Choices aplenty for sure-footed fun
Don’t let rocky terrain, wet weather or plummeting temperatures keep you from where you need to go outdoors.
A breakdown of some of the best boots:
uLaunched in 1912 with the standalone L.L. Bean Maine Hunting Shoe, the company continues to offer and improve the sturdy and warm moccasin-like boot. The classic has im- proved traction and durability and still offers the waterproof leather upper and steel shank support it’s always had. $129, llbean.com
uThe Gumleaf USA Field Welly is made of 85% natural rubber, so it won’t crack, and the neoprene footbed is extremely comfortable. The cotton-lined boots have an adjustable strap and an all-terrain lug sole, keeping you secure and sure-footed. $215, gumleafusa.com
uThe heavy rubber outsole of the Field & Stream Woodsman 800g Hunting Boot provides durability and comfort while Hy- droProof ULTA technology keeps water out and allows moisture to escape. The 800 gram Thinsulate keeps toes toasty. $89.99, fieldandstreamshop.com
uThe L.L. Bean Technical Fishing Shoe protects feet when wading through trout streams or saltwater flats, and breathable air mesh allows for quick drainage. Air-prene cuffs and a tough sole keep debris from irritating your feet. Equally good on land or in a boat, these can be worn barefoot or with socks. $129, llbean.com
uThe Irish Setter 4882 Rutmaster 2.0 gives hunters a stealthy, quiet boot that’s com- fortable and warm with a rubber sole that provides traction and stability. EcoFlex technology gives the boot a flexible backing, making it easy to take on and off, and the ScentBan scent control process kills bacteria-causing odors. Realtree Xtra green camouflage also works great for earlyseason bow hunting. $149.99, irishsetterboots.com