Updated March 2023
Cold wet feet are a hunter’s demise. Keeping your feet warm and dry on a hunt is vital for logging long hours in the stand during deer season. Popular among deer hunters in the Midwest, rubber boots have become an essential for serious hunters. Rubber boots are great for keeping your feet dry and warm, while also locking in human odor. This article will discuss the benefits of rubber boots for hunting and well as some of the best products and brands available.
Why Wear Rubber Boots for Hunting?
Many hunters choose to wear rubber boots because of their ability to keep your feet dry. Tall rubber boots provide peace of mind that you can take on any terrain that lies in front of you. This makes rubber boots perfect for crossing creeks and trekking through marshy areas. Rubber hunting boots are also superior to normal boots in terms of scent control by concealing human odor inside. Rubber boots also come in various levels of insulation. 800 grams of insulation is a middle-of-the-road insulation level that are great for all season use, whereas 1,600 grams in more for colder conditions. 400 grams of insulation is typically best for more mild temperatures.
One of the drawbacks of rubber boots is that they do not allow your feet to breath, leading to sweaty feet. This is great for keeping in warmth, but when you are walking long distances, your feet will perspire with nowhere for the moisture to go. To combat this, many hunters rely on Merino wool socks to wick away moisture and keep your feet dry and warm. A few good pairs of Merino wool socks are the RealTree Heavyweight Merino Wood Socks or the Darn Tough Merino Wool Boot Socks.
10 Best Rubber Hunting Boots
1. Arctic Shield Waterproof Rubber Boots – Arctic Shield’s classic waterproof rubber boots are a combination of rubber and neoprene for superior comfort and durability. The neoprene uppers provide extreme flex when walking long distances, making them easy to wear all day. These boots are perfect for mud, water, snow and sloppy conditions while offering 100% waterproof protection. The insulation in these boots retains your body heat while keeping out cold air for long-lasting warmth.
2. Lacrosse Alphaburly Pro 18” Boots – Lacrosse’s Alphaburly Pro rubber boots are one of the best pairs of rubber hunting boots available. Their combination of comfort and durability make the Alphaburly Pro’s a great option for any situation. The scent-free rubber and insulating neoprene make these boots perfect for cold, rain and harsh terrain. As a mid-weight boot, the 800 grams of insulation provide adequate warmth for all phases of the season. Available in over ten camo patterns, Lacrosse’s Alphaburly Pro rubber boots are guaranteed to last for many seasons. The Alphaburly Pros are also available with 400 gram and 1,600 gram insulation depending on your needs.
3. BOGS Classic Waterproof Boots – BOGS classic waterproof boots are some of the original rubber hunting boots available. Tried and tested by numerous hunters, these boots have held up to the test. Constructed with a combination of rubber lowers and neoprene uppers, these boots from BOGS provide lasting comfort for all-day use and are 100% waterproof. For guaranteed dry and warm feet, these classic rubber boots from BOGS are sure to deliver.
4. Muck Arctic Pro Snow Boots – The Muck Arctic Pro rubber snow boots are made for the most severe winter conditions. These are Muck’s warmest boots which include a soft fleece lining for exceptional warmth. The Arctic Pro’s also have a thermal foam lining under the footbed for added heat retainment and are rated for conditions of 30 degrees down to -60 degrees. Their high-grade rubber construction provides added durability and makes them 100% waterproof for maximum protection. Never worry about cold feet again with the Arctic Pro rubber boots by Muck.
5. TIDEWE Multi-Season Rubber Boots – The TIDEWE multi-season rubber boots are constructed with a combination of rubber and neoprene for added flexibility and comfort. Their 100% waterproof design includes deep-treaded soles for increased traction over tough terrain. These boots also are made with a steel shank installed between the insole and outsole for increased durability and strength. At an affordable price point, these rubber boots by TIDEWE are a budget-friendly option for all hunters. If you’re looking for more insulation for colder conditions, check out TIDEWE’s Insulated Rubber Boots.
6. Rocky Mid-Calf Rubber Boots – From a long-standing trusted footwear brand, Rocky’s mid-calf rubber boots are an excellent choice for those looking for guaranteed warmth, dryness and scent control. The aggressive multi-directional outsole is constructed for added traction and increased mobility in harsh conditions. As a bonus, these rubber boots from Rocky include 1,000 grams of 3M Thinsulate Ultra insulation for guaranteed warmth, comfort and heat retention. The quality and durability of these boots are hard to beat!
7. Muck Woody Max Rubber Insulated Boots – The Wood Max insulated rubber boots by Muck are one of their most popular models in terms of waterproofing and heat retention. The rubber lowers, neoprene uppers and fleece lining create a comfortable combination that makes them easy to wear all day. The tapered opening is designed to snug your calf to seal in warmth while keeping cold and debris out. Additionally, the high-grade extended rubber exterior allows for an additional waterproof barrier and extra toughness.
8. Cabela’s Zoned Comfort Trac Insulated Boots – In recent years, Cabela’s has come out with their own line of quality rubber hunting boots. These boots are built for anything and feature 2,000 grams of Thinsulate Ultra insulation, beating out many other boots on insulation density. Their durable rubber construction locks in heat and shields your feet from hazards. The Zoned Comfort Trac’s also feature odor-fighting technology throughout to keep them fresher for longer. These boots are made for anything and will not disappoint. Another popular rubber boot from Cabela’s are their Scent Free Insulated Rubber Boots.
9. Redhead Waterproof Rubber Utility Boots – These rubber hunting boots by Redhead combine rubber and neoprene for all-day comfort with 5mm of insulation and 100% waterproof protection. The durable rubber overlays of these boots provide added durability along with the steel reinforced shanks. These boots from Redhead have all of the functionality of higher-end rubber hunting boots at an affordable price.
10. Guide Gear Bogger Rubber Boots – If you’re looking for a quality rubber hunting boot at an unbeatable price, this is it. Guide Gear’s Bogger rubber hunting boots are made to hold up in any terrain or weather condition. The neoprene uppers and rubber lowers provide natural insulation and complete waterproofing. These boots have calendared rubber outsoles for added traction over extreme terrain. Made to be worn with comfort all day, the Bogger rubber boots by Guide Gear are a go-to for many hunters.
Best Rubber Hunting Boots Brands
- Muck – Muck has been in the rubber hunting boot business since 1999. Many hunters and outdoor enthusiasts trust Muck Boots for their commitment to quality and long lasting products.
- Lacrosse – Lacrosse is also a front-runner for quality rubber hunting boots. The introduction of their Alphaburly 18” rubber boots have been a recurring best-seller for the past few years.
- BOGS – BOGS are another classic rubber boot brand that have been producing quality footwear for many years. Their line of tall rubber boots are some of the best boots out there in terms of comfort and quality.
- Cabela’s – Cabela’s has recently entered the rubber boot market with a variety of different products. Their Redhead line of rubber boots are some of the most affordable rubber boot options available.
As you have read, rubber boots are a great footwear option for many deer hunters. The combination of warmth, dryness and scent control make them ideal for staying comfortable in the stand. To get the most out of your rubber boots, using an electric boots dryer and toe warmers are a good idea. For related articles, check out other posts from Bowhunting Depot!