What could be the best investment of any bowhunter’s life, a good pair of boots is often the key to a successful outing when the weather takes a nosedive or terrain conditions demand high performance. Whether it’s a pair of insulated waterproof rubber boots for sneaking in scent-free to the blind, rugged leather-bound boots for steep mountain inclines, or anything in-between, having the right footwear can make the difference between a successful all-day outing or a premature walk of shame back to the truck. And that means laying down the Benjamins — at least the Jacksons — for high-quality footwear tailor-made to stand up to the rigors of the hunt. More likely, it means owning several pairs for various types of hunts and conditions.
As an archery retailer, that’s music to your ears, because every hunter wants to put his or her best foot forward when fulfilling dreams of trophy bucks and bulls. The key here is variety. While your boot buying patrons might be looking for that singular boot that will serve all occasions, it’s up to you to convince them that it doesn’t exist — that two, or even three pairs of task specific boots are so much better than one that only marginally serves multiple functions. This, of course, means better hunting experiences for them and higher profits for you.
Just be sure that yours is a one-stop shop for all things footwear. And that not only means a wide assortment of boots, but also those accouterments such as socks, laces, boot waxes and oils, etc. that should accompany every boot sale. If you’re in the boot business, it’s important to have a wide array of models on hand for all types of bowhunting scenarios, and that you and your staff have the knowledge to help your customers make wise, educated choices — to help them navigate the various models and price points to find those boots that fit their specific needs. Here are eight models that are sure to get a boot buyer’s attention.
Dryshod Evalusion Camo/Bark Hunting Boot
Dryshod’s Evalusion Waterproof Camo/Bark Hunting Boot features Dryshod-exclusive Dureva outsole technology — a lightweight and abrasion-resistant fusion compound that delivers superior durability and traction while offering exceptional comfort, energy return and stable footing. This means a secondary rubber outsole is no longer required. And by eliminating the need for a secondary outsole, Evalusion boots are nearly 1 pound lighter than Dryshod’s already lightweight counterparts. In addition to the weight reduction, the Dureva compound maximizes traction performance with its multi-lug tread design — offering optimal stealth by quietly flexing and bending. This is of great value to hunters, of course, but also to anyone else tackling difficult terrain where superior traction is essential. MSRP: $189.95. dryshodusa.com
Irish Setter Vaprtrek Insulated Boot
The 8-inch VaprTrek Waterproof Leather Insulated Boot from Irish Setter helps hunters stay agile and mobile the entire season with its lightweight, comfortable performance. And the Mossy Oak Camo pattern makes it easy for them to blend into their natural surroundings. UltraDry waterproofing with an exclusive Irish Setter lining keeps feet dry all day, and PrimaLoft insulation adds 800 grams of protection against the cold. A stretch collar reduces break-in bite on the calf, and a padded ankle pod increases stability. ArmaTec material at the heel resists abrasion, and the high rebound sugarcane EVA midsole is light and sustainable. Underneath, the rubber Hex Lite outsole offers superior traction in the elements with multi-directional lugs. MSRP: $229.99. irishsetterboots.com
LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro Boot
The Alphaburly Pro is LaCrosse’s premium hunting boot. Combining high-quality, scent-free rubber with naturally insulating neoprene, it is built with hand-laid premium, natural rubber over insulating neoprene for durability, flexibility and complete waterproof protection, it features a thick cushioning EVA midsole for added comfort, an embossed liner for better air circulation and an adjustable rear gusset for the perfect fit. A durable, neoprene gusset accommodates different calf sizes and makes it easy to slide the boot on and off. A unique tread pattern gives users the traction to move through demanding terrain while chamfered edges keep them fast on their feet by shedding the mud and muck. MSRP: $210. lacrossefootwear.com
Meindl BOA Speed Hunter Boot
The Meindl Comfort Fit BOA Speed Hunting Boot is crafted from premium nubuck leather and lined with Gore-Tex, delivering long-lasting durability and 100 percent waterproof protection. Designed on Meindl’s Comfort Fit last, the Speed Hunter provides a roomier toe box while maintaining a secure heel fit, making it an excellent choice for wider feet. The Comfort Fit cork footbed enhances stability and conforms to the foot. Equipped with the BOA Fit System, this hunting boot allows for quick, precise adjustments with the turn of a dial, ensuring a custom, locked-in fit that’s easy to tighten or release, even with gloves on. For traction across rugged terrain, the Meindl Multigrip 3 Alpin Light Sole by Vibram delivers a firm grip. MSRP: $410. meindlusa.com
