My 8" hiking/hunting/wilderness Danner Acadia boots finally gave out. The Gore Tex leaks like a sponge.
So, before I go and buy again, I'm curious what success you've all had. I'm not really interested in any low top Merrell type hiking boot but rather an 8" type hunting or military boot like a Danner Acadia (which is what I had), Belleville, Rocky, White, or similar. I've tried 5.11's and they suck for wet weather but are great for everyday use. I'm not going back to Danner's as they've let me down too many times (they leak too much). The last four wilderness outings I've tried two different pairs of Danner 452 GXT's (granted their older pairs) and two pair of Danner Acadias (again not new but well worn) and they've all leaked. I must admit these boots are not newer but have been extensive worn so I cannot say with confidence Danner's suck it is just the pairs I've chosen have not proven themselves.
Perhaps a newer (broken in) pair with the leather properly H20 treated will work and that is my next test. But in the meantime hunting is coming up and I need a new pair broke in and ready to go.
My specs are....must be 8" leather, waterproof a must, 200 gram insulation, and a self cleaning sole preferred. Will be worn in extreme wet and snow conditons hunting and in wilderness training situations. I've heard good things about Belleville but have no first hand knowledge. A buddy of mine stomped around under the same conditions for four days as did I with a pair of Belleville and his feet were dry while mine were wet every day after two hours.
Recommendations must be first hand from usage in wet environments please . . .
So, before I go and buy again, I'm curious what success you've all had. I'm not really interested in any low top Merrell type hiking boot but rather an 8" type hunting or military boot like a Danner Acadia (which is what I had), Belleville, Rocky, White, or similar. I've tried 5.11's and they suck for wet weather but are great for everyday use. I'm not going back to Danner's as they've let me down too many times (they leak too much). The last four wilderness outings I've tried two different pairs of Danner 452 GXT's (granted their older pairs) and two pair of Danner Acadias (again not new but well worn) and they've all leaked. I must admit these boots are not newer but have been extensive worn so I cannot say with confidence Danner's suck it is just the pairs I've chosen have not proven themselves.
Perhaps a newer (broken in) pair with the leather properly H20 treated will work and that is my next test. But in the meantime hunting is coming up and I need a new pair broke in and ready to go.
My specs are....must be 8" leather, waterproof a must, 200 gram insulation, and a self cleaning sole preferred. Will be worn in extreme wet and snow conditons hunting and in wilderness training situations. I've heard good things about Belleville but have no first hand knowledge. A buddy of mine stomped around under the same conditions for four days as did I with a pair of Belleville and his feet were dry while mine were wet every day after two hours.
Recommendations must be first hand from usage in wet environments please . . .
Last edited: