Best Elk Hunting Boots

Irish Setter 860 Elk Big Game Hunting Boot

Lacrosse Rubber Boot Hunting Shoe

KEEN Targhee II Mid Waterproof

Elk hunting season is just around the corner, and it’s time to get your gear ready. It’s important for you to have high-quality elk hunting boots that are designed specifically for this type of terrain. If you’re not sure what the best pair of elk hunting boots on the market are, then read our blog post about some of the top models available today!

Elk hunting boots are a specific type of boot that is designed for hunters who spend time in mountainous or rugged terrain. The boots are typically made out of a more durable material, such as leather, and have a higher ankle to provide support when walking on uneven ground. They are also often waterproof so that your feet will stay dry even if you’re wading through a stream or crossing through snow.

If you’re looking for the best elk hunting boots on the market, then it’s important to do your research first. There are many different types and brands available, and each one has its own unique set of features. Make sure that you pick the pair of elk hunting boots that is right for you by considering factors such as the type of terrain you’ll be hunting in, the climate, and your budget.

Elk hunting boots are designed for hunters who spend a lot of time outdoors, especially those that hunt elk in mountainous terrain. Anyone who is looking to purchase the best pair of elk hunting boots needs to take into account factors such as their budget and how often they will be using these types of boots.

For example, if you’re just starting out with your first season or two behind you, then it’s probably not worth spending hundreds on an expensive set of waterproof hiking boots until you can really determine whether this type of boot works well for your needs. Many beginning elk hunters find that cheaper options work fine at least up through their third year or so before they decide to invest more in better quality gear. It may also depend on the climate in which you live.

Best Elk Hunting Boots Reviewed

Best Overall
Irish Setter 882 Elk Hunting Boot

Irish Setter 882 Elk Hunting Boot

The Irish Setter Elk Hunting Boot is one of the most popular models on the market and for good reason – it’s a quality product that offers everything you could want in a pair of elk hunting boots. They’re made with full-grain waterproof leather, have a strong Vibram sole, and come with both ankle and arch support to keep your feet safe and comfortable all day long.

They’re also surprisingly lightweight, so you won’t feel like you’re dragging extra weight around with you as you hike through the woods. And if they do get wet, no problem! The moisture-wicking lining will help them dry out quickly.

Overall, these are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile pair of boots that can be used for a variety of activities, including elk hunting.

PROs
  • Quality construction
  • Waterproof and moisture-wicking
  • Lightweight
CONs
  • May be a bit too stiff for some people
Runner Up
Rocky Bearclaw 3D LTT Hunting Boot

Rocky Bearclaw 3D LTT Hunting Boot

The Rocky Bearclaw LTT Hunting Boot is another excellent choice for anyone looking to invest in a good pair of elk hunting boots. They offer protection against water and the elements, as well as plenty of support thanks to the injection-molded dual density polyurethane footbed that conforms to your feet’s natural shape.

These are also some of the best elk hunting boots on this list because they’re available with either steel or tungsten carbide toe caps – great for wearing into rocky terrain! The rubber lug soles provide traction you can count on even when hiking  through the roughest terrain.

These boots are available in sizes from men’s W size 11 up to W size 16, meaning they’re suitable for anyone with a foot larger than an average woman’s shoe size of Women’s 11 but smaller than a man’s US Men’ s 14 (US Men’ s 12 / UK Size). They can also be used by women if your feet tend towards being wide rather than long – although those with very narrow feet might find them uncomfortable.

PROs
  • Available with either steel or tungsten carbide toe caps
  • Rubber lug soles provide traction even in rocky terrain 
  • Full leather construction to protect from water and the elements, as well as providing plenty of support for your feet.
CONs
  • Can prove uncomfortable if you have very narrow feet
Best Budget
Irish Setter 860 Elk Big Game Hunting Boot

Irish Setter 860 Elk Big Game Hunting Boot

Irish Setter’s Elk Big Game Hunting Boot is one of the best elk hunting boots you can buy if you’re looking for a budget option. It features 100% waterproof full-grain leather to protect against water, as well as having an EVA midsole and traction outsole that will keep your feet comfortable while walking through muddy or rocky terrain.

The lacing system also ensures these are some of the most durable elk hunting  boots on the market.

The only thing that might disappoint some hunters is that they don’t provide as much ankle support or cushioning as other, more expensive boots do. Otherwise these are an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate elk hunters looking to keep costs low while still getting a high-quality pair of elk hunting boots.

