Breaking down the best boots for the outdoors
Don’t let rocky terrain, wet weather or plummeting temperatures keep you from where you need to go outdoors. A breakdown of some of the best boots:
– Launched in 1912 with the standalone L.L. Bean Maine Hunting Shoe, the company continues to offer and improve the sturdy and warm moccasin-like boot. The classic has improved traction and durability and still offers the waterproof leather upper and steel shank support it’s always had. $129, llbean.com
– The Gumleaf USA Field Welly is made of 85% natural rubber, so it won’t crack, and the neoprene footbed is extremely comfortable. The cotton-lined boots have an adjustable strap and an all-terrain lug sole, keeping you secure and sure-footed. $215, gumleafusa.com
– The heavy rubber outsole of the Field & Stream Woodsman 800g Hunting Boot provides durability and comfort while HydroProof ULTA technology keeps water out and allows moisture to escape. The 800 gram Thinsulate keeps toes toasty. $89.99, fieldandstreamshop.com
– The L.L. Bean Technical Fishing Shoe protects feet when wading through trout streams or saltwater flats, and breathable air mesh allows for quick drainage. Air-prene cuffs and a tough sole keep debris from irritating your feet. Equally good on land or in a boat, these can be worn barefoot or with socks. $129, llbean.com
– The Irish Setter 4882 Rutmaster 2.0 gives hunters a stealthy, quiet boot that’s comfortable and warm with a rubber sole that provides traction and stability. EcoFlex technology gives the boot a flexible backing, making it easy to take on and off, and the ScentBan scent control process kills bacteria-causing odors. Realtree Xtra green camouflage also works great for early season bow hunting. $149.99, irishsetterboots.com
This story is reprinted from USA TODAY’s Hunt & Fish magazine, which offers tips, advice, trends and tools of the trade that get you ready for open season. On sale at newsstands for $5.99, at onlinestore.usatoday.com or by calling 800-872-5149.