Hiking and Hunting Boots ... What's your favorite?
By Brian Latturner, MonsterMuleys.com

What shoe/boot is best is a debate that can go on and on, because the fact is, there probably isn't one single shoe/boot that is the greatest for mountain hiking, backpacking and hunting for everyone. So in this short article, I'm going to share with you the hiking shoes and boots that I use during my summer scouting trips, backpack trips and fall hunts. Hopefully this article helps those of you looking for new boots and also encourages you to share your own boot reviews in the MonsterMuleys.com Gear Review Forum.

For summer (warm weather) scouting trips in-which I'm not hauling a heavy load, my favorite is the Salomon XA Pro 3D GTX. I've found this shoe to be very supportive, lightweight and rugged. They hold up pretty well for dry weather and light load hiking. I'm also a huge fan of the lacing system and wish my Merrell's had the same.

In addition to the Salomon shoes, during the summer and even during the fall, I also make heavy use of my Merrell Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots. These boots are probably my favorite because they hold up well and support my ankles well while hauling a heavy load as I do during summer backpack trips. These boots are also waterproof and hold water out much longer than any lighter weight hikers than I have had in the past. Eventually, if it's wet enough long enough, the water does find its way in.....unfortunately. However, they do dry quickly, especially compared to any heavy leather boots. I highly recommend these boots.

Next up, the boots I use during fall hunts when it's a little cooler and there's a better chance of rain and/or snow, but yet not super cold and wet, are the New Balance MO1500GT. I've had them for about 8 years. They've held up great, but I can't find anywhere to buy a replacement pair. I think New Balance quit making them long ago. They're very supportive boots, great to walk in, feature Gore-Tex and do real well in holding the water out. When these boots are ready for retirement, I'm not sure what I'll go with, but it will most likely be a full leather boot as these are.

And finally, the boots I wear when it's cold and there's snow on the ground ... the Rocky 8" Lynx (800g) Hunting Boots. I've owned these bad boys for a number of years. They've held up extremely well and I'm probably due for a new pair. I wear them only when it's cold and typically when there's snow on the ground. Even though they're a bigger boot and heavily insulated, I've never found that hiking was all that much more difficult in them.



What hunting and hiking boots are you using? We'd love to hear your review in the MonsterMuleys.com Gear Review Forum. Please, share what works for you.