Last Updated On: September 28, 2023

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In this guide I'll show you a list of best elk hunting boots that let you concentrate on your hunt, without worrying about hot spots, brutally cold feet, foot cramps, blisters.

You'll know some tips helping you to choose top rated hunting boots. So keep reading:

Best Elk Hunting Boots:

Best Elk Hunting Boots Reviews:

1. Danner Men's Pronghorn GTX 8" Boot:

Danner Men’s Pronghorn 8” Uninsulated Hunting Boot

Via Amazon.com

The first on our list is the Danner Pronghorns hunting boot featuring a superior camo hide leather material and a rubber sole with excellent traction while hunting.

The best part?

It is light elk hunting boots compared to other leather boots you can wear comfortably during mid-seasons.

The Danner Elk hunting boot is skillfully designed to give you great flexibility, fast speed as well as a comfortable fit.

Leather Material

These boots were made from 100% leather and Cordura. So you can use them for a long time and save some money.

Waterproof

This best elk hunting boots also offer a breathable Gore TeX lining to protect your feet from the water.

Solid out sole

solid outsole - anner Men's Pronghorn 8" Gore-Tex Hunting Boot

Via Amazon.com

The rock gripping outsole gives you an efficient hunting experience.

Lightweight

New Teraforce technology does not only provide super lightweight boots but stable platform. You can use them comfortably for the whole day hunting elk.

Easy lacing

easy lacing - Danner Men's Pronghorn 8" Gore-Tex Hunting Boot

Via Amazon.com

For a secure fit, the Danner Pronghorns has a FieldLock and Load Lacing across the forefoot while the locking speed hooks allow for easy and fast lacing.

Open air circulation

The Uninsulated hunting boot also took a step further by featuring a Polyurethane Ortholite Foot bed coupled with Open Cell construction for air circulation.

You can wear it in warmer situation.

Angle support

Ankle support - Danner Men’s Pronghorn 8”:

Via Amazon.com

While the hunting boots offers enough cushioning by featuring an EVA midsole for more comfort, the angle support with its aggressive tread, provides excellent grip.

Overall, the Danner Pronghorns comes with a waterproof, warm, lightweight and comfortable hunting boots for elk hunting.

Pros:

  • 100% Leather, Cordura
  • Breathable
  • Waterproof
  • Lightweight
  • Great ankle support
  • Solid platform

Cons:

  • Quite narrow and less flexible
  • Waterproofing didn't last long
  • Expensive

2. Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots:

Salomon Quest 4D 3 GORE-TEX Men's Backpacking Boots

Via Amazon.com

Whether you’re in for a regular day-hike or need footwear to embark on an elk hunting adventure, these will cater to your needs.

Let’s see what precisely they offer.

Leather Design

his pair of boots is made of a premium combination of high-quality leather and synthetic that withstands hours and hours of walking.

And believe me, I have given them a good and thorough test!

Rubber sole

Paired with a durable rubber sole, you get a heavy-duty companion for any path on your way.

The quality that this rubber exhibited amazed me.

It stretches just enough to enable a smooth heel-to-toe transitioning, but it is not too stretchy.

Waterproof

GORE-Tex - waterproof

Via Amazon.com

Gore-tex technology means that these are waterproof and that your feet will stay dry even when you’re deep in dried mud.

Not only that - they got a high grade in the appearance department. There are three variants (black, olive, green sulfur), enhanced with a bungee rope on top.

Each color looks stylish, and you can adjust the boot according to your foot fully.

Lightweight

They don’t just look great, but this combination of materials is very breathable and lightweight (640 g).

In that way, you do not have to compromise in performance or durability, but you get the best of both worlds.

Less tired walking

advanced chasis - less tired

Via Amazon.com

It provides enhanced flexibility and smoother transition from one part of your foot to the other. So you’ll be less tired and ready for long hauling an elk.

The manufacturers have nicknamed this careful construction 4D Chassis, and I praise it.

Great traction

great traction

Via Amazon.com

The Contagrip improved outsole provides excellent traction and grip on all surfaces, which makes it an excellent choice for a strenuous hike.

