Shoes for autumn winter hunting. How to choose winter boots for fishing
When planning a fishing or hunting trip winter time years, especially the importance should be given to shoes. There are many varieties of this item of clothing: felt boots, boots, high fur boots, winter boots... Some rather serious requirements are imposed on them.
Winter fishing boots are designed to protect your feet from extreme cold temperatures, wet ice and water. In addition to this, the boots are equipped with a thick grooved sole, allowing you to stay stable on the ice. In this article, we have compiled a rating of the best models with prices, gave recommendations on what to look for when choosing men's and women's fishing boots. Read the owners' reviews under the article.
Footwear requirements
Basic requirements for winter boots:
- A light weight. It is not easy in winter, with full equipment, to wade through the snowdrifts to the future hole. Therefore, despite the thick sole and the use of multi-layer insulation, boots should be lightweight.
- Good stability on any surface. The outsole should be equipped with a grooved tread or special spikes to prevent the shoe from sliding on the ice.
- Increased thermal insulation. Correctly chosen insulation material should keep warm for a long time.
When choosing and buying winter boots, you should definitely pay attention to the following:
Pair selection
Buy to buy a suitable pair of winter boots, it is necessary to take into account the intensity of the load and the peculiarity of the weather conditions at the place of winter fishing.
Based on these indicators, footwear from low temperatures is divided into the following types:
Polyurethane shoes have anti-slip and excellent thermal insulation properties
Review of popular models
Today the market provides a wide selection of winter fishing boots from various manufacturers. The main characteristics of the purchased footwear are quality, comfort in use, simplicity and ease of care, as well as product design.
Yeti
Yeti boots are made of EVA material. They have excellent shock-absorbing properties, do not lose flexibility and elasticity at sub-zero temperatures. They are able to keep warm at -60 C for a long time. The advantages include an attractive and modern design, comfort and ease of wearing with increased wear resistance, light weight.
The construction of the shoe provides protection from getting wet and fogging. The tightening cuff is made of a special water-repellent fabric. The material used is resistant to various solvents and oils. Average slip on open ice. The price of Yeti boots fluctuates around 2,000 rubles.
Reviews
In such boots, the legs do not sweat and you feel great in them. Very comfortable. You don't walk in them, you just fly. They are not afraid of severe frosts. They are worn perfectly. Alexander, Kazan.
I've been wearing Yeti boots for the second season. At -30 it's not cold in them, they keep warm well. Liked their light weight. Legs do not get tired from walking - this is a huge plus. Sergey, Ufa.
Torvi
Torvi is high quality and comfortable boots. Thick and powerful outsole tread, with raised toe, stands firm on any slippery surface. The mesh structure of the bottom of the sole easily wicks away excess moisture inside the boot.
High instep and wide, comfortable boot, favorably affect the comfort and functionality when walking. The upper of the shoe ends with a cuff, with universal lacing.
The liner is made of heat-resistant seven-layer material. It ends above the bootleg, allowing you to avoid chafing your foot when walking briskly. It is not recommended to wash the liner. Protect boots from high temperatures and the use of aggressive shoe cleaning products.
The temperature range for Torvi boots is from -40 to -60 C. The average cost will be 2,000 rubles.
Reviews
The boots are very comfortable and warm. The lining is excellent at wicking away sweat so your feet stay dry. I didn't like the boots' vulnerability to punctures. During the season, I managed to pierce it twice, with an ordinary branch. All in all, a good option for winter boots. Valery, Perm.
Great comfy boots. On a fishing trip in 30-degree frost, I spend an average of 5 hours in them and do not get cold at all. I liked the design very much: they look bulky and at the same time very light (about 500 grams). The outsole is thick and flexible, does not slip on ice. Convenient clip allows you to tighten the edge of the boot. This saves snow from falling into the boots. I advise all fishermen. Alexander, Moscow.
Norfin
Warm elastic boots with a temperature range from -30 to -50 C. The bottom of the sole is made of wear-resistant rubber, allowing for high durability from mechanical stress and damage. The presence of a deep tread, improves traction on ice.
The high rise of the bootleg and the comfortable last of the boot contributes to the convenience of using the shoes (it is easy to put on and take off) and does not interfere with the blood circulation of the legs under heavy loads.
The basis of thermal insulation is made up of removable three-layer liners. Based on the operating temperature, their structure and composition are slightly different. In this case, foil and polyester remain the main components.
Distinctive feature This shoe is equipped with a push-button lock located at the top of the bootleg and a convenient protrusion at the back of the shoe, which allows you to remove the boots without hands. The price for a pair will be within 1700 rubles.
Outdoor gear is key, especially in winter. When fishing or hunting in freezing temperatures, the first thing to do is to pay attention to the quality of the shoes, since the lower limbs can easily get frostbitten due to low blood circulation.
The review presents the best manufacturers, whose range includes winter boots for fishing. The rating was compiled based on the characteristics of the product and its performance. We also took into account the reviews of owners who successfully use boots for winter fishing of one of the brands. For the convenience of the reader, the top-ranking of domestic and foreign manufacturers was formed in different categories.
The best domestic manufacturers of winter fishing boots
5 Sardonix
Best price
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 4.4
For almost a quarter of a century, the Russian firm Sardonix has been producing footwear from ethylene vinyl acetate and polyvinyl chloride. The manufacturer uses imported high-tech equipment, due to which the quality of products meets high international standards. Having retained the best price affordability on the market, the company focused on performance and assortment saturation, including in the category of models for active recreation in winter.
For winter fishing, judging by customer reviews and manufacturer's recommendations, shoe covers (Cupid, Bars, Sapsan, Combat, etc.) are perfect. The aggressive tread and steel spikes of the outsole are designed for confident movement on the ice of water bodies. They are lightweight, waterproof, and thanks to the lacing they fit perfectly on any foot. At the same time, the boots retain their elasticity in cold weather, without limiting mobility at all. The inner sock is made of foil and natural compressed fibers. In addition, the upper part has a fur insert (artificial material) for better thermal insulation.
4 Dune
The most durable
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 4.5
The domestic manufacturer has been producing a wide range of footwear for more than 40 years, among which there is a model range for hunting and fishing. Part of the shops of the Astrakhan plant rubber shoe in the late 90s, it was reorganized into the Dune company, which was not going to be content with the regional level of the enterprise and actively began to seriously modernize the equipment and expand the range. Today Dune representations are located throughout Russia, and products, thanks to their high quality and unique developments in the field of raw materials preparation, are in steadily growing demand.
The model for winter fishing 131SHU is distinguished by its practicality and better wear resistance. The boots are completely sealed, have a lacing for a comfortable fit and an inner toe made of wool felt and foil material, so that severe frosts will not be an obstacle for fishing. For the reliability of thermal insulation, an EVA insole is also used. A wide range of sizes (42-47 solutions), availability of goods on the market and high quality workmanship have earned many positive reviews and recommendations from the owners.
3 Nova Tour
Most comfortable and lightest
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 4.6
The Russian manufacturer occupies a leading position in the outdoor equipment market. The company was founded in 1996, and during this time it has been able to significantly expand its product range. Fishing equipment, including winter equipment, began to be produced several years ago, successfully competing with imported, more expensive brands. The highly targeted Fisherman Nova Tour range also has some great ice fishing boots.