PROs
  • 100% waterproof
  • EVA midsole for comfort
  • Durable lacing system
CONs
  • Lack of ankle support and cushioning compared to more expensive boots.
Tall and Comfortable
Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 400 Insulated

Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 400 Insulated

The Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 400 Insulated Hunting Boot is a tall, comfortable option that’s perfect for serious elk hunters. They’re made with an Italian waterproof suede and nubuck leather upper, as well as 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation to keep your feet warm in cold weather conditions.

They also feature a nylon shank and rubber heel counter for stability, making them one of the most durable elk hunting boots on the market. The Vibram Kletterlift outsole provides superior traction on nearly any surface, while the heavily padded collar and tongue ensure hours-long comfort even when standing or walking long distances.

If you’re looking for a pair of tall elk hunting boots that will keep you warm, dry and comfortable on long hunts, the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 400 Insulated is a great choice.

PROs
  • Very comfortable
  • Durable and stable
  • Great traction
CONs
  • May be too warm for some hunters in extreme weather conditions
Lightweight and Stable
Danner Pronghorn 8inch Gore-Tex

Danner Pronghorn 8inch Gore-Tex

The Danner Pronghorn is a lightweight and stable elk hunting boot that’s perfect for mild to moderate weather conditions. It features an all-leather upper with a Gore-Tex lining to keep your feet dry, as well as a Vibram Contact outsole for superior traction on any surface. They’re also built with a removable footbed and EVA midsole for hours of cushioning and comfort, making them some of the most comfortable elk hunting boots on the market.

At just over two pounds per pair, the Danner Pronghorn are one of the lightest elk hunting boots available. And thanks to their durable construction and stable design, they’re perfect for hunters who need a good balance of weight and stability.

PROs
  • Lightweight and stable
  • Gore-Tex lining for waterproofing
  • Vibram Contact outsole for superior traction
  • Removable footbed and EVA midsole for hours of cushioning and comfort
CONs
  • None
Great on Uneven Terrains
Lacrosse Windrose 1000G Waterproof

Lacrosse Windrose 1000G Waterproof

 

The Lacrosse Windrose 1000G Waterproof is a great choice for hunters who need an elk hunting boot that’s ideal on uneven terrains. They feature a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex lining to keep your feet dry in all conditions, as well as a lugged Vibram outsole with aggressive lugs for superior traction even on the most rugged terrain. The upper also features GORE C-KNIT technology which provides support and stability without adding weight or bulkiness, allowing you to move freely throughout the day while providing exceptional protection from harsh weather elements.

In addition to their lightweight construction and comfortable fit, the Lacrosse Windrose are some of the best elk hunting boots when it comes to stability and durability. Their solid construction will keep you safe and supported even when traversing the most treacherous of terrains, making them a great choice for any hunter who spends time in rugged or unstable areas.

PROs
  • The GORE C-KNIT technology provides support and stability without adding weight or bulkiness
  • The upper is water, stain and odor resistant
  • They have great traction even on uneven surfaces
CONs
  • Some users find them to be a bit heavy
Heavily Insulated
Danner Pronghorn 8 inch 1200G Gore-Tex

Danner Pronghorn 8 inch 1200G Gore-Tex

 

The Danner Pronghorn is a great choice for elk hunting in cold weather conditions. They feature a fully waterproof Gore-Tex lining to keep your feet dry and warm, as well as an insulated design that will help you stay comfortable even when temperatures drop below freezing. The upper also has the Vibram Arctic Grip compound which provides superior traction on ice and snow, making them ideal boots for winter elk hunts or any other time of year when you may encounter slippery surfaces.

In addition to their tough construction and solid insulation capabilities, another advantage of these boots is their versatility. Their lightweight composite shank offers incredible support while still remaining flexible enough so they don’t restrict movement or range of motion during long treks through rugged terrain – an important consideration when pursuing elk in the backcountry.

PROs
  • Fully waterproof and insulated
  • Vibram Arctic Grip compound provides excellent traction on ice and snow
  • Lightweight shank is flexible enough to provide support but also allows for full range of motion
CONs
  • Some people find them too heavy for all-day wear
Scent-free Comfort
Lacrosse Rubber Boot Hunting Shoe

Lacrosse Rubber Boot Hunting Shoe

Lacrosse Rubber Boot Hunting Shoe is a great choice for hunters on the go. With their lightweight design and advanced odor-control technology, they are not only comfortable to wear but also ideal boots for bowhunters who want to keep scent levels down while hunting in areas with lots of game activity.

