Hiking boots vs hunting boots

[andrew5]

Hi all,

Time to replace my old boots after a decade + of use. This is a bit of a "new hunter" question, but is there any legitimate benefit to using hunting boots versus regular hiking boots?

context:

I have worn Solomon Quest 4D GTX boots for a long time now, and they work well for me. I have used them the first three years of my hunting career and I don't see any reason not to buy another pair. Should I go with "if it ain't broke..." or consider getting hunting specific boots?

Camo on my boots doesn't matter to me. In fact, I'd rather have non camo for when I am using them in non-hunting settings.

looking for a standard all around hunting boot good for backcountry solo multi day, but nothing for Sheep or Goat.

any consensus on favorites out there?

[bighornbob]

I would wear what works best for you and forget what they say they should be used for.

bhb

[Bustercluck]

I think the big difference comes down to if you’re packing a load on multi day trips, or hiking with a day bag looking for animals. If you’re packing a heavy bag then I’d go with a good rigid mountain boot and if you’re day hunting I’d go with whatever is comfortable, waterproof and decent ankle support.

[jvezina]

I'm a stick with what works kind of guy, personal preference, unless i'm going to need my rubber boots I pretty much use the same pair for everything from hunting to hiking.

[Treed]

I like Scarpa - I use the SL active. They last forever. I use Obenauf’s on them.

[Bustercluck]

One thing I will mention. It seems like the consensus on goretex lined is it works good for about a year.

[whitlers]

I'm not sure what you mean by 'hunting' specific boots. All I can think of are camo Irish Setters or something that would be deemed a 'hunting' boot. Mostly all marketing crap.

If you plan on hiking alot in steep country with a pack then get yourself a good pair of hiking boots. Hanwag, La Sportiva, Scarpa, Meindl etc etc.

I can't speculate on the Solomons you have but if they work for your hunting style and they have been good to you then maybe you have found the boot for you!

[Ron.C]

I love the fit of my Hanwag Alaskans. But they are uninsulated and I find my feet get very cold in Oct while sitting/glassing. But when hiking they are absolutely awesome and very comfortable in warmer weather.

My next set will have some insulation.

[adriaticum]

Asolo and Salomon for me.
I bought Asolo over Salomon just beucase it was a sale on them..

SkyView in Surrey always has something on sale I find.
https://skyviewcamping.com/collections/mens-footwear

They always manage to part me from my money when I walk in there.

They have Scarpa, Merrel, Handwank etc.

[tundraman]

Asolo is my go to boot for hiking with a light pack. they are so comfortable and waterproof. I picked up a pair on sale there too.