Elk hunting is the pinnacle of big game hunting. Elk provides the ultimate challenge in hunting, and a successful elk hunting expedition is more satisfying than anything else.
You see, elk inhabit high and big places that require you to be physically fit and ready; both physically and mentally to ace your prize. The big game inhabits beautiful terrain and needs you to be in your best physical form to endure the associated hardships.
You will need to be fit to hike up and down with your backpack, and that is no mean feat. You may have some good shooting skills, but that is not all you need.
As a hunter, the type of shoes that you wear can determine how successful you become, and uncomfortable shoes can leave you empty handed. You cannot concentrate on the game when you are feet are screaming. In that regard, you are going to need the best elk hunting boots to make you efficient, and most importantly, provide adequate safety for your feet when out there in the wild.
But which are these boots we are talking about? We provide a short review of some of the best hunting boots on the market.
Best Elk Hunting Boots (Reviews)
Irish Setter Men's 2870 Vaprtrek Waterproof 8" Hunting Boot
Comfort and functionality are two of the most critical factors in the best elk hunting boots. Without seeming to exaggerate, these are some of the best boots that you can acquire to make you a capable hunter.
The RPM insole wraps around the instep to provide optimal comfort as you move through the bush and different terrain. Talking of comfort, the collar contains adequate memory foam to cushion your heel and foot. The cushioning does not stop at the collar but extends to the tongue.
The speed lacing system is quite effective, and you don't spend so much time tying your shoes. It is also a source of a good fit. Remember that a good fit is essential if you need to be comfortable in a pair of hunting boots. You cannot concentrate if the shoes are not suitable.
The outsole is robust to protect your feet against tree branches and thorns. It is flexible and lightweight to support your movement from one place to the other.
The Armatech toe and heel provide additional protection against abrasion and other hard objects that you may encounter in the bush.
What we like
- Appealing elk hunting boots;
- Lightweight and comfortable;
- Sturdy outsole to provide foot protection;
- Flexible to support the efficient movement;
- It is quiet and will not compromise stealth;
- Waterproofing system to keep your feet dry.
What we don't like
- Some users in Irish setter hunting boots reviews say that they are not entirely waterproof.
Irish Setter Men's 860 Elk Tracker Waterproof 1000 Gram 12" Big Game Hunting Boot
Irish setter elk tracker 860 is the kind of elk hunting boot for hunters looking for a durable as well as a functional hunting boot. It may seem cumbersome, but the boot fits snugly, and it is not as heavy as you may think.
The standard design makes the boot one of the toughest to withstand the big game environment. It comes with full grain leather, mechanically stitched to the bottom of the boot. That means the chances of having broken seams are minimal.
The welt construction system keeps the boot stable and comfortable to use for a long time. As a result, the shoes contribute to your endurance while on the hunt. And unlike other types of boots on the market, this one has a steel shank at the bottom for added stability, making them the best mountain hunting boots.What we like
- Sturdy design to make it perfect for a variety of big game environments;
- Full-grain leather upper for comfort and durability;
- A stable welt construction system for comfort and durability;
- Removable footbed and odor protection features;
- GORE-TEX waterproof lining.
What we don't like
- The sizing may be a little off;
- May take time to break in.
Kamik Men's Hunter Boot
No doubt the design of this hunting boot may look a little off, but the numerous positive from customers say a lot regarding its quality. In short, it is comfortable, durable and flexible.
One of the highlight features regarding this hunter boot is its waterproofing. Many hunting boots on the market will claim to be waterproof, but that is never the case.
The synthetic material and synthetic sole make this boot flexible and lightweight. Some of the leather boots on the market are quite heavy and may not match the quality of this boot.
It has an opening of about 15.5," and that makes it easy to wear and remove. You don't waste time trying to untangle shoelaces that are stuck on some branch.
What we like
- Waterproof hunting boots;
- Lightweight design;
- Flexible and comfortable;
- A 15.5" wide opening for easy wear and removal.
What we don't like
- It may get too hot during hot weather;
- The boots may not be as comfortable as some of its competitors.
Salomon Men's Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking Boots
The boot has a blend of leather and synthetic to take advantage of the best of both worlds. For starters, the boot doesn't look too bad. It is an apple to the eye of everyone that comes across it. And there are benefits to this. For example, it is versatile, and you can use it for a variety of outdoor activities.
The upper material is breathable, and you do not get uncomfortable when the weather becomes unbearable. It has a rubber sole for flexibility and adequate foot protection, which is one feature that most Salomon quest 4d GTX review from users point out. No foreign object can penetrate the outsole to do some injury to your foot.What we like
- The boot is attractive and versatile to use for a variety of outdoors;
- It is lightweight and comfortable;
- Rubber outsole for flexibility and protection of your feet;
- A quick lacing system.