Muck Alpha Pursuit Ankle Boot
Wrapped in Realtree APX camo, the Muck Alpha Pursuit Ankle Boot is built for high endurance pursuits and all terrain adventures. It is 100 percent waterproof and 100 percent Muck Proof, the lace up construction providing a tailored fit while the Muckskin overlays gives additional protection without adding unnecessary weight. Rubber heel reinforcement ensures protection and durability, and a notched heel collar eliminates Achilles fatigue. The Alpha Pursuit midsole is made from BioLite, a top-level, lightweight foam, and an aggressive rubber outsole means better traction and debris dispersion. It is equipped with a molded PU insert with Memory Foam for superior underfoot comfort and bioDEWIX Dry footbed insert top cover with NZYM for odor control and moisture management. MSRP: $190. muckbootcompany.com
Muddy MTX 17-inch Non-insulated Boot
The success of any hunt always comes down to the details. Preparation, timing, mental fortitude and, of course, the gear. Muddy’s all-new MTX Series Neoprene Rubber Boots deliver 100 percent waterproof, warmth-retaining protection to power whitetail hunters of all ages and experience levels through cold, wind, rain, snow and more, so they can stay out longer and hunt their hardest, regardless of the conditions. Durable and flexible, their combination 5mm neoprene and hand-crafted vulcanized rubber construction resists aging, naturally traps and retains body heat and controls odor. And, when things heat up, their 17-inch calf pipes roll down for added ventilation. Shock-absorbing rubber footbeds with supportive 4-inch steel shanks keep feet fatigue-free all day, and all-terrain rubber outsoles provide 4x4 traction. MSRP: $89.99. gomuddy.com
Original Footwear Altama Apex SBM Boot
Featuring climate comfort with built in multiple layers of protection by Gore-Tex, Altama partnered with Michelin, the unrivalled expert in rubber and tread design, to equip its Apex SBM Boot with highly advanced outsoles. The Gore-Tex Extended Comfort System fully lines the boot in highly breathable, ultra thin, complete waterproof protection, while the brand new material, Thermium, preserves heat in colder environments and releases heat and sweat in warmer environments. It is equipped with flesh out perforated cowhide leather and a textile upper for durability and breathability and an integrated textile loop lacing system. Other key features include a gusseted tongue that keeps dirt and debris out, padded collar, triple-bonded nylon thread and an airport friendly nylon shank heel. MSRP: $279.95. originalfootwear.com
Rocky Sport Pro Rubber Boot
The Rocky Sport Pro Waterproof Rubber Boot in Realtree Edge camo is a great addition to a tradition of top-notch hunting boots. Built with features such as an aggressive multi-directional dual-density outsole, vulcanized rubber foot with added protection over key wear areas and a 5mm neoprene shaft, it’s easy to see why they are a great solution for scent-free bowhunting. Add to this a removable, contoured open cell PU foam footbed, an expansion fit calf and a side zipper for easy on and easy off, and bowhunters have never had it so good. The Rocky Sport Pro is also equipped with a stretch neoprene gusset with an adjustable locking strap for universal comfort and calf fit. MSRP: $164.99. rockyboots.com
Viktos Range Trainer XD Waterproof Boot
Designed for rugged durability and performance, the Viktos Range Trainer XD 6-inch Waterproof Boot is equipped with a waterproof, breathable micropore liner for all-weather comfort, a robust 1060D nylon water-resistant upper with StormStrike DWR finish coupled with leather heel and toe overlays for enhanced durability. A waterproof and breathable micropore liner ensures all-weather comfort, while the enhanced outsole provides exceptional traction and dynamic comfort in challenging terrain. The hi-rebound EVA foam midsole offers continuous support with a 10mm heel to toe drop for a natural stance. The boot features a 10mm heel to toe drop and weighs 2.07 pounds and comes with a one-year workmanship and material warranty. MSRP: $160. viktos.com
Zamberlan Adak 6 GTX RR Lightweight Boot
For Western hunters needing stealth, support and high performance in the field, the Adak 6 GTX RR from Zamberlan delivers, in a lightweight, full-protection boot. For fast pursuits and varied terrain and conditions, the shorter Adak 6 GTX offers unmatched traction and protection in a lightweight, waterproof-breathable design. Its 6-inch tall build uses a reinforced, synthetic Jacquard fabric that sheds weight, improves breathability and doesn’t compromise on durability — at only 1.67 pounds per boot. To reduce joint impact over long days, the exclusive Vibram 3D Outsole is paired with a PU heel insert that passes through the insole to increase shock absorption. With greater freedom of movement and a full-coverage rubber rand, the Adak 6 offers versatility to handle the toughest terrain. MSRP: $450. zamberlanusa.com