Low-temperature (down to -40 ° C) Fisherman Spike are popular, which are very comfortable to wear. They are completely waterproof, with a thick PVC sole and a two-layer combined wool-based insulation (synthetics and foil added). The boots have steel spikes for confident movement on ice and are of high quality workmanship. Another good solution for the winter, judging by the reviews, was the "Begul" model. They have a more modern look, with a warm sockliner (10 mm thick) and a non-studded tread sole. At the same time, the boots of this model are 400 grams lighter (1.5 kg), but they can be used at temperatures not lower than -30 ° C.
2 Torvi
Better design
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 5.0
The well-known Torvi brand is in second place in the ranking of the best. The company produces EVA boots. It was this fact that brought the company enormous popularity. All models are distinguished by high reliability, resistance to low temperatures, and excellent quality. The upper cuff is water resistant and has a reflective strip. The thick sole with a tread prevents the shoe from sliding on the ice. The wide cuff and high instep provide high functionality in use.
The most popular Torvi models are Onega, T-45, T-60, T-25 (in accordance with the temperature regime). The liner has seven layers that protect from the cold and help remove excess moisture to the outside. Reviews about the company are extremely positive. Fishermen note high durability, excellent insulation. I like the construction very much: a comfortable lock that protects from snow, flexible, but at the same time thick sole. The minimum weight of the shoe is also noticed, despite the bulky appearance. Torvi is always high quality and convenience.
Types of boots for winter fishing
Depending on the withstand loads and weather conditions, winter boots differ in their design:
- Rubber boots with insulation. An over-molded boot with a neoprene shaft provides the best protection against water. The inner lining (most often a removable sock) is usually multi-layered and allows you to comfortably endure frosts down to -20-25 ° C.
- Polyurethane winter boots. The advantage is the absence of seams, light weight and the best thermal insulation.
- EVA boots. Ethylene vinyl acetate winter equipment for fishing today is the most popular and modern. Low thermal conductivity, light weight, elasticity at low temperatures (remains unchanged down to -50 ° C)
- “Canadian. The symbiosis of galoshes and canvas bootlegs will allow you to stay on melting ice for a long time without any discomfort. Keeps feet warm and comfortable down to -40 ° C.
- Felt boots. Good old felt boots made of sheep wool will do an excellent job with freezing temperatures - and many winter fishing enthusiasts choose them. The only drawback is the limited leg mobility and the inability to use it without galoshes.
1 Nordman
High quality at a reasonable price
Country Russia
Rating (2019): 5.0
We gave the first place in the rating to the manufacturer Nordman. The company occupies a leading position in the manufacture of winter fishing shoes. Thanks to the wide assortment, choosing the right boots is not difficult. The models are distinguished by high wear resistance, attractive design and reasonable price. They are very warm, able to withstand frost down to -60 degrees. Each pair is made of durable material that does not allow moisture to pass through. The boots have reflective piping at the bottom that remains visible in minimal light.
The most popular Nordman line is Extreme. She is praised by experienced fishermen and hunters. Each model is equipped with a reinforced heel and forefoot. The outsole is very durable and high. The liner is made of several layers. It reliably absorbs moisture while keeping your feet dry. The upper cuff is enlarged. Buyers consider the Nordman brand to be the best. In the reviews, they note the unique production technologies, the excellent quality of the products. The company is highly competitive with similar more expensive manufacturers. Warm, practical and comfortable - this is how customers characterize the Nordman winter fishing boots.
The best foreign manufacturers of winter fishing boots
5 Norfin
The optimum ratio of price and quality
Country: Latvia
Rating (2019): 4.7
The world-famous company has established itself as the best manufacturer of footwear for winter fishing. The company regularly updates its assortment by developing new model modifications. A wide assortment is able to satisfy the taste of the most picky customer. Norfin boots have many benefits. The high quality material used in the production ensures the durability and strength of the shoe. All models are very warm and waterproof. The liners consist of three layers that provide reliable thermal insulation.
A feature of Norfin winter boots is a push-button lock. It is more comfortable than lace. There is also a ledge on the back of the shoe. It allows you to take off your shoes without hands. Customer reviews characterize boots from Norfin with better side... They are warm and comfortable. Legs don't sweat. Conveniently, the earbuds can be pulled out and dried. The outsole is durable. With prolonged walking, the feeling of discomfort does not arise. Available in lightweight, basic and insulated, the Norfin ice fishing boots are adapted to all weather conditions.
4 Woodline
Best frost resistance
Country: Sweden
Rating (2019): 4.7
Fans of active pastime in nature in winter will appreciate the products of the Swedish company Woodline. High-tech production, combined with the use of innovative materials that pass mandatory testing, provide this manufacturer's clothes and shoes with exceptional heat retention characteristics. In the production of winter boots, this company uses an environmentally friendly EVA material, which has a number of exceptional advantages. It is much lighter than PVC and has better elasticity, which provides the wearer with maximum comfort during long walks. Also, Woodline EVA boots do not require special care and at the same time are designed for a fairly long service life.
The main advantage of this manufacturer's winter footwear is the ability to retain heat at critical temperatures, down to -100 ° C. Particularly popular with ice anglers is the Woodline Power Trio, which maintains its performance unchanged at -60 ° C. These boots are equipped with an anti-slip sole, and the unique structure of the material, combined with the thermoplush insert, provide the best protection against moisture and cold. The Woodline Class EVA model also receives many positive reviews, which is equipped with a five-layer insulation for a comfortable stay on fishing in freezing temperatures down to -45 ° C.
3 Polyver
High service life
Country: Sweden
Rating (2019): 4.8
Polyver, whose production facilities are located in Jämtland, Sweden, has been producing high-quality winter shoes since 1983, which are very popular all over the world among fishing and hunting enthusiasts. The boots of this manufacturer, made using the latest technologies, are guaranteed to retain all their characteristics for a long time, which has earned the trust of the consumer and high popularity. The best frost resistance characteristics of Polyver shoes guarantee heat retention down to -40 ° C thanks to the use of polyurethane foam and monolithic casting technology. Also, the boots of this company demonstrate absolute water resistance and are lightweight, which makes them the best choice for winter fishing.
Among the variety of winter boots, the Premium PLUS model can be distinguished, which is equipped with an additional closure on the bootleg and has better protection against cold down to -50 ° C. It also features a reinforced heel and a stiff sole for better cushioning. The self-cleaning outsole tread provides a confident ride on the surface in all conditions. Also, a lot of positive feedback is deserved by the PREMIUM SAFETY winter boots model, with a removable heel and a reinforced steel toe.
2 Rapala
The softest
Country: Finland
Rating (2019): 4.9
The Rapala company was founded in 1945, and since then has managed to achieve excellent results - products are supplied to 30 countries of the world, and the annual turnover exceeds a quarter of a billion dollars. On the Russian market, it is famous for the high quality of baits (wobblers, hooks, etc.), but the manufacturer's assortment also includes other accessories for fishing, as well as tourist equipment.
The Rapala Sportsman's Winter Boots are lightweight and have a special heel lug for quick, hands-free release. Sheep wool insulation provides maximum comfort and better protection against low temperatures (boots can be used down to -30 ° C). In addition, judging by the reviews, Rapala boots are highly elastic and do not hinder movement at all. The TPU outsole has an aggressive tread and does not slip on ice, despite the absence of studs.
1 Camper
High level of comfort
Country: Spain
Rating (2019): 5.0
The company was founded in 1975 on the basis of the shoe factory of Antonio Flux (at that time it had been known for its quality in Spain for over 100 years) by his grandson Larenzo. After 20 years, the manufacturer managed to significantly expand the range and enter the international market, including the Russian one. Among the manufactured goods there are models for outdoor activities and sports, including for winter fishing. Those of the owners who preferred the products of this brand never regretted their choice.
