Ultra Insulation to help you stay warm and dry all day.

Waterproof

With a Leather and Nylon material, alongside the waterproof HydroGuard breathable membrane, you are sure to stomp through ponds and puddles without water getting into your feet.

Temp Rating: - 58 F

Temp Rating

Via Amazon.com

Testing them outside in 16° weather shows they are pretty warm and fits comfortably, without rubbing blisters on your feet or causing fatigue.

Breathable Boots

I also like the fact the included, mesh-lined EVA insole is skillfully designed to add cushion and bounce on the boot.

Another thing that deserves massive praise is the fact that it also offers a wicking mesh lining for breathability and coolness.

The heel cap and rubber toes are also present for extended wear and the collar and added tongue would save your chin and calves from abuse.

Pros

  • 1,400 Gram Insulated
  • Temp: -58°F
  • ScentMask helps control human scent
  • Not too heavy (36 ozs)

Cons

  • Not durable

4. Good for light insulation: Irish Setter Men's Vaprtrek

Irish Setter Men's Vaprtrek Hunting Shoe

Via Amazon.com

If you haven’t heard of the Irish Setter Men's Vaprtrek before, you need to check it out.

The Irish Setter boots were able to make it to our list due to its tree camouflage qualities, which makes it an excellent choice for hunters.

To keep the boots light, Irish setter offers a lightweight 800 gr insulation, which is not too heavy for walking along thick paths.

Thanks to its RPM composite technology that offers an added durability; you can now move about freely without carrying extra weights on your legs.

Comfortable

When it comes to comfort, this boot is king. The cushion tongue technology is incredibly brilliant and provides a smooth, and soft surface for your shin.

It prevents the joint shin pain common to most boots wearer after having a long day with your shin trapped in a boot.

Stable

For more excellent stability, the setter boots utilize the StableStep technology. This involves the use of integrated heel cups which wraps up around your heel for additional support in the field.

The UltraDry feature is a bomb. It combines the waterproof boots system with a moisture management lining to keep your feet dry at all times.

Scent Free

As if that is not enough, Irish also moved a step further to host a ScentBan feature, which is added to various materials, footbed and inner lining of the boots to kill bacteria responsible for foot odors.

Pros

  • 800g insulation
  • 7-inch Shaft Height
  • ScentBan Technology
  • RPM Technology
  • Rubber Outsole
  • UltraDry Waterproofing
  • Thin and light
  • Suitable for walking

Cons

  • Plastic nock-lace clips
  • Size runs narrow

5. Best for heavy insulation: Danner Men's Pronghorn

Danner Men's Pronghorn 8" Realtree Edge 1200G

Via Amazon.com

Danner makes many products for hunting and cold weather - but they truly made it big with the Pronghorn shoes.

They offer fantastic quality for a reasonable price, and they look pretty good, too!

Okay, let’s get into the details.

Exquisite Materials

GORE-TEX

Via danner.com

The most important thing about any pair of boots for hunting would be the materials.

That is why we were pleased to see that the choice of materials for Danner’s Pronghorn was thought out with care.

First of all, the boots are waterproof - so they are ideal for walking in snow or during a rainstorm because your feet will stay completely dry.

The upper layers are nylon and full-grain leather to ensure that the boots are dry and, more importantly, durable.

The lining is GORE-TEX, so not only it repels water, but it lets your skin breathe, as well.

1200 Insulation

1200 insulation

Via danner.com

PrimaLoft 1200g insulation is worth the mention here because, at below-zero temperatures, you will need a way to stay warm.

We loved this insulation because it works great at keeping hunters - and their feet - from freezing.

Maximum Comfort

Being on your feet for hours never felt more manageable, thanks to the cushioned polyurethane footbed.

The footbed adjusts to your feet, meaning the boots will only become more comfortable over time.

Innovative Platform

sole

Via danner.com

The platform is newly designed to give you optimal performance. The idea was to create boots that aren’t too heavy - without compromising stability.

What we liked is how lightweight these boots are while ensuring a steady and stable feel.

And we have the Vibram Pronghorn sole to thank for that - it offers terrific traction, even on rugged terrain.

The Downside

The only flaw we could pinpoint when it comes to these boots is the sizing.

They tend to run small, so be careful when choosing the shoes online.

Pros

  • Cushioned footbed
  • Good traction on rugged terrain
  • Lightweight
  • PrimaLoft insulation works amazingly
  • GORE-TEX lining
  • Leather and nylon upper layers

Cons

  • The sizing runs small
Best Hunting Boots For Cold Weather

How to Choose the Best Hunting Boots for Cold Weather:

If you’re in need of the good winter hunting boots that will keep your feet warm during winter and in the late fall, don't be in a hurry by choosing the ones that come with an attractive design.

To help you make the right choice, we have outlined some unique features to look out for so you can choose the best hunting boots for cold weather.

Beside that, I’ll show you some more advanced tricks below to keep your feet warm. So keep reading:

What is your Hunting Activity?

What is your hunting Activity?

Walking

Are you going to be walking all through your hunt? If yes, then expect to get a lot of sweat and wet feet due to dew, and also when traversing over wet grass during the winter season.

To get rid of this, ensure you pick the best hunting boots which have a thinsulate of 800 grams and around to wicking off moisture and keep your feet dry all day.

Also, ensure the boots are lightweight, so it won't tire your feet while hunting in mud or snow areas. Leather boots will be a great choice as they are breathable.

