Boot recommendation

[dgolden]

I'm looking at upgrading my boots for my Colorado and eventual Montana elk hunts.
I have worn Under Armour Hovr for 3 seasons and they are super comfortable, but did not do well in the snow. Mid way through last season I wore holes in the sides of them.

I'm looking at Kentrek and Crispi. Have about a $550 budget. Any advice?

 

[Redfox]

Both are really stiff outta the box and take a lot of miles to break. I absolutely hated my kenetreks. they had severe heel slip and it felt like I was standing on a golf ball in the arch of my feet. That being said, I know guys that love the fit and give great reviews. I think they are very equal in quality if they fit and you like a boot that's insanely stiff.

 

[dgolden]

Both are really stiff outta the box and take a lot of miles to break. I absolutely hated my kenetreks. they had severe heel slip and it felt like I was standing on a golf ball in the arch of my feet. That being said, I know guys that love the fit and give great reviews. I think they are very equal in quality if they fit and you like a boot that's insanely stiff.

Thanks! I really don't care for a stiff boot, but do need stiffer than what I've been wearing. Any other suggestions?

 

[Redfox]

Those things are like ski boots.
I prefer a soft boot myself so I went back to what I know, Danner. I only buy the American made ones tho. If I could get the Canadian in no insulation I wouldn't ever have to boot shop again. The miles I have booked wearing those, the old 10 inch elk hunters, and fort Lewis would be a scary number. But they aren't for everyone I guess.

 

[Polarkraft]

Lowa

 

[tree_ghost]

I love my kenetreks. They took me a few wears to get used to the arch in the sole but one I did I consider them one of my most valuable pieces of hunting gear. The quality of my hunts is directly effected by my ability to stay comfortable and alert I I can't do that if my feet are wet, cold, and hurting.

 

[Hduke86]

I went the Crispi route and yes they are stiff BUT they're are supposed to be stiff for the most part. A stiff boot sold helps carry your load easier and more stable on your feet. It helps from wearing the loving mess out of your calf muscles. I love a lightweight and flexible boot and I have a pair of Oboz Bridgers that are perfect for hunting but NOT for rugged heavy load mountain hunting.

 

[TNRifleman]

I would really try to try them all on if at all possible as boots are really an individual fit. Crispi, Kenetrek, Zamberlan, etc are great brands. I prefer the fit of Zamberlan but I also wear Salomon Quest GT XD4 boots which are super comfortable and great if its not too cold.

 

[Hduke86]

Another big thing about boots are the weight of them. I HATE a heavy boot that feels like a chore just to step over blowdowns and the likes.

 

[TNRifleman]

Also, with any quality boot, you need to plan on at least 15-20 miles of walking/hiking in them to break them in. They will generally all come somewhat stiff and need to be broken in to your foot.

 

[ThorThor]

Crispi Summit are my all around boot out west. Kenetrek 400g if it is cold, like never above 32 cold. When I am here being a lazy whitetail hunter sitting in a tree it is Mucks.

 

[Mattt]

I thought kennetreks took almost no break in and are almost too soft. Wore them out just replaced with a set of schnees which are on sale right now. They're stiffer for sure. Have a pair of lowas I like a lot for work. They're so stiff it's hard to drive in them. The schnees work for work also. That tells me a lot. I can wear them 10-12 hours with no fatigue.

 

[AT Hiker]

I thought kennetreks took almost no break in and are almost too soft. Wore them out just replaced with a set of schnees which are on sale right now. They're stiffer for sure. Have a pair of lowas I like a lot for work. They're so stiff it's hard to drive in them. The schnees work for work also. That tells me a lot. I can wear them 10-12 hours with no fatigue.

The 80mph speed limit in WY has saved me a few times. Driving in my Lowas makes my lead foot even heavier.

 

[Mattt]

The 80mph speed limit in WY has saved me a few times. Driving in my Lowas makes my lead foot even heavier.

Lol I was doing 85-90 going up 25 and got passed by a guy with a trailer full of cows. My grown child is the only reason I still live here. Love it there.