The Canadian Camper Ice Cat enjoys well-deserved attention due to its high resistance to low temperatures and its performance. The reviews indicate the high strength of the soles of the boots. Its low heat transfer capacity allows you to be on the ice all day and not experience even the slightest discomfort in the leg area. The boot is made of neoprene, and there is a drawstring valve at the top, which eliminates the possibility of water ingress. The warmth is provided by a special inner sock-liner, the breathable material of which perfectly removes excess moisture from the feet, providing Better conditions in frosty weather.
How to choose boots for winter fishing
When choosing boots, you should pay attention to the following characteristics of shoes:
- The size... Boots should not constrict your leg. It is better to choose a larger size so that it is comfortable even in thick woolen socks.
- Shaft and galoshes material. The boot's resistance to moisture and wind, good thermal insulation properties and a soft but durable and waterproof outsole will allow you to stay on winter fishing as much as required. The quality of the connection of the two components is also important - waterproof seams or soldering will be more reliable and tight.
- Internal insulation... It is better to choose boots with a special toe - it can be washed, it is convenient to dry and put on. The presence of a multilayer structure with a reflective foil layer will make it easy to tolerate low temperatures. The use of lining made from natural raw materials seems to be preferable to synthetics.
- The weight. When moving from place to place throughout the day, the weight of the boots is reflected in the fisherman's fatigue, and the less their weight, the more strength will remain for fishing. The rubber base is much heavier than PVC. At the same time, the use of EVA equipment looks even more preferable, since in severe frosts it does not lose its elasticity.
Those who are just getting involved in this type of outdoor activity or sport (that's anyone else), focus on the issue. But no less important factor determining how successful the hunt will be and whether it will turn into flour is the correct choice of the appropriate footwear, which, unfortunately, is not taken into account by many.
What criteria should be used to choose footwear for hunting in autumn or winter, what to consider when buying, which manufacturers it is desirable to focus on - understanding all such nuances will avoid the most typical mistakes made by novice amateur fishermen.
The general requirements for any footwear for hunting or fishing, even in autumn, even in winter, are the same - durability (which implies increased resistance to wear), convenience, comfort and high-quality protection from such negative external factors as dampness and cold. But to consider this issue only from the point of view of the expediency of purchasing certain boots (boots, high fur boots) is not entirely correct. Rather, it is a set that includes such items of "equipment" as socks and insoles. This is also not worth forgetting.
What to Consider When Choosing Shoes for Hunting
Fishing type
If the hunt is carried out in a running way, then the requirements for footwear are somewhat stricter. And this is understandable, since it is often necessary to move along an intersected route, to overcome areas with different types of soil. The specificity of the territory on which it is planned to hunt is also important - woodland, mountainous, swampy, and so on.
Season
For autumn, shoes are selected lighter and not as insulated as for winter fishing. Plus, no thick socks are required. It's another matter if boots are purchased for all occasions, for any season. The criteria for making the right choice are discussed below.
Care products
What is good about the product famous brand? Large companies care not only about the quality of boots, boots, insoles, but also about the development and supply to the market of various preparations that can extend the service life of hunting shoes. Therefore, it is not out of place to ask if there are any creams, ointments, and so on from this manufacturer. As an option - what he recommends to use for the care of boots or boots.
Inexperienced hunters overlook the fact that randomly chosen means can reduce the breathability of the material, and the feet in such shoes will sweat quickly. And this is just one of the indicators of the appropriateness of using the corresponding products, although there are much more of them - the compatibility of the base and the drug, and so on.
Hunting shoe classification
There are three main groups, depending on the intended use and performance characteristics.
Rubber boots
Unlike traditional rubber boots, they are equipped with special liners, which simultaneously serve as insulation and shock absorber. But they are suitable only for autumn and early winter, as at temperatures below -8 ºС they lose their elasticity, and the legs begin to freeze in them. As a rule, purchased for hunting waterfowl or in wetlands.
Canadian boots
A modernized version, consisting of two "structural" parts. Bottom - galoshes made of high quality rubber, upper - leather (expensive models of hunting shoes), tarpaulin or synthetics. These boots are ideal for winter, especially since you can choose the most applicable to local conditions thermal insulating insoles from the same manufacturer - woolen, synthetic, felt and even fur.
In such boots, the hunter will be comfortable, even if the temperature outside is extremely low - up to -45. Your feet will definitely not freeze. Such models are popular with winter fishing enthusiasts, polar explorers, and ski tourists.
Boots
For hunting, not only specimens are suitable, in the documentation for which (or on the tags) exactly this purpose is indicated. Similar footwear is produced for climbers, skiers, and the military. The main thing is that it (and its equipment) meet the requirements for it.
The main criteria for choosing shoes for hunting
Boots
The ability to fit them "on the leg". Even with the same foot size for two hunters, one will find the shoes they like (which implies the comfort of wearing), while the other will feel some discomfort. If not in the store, then only later, at home, after the next fitting. It is believed that this is not critical, and is often perceived only as a temporary inconvenience - nothing, spread (although it is not a fact that this will be the case). Now let's imagine that in such shoes you have to spend the whole day in nature. How long will the hunter withstand, will he leave the race in a couple of hours?
What is the reason for this discrepancy? Absolutely identical people do not exist. Even twins have characteristic differences by which the mother recognizes them. This fully applies to anatomical features, including feet. That is why hunting shoes should be purchased from well-known manufacturers who do not miss this nuance. Their boots have special lacing or velcro fasteners to make a precise fit to the foot.
In addition, you should also take into account the seasonal factor. Unlike in autumn, during winter fishing, you will have to additionally insulate your legs. As a rule, thick socks help out, since a second insole in a similar situation is not the best solution.
Protection against moisture penetration inside. V in this case It does not mean the material from which the hunting shoes are made, but the location of the fasteners or lacing. It is this part of the boots that is the most vulnerable in terms of protection. When choosing shoes for hunting, you should find out if there are so-called safety valves on them. Otherwise, even when walking on the field, the legs will quickly get wet, since the chain (with rare exceptions) lines up and starts moving early in the morning, when there is still dew on the grass. By the way, neglect of this "detail" is one of the main reasons why novice fishermen quickly withdraw from the race.
Boots are considered all-purpose footwear for the hunter, but if fishing is carried out in wetlands, then they are unlikely to work.
There are also a number of parameters that influence the choice, but they are not decisive. For example, the color scheme of a product. Many hunters wear camouflage robes and overalls over their clothes. In this case, are camouflage shoes really necessary if they are hidden? To select the optimal model of boots for hunting, the criteria indicated above are sufficient.
Boots
The main criteria (in the part concerning) have already been noted. What should be evaluated additionally?
Height. For autumn hunting in wetlands, you should choose boots with tops above the knee. This ensures that even if you have to walk on water in some area, it will not get inside. Such boots are also suitable for those who hunt in snowy areas, when periodically falling into the crust almost waist-deep is a common thing. Shaft construction. They should not fit snugly against the leg. This allows trousers to be tucked in, thereby providing additional shin insulation. And the bottom of the pants will not gradually get wet.
Insoles
Regardless of the material of manufacture, the requirements for them are identical:
- hygiene;
- low thermal conductivity;
- elasticity, which implies good cushioning.
For people with flat feet when hunting, instep insoles are preferable.