Reduce fatigue

Reduced fatigue is also achieved by the Ortholite sock liner this boot possesses, which elevates your comfort to the maximum.

If I was asked to describe the Ortholite insoles technology, I’d say walking on clouds. And that’s how they feel.

Easy tightening

Easy tightening

Via Amazon.com

The locking hardware allows you to tighten both the upper and lower parts separately.

They ensure maximum safety and prevent toe injuries when downhill.

Furthermore, SensiFit™ technology provides ankle support.

But Pricey

Ye, it’s pricey but worth every penny. You can use them for a couple of years before replacing.

Pros:

  • Contagrip outsole for a solid grip on all surfaces
  • Suitable for a long trip due to 4D Chassis
  • Great cushioning with Ortholite
  • Good locking hardware
  • Ankle support
  • Wholly waterproof & water repellent
  • Lightweight

Cons:

  • Laces have a tendency to come loose
  • High price

3. Irish Setter Men's 838 Wingshooter WP Upland Hunting Boot:

Irish Setter Men's 838 Wingshooter WP Upland Hunting Boot

Via Amazon.com

Durable Leather

long lasting boots

Via irishsetterboots.com

Its 100% leather construction makes it durable, and you’ll obtain a pair of long-lasting, high-grade boots.

They are available in amber and red variants, which both, I must admit, look brown in the sunlight. Nevertheless, they are quite beautiful!

If you’re interested in the shaft height, it’s 7’’, and the opening measures approximately 14’’.

All of this fits you?

Then do not hesitate - Wingshooter boots are an excellent choice!

Long-lasting boots

long lasting Irish Setter boots

Via Amazon.com

The footbed of these boots is made of removable polyurethane and lined with moisture-wicking nylon.

All this translates to longevity and reliability.

However, these heavy-duty materials imply that this boot is a bit heavier than your standard elk hunting boot.

Despite that, I believe that you’ll enjoy wearing them due to the ergonomic and smart construction that manufacturers carefully utilized.

Comfortable

The iconic white prairie sole adds to the sleek design of these shoes, but also reduces fatigue and supports your foot.

On a difficult hunting trail, you want to have a pair of boots to assist you. And I can certify that these are the ones!

Ankle support

ankle support

Via Amazon.com

The boot is enhanced with the steel shank that supports your ankle and enables easy walking in high terrain.

When you add to it the EVA midsole part that reduces the pressure on your foot and provides high-quality cushioning, you get an incredibly comfortable product.

Secure fit

speed lacing

Via Amazon.com

The speed lacing system for a secure fit, along with the pull tab at the back, allows you to quickly put and take them off.

These are not a complete must-have but are surely a nice touch, and I applaud manufacturers for them!

Prevent debris

Prevent debris

Via Amazon.com

The prairie outsole is also structured in such a way that it prevents any debris from getting stuck.

I didn’t have to remove any dirt and dried mud, albeit I tested them in the most extreme and muddy conditions.

UltraDry Waterproof

ultradry tech

Via Amazon.com

Last but not least, the UltraDry™ waterproof technology ensures that your elk-hunting experience is moisture-free.

Not only that, but it passed all of my tests with flying colors!

They were tested out in the snow, slush, and heavy rain, and there wasn’t a single drop that got into the shoe!

Pros:

  • Durable, leather construction
  • Secure fit of the laces
  • A handy pull tab at the back
  • Budget-friendly
  • Prairie outsole that reduces foot fatigue
  • UltraDry system
  • Excellent support for walking in high terrain
  • Comfortable

Cons:

  • Quite heavy
  • Doesn’t breath well compared to other brands

4. Kenetrek Men's Mountain Extreme 400 - Best Hunting Hiking Boots:

Kenetrek Men's Mountain Extreme 400 Insulated Hunting Boot

Choose this model if you… need a sturdy pair of boots for the most rugged terrain and harsh weather.

This is undoubtedly a shoe designed to endure the most extreme conditions on a hunter’s way.

And while it promises a lot, it also wears an accompanying, quite lavish, price tag.

If you and your lifestyle necessitate such a durable shoe, though - I guarantee you this is the best pair in which you can invest as of now.