The rubber Vibram outsole provides excellent traction so you can stay firmly planted as your prey darts across the terrain around you, making it easy to stand still when taking an accurate shot. The high sides will help protect against briar thorns which may damage regular low-cut shoes – another added advantage if you tend to hunt in thick brush during elk season (or any other time).

PROs
  • Keeps scent to a minimum
  • Vibram outsole provides excellent traction in rugged terrain; protects against briar thorns and other hazards
  • Lightweight design is ideal for bowhunters who want to travel light while on the go 
CONs
  • Run slightly small
Anti-odor and Anti-bacterial
Under Armour SF Bozeman 2.0

Under Armour SF Bozeman 2.0

If you’re a hunter with sweaty feet, the Under Armour SF Bozeman is just what your hunting boots need. These mid-cut tactical boots are designed to keep odor at bay while providing all-day comfort in hot or wet conditions. The synthetic leather also offers some water resistance so that even after long hours of stalking prey on rainy nights, your shoes will stay dry and protected – likely avoiding any unpleasant dampness (or worse) between your toes!

The Techfit compression molded sleeve wraps around the ankle for an added level of stability which helps prevent calf strains when chasing elk through thick underbrush or up steep mountain slopes during bow season.

PROs
  • Odor and bacteria resistant
  • Water resistant
  • Techfit compression molded sleeve for ankle stability
CONs
  • None
Good Traction and Support
KEEN Targhee II Mid Waterproof

KEEN  Targhee II Mid Waterproof

KEEN, a brand that most hunters are familiar with (and have probably owned at least one pair of their boots) hit the mark once again when creating the Targhee II Mid. The waterproof full-grain leather upper is very durable and offers great protection from both wet weather conditions as well as sharp sticks or rocks along mountain trails.

The TPU midsole material provides excellent shock absorption for all day comfort while still delivering enough support to keep your feet in place on uneven terrain – no more tripping over stray tree roots! These elk hunting boots won’t weigh you down like some others can; weighing only about two pounds per shoe, these versatile shoes will be comfortable after long days spent stalking prey through rough country. 

PROs
  • Very good traction and support
  • Lightweight
CONs
  • None

How to Choose the Best Boots for Elk Hunting

Perfect Fit

The most important thing to remember when choosing the best elk hunting boots is that they need to fit you perfectly. This doesn’t mean that you have to go out and buy a brand new pair of boots – many quality brands offer boot sizing charts on their websites so that you can find the perfect pair even if you’re ordering online.

It’s also important to try on different pairs of boots before making your purchase, as each one will feel different on your feet. Make sure to walk around in them for awhile to see how well they conform to the shape of your feet and ankles – you don’t want them to be too tight or too loose, as this could lead to blisters or other foot problems down the road.

Broken in Before The Trip

Another thing to keep in mind is that your new boots may not be comfortable enough to wear on an all-day hunt right out of the box. Most good quality boots will need to be “broken in” before you use them for strenuous activities like elk hunting. This means that you’ll have to wear them around town for a few days or even weeks before your trip so that they can stretch and conform to the shape of your feet.

If you’re short on time, you can also try using a boot stretcher – which is basically a wooden or metal device that helps expand the width and length of tight shoes. While this won’t work miracles, it can help speed up the process of breaking in your new boots so that you can do some short hunting sessions before your big trip.

Ankle/Arch Support

If you have any issues with your ankles or arches, then it’s important that you find the best elk hunting boots for ankle support. Many quality models come with a sturdy shank running along the inner part of each shoe which helps to provide stability and comfort during strenuous activities like hiking.

This type of structure is especially important in low-cut models because they tend to be more flexible than high tops – so without proper reinforcement, your feet could roll inward too much as you walk!

Some good options also feature an additional reinforced layer over the top of this shank designed to hold back your foot from sliding forward inside your boot even further.

Season/ Weather

One of the last things to consider when choosing your new pair of elk hunting boots is what season you’ll be using them in. If it’s a warm-weather hunt and you’re only wearing light clothing, then comfort will probably outweigh weather resistance as one of the most important factors for selecting your boots. But if you plan on doing all or most of your hunting in freezing temperatures with heavy snow cover, ankle support and insulation will likely trump everything else – especially since wet feet can lead to frostbite!