Socks
The best option for winter fishing is 3 pairs in the following sequence: woolen (to improve blood circulation, since during hunting, the villi constantly massage the feet), cotton (to accumulate moisture if the legs start to fog up) and synthetic (to protect the previous layers from increased abrasion ). In addition, such a complex "design" creates air gaps that serve as additional thermal insulation.
On sale there are special socks for hunters, tourists and so on, that is, people who spend a significant part of their time in nature. It is advisable, when purchasing shoes, at the same time to buy them. There are several options for hunting socks - neoprene with a gortex layer and a number of others.
A quick overview of the major hunting shoe manufacturers and their cost
Approximate prices, in Russian rubles.
As a rule, amateur hunters go out into nature occasionally, a couple of times a month, so it makes no sense to purchase separately autumn and winter options. It is much more advisable to buy shoes that are equally well suited for any season. But it is difficult to say whether it is worth saving, or focusing only on well-known manufacturers. This is true for hunter-fishermen who are constantly in extreme conditions.
In case of irregular trips, according to the author, you can limit yourself to buying budget shoes. Moreover, much is determined not only by the quality of the product, but also by the accuracy of the owner, the organization of appropriate shoe care, the conditions in which a person prefers to hunt, and a number of other factors. And since such models are relatively cheap, if they are unsuitable for further use, the next purchase will not become too burdensome for the family budget.
Moreover, branded models, along with advantages, have individual disadvantages. It is pointless to list them, since each manufacturer's shoes have their own positive and negative characteristics, which determine the specifics of their use (in relation to hunting conditions). In addition, this article is not an advertisement, and more specific information is easy to find on the dealer's or manufacturer's website.
Among the "branded" products, one can single out the products of North American firms, about which the reviews of professionals are more than laudatory - models under brands Baffin Trapper, Baffin Titan... The price of boots starts at 6 680 (42 rubles).
If you focus on more cheap shoes for hunting, then in this price segment products stand out under the brand name "Lemigo" (Poland)... Decent boots can be purchased for 2,900 - 3,100.
Among domestic footwear for hunting, products under the brands “ Husky "," ROX "," ARDT "," NordMan "," Jnt " and a number of others. In principle, the list of Russian manufacturers is quite impressive. For amateur hunters who go out of town only occasionally, shoes from the Russian Federation are even better.
- First, domestic producers take into account the specifics of our climate, which they know firsthand, unlike foreign ones.
- Secondly, in terms of basic characteristics, "native" footwear is not much inferior to imported counterparts. And this is not an advertisement, but a statement of fact - market relations made companies think about the quality of the final product.
- Thirdly, the cost of domestic hunting boots starts at 780 rubles. Even if they survive only 2 - 3 seasons, then there is no tragedy in this.
For those who are interested in a more extensive list, the following brands of high-quality hunting shoes from the budget category can be cited as an example - ATTACKER, Patboots, BERKUT ZIPP, CORPORAL, AKU, ARAVI MULTICAM... There is a choice, and a very significant one. Moreover, the price for all these models is quite acceptable - in the range from 2,000 to 9,800 rubles.
Asking someone to buy shoes for themselves is the biggest mistake... The features of the anatomical structure have already been mentioned. You should only buy yourself, and preferably in a specialized store. If shoes or boots are taken only for a specific season, then you need to take the necessary paraphernalia with you - insoles, socks. Although it is better to buy everything in a set, along with shoes. Be sure to fully dress, and just a pair, and not just one shoe. Practice shows that if a cheap product is purchased, especially somewhere from a tray, then it is not a fact that the left and right samples are completely identical.
But this is not enough. You need to walk around the store, do several characteristic movements with each foot (up and down, to the sides). If the shoe does not press, does not cause discomfort in any position of the foot and there is some "margin" in size, you can take it.
Nowadays, various online stores are gaining more and more popularity. And this is understandable - prices are somewhat lower than market prices, moreover, with home delivery. But there are many such services, and not all of them, unfortunately, are trustworthy. One of the indicators of the seller's reliability is the design of the site and the presence of positive reviews.
Experienced hunters always take spare socks and insoles when going out into the countryside. They do not take up a lot of space in a backpack, but if your feet get wet (and this is possible, even if the shoes are of the highest quality), you will not have to sit somewhere on the edge or in the car, look at your comrades with envy and wait for everything to dry out. And this still needs to be organized, which can be quite problematic to do outside the home in winter or autumn.Nezhdanov M.
Rocky Buck Stalker Light Rubber Zipper
In our market, this expensive footwear (photo 1) is a novelty from a well-known overseas manufacturer with a 70-year history and a huge range of products. The model is positioned for hunters, but it suits fishermen just as well. True, at first glance, you will not understand why they are asking for decent money. It seems, not for anything - well, perhaps for a fancy appearance: camouflage, a steep sole, all sorts of zippers-straps. But no inserts are observed, and the top of the boot does not clearly indicate that they can be suitable for winter. My friend also doubted at first - and bought them more likely for the autumn-spring fishing. But he took note of the application for minus to "twenty", as well as the information that thinsulate is integrated into the structure, and with high density indicators, and, accordingly, thermal insulation. All is interesting, the "enemies" write the truth - or is it just another marketing "duck"?
And so the season began, and the boots began to go fishing. Once, twice, three times ... And timid expectations were replaced with a gradual increase in frost, confidence in the quality of these shoes - and compliance with this quality of the price.
I don’t know the technological intricacies of production and, naturally, I didn’t dissect these boots - too expensive item to satisfy curiosity. But I can tell a story from my life that allows me to believe in such cold-resistant properties of shoes that are declared by the manufacturer, and in the actual presence of which there is great doubt. Once, back in Soviet times, my father, beaming with happiness, brought rubber boots. It seems - boots are like boots, without inserts, only a bit thick. He says that I will ride now in severe frosts, when there will be a lot of water under the deep snow (well, just like we did in the past winters). And he began to ride. At first, the men twisted their fingers at their temples. And he knows himself pollavat. And he walks everywhere calmly, when the rest in their felt boots with wretched galoshes make their way along the trodden paths. Naturally, my legs did not freeze either. What's the matter? And this was a shoe made from Polarino equipment. The boot consisted, as it were, of two, inserted into each other. And between them, in a kind of honeycomb - filling from eider down. And this whole system made it possible to fish in these boots at minus fifteen or twenty with a regular toe. I think these Rocky have something similar.
Now we will consider all the advantages according to the already familiar scheme.
1. The claim for high cold hardiness is confirmed. We have reliably found out that when using only one thin thermosock, you can safely catch in frost up to "ten" all day with average activity, without any freezing of the legs during periods of long calm. If you use fleece in addition, then the lower limit (minus 20 ° C) is quite accessible when constant active fishing is assumed.
2. The boots have very good soles (photo 2). The foot is comfortable, the last is comfortable, with long transitions - no fatigue. From the sides, the front part of the foot and toes does not tighten, at the same time the foot does not dangle. The heel counter optimally fixes the heel and the Achilles - and provides additional reliable lateral support, the boot sits like a glove. Leaving it in sticky mud or a snowdrift is unrealistic. The outsole has a tread with a pronounced large spike, which is moderately sliding on ice and well-clinging to the ground or snow, like a boot (photo 3).
3. The material of the boot is soft and not affected by frost. Which is not surprising, since It is a dense neoprene with a thickness of about 5 mm at the top of the shaft. Thinsulate, as you understand, also does not add rudeness. This combination made it possible to achieve a completely acceptable mass for such shoes - the boots are not heavy, i.e. ... Light rubber("Light rubber") in the title - the truth.