Full-grain leather

The boot is made of thick full-grain leather with one-piece vamp construction and reinforced with double and triple stitching. In other words, it is indestructible.

I’ve taken it to various parks and mountains, rich with different landscapes and weather conditions, and it has remained as good as new.

Super lightweight

With a description like this, you would expect it to be extremely heavy and tiring to wear, too.

But you’re in for a surprise - the heavy-duty construction does not come at the expense of comfort.

In fact, these high-quality materials are also breathable, and the smart reasoning behind their creation results in a lightweight yet most durable shoe.

Easy climbing high terrain

Kenetrek - k talon outsole

Via kenetrek.com

When you own a pair of Kentrek's Mountain Extreme Boots, you will get a feeling that you can climb even the highest unclimbed mountains.

The high-traction K-Talon outsoles are mostly responsible for this, and here’s why.

Their open-thread pattern enables a heavy step on any sort of terrain without a fear that you’ll slip or that something will get stuck.

Waterproof

Mountain Extreme 400 - waterproof

Via kenetrek.com

The cherry on top of the construction is the waterproof Windtex flexible membrane that keeps your feet dry, along with 400 grams of Thinsulate insulation.

Ankle Support

All these standout features mean not only that this shoe is an excellent pick for hiking, trekking, and elk hunting, but also that it provides excellent support for your ankle.

Namely, there is a stiff nylon midsole that creates a perfect balance between the soft and comfortable cushioning, reliability and ankle protection.

Pros:

  • Excellent traction due to K-Talon outsoles
  • Tough and durable leather
  • Specially designed for elk hunters
  • Triple stitching on the rubber sole
  • Thinsulate technology keeps your feet warm and dry
  • Water-repellent Windtex membrane
  • Unyielding support for your ankles
  • Lightweight

Cons:

  • The hunting boot requires some break in period to adjust perfectly to your feet
  • Quite Pricey

5. Lowa Men's Tibet GTX Trekking Boot:

Lowa Men's Tibet GTX Trekking Boot

Via Amazon.com

If you are looking for a lightweight, waterproof and a backpacking hunting boot with a sturdy and durable design that can go through uneven terrain, then the Famous Lowa Tibet Pro comes to mind.

Ankle support

This boot provides a lot of ankle support, which is perfect if you do more of side hilling with packs in rough terrain like badlands.

The build quality of this German-made boots are outstanding and skillfully made to last longer.

After some few days break in, the boot will perfectly take the form of your feet by giving you a great fit.

Once this happens, the flex-fit hinge point bends your boot while the outside remains intact.

Sole and leather

The Large-lug Vibram soles are specially made to give you the needed grip to withstand treacherous and uneven regions.

The Nubuck and high-quality full-grain leather have a rubber section built that repel water from entering the boot.

Did I forget to mention that the perforated air channels prevent heat from your feet?

Thanks to the fact that the boot provides enough room inside for beefy socks and liners.

Simple lacing

The Lowa’s lacing system is a talking point; with a center post on the tongue, you can quickly lock the lace in its place.

Pros:

  • Solid sole with sufficient grip that won't gunk up or wear out.
  • Perfect for rocky and sharp terrain, giving you a firm foundation for packing a lot of loads
  • Extra space inside prevents your toe from hitting the boots
  • Offers great traction with an outstanding Locking system
  • Speed-lacing and D-ring eyelet hardware deliver a comfortable fit
  • It’s 100% waterproof

Cons:

  • The boot is quite heavy
  • Quite expensive
Best Elk Hunting Boots Ultimate guide

How to Choose the Best Boots for Elk Hunting:

But before we delve into the list of best rated elk hunting boots, here are a few tips you should keep in mind.

Perfect Fit

Make Sure the Boot Comes With A Perfect Fit.

The first thing you want to consider before choosing a hunting boot is to find out if the boot will fit you perfectly.

Boots with incorrect fit will cause blisters, hot spots, pains and eventually make you uncomfortable.

With such conditions, you won't be able to reap the benefits of the boot. That is why we recommend you always try them with socks to know which one perfectly fits you.

Based on experience, the one that perfectly goes with your socks is what you should consider.

Broken in Before The Trip

Broken in Before The Trip

Different models of boots require different time to break-in. Some brands may require using it straight right from the box while others may take weeks to break in.

If you don’t want to ruin your hunt, then don’t go for boots that take a long period of time to break-in.

Why is this important ?

The reason is to prevent unintended effects during hunting trips, such as hotspot, blisters and cramps.

It took my foot almost a year to get healed up because of the wrong elk hunting boots. I have learned my mistakes, and I wouldn't want you to do the same.

Lightweight

Is Your Hunting Boot Lightweight ?

Nylon materials are known to be very lightweight when it comes to hunting boots.

Not only are they lightweight, but can also resist and withstand extreme abuse and rough terrain.

Another good thing about boots that offer this kind of materials is that they come with great comfort and breathability.

Elk hunters can work endless miles on them without any hindrance to mobility.

Budget

What is your Budget?

Give and take; price will always be an issue to consider. You want to go for a boot that falls within your budget and still offers unique and great material.

Waterproofed

Is Your Hunting Boot Waterproofed?

A waterproofed hunting boot is a must have during wet seasons. The simple reason is that they prevent water or moisture from entering directly into your boots no matter the season.

It is no more news that best elk hunting boots that come with rubber materials provide top of the line waterproof ability.

Apart from that, another perfect solution during wet seasons is to always put on gaiters during rainy days.

When you are hunting in a region where there is a lot of debris, snow and water, gaiters prevent moisture from entering the vulnerable parts of your boots.

Ankle/Arch Support

Ankle/Arch Support

Another important factor you want to consider while looking for an elk hunting boot is the type of terrain you want to carry out your hunting.

Hunting at 11k + in Colorado will demand much support and a sturdy boot than hunting at 7-8k Montana.

So it solely depends whether the terrain you hunt is going to be high or steep.

In such situation, a backpacking type of boot will be the right choice.

Season/ Weather

Consider Season/ Weather

You’d have to consider the weather condition you are going to carry out your hunting before buying an elk hunting boot.

Different weather conditions require a different kind of boots.

During my September archery hunt, I decided to use Salomon and Danner, which are both un-insulated hiking boot.

While the Danner boot needed to be given some time to get worn and broke in, the Salomon hiking boot can be used straight from the very day of purchase.

Of course, both boots were amazing, and the performance was stupendous.

However, during gun seasons, we recommend you go for hunting boots that offer some insulation.

That implies that you will have to give it some time to break-in before using the boot to prevent blisters on your feet as well as keeping it warm and dry.

Use Socks

socks

Most of the areas you are going to be walking will be wet and watery.

Moisture absorbing socks will always come in handy to wick away breathe and moisture off your feet.

It's get better if you take alongside 2 pairs of boot and more than 6 pairs of base or Merino Socks to keep your feet dry.


The Bottom Line:

As a hunter, the most important thing to do after getting yourself physically conditioned for hunting is the type of boots you are going to put on.

We have done all the hard work for you by reviewing the best elk hunting boots you can currently find on the market.

You want to read through them and see the one that suits your hunting needs.

Although all the products above were all amazing and outstanding in quality and built, our editor’s choice award still goes to Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots

The reason why this particular brand seems to get the cake is that the boot comes with everything any hunter would desire in a hunting boot.

Editor's choice:

editor choice

Via Amazon.com

What more can you expect from a classic hunting boot that beats other brands out of the water with its stellar performance?

Leave a comment below and let us know what’s your thought on this. We would love to hear from you.

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  1. Quick question for you if you don’t mind. I’m doing a hunting/backpacking trip this fall with some friends. Most likely it’s going to be pretty wet and we’re hiking 20 miles. Is there a particular type of boot you’d recommend? I appreciate the help!

  2. Thank you for your nice review, I was searching comfortable hunting boots. From some time hunting became my passion. But it’s getting a little hard to find nice hunting boots. Well from all reviews that I read yours is the best. It helped me to find really good boots. I hope I find some more nice reviews in your web.

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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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