Use Socks

It’s also important to note that you shouldn’t wear regular socks with your elk hunting boots. In fact, if you’re wearing thick wool socks then it may be impossible for the boot laces to keep your feet firmly in place! Instead, pick up a pair of moisture-wicking hiking or military issue socks which are designed to grip the soles of your shoes at all times – even when they get wet.

Advantages of Best ELK Hunting Boots

Heel support:

One of the most important features of any good elk hunting boot is heel support. When you’re walking through rough terrain, it’s important that your boots can provide stability and keep your heels from slipping out. A good pair of elk hunting boots will have a sturdy heel that won’t easily give way even when you’re walking on wet or icy surfaces.

Many quality boots also come with lugs – or deep ridges – on the soles to provide better traction in slippery conditions. This is especially important if you plan on doing any hiking during your hunt, as you’ll want to make sure that you don’t lose your footing and end up tumbling down a hillside! 

Lateral Flexibility

Another thing to look for when buying the best elk hunting boots is lateral flexibility – or how easily your foot will bend from side to side. When you’re walking on uneven ground, it’s important that this movement be as natural and easy as possible so that you can remain balanced while moving in different directions.

Elk hunting boots with a high ankle are usually better at facilitating lateral flexion because they provide more structure than low-ankle models. Some pairs of waterproof hiking shoes also have rubber soles which allow them to mold around small imperfections in the terrain, such as rocks and tree roots, providing extra stability during each step!

Ground Traction

A good pair of elk hunting boots will also have superior ground traction. This is especially important if you’ll be doing a lot of walking in mountainous areas, as you’ll want to make sure that your boots can grip the surface below them and keep you from slipping.

Many elk hunters prefer boots with lugs – or deep ridges – on the soles for better traction, but this isn’t always necessary. If you’re only going to be using your boots for a short hike during your hunt, then a smooth sole may work just fine. Just be aware that smooth soles tend to slip more easily than those with lugs when walking on wet or icy surfaces.

Elk Hunting Boots Tips

  • If you’re looking for a good all-around elk hunting boot that can handle any condition, the KEEN Targhee II Mid is an excellent option.
  • Make sure your boots fit comfortably and are not too tight or loose; you don’t want them to cause blisters or be so big that they slip around on wet surfaces.
  • Break in your new boots before your hunt by wearing them around town and walking on different types of terrain to get them used to the way your feet move. This will help reduce the chances of getting sore feet while out in the field.
  • Always bring an extra pair of socks with you on your hunt – if your boots do start to leak, you’ll at least have something dry to put on.
  • If you’re on a budget, don’t be afraid to buy used hunting boots as long as they are in good condition and haven’t been exposed to water or chemicals. You can find deals online through sites like Craigslist that may not be available anywhere else! 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should hunting boots last?

Good quality elk hunting boots can easily last for several years. Many hunters report getting more than a decade of use out of their set without any problems, though this depends on how rough you are with them and what terrain you usually hunt in.

Are rubber or leather better for elk hunting boots?

Both work well but there are advantages to both types; Leather is usually cheaper and offers good traction even when wet, while some people prefer the look and feel that comes along with wearing rubber.

What's up with all these different sizes – do I really need mid-calf length ones?!

Unless your legs measure longer than most other folks’, then no, you don’t really need the extra height that comes with a pair of mid-calf boots. However, if you plan on doing a lot of hiking in your boots or are particularly susceptible to blisters and sore feet, then they can be a good investment.

Are Gore-Tex lined boots necessary?

No – while this lining does help keep your feet dry, it’s not essential for elk hunting boots. In fact, some hunters find that their feet get too hot when wearing Gore-Tex lined boots during warm weather hunts. If you’re looking for something to help with moisture management, try finding a boot with a breathable mesh lining instead.

Conclusion

Elk hunting boots are a specialized type of footwear designed to meet the demands of elk hunters. Whether you’re looking for high-performance, waterproof or insulated options, we have a selection that is perfect for your needs and budget. To make sure you buy the best possible boot for your next hunt, here are some tips on how to choose which ones will work best for you! When it comes time to making this decision, there is no shortage of choices in terms of what kind of material they’re made out of; leather vs synthetic materials like nylon. What’s important when buying elk hunting boots? Find out more about these benefits with our blog post today!