4. The absorbency of the viscera Buck Stalker- quite satisfactory for any day fishing. The micro-porous open structure of the seamy surface (the outer side of the boot is laminated) keeps your feet dry enough even at the end of an active fishing day with long transitions, even with one simple toe. When using replaceable high-quality woolen socks that accumulate moisture well, there will be enough comfort for a couple of days of active fishing.
5. Serious attention the manufacturer paid to the boot of this model. Not only is it wide in itself, and, as you can see in the photo, in addition to the belt bracing (photo 4), there is also a long zipper on the inner side of the bootleg (photo 5). This allows people with any calf volume to wear this model or tuck their pants inside without any effort. Lightning in no way affects the quality of the waterproofing - under it the boot has a thick rubber membrane that folds like a fan.
6. The height of the boot is greater than that of many analogues, which is sometimes important when overcoming water obstacles, especially at the end of the winter season.
But you can't do without cons.
1. There is no pull-down cuff on top of the bootleg, because such a design simply does not imply its presence. Therefore, when moving through deep snow, all hope is only for the quality of the fit.
2. Thorough drying of boots is required after fishing - lack of any shoes without liners
3. Well, the main disadvantage is that Buck Stalkers were created only for people with not very high rise. This is immediately noticeable from photo 6. I don’t know why the manufacturers decided that, but what do we have ... I cannot wear such shoes, if only they are a couple of sizes larger. But do I need it?
Summary. Full compliance with the declared ("very warm and comfortable shoes") and the actual. A worthy investment. An excellent choice for low to medium-high climbers who prefer one- and two-day fishing trips, especially those involving intense activity on the ice and long hikes. Zherlichniki and lurers who love inland waters, where water porridge is almost always on the ice in deep snow - this model is for you.
Muck boot tay sport
Second model from Muck Boot in my review. And if the first - Avon - is rather a shoe for the off-season, then Tay Sport (photo 7) is already full-fledged winter boots. By general principle they are similar in design to Avon - a molded boot that turns into a neoprene boot, but they differ noticeably in specific solutions.
The lower part of the boot is sporty, but very powerful, with a massive heel, with clearly visible areas of reinforcement. If we look inside, we will see that the overall thickness of the bootleg is quite impressive, respectively - at the bottom it is still steeper, and the seamy surface is a layer of dense fleece (photo 8). It is clear that all this is designed for serious operating conditions.
Usage Tay sport showed that the application for a temperature of minus 15 - 20 ° C (depending on which socks to wear) is close to the truth. Fishing in these boots with "top ten" (albeit quite active - zerlichny) with only one light thermosock is completely comfortable, there are no signs of freezing for the whole day. When a thin fleece sock was additionally worn, then minus 13 ° С - with the same positive emotions. It is easy to guess that if you insulate yourself "in an adult way" - thick thermal and thick fleece or thinsulate socks, it will be even better. Surely the G20 is not terrible either. But still - when moving.
They also showed themselves well on fishing in the winter, at temperatures of plus or minus zero. All day in Tay Sport in a boat, absolutely motionless, on one toe - and feet dry and warm during the whole fishing trip.
What are the pros?
1. Thick, special profile sole (photo 9) with an integrated foam layer provides both good thermal insulation and excellent lateral support.
2. The dinosaur-like backdrop (photo 10), in addition to the convenience of taking off the boots without the help of hands, provides one hundred percent mechanical protection of the heel area and allows you to calmly punch a rather thick ice crust in the hole with your boot.
3. Very good and increased, practically - maximum for an average height, the height of the boots, in combination with a thick sole, further improves the "all-terrain".
4. The absorbency of the inner layers is increased. A whole day of active fishing in one sock does not lead to dampness. With woolen socks, you can catch two days. But it's still very individual. Sweating is a fickle thing, everyone has their own and sometimes differs at times.
5. High rise. Suitable for people with all legs.
6. Narrow, but soft and very elastic boot, into which you can tuck the legs, having previously rolled it down. At the same time, there is no need to be afraid of pinching, with normal fattened legs. The plus from this is the following. Having dressed in this way, i.e. the bootleg over the pants, we provide complete isolation of the legs from the external environment - neither snow nor water gets there. If the pants are also waterproof, then you can dive up to the waist.
There was such a case this year on the first day. At the exit from the lake in the coastal reed, my friend abruptly plunged to about the causal point. When I got out, the "strict commission" found that literally three drops got into the boots. He was dressed in a Sea Fox "float".
And the cons?
1. The block of these boots is not without problems: some complain of fatigue of the lower leg muscles when walking for a long time. If you are familiar with skates, then you know how your feet can ache. A similar effect is likely to occur here.
2. The protector of the boots has a weak anti-skid function on ice. Looking at him (photo 11), it is clear that, in principle, it should be so.
Summary. Tay sport is a good shoe for most of the specific situations faced by all-season anglers. With a chance to fall off the coast on the first or last ice. Or if there are “living” cracks and gullies on the reservoir already in the midst of winter. When there is a lot of water, snow, or both on the ice. For boat fishing in early spring or late autumn. For all this, these boots should be considered as one of the main options. A perfect addition to a float suit. But not for long crossings.
Lemigo brand boots
Similar models are sold under the brand name Wellington... Boots suitable for our parameters (high and warm) from this Polish manufacturer can be considered without special division into models, because the differences are not so significant that each should be given a separate chapter - it is enough to indicate the main features.
All models, and this is Greenlander (photo 12), Worker and Arctic thermo are made of specially foamed EVA material with a smooth hydrophobic surface (photo 13) on both sides. The air content in the structure is very high. This has both pros and cons. Boots differ in their liners, the thickness of the sole and its rigidity, as well as in which legs are more suitable.
Greenlander and Worker- the models are more demi-season than winter ones - their inserts are single-layer and rather thin, with low absorbency (photo 14). The real maximums of temperature regimes are minus 7 ° С for sedentary fishing and minus 15 ° С for active fishing methods. If the street is "twenty", then you need to run without a break, stopping in place for longer than 15 minutes leads to freezing. But this is if you use boots with one thick thermal sock (or a pair of thin ones). Accordingly, with additional serious insulation, the lower border will shift by 3 - 4 degrees.
Worker (photo 15) is, as the name implies, work boots, and they, as it should be for a similar shoe, are reinforced in the toe and on the sole with special rigid elements to protect against impacts and punctures (and the heel is more funky). This option is very important when driving on hummocks. But you will have to pay a thousand more for it. Greenlander will not protect your legs in any way in this situation.
Arctic thermo(photo 16) - the boots are already much warmer. Their liner is thick, double (photo 17), and the boot itself is more serious. The same sole, for example, is much more massive, which means both better thermal insulation and mechanical protection. In addition, they have, unlike the other two models, a wide tightening cuff on the top from snow ingress - these boots are designed specifically for full-fledged winter use. Their real temperature regime is up to minus 15 ° С with low activity of the angler. And up to minus 25 ° C when moving, typical for spinners or zherlichnikov.
All models differ in the height in rise. Arctic Thermo, for example, can be worn by anyone with any type of foot. Worker - on the contrary, only for those who have a low rise. I tried to put on shoes two sizes larger, so he squeezes me with a simple toe. Greenlander is somewhere in the middle on this indicator, and will suit, in principle, the majority. In any case, only fitting will show which boots and what size should be taken.
Having considered the main differences between the models we are interested in, we can now, according to the usual scheme, highlight the main advantages and disadvantages. So the pros.
