Need boots advice

The V.B. (Vapor Barrier) boots shown in post 9 are the Wrong boots for
anywhere as warm as Virginia. They are meant for arctic use.
If used in warmer climes, they will make your feet sweat badly, and
the ammonia can eat away the top layer of skin..!!
 
c.m.dalton said:
I'm in need of some advice on purchasing a new pair of boots. Looking for something that I can wear while wandering through the woods here in VA and also to wear on snow days. I like the Danner Mountain light II but am wondering wether or not I need to spend $300 on boots or if there might be something more affordable out there. Any advice on brands or models I should check out? Thanks
Click to expand...

My favorite boot.

They last for decades if you take care of the leather.

I got a new set this year for $167!


Cheapest I have ever seen them in decades!


Cabelas used to make a copy, I have a pair that are 12 years old. Still going strong. Could use a re-sole soon.

But they don't make them any more.
 
I have owned multiple pairs of Danner boots, always the "cheaper" non-USA made ones, I think they are discontinued now, but it was the striker II line. Very comfortable, very waterproof, good quality leather. The soles don't last forever, though. I wear the duty version, not hikers, and they have a very shallow lugging on the outsoles. Still grippy on packed snow and ice, but lacking in anything soft.
 
I have a couple pairs of Merrills that are like tennis shoes and very light but great support. In the winter, I wear what many would consider typical lace up "hunting boots" that are basically waterproof (more just resistant) with goretex and leather. My work boots are Irish Setters (6" hard toe) made by Red Wing.

In the winter, I also really like to wear rubber boots made by LaCrosse that fit your ankles and don't bounce around a lot like some rubber boots. I find these to be extremely comfortable for snow and wet weather woods wear or where I need to cross swampy areas of streams. I have insulated and uninsulated versions and keep a spare pair I like them so well.
 
I'm a fan of Asolo. I've had mine for 10 years now and they are still going strong. Strong.
 
I love my army stand issue hot weather combat boots. And being a mechanic I got steel toes. Heavy, but last for freaking ever. Mine are going on about 4 years now
 
Thorogood boots, Americas oldest home grown boot company. I bought a pair of mock toe, steel toes. I read what Big Chris wrote, he is right on. But depending how much you wear them thinsulate starts to bunch up with regular use. I prefer a pair of wool socks if I need warmth. Also look into redwings heritage line they are pricey but american made with american grown products. Hope the info helps bub.
 
Been wearing Danner's most of my adult life (and for good reason.

If you need comfy in real wet climate conditions Alaska Slippers are unbelievably comfortable live-in boots (EXTRATUF Boots if out of the know).

If need more substantial than these (spending lot of time on uneven rocky areas and/or hiking) I like Zamberland Ladak GTX.

More importantly though, boot fitment based on the wearers foot shape. Find someone that knows how to fit boots and can recommend a couple manufacturers based on you foot shape.

If you spend good money on these boots, learn proper care. I am on my 2nd or 3rd set of soles on one pair of my all leather Danners :-)

Regards,
 
The Mountain Lites are perfect for woods-walking, desert exploring, jungle-rain forest day hikes, or even backpacking. I wouldn't wear them for snow hikes though on account of the low uppers.

Instead, I use these old mine boots, an extra pair from the office. Made in the USA by Matterhorn, 16" uppers. But sure as heck I manage to find mud/snow/water that's 18"... every time. :(

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Red wings NO insulation. They are flexible and you can add waterproofing to them. I've been using them in anew New England and we've had 60 inches of snow in the past 13 days. No issues with my feet.

I look for light boots that are flexible. I rub bees wax solution on them to keep my feet dry, and wear merino wool socks if it's cold out, with no issues.

Go light, leather, no insulation. And waterproof them yourself.

I make a bees wax solution that is basically, bees wax, mineral oil, and vegetable glycerin. Waterproofer, hand & lip balm, leather conditioner and furniture polish.
 
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