What we don't like
- The lacing system may not be the best for elk hunting;
- Limited waterproofing.
Under Armour UA Speed Freek Bozeman Boot - Men's
Under armour boots are not your average type of boots that you see people wearing to a variety of outdoor events or hiking. Typically, they are some of the best mountain hunting boots that you will come across. But what makes them the best?
The nylon suede material is not only durable but also comfortable. Big game hunting is mostly during summer when the sun is blazing hot. If your boots are uncomfortable, then successful hunting may be a pipe dream.
The hunting boots are flexible and lightweight. We might also add that this is a beautiful boot. And the associated benefit of having such a cute boot is that you can use it on a variety of outdoors. It comes with a lacing system to provide a comfortable snug fit.
What we like
- Flexible and lightweight hunting boot;
- Durable and comfortable upper material;
- An appealing and versatile boot;
- A warm and snug fit.
What we don't like
- The laces may start fraying;
- May take some time for some people to break in.
What to Look for in Elk Hunting Boots: A Buyer's guide
There are several things that you need to do before you can be ready for elk hunting. For example, you will need to be physically fit as you will be carrying a heavy backpack full of elk meat from the wild to your car. Therefore, if you are a beginner, you will need to prepare adequately.
Build some muscles and develop endurance and stamina to make you productive. Elk hunting is not an easy thing, as the professionals will tell you. Prepare!
Choosing the best elk hunting boots is also part of the preparation. You will still need other things such as the best hunting rifle and camouflage clothing. However, your footwear is the first level of protection against the harsh terrain and demanding activities.
But the 1 million dollar question is, how do you choose elk hunting boots? Which are the factors that will guide you to the best?
Sturdy Material
No doubt you are going to be in the wild and rough terrain, and your boots need to be sturdy enough to protect your feet. Some of the boots on the market are not sufficiently strong to keep foreign objects from reaching the feet. They are just for show.
It is critical that elk hunting boots have strong upper material. The most common material is of course leather. More specifically, full-grain leather is robust and can keep your feet safe as you track that big game.
The outsole should be hard as well as flexible. Being hard alone can affect your flexibility and overall hunting efficiency. In the majority of cases, the rubber is ideal.
Comfort
The elk hunting boots should be comfortable as well. Comfortable boots help you concentrate on the activity. As mentioned earlier, tracking elk through the mountains requires all the help that you can get in terms of equipment and clothing. Uncomfortable boots can make everything go haywire.
Comfort features in elk hunting boots include good cushioning and breathability. Sometimes, you may need to jump, and your feet will require adequate cushioning to prevent pain and discomfort. And as every big game hunter will tell you, patience and stealth are critical. They are skills that you may need to learn, but uncomfortable boots can do more harm than good.
Certain materials such as leather allow proper airflow into the feet for comfort and endurance. Of course, persistence in the hunting grounds will depend on how comfortable your feet are.
Weight
There's this misconception that lightweight footwear is not durable. Well, we can say that most of them may not be durable, but that does not mean all of them are not.
The best thing for a hunter is to be as comfortable as possible. That includes feet comfort.
Lightweight hunting boots make it easy for you to move from one place to the other. It will help you focus and be capable of using a little more stealth in your hunting. You cannot sneak up on big game as they have better senses and are more attentive.
Good Fit
‘Hurry hurry has no blessings’ is one of the most famous sayings that is applicable when choosing elk hunting boots. Take your time to examine the products on offer and determine the best fit.
Getting the wrong fit can create a host of problems such as hotspots, blisters, and wounds. Try the boot on with socks so that you can determine whether they are ideal for your feet.
In addition to having a good fit, make sure you break in the boots before the trip. It is natural for the boots to be tough on the feet initially. As a result, they can cause significant bruises and blisters if you are not careful.
Wear your new boots and walk with them for short distances around the neighborhood or just within your homestead.
Budget
The amount of money that you are willing to spend on a particular type of elk hunting boot is a critical determinant. If you are on a budget, there are several decent pairs on the market that you can acquire. However, don't get too low or you may get something that is not just worth the investment.
Always keep in mind that you will be out there in the wild and many perils are hiding out there in the bush. It is, therefore, a good idea to have a good quality boot to keep such dangers that may mostly come in the form of animals, and that may be looking to sink their fangs or teeth into your flesh.
As they say, it is always better to prevent than to cure. Get yourself good quality boots.
Final Note
The best elk hunting boots protect your feet from the various dangers that the wild may bring along. The footwear also enhances your stealth, and you become more effective in getting your prize. It is not always easy to find the best hunting boots on the market.
However, the above suggestions may be what you have been looking for to make you a better elk hunter.
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