1. The heavily foamed material of the bootlegs, apart from a large amount of inert air in the structure, which provides excellent thermal insulation, also has a minimum weight - the boots weigh nothing. According to this indicator, Lemigo is absolutely out of competition.
2. This material is very soft and resilient. It bends calmly and does not form any rigid ribs when radically changing the shape, which can cause discomfort or rub somewhere.
3. Drying of the inside is very fast.
4. Comfortable last, ample nose width and tight heel and Achilles coverage. A long walk (and just a pastime in Lemigo) will be pleasant and easy.
5. All models can be easily removed without using hands (photo 18).
6. Delivery of spare liners for all models has been arranged. A very important option.
7. The price of all Lemigo shoes is budget. Excellent value for money.
There are also enough cons.
1. The foam material has low mechanical strength. It is not difficult to damage boots with knives, knots, thorns.
2. If you do not take the Worker, then the legs are poorly protected from external influences - stones, snags, protruding ice floes.
3. Insufficient boot volume. Considering that this is not neoprene and not lacing, and, therefore, the circumference of the bootleg is unchanged - we are faced with a problem with a slightly increased size of the calf muscles, when the legs of the suit must be tucked in. And with highly developed calves, except for the leg itself, nothing will fit in thermal underwear.
4. The tread is mediocre (pictured 19 shows the Greenlander sole). And on ice with a film of water it is slippery, and does not particularly cling to the surface. True, on dry ice, even smooth ice, it holds surprisingly well.
5. The problematic place is the fitting of boots with inserts of the optimal size. Often you take to measure - the total stock is still large, and you put on the insert, and it presses a little. But this is not a sock that stretches where necessary. And it turns out that the boot is both small and large at the same time. Annoys. After all, you will have to buy additional inserts for the boots, the size is more spacious.
Summary. Not a bad choice for those who do not want to spend a lot of money on the purchase of special shoes and go out for winter fishing only periodically. But who needs warm ones at the same time knee-high boots general purpose, i.e. to someone who spends a lot of time outside the city. As a fishing shoe, thanks to the removable liners, they will be useful for multi-day trips, especially with a large volume of movement. Naturally, with a margin of temperature.
Now, as I promised in the first part, let's talk a little about shoes that are not completely waterproof boots with a high monolithic shaft. These are models for normal winters with standard rainfall.
Rocky Jasper Traс
Boots (or boots - that's what anyone calls such shoes) of a design familiar to many for a variety of out-of-town pastime. Sometimes you can't do without them in the city. Rubber bottom, lace-up leather upper, removable liner.
Such models are produced by many firms and differ only in the combination of materials and the degree of insulation. I and my friends had a lot of all sorts of things from this category - convenient and not very, high quality and sloppy, but all those products have long been discontinued, and, therefore, there will be no talk about them. A Jasper Traс at the moment it is supplied to Russia and is actively sold in stores, so it is worth talking about it in detail.
These are quite budget footwear (more than one and a half times cheaper than those described Buck Stalker Light Rubber Zipper the same company) for medium frosts, designed for the most active movement. This winter they have already found use for fishing (photo 20). And, undoubtedly, they will come in handy closer to spring, at the end of the worst cold weather, since they have surpassed all the wildest expectations in their working qualities. Based on the results of several visits to reservoirs and use in general, we can already say the following. The cold claim (at least on the website of the Russian representative) is up to minus 10 ° С, but it can be reasonably argued that it is seriously underestimated, especially if you are actively fishing. In these boots, they even drove in minus 24 ° C - and that's okay. Freezing of the legs began only after 40 minutes of getting stuck on one "dispensing" hole, the rest of the day went without problems. In case of frost before the “twenty”, one does not even remember about the cold in the lower extremities. And that's all (attention!) - with one thin thermosoque. When taking the same additional measures in terms of thermal insulation - a warm insole and a second, but already thick, moisture-wicking sock - any frost reasonable for fishing becomes acceptable in relation to Jasper Tras, especially when luring a perch or fishing on a gutter.
Well, let's see the pros.
1. The lower part is made so that the foot is very comfortable. The galoshe takes into account all the features of the anatomy of a standard foot. Nowhere will it squeeze and rub anything.
2. Lace-up suede upper and chubby liner provide ankle and ankle comfort. Enjoy as much as your heart desires.
3. Compared to some analogues from other firms, the galoshe is thoroughly reinforced in the front (photo 21) and at the back (photo 22) with various elements that provide mechanical protection against impacts.
4. The insert is made very competently. Not only is it soft and pleasant on the leg, it is also sewn correctly for people, although a more complex cut is used, which complicates the manufacturing technology. In front he has a solid cut from the middle of the ascent (photo 23). Sometimes this can be a minus when the liner is rough, but in this case it can be considered an advantage. You can easily tuck all the lower layers of insulation into it, and even the pants from the suit, then lace up your boots - and you will not experience distracting sensations when walking. Heat saving will only benefit from this, because the ankle joints will be maximally protected from the cold, and this will automatically affect your feet.
5. Weight is minimal. There is simply nothing to weigh. Rubber is a minimum, suede is a light thing, the insulation of the boot itself is insignificant, the liner is almost everywhere airy.
6. Drying of the insert takes very little time.
The cons are as follows.
1. The lacing step at the bottom is too big. When the material on the top is rough and thick, it's okay. But here - soft suede, and this complicates the process of proper shoeing, or rather, tightening the laces.
2. The sole (photo 24), although declared as a special anti-slip, is actually not so good. On the smooth lake ice, it is very mediocre - you will not relax much - it is better to wear thorns. But on snow and ground, the tread already holds well.
Summary. Boots for fishing and outdoor activities with little snow. Most temperature conditions, excluding powerful thaws and especially severe frosts, will cope with the protection of your feet from the cold. Long transitions and active in all respects fishing in Jasper Traс will be pleasant and comfortable. Decent footwear for reasonable money. The price / quality ratio is one of the best. In addition, they can be used in urban conditions as boots for bad weather - slush or severe frost.
Baffin Combo Top Boots With Belt Buckles
The company has always produced a wide range of similar shoes and in a variety of designs. Anyone could find what they needed - either according to the terms of use or the price. Shoes Squamish(photo 25), designed for severe frosts, I bought it three years ago. The experience of using these shoes by my friends prompted me to do this. And the main thing here was that excellent frost protection is combined with good "breathing" properties. Using this model as an example, you can evaluate all the advantages and disadvantages of shoes of a similar design.
What are Squamish? The bottom is a rather high overshoe made of thick soft rubber with good tread. Upper - a combination of leather elements and dense, with additional insulation on the inner surface, windproof nylon fabric. Inside there is a thermal insert. The bootlegs are fixed on the leg with the help of two straps - one, with Velcro, covers the leg above the instep - it does the main fixation (photo 26), and the second, on the fastener, squeezes the boot somewhere in the middle of the lower leg. The system is convenient and practical.
My boots have an application for frost resistance up to minus sixty. But, as is customary "in the civilized world," in fact, you need to divide by two, if we mean fishing. And the boots calmly cope with frost up to "thirty", even with just one thermosuper. At least last year I spent the whole day on ice trout fishing (when there was a big shoot on Vuoksa) with a minimum of movement, i.e. came - drilled - remained in place until the evening, and the legs were in perfect order, only the hands and the fifth point from the cold box were frozen. And the frost was minus 25 - 27 ° С all day.
What are the advantages of such models?