Stand Hunting or Ice Fishing

If you plan to hunt from a tree stand, you should choose thick insulation boots which have above 1,000 thinsulate.

They even don’t need a breathable feature. Although they’re a thick, big and bucky, but they can protect your feet from cold.

Water-Resistant

Water-Resistant

I guess you were expecting this coming. Yes, you should, because waterproofing keeps your feet dry and warm, especially when you're stand hunting or ice fishing. So, ensure that the hunting boot comes with a waterproof feature before taking the plunge to buy them.

Pros tip:

Keep an eye out for models that come with removable insulation, which make them suitable for all year round hunting.

Durable Materials

rubber outsoles

I’ll be pretty straightforward about this; go for boots that are made of rubber outsoles such as fleece or neoprene.

Why is this important?

It’s because during our research we discovered that hunting boots with rubber outsoles offer more durability, more grip and will last you for a pretty long time. They are quiet and do not produce any sound when stalking your game.

That said, boots with leather materials tend to do a great job too, but the problem with them is that they are quite heavy.

So, I recommend you go for the ones on the market that offer these types of materials and still deliver a lightweight design which can endure the low temperatures in the most undesirable terrain.

Comfortable

Comfort and Ease

Ah, yes, comfort and ease are a crucial feature to keep an eye on when shopping for hunting boots for cold weather.

The boots should be equipped with different features to fight cold and give you great comfort.

They should have padded collars and tongues, lace-ups, zippers, insoles, and a host of other qualities to heighten the comfort and ease levels.

Size

half size larger recommended

When it comes to choosing the right fit, go for a size that is a half size larger and 2E width than your exact size since you will be using thicker socks during this cold season.

Picking boots with your exact size will seem too tight due to the socks you are going to put on. Consequently, this may impede circulation, and make your feet get cold quickly.

So, get them large enough to use heavy socks on them and still have wiggle room for your toes.


Pro Tips to Keep Feet Warm Hunting:

Here are some tips to give your feet the best comfort during winter and late falls.

1. Spray Unscented Antiperspirant / Deodorant

Speed Stick Power Antiperspirant Deodorant, Unscented - 3 ounce ( Pack Of 6 )

If you have a sweaty foot like me, then you want to spray unscented antiperspirant to wick off smell and moisture off your feet. This has worked wonders for me when skiing and deer hunting. All you have to do is to spray on your feet and then put on socks.

2. Use Merino Wool Sock Layer

3 Pairs Thermal 80% Merino Wool Socks Thermal Hiking Crew Winter Men’s Women’s Kid's

Speaking of socks, use Merino wool sock layer. It does a pretty great job to ensure your feet are dry and comfortable. Stay away from cotton socks as they do a terrible job to wick off moisture.

3. Use Boot Blankets

IceBreaker Boot Blanket Large Mossy Oak Breakup

We also recommend you use boot covers as they help in keeping your feet perfectly warm and dry.

Always slip them on and put a hand warmer between that and the boot. It can give you perfectly warm.

4. Use Heated Socks

Electric Heated Socks for Chronically Cold Feet

Heated socks just like the Merino wool keep your feet piping warm all day.

5. Use Toe Warmers

HotHands Toe Warmers - Long Lasting Safe Natural Odorless Air Activated Warmers - Up to 8 Hours of Heat - 40 Pair

Toe warmers can provide your toe with gentle heat for straight 6 hours. They are a great product you can try out as well.

6. Use a Boot Dryer

 DryGuy DX Forced Air Boot Dryer and Garment Dryer

Personally, my boots go on a dryer every night, especially when the weather gets cold. This indeed has been a serious breath of fresh air by improving the comfort of my hunting boots.


The Bottom Line:

When it comes to best hunting boots for cold weather, you cannot afford to compromise quality over price.

Cold, wet or sore feet can easily ruin a good hunting season. But with the right hunting boots, you can hunt with confidence.

You can go with any of the above hunting boots without fear, they all come with impressive features that you'd be satisfied with.

The LaCrosse Alphaburly is my top pick for you if you've not made a choice already.

The LaCrosse Alphaburly, with a thin layer and lightweight Thinsulate Ultra insulation of 1,600 grams, prevents cold to -70 degrees F, with the perfect solution for cold feet.

Editor's choice:

LaCrosse Men’s Alphaburly Pro 18”-1600G Hunting Boot - 2

Via Amazon.com

In addition to the above, the LaCrosse Alphaburly also offers other impressive features like:

  • A three-layer rubber design in the toe and heel and two at the instep to ease stress and discomfort
  • The unique tread sole to help you move through demanding terrain
  • Designed with deep ridges to help you keep your balance in rugged terrain
  • Built so that Muds, snows, and debris to quickly fall off the sole thread
  • A knee-high boot, that's fully equipped with neoprene gusset at the back to accommodate any calf size
  • Provides enough room for you to tuck in your trousers
  • Removable sole
  • Waterproof design
  • A scent-free rubber design
  • Allows you to tuck a thick pair of pant legs inside and strap down
  • Sturdy, rugged design that is warmer

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About the Author

Hi, I'm Robert Gate, a hunter from Texas and Founder of ArcheryTopic.

I first learned archery from my dad when I was 12 years old. He gave me a Mathew bow as a gift and instantly fell in love with the pursuit.

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