Time for a boot upgrade, need some help
- Thread starter Lnewton
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yup 30 yrs +
Professor Doolittle
Well-Known Member
Lowa Renegade GTX mid is a great boot. I've had a dozen pairs and hike with a heavy pack year round. No break in period. Lasts pretty long and under 200. They make a great winter version called the ice something that's a little taller around the ankle and insulated. Beautiful boot. Light but very powerful feeling.
Kennetreks here, Mountain Ex and Guide, and Safari, as do many club members. It seems two were wearing them and more found out. Contagious. Before that Galibier Verncours, which were used by some rock climbers but I haven't seen available in decades.
I've had top of the line Danner, Kenetrek, Lathrop & Sons, etc...
My current favorite boot is the Crispi Wild Rock GTX. Only boot I've ever worn that didn't need a break in. Very tough and very comfortable in the mountains. Unfortunately they won't fit into your $300 budget range but I think they are worth every penny. So much so that I bought a second pair to have on hand just in case they stop making that model.
The one boot I would stay away from is Kenetrek. Anyone who says they are a great boot doesn't hunt very hard in the mountains. They won't hold up to hard hiking like other good boots, won't flex like others, and won't stay waterproof in extreme wet conditions (even with gaiters on) because their tongue and leather layering designs are flawed. Break in period is absolutely awful and painful and you'll never fully get rid of the heel rub. Myself and a handful of buddies had the same exact experiences with Kenetrek Mountain Extreme boots in the high country of the Rocky Mountains. And their customer service is pretty sad. Just stay away from them if you plan on hunting hard in rugged country or you'll end up with a $500 set of broke down house slippers.
My current favorite boot is the Crispi Wild Rock GTX. Only boot I've ever worn that didn't need a break in. Very tough and very comfortable in the mountains. Unfortunately they won't fit into your $300 budget range but I think they are worth every penny. So much so that I bought a second pair to have on hand just in case they stop making that model.
The one boot I would stay away from is Kenetrek. Anyone who says they are a great boot doesn't hunt very hard in the mountains. They won't hold up to hard hiking like other good boots, won't flex like others, and won't stay waterproof in extreme wet conditions (even with gaiters on) because their tongue and leather layering designs are flawed. Break in period is absolutely awful and painful and you'll never fully get rid of the heel rub. Myself and a handful of buddies had the same exact experiences with Kenetrek Mountain Extreme boots in the high country of the Rocky Mountains. And their customer service is pretty sad. Just stay away from them if you plan on hunting hard in rugged country or you'll end up with a $500 set of broke down house slippers.
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PAGSDIII701
Well-Known Member
Salomon do carry a two year warranty for craftsmanship. I wear Salomon on a daily basis and I do agree they don't last long but I take a few pics and file a warranty, they give me credit and I order another pair. Just a heads up to save some money
Paulyester
Member
I found when it comes to boots it's really a personal preference. You kind of need to put them on and walk around. I know some people rave about Crispi, my feet don't like them. I've been very happy with Zamberlain and Lowa, although the Lowa's are heavier in my opinion.
OldElkHunter1961
Well-Known Member
Danner MEB. If it fits you well look no further.
PAGSDIII701
Well-Known Member
The Answer is STILL Lathrop & Sons…
Bergerblaster
Well-Known Member
Kennetrek has been my favorite boot to date. Guided in one pair for 5 years straight. I have also had great luck with Crispi boots. It's definitely worth spending the extra money on a good pair.