1. Due to its system of fixation on the leg and free halo, these boots are suitable for people with any type of foot. Both the width of the foot and the height of the rise are absolutely not important - anyone will fit in and tighten the belts so that it will be as comfortable as possible when driving.
2. Low weight. The earbuds weigh practically nothing, and so do the nylon parts. The rest - rubber and leather - remains a little bit.
3. High-quality thermal insulation. High-tech multi-layer earbuds Baffin(photo 27) are already good on their own, plus there is additional help on your sole in the form of a serious layer of inert air, because thick perforated honeycomb insoles are used (photo 28).
4. Nylon upper "breathes" well, leading excess steam out with little or no resistance. In the lower part, especially from the soles of the feet, excess moisture goes, if not up, then down - into the void of the air pockets of the insoles.
5. Sufficiently comfortable last, softness and good anti-slip properties of complex outsole make the transitions very pleasant. At least 15 - 20 km a day is about nothing. And any movements during fishing are not at all annoying - you simply do not feel these shoes.
6. The sole area (photo 29) is much larger than that of many models of winter shoes. It's like small snowshoes - they won't save you over loose fresh snow, but over caked snow and over ice they can noticeably reduce the "sinking".
7. Drying of the earbuds takes a minimum of time.
But there are also disadvantages, and one is very serious. These shoes are absolutely not designed for the conditions that we had in previous winters: their moisture resistance is practically zero. If there is a centimeter layer of water on the ice, then wherever it went, the spray is not so terrible, although the top gets wet gradually. But if the water is higher than galoshes, then immediately "alles kaput". You will feel how the water is washing your feet in streams.
And secondly, nylon is a rather delicate material for extreme shoes. For example, it is not so important to me, I am careful. But there are people who have - talent: then they will run into a mote, then on the knives of an ice screw. In this case, this is a correct repair.
Summary. Boots like these are undoubtedly very good things when used correctly. They are suitable for any kind of fishing, both the most active and almost stationary. Ideal for those who travel far and long to fish in winter. For example, to Karelia for a week. In this case, you will not have to worry about the everyday dryness of your shoes. And you will not remember the tiredness of your legs. The type of foot is not important. The main thing is important - in no case use such boots with a noticeable amount of water on the ice. Frost - yes, water - no!
Rocky Ridge Top Hiker
The company has Rocky and here is such an interesting model (photo 30). And especially the fact that she is on Gore-Tex. But let's call it suitable for winter fishing conditionally. And then you will understand why.
Outwardly, these are the usual sports and tourist footwear, very comfortable, warm and waterproof. Most of the firms operating in the outdoor industry have similar models, and, in principle, all of them can be considered constructively satisfactory for winter fishing in some conditions. There are either classic boots with a bottom in the form of a waterproof rubber overshoe (from Columbia, for example), or shoes with a membrane (Merrell and other firms). There is no need to consider all of them in this article, and there is no possibility, but using this very successful model as an example - Ridge Top Hiker- you can get some idea about the advantages, disadvantages and the specific area of application of such shoes.
1. Being completely leather, the shoes, nevertheless, "breathe" very well. Not as much as the models based on textiles, but still Gore-Tex plays a role in the design. A habitual test to make sure - put on disposable hospital shoe covers over your shoes and stay in this for a while at home - a decent amount of condensation will collect in the shoe covers. This means dry feet in all conditions. Under any load.
2. Really complete waterproofness. At least until the boots are worn out "to death." Thick skin only helps this, making them generally unkillable. It will not be eternal, of course, over time any membrane dies, but for a couple of years it will remain in perfect order - with proper care, of course.
3. Very comfortable shoe, sufficient internal volume, low weight - a comfortable condition of the foot for any duration of walking. A particularly soft and elastic heel, based on the principle of air or gel cushions used in sneakers, makes walking for many hours, even on asphalt, bare ice and stones, completely tireless.
4. The protector (photo 31) bites to death in a slippery surface. Competitors are not easy to find in terms of grip quality.
5. Long lacing will allow such boots to fit under any foot, with any instep.
6. Very high quality metal fittings for laces.
7. Appearance- very decent. Ridge Top Hiker may well be viewed as an urban shoe, especially during troubled periods, when there is a lot of water, heavy ice and other nasty things.
Well, the disadvantages.
1. The application for frost resistance is very small - only minus five. Which is not surprising: the insulation layer (photo 32) is insignificant. But the membrane in an alliance with a good thick thermosoice will still allow you to fish with minimal frost, and even more so - in a thaw or in the off-season.
2. The low height of these boots - just above the ankle joints - will not allow using these shoes in deep snow, a solid layer of water on the ice, or when a strong downwind is blowing - penetration of any unpleasant sensations into the ankle area is guaranteed.
Summary. By itself, this is already very good, the most versatile and modern footwear at temperatures around zero degrees. With the widest scope of application. In our latitudes, the period of active wearing can be up to four, or even five (like this year) months.
If you take fishing, then, unambiguously, these are boat trips in the cool season. And also fishing from ice at a time when temperatures high for winter are combined with perfectly smooth or almost clean ice without much snow and water on it, but access to the ice itself is not complicated by the widespread banks. Such conditions are not so rare, especially in the spring or in the first time after freeze-up. The Ridge Top Hiker will be especially good in the midst of spring, when the morning frost is replaced by the real warmth of the day - and the legs begin to boil in frost-resistant boots. In moderate frosts, these shoes can be used for the road to the reservoir and many kilometers of ice crossings to the place, followed by changing into warm dry boots.
Rocky Sport Utility Pro Max
Interesting model of warm leather shoes, which I became the owner of last year. As you can see (photo 33), these are typical trekking boots, but very chubby, even massive. Which is not surprising, since this plumpness is provided by powerful insulation.
This footwear is designed for use in decent frost conditions. The application for these bots is minus twenty, and I must say that this is true. I took Utility Pro Max(Max means "long"), counting not only on fishing, but also as footwear for urban conditions, when the frost hits under thirty. And as you can see, they hit, did not go anywhere, no matter how long autumn this year was.
Have Rocky still simple Utility Pro, with a shorter bootleg, but I took the ones that are noticeably higher. Still more long boots definitely better if you keep in mind the main purpose of fishing or hunting.
In addition to insulation with thinsulate (photo 34), the technology of complete water repellency was also applied. And while the shoes are quite new - no complaints about dry feet. In general, I am very satisfied. And they cost quite reasonable money.
What are their main advantages?
1. Good frost protection. With one thermosuper at minus ten, you don't even remember your legs. If you add a woolen sock or fleece, then the application is completed without problems, especially if you move at least a little, and do not sit down until the evening at one point after a many kilometers walk. This is also facilitated by the thick sole, which perfectly insulates the foot from the cold, and an additional insole made of foam material, and very warm, tight-fitting bootlegs, closed to the very top, which actually heat up your ankles (I have never experienced such sensations in any shoe before. ). And when they're hot, it's easier to keep your feet warm too.
2. Water resistance is sufficient to constantly walk on snow, under which there are several centimeters of water slurry. The whole day I ran away somehow along the lake (photo 35), where there was from a centimeter to ten water, everyone waited for a little more - and it would start to damp. No, I didn't wait. But this is normal for leather shoes: if they are made correctly, then there is nothing supernatural here.
3. The most reliable fixation of the ankle, practically eliminating twisting or dislocation when in an unpleasant position. The boot itself is quite hard (photo 36), especially in the upper part. If you lace up it tightly, then the initial sensations are somewhat reminiscent of hockey skates or ski (snowboard) boots. You can walk everywhere. And the thickness and density of all parts is such that you don't have to think about possible shock injuries.
