

The Meindl Vakuum Hunter boots are the most comfortable boots out of the box that I’ve ever tried on. The Air-Active insoles in Meindl’s Vakuum Hunter boots mold to your feet for an extremely comfortable fit. Colton Heward Most Comfortable: Meindl Vakuum Hunter

The Wingshooters are a classic, reliable pair of upland hunting boots. But in reasonable temps, these boots will do just about everything you ask of them and more. You’ll definitely want to save these for late season roosters, especially if you get the insulated version. Unlike the Crispis I tested, these boots made my feet constantly sweat on warm days. While all-leather, waterproof boots have their advantages, they can struggle with breathability. The Wingshooters are an affordable, comfortable, and durable upland hunting boot. There’s a reason upland bird hunters have been wearing these boots in the field longer than I’ve been alive. Best yet, these stylish boots look great whether you’re trying to flush a bird or grab a casual dinner.
#BIRD BOOTS UPGRADE#
Best Casual: Irish Setter WingshooterĪn upgrade on Irish Setter’s classic upland boot, the Wingshooter is completely waterproof, and the 9-inch version gives excellent ankle support. If your feet lean more towards a wider footbed, go with the “EE” width for these. After several mountain miles they stretched slightly, but they’re still a bit narrow. I chose the regular footbed for these, and they were a tad tight when I first put them on. My feet are stuck between too wide for some regular width boots and not wide enough for most “EE” footbeds. And the durable, full-grain leather works great in a variety of conditions, and it should also expand the life of these boots as well.ĭanner advertises that these boots run narrow. The impressive grip on the Bob outsole provided great traction while I climbed steep, rocky sidehills. With a name like Grouse, these boots set high expectations for me.

By covering terrain I’m likely to hunt, I was able to give an assessment of how each of these boots would perform. To test these boots and the best upland hunting pants, I spent this summer hiking in them through a variety of terrains, especially where I’m likely to encounter birds this fall. How I Chose the Best Upland Hunting Boots
#BIRD BOOTS PRO#
Best for Late Season: LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro.Best for Western Hunts: Crispi Wyoming II GTX.To help you do that, I’ve compiled a list of the best upland hunting boots to keep you in the field longer no matter where you hunt. Whether you’re chasing birds on the prairies or across rugged mountain sides, make sure your boots are best suited for the terrain and conditions. Don’t let a subpar pair of boots be the reason for cutting your hunts short this season. One lesson I’ve learned is that cheap or ill-suited boots can derail your hunt faster than anything. I’ve hunted upland birds for more than 25 years, and I’ve worn through my fair share of treads. As an upland bird hunter, I don’t mind dropping cash on a pair of well-made hunting boots.
