How do you select the right pair of hunting boots when there are so many good options to choose from? It can be a daunting, time-consuming task for even the most experienced outdoorsman. One thing I’ve learned over four decades of hunting is that nothing will spoil a hunt quicker than a pair of boots that are ill-equipped for the environment you are hunting. While there may not always be a definitive answer, a few basic considerations will certainly guide you in the decision-making process of selecting a boot that’s best for you.
Terrain
The type of terrain you’ll be hunting should rank as one of the most important factors in determining your boot choice. A stiffer boot with a high number of eyelets or speed hooks will provide the extra ankle support required for traversing hillside terrain. A softer, flexible boot such as the Gokey Boyt Boot is generally a more comfortable option for ground with minimal elevation change.
Fit
The way a boot fits your foot is just as important as the type of terrain you will be hunting. Be sure to wear the type of sock typically worn during an upland hunt when trying on new boots. A light to mid-weight sock can greatly impact the way your boots fit. Make sure your boots fit snugly around your ankle, heel, and instep, but you should still be able to wiggle your toes. Try them on in the late afternoon when your feet are at their largest.
Weight
The weight of your boots will have a considerable impact on lower leg fatigue on an all-day hunt. A few ounces may not seem like a lot but it can make a big difference in how you feel at the end of the day. Look for the lightest weight options available without sacrificing other important features necessary to keep your feet happy. At approximately a pound a half each, The Gokey Super Light Upland Boots are some of the lightest, full leather boots on the market that offer superior support and traction for upland hunting environments.
Environment
The geography of your hunting locale is an important element that should be considered. A waterproof boot for environments with climates that generate a fair amount of precipitation and early morning dew is essential. A good quality leather that can be regularly conditioned to maintain water repellency is crucial unlike an arid climate environment such as a high desert region in the southwest that receives little moisture during the season.
Vegetation –
Consider the type of vegetation and critters associated with your typical hunting environment. If thorns, briars, snakes or anything else that can rip a pair of pants and puncture the skin is a common element on your hunting grounds you’ll want to consider a pair of boots such as the Botte Sauvage which come up higher on your legs to shield you from the things that can cause injury or damage to apparel.
Temperature
The seasonal temperatures you hunt in should play a factor in your selection. A non-insulated boot with a light to midweight, moisture-wicking sock is usually a good choice when hunting in temperatures above freezing. The physical exertion associated with a typical upland hunt generates plenty of body heat to keep our feet warm. An insulated boot should be considered when the mercury drops below freezing but can cause feet to perspire in moderate temperatures creating wet socks and cold feet.
Break In
Consider how comfortable the boots are and how much they need to be broken in. Flexible boots are usually comfortable right out of the box and don’t need much breaking in, this is a characteristic common with most Gokey hunting boots. Stiff boots can take a long time to break in, but they can be very comfortable once they do.