4. The block is created for long active movements and does not interfere at all with any other actions. Convenience is also facilitated by the aforementioned warm insole of a special sports profile, and the supercomfortable position of the foot in the boot - the leg is completely free (it does not press anything anywhere, neither from the sides, nor from above), but it does not hang out either. The first long-distance fishing trip surprised me. Having typed only three hours of walking at a fast pace in a day, and also on the snow from time to time, at the end of the fishing I found that almost everything was tired in me, except for the feet themselves. Although the boots are not fluffy, powerful leather shoes a priori cannot be light.
5. I was surprised by the moisture capacity. The inner layers of the boot (Photo 37) absorb a very decent amount of sweat. A whole day of fishing with the most active movement does not lead to dampness, even if you are in the same thermal sock. There is no desire to change shoes on the way home.
6. The sole with a soft rubber protector (Photo 38) holds on the ice quite well, unless it is clogged with sticky snow or frozen "porridge" (Photo 39). The tread itself adheres well to difficult surfaces when walking over rough terrain. I had to climb the slopes once in the winter forest beyond Vuoksa - nothing, never a foot slipped.
7. Since this is a full lacing trekking shoe, it will suit people with any foot parameters. For any instep, for any ankles, for any volume of calf muscles, you can fit these shoes without any problems with the help of laces.
But there are also disadvantages.
1. Periodically serious and rather long drying is required. If you manage to catch a couple of days without any problems, then on longer fishing trips there will be discomfort, and drying such shoes on a hot radiator or stove, you understand, is not good - coarsening of the skin cannot be avoided.
2. The system of fittings for lacing is not the most successful. The elements, however, are reliable, but they are delivered such that they create the strongest friction when tightening the shoe. If when dressing in warmth it is not scary, then re-tightening the frozen laces with frozen hands, if anything, is not very pleasant and easy. And the laces themselves are not laces, they are too thin for such shoes, but this question is not at all critical - you can change if you want in five minutes, which I did.
3. A large number of"Body kit" on the front of the boot (accessories with laces) when driving in frosty snow with water is subject to the inevitable formation of hard-to-remove ice in the form of decent lumps. It may not be critical, but it is a little annoying when the mass of the boot starts to increase.
Summary. Great footwear for short fishing trips from any motor activity and with any range and difficulty of movement to the place, especially when there are a lot of hummocks, stones, fallen trees. Snowmobile fishing. The optimal temperature regime is frosts of medium strength. Zherlichnikov and lure makers, and smelt mongrels, are also perfect. They are also not afraid of water, and you can wear them in the city, which I did in the severe frosts of early February.
In any kind of sport and active activity important role, influencing the result, is played by correctly selected equipment. Hunting is no exception. Winter clothing and footwear for hunting must be warm, moisture-proof and well camouflaged for the hunter, making him invisible against the general background of the terrain.
Winter hunting: shoes
It is a very important piece of hunting equipment. According to the requirements that are imposed on it, hunting footwear is very similar to tourist footwear. It must be moisture resistant, reliable, of high quality and, importantly, comfortable to wear.
If earlier hunters used to wear what was available, now there is no problem to find and purchase special high-quality hunting boots. Manufacturers offer a variety of models and sizes of such equipment.
Important Factors
If winter shoes for hunting is purchased by you for the first time, pay attention to several important factors that will help you not to make a mistake with the purchase. First, there is the type of terrain. Even a beginner understands that hunting in the steppe requires one shoe, while climbing mountains or gorges requires a completely different one. Secondly, important role playing type of hunt. Thirdly, the specificity of the fishery also influences the choice of boots or boots. Hunting ducks or other birds near a pond requires one shoe, while field hunting, say, for a hare or a wild boar, requires another.
Season
An important point is the weather conditions under which it is planned to go fishing. If the weather changes, then the hunter must adapt to its changes by choosing the appropriate type of footwear. During the summer season, hunting shoes are comfortable to wear boots, lightweight and comfortable sneakers or short boots.
Unstable weather in spring and late autumn dictates different conditions for choosing hunting equipment. Here rubber boots, which are more often called bogies, will already be appropriate. This is the most convenient option and the most profitable footwear for hunting in autumn and winter, when slush, dankness and cold prevail.
How to choose bogs
Swampers are hunting boots that require a separate discussion. As a rule, they are equipped with a warm insert - a stocking, which warms the legs and protects from the piercing wind. Considering that in the cold season, additional woolen socks are worn and a felt insole is placed, it is recommended to buy bogs one or even two sizes larger. Thus, the most comfortable conditions are created: the feet are warm and comfortable.
How to choose the right wading boots for hunting? In Soviet times, the choice was small, but the quality of the products was excellent. The bogs were running for a very long time at that time and served the hunter, as they say, faithfully. At present, as experienced experts say, the usual black “Soviet” bogies are no longer the same high-quality and reliable footwear as they used to be. Experts do not recommend buying cheap boots in the "Soviet version". They will last a maximum of a couple of years, and then they will begin to tear and burst at the fold.
Try to find the best value for money. Modern manufacturers offer several models that are successful in terms of quality. One of them are boots with a soft bootleg. Such autumn and winter hunting shoes will be the best option. These boots are very light and comfortable, they can be rolled up if necessary. And during long hunting dashes across the fields, this is a rather significant factor. The only drawback of such shoes is special fastening straps for the bootlegs, which will have to be carried with you, fastened to the belt. This is not always convenient.
When choosing any hunting footwear in the store, be sure to try it on and check all accessories, fasteners, locks, seams and soles for defects.
Boots, felt boots ...
If a trip to the forest is planned for the winter, then completely different hunting shoes will be appropriate here. The best choice is felt boots. You should not save on the quality of products. They must be soft, comfortable and of high quality. Experienced hunters recommend buying felt boots two sizes larger and before going out, be sure to wear them at home for several days. Felt boots tend to change their feet if they are new. Spend a couple of days distributing your shoes at home, and then they will not cause discomfort on the street.
Winter is sometimes not only frosty and snowy, but also slushy and rainy. In this case, it is recommended to put on additional galoshes or insert a rubber insole on boots. Thus, if you hit the non-frozen part of the reservoir and scoop up water with your foot, you will not get wet. Very often hunters use special shoe covers in such weather. They quickly and easily put on boots and protect hunting shoes from getting wet. In addition, shoe covers insulate the foot well.
Choice of clothes
Almost all hunting clothes are selected according to the "cabbage" method, that is, it consists of three or more layers. The lower one, which is adjacent to the body, must necessarily retain heat well and be soft and comfortable to wear. It is better if this layer is made of a special thermal fabric, which retains heat and absorbs sweat well. The choice of thermal underwear is a very responsible process. Correctly selected clothing will prevent hypothermia.
The next layer of "cabbage" is a thing that is already put on over the thermal underwear. She is responsible for ventilation and the correct balance of heat. According to professionals, fleece products are best, as well as natural wool.
The third, outer layer of hunting clothing is a jacket or special hunting suit. This type of ammunition is responsible for protection from the wind, for repelling moisture and creating a competent camouflage. The colors will depend on the type of hunting, weather conditions and terrain.
Experts and seasoned hunters recommend buying products made of membrane fabric, which simultaneously pushes out the moisture accumulated inside and does not let the outside through. The tex mark on the label indicates that this material was used for sewing. The outer layer of the "cabbage" is a jacket. It must be one size larger. This will give the hunter the opportunity to put on another set of underwear if necessary.