Choosing Boots for a Wilderness Elk Hunt
It seems like a simple task but selecting the best footwear for a wilderness elk hunt takes some time and consideration. Finding the perfect fit is the difference between having sore and blistered feet that slow you down, versus comfortable feet that can keep on hiking.
Always follow the golden rule and wear your boots before the hunt! There’s one sure way to put a damper on a hunt and that’s by taking untested boots on a big hike. When the blisters form, your feet will suffer and more importantly, your ability to hike and get to those difficult places will suffer.
Consider these things when choosing boots for your next wilderness elk hunt:
Footwear for the Seasons
The season for your hunt will determine the footwear style to a degree. Early season archery hunts come with warm weather and you won’t need those bulky, insulated boots. Look for breathable boots that are lightweight and ready for the longer hikes and steep climbs.
We’d recommend a solid boot with good ankle support. Look for a boot that’s at least mid-ankle height or taller. Also look for a boot with a waterproof-breathable membrane, like Gore-Tex or an equivalent. Even when there’s no precipitation or snow on the ground, early morning dew on the grass and brush will quickly soak a non-waterproof boot.
When the seasons shift and snow hits the ground, migrating to an insulated pair of boots is the optimal choice. Focus on boots that will keep your feet warm and dry in the cold. Adding gaiters is also prudent to repel snow and moisture.
The cold-season boot choice does come with a few caveats and I typically keep two pairs of boots on hand. If I’m planning on doing a lot of walking, I choose a lightly-insulated boot and pair them with gaiters. Even when the weather is cold, heat retention isn’t a major concern when I’m constantly on the move.
On still hunts and very slow moving hikes, I choose more heavily insulated boots to focus on heat retention. When the snow is deep and you are glassing or slowly following tracks, the insulation makes a big difference.
Getting the Right Fit
Shopping boots is always a bit tricky. I don’t recommend buying them blind online unless you have the ability to send them back. Trying on boots in person, with a thin and thick pair of socks is the way to get the fit right.
Every foot is different and you want boots that are snug but not tight on your foot. As they break-in, you will get a little bit of stretch and a perfect fit. Personally, I have narrow feet and am looking for boots that aren’t very wide. Folks with wide-feet will need to try on more pairs to really get the fit right.
Take your time, try on multiple brands, and walk around the store. It pays to go with trusted brands that are known to have great customer service as well.
A Word About Socks
The best pair of boots in the world is worthless if you’re wearing crappy socks underneath. Avoid cotton at all costs. Always wear a pair of high-quality merino wool or merino-synthetic blend socks.
Additionally, you might consider some after-market insoles for your boots. These can help further customize the fit and dial them in for ideal comfort and performance.
Putting them to the Test
We already mentioned testing out your boots. Don’t skip this before the hunt. Pair your boots with different socks and walk around on the steepest terrain you can find near home. Side hilling, climbing and scrambling off trail will all be a part of the hunt.
Spend some time getting familiar with your boots and know how they perform in a variety of environments. When your hunt begins, you won’t be hesitant to push hard because you know your boots and how hard you can push without damaging or stressing your feet.
If there are any issues with fit or hot spots, it’s better to discover those things early on so that you can make adjustments or changes.
Contact Us With Questions
If you have questions about gear or need help getting ready for your hunt, please let us know. You can find our packing list with detailed recommendations on our Guest Information Page. Otherwise, please contact us with any questions.