Early season boots

[High Climber]

What’s everybody liking for tramping around the mountains in September? I’m due for some new boots this year as my Whites Lochsa have been abused to the point of no return between work and hunting  . I like the whites as they are comfortable, tough, waterproof, and not terribly heavy. Maybe I will buy another pair but wanted to see if I am missing the latest greatest thing in early season footwear!

Criteria: Waterproof, on the lighter side, 6”-10” upper, and tough enough to hunt elk in rough country.

Ideas?

[Rutnbuxnbulls]

I tried to go lighter a few Septembers ago, it was a mistake. Bought a pair of Irish Setters lightweight hikers but no support, no backbone. Then went to a non insulated Crispi Nevada and haven’t had a problem. I were skinny wool socks early, thick ones late. I’m sold on a mountaineering boot. Better support, construction and traction.

[hughjorgan]

I like lowas. Very comfortable no break in time. I’ve been using the baldo gtx in the spring and early fall hunts. Light weight and sturdy boot.

https://www.lowaboots.com/mens/backpacking/baldo-gtx?v=36017

[Jonathan_S]

I am sold on the Asolo Fugitive GTX but like any boot, some like and some hate.

[High Climber]

I tried to go lighter a few Septembers ago, it was a mistake. Bought a pair of Irish Setters lightweight hikers but no support, no backbone. Then went to a non insulated Crispi Nevada and haven’t had a problem. I were skinny wool socks early, thick ones late. I’m sold on a mountaineering boot. Better support, construction and traction.

I’ve had a set of crispis in the past, and will probably have another set at some point. Looking to give something lighter a shot this go around and see if it helps with leg fatigue at all.

[High Climber]

I like lowas. Very comfortable no break in time. I’ve been using the baldo gtx in the spring and early fall hunts. Light weight and sturdy boot.

https://www.lowaboots.com/mens/backpacking/baldo-gtx?v=36017

Those Baldo gtx look like a good contender, thanks I hadn’t seen those before

[High Climber]

I am sold on the Asolo Fugitive GTX but like any boot, some like and some hate.

Those look interesting as well. They remind me of la sportiva glaciers I’ve had. Where do you buy yours? I checked REI in Spokane and nothing in stock.
A couple different guys at work are using the Salewa Repace gtx and love them, again I’m having a hard time finding a set to try on.

[boneaddict]

I guess I’m simple. I wear the same boots in September as I do in November.   Kenetreks and at size 15 they are a cow a piece. 

[High Climber]

I guess I’m simple. I wear the same boots in September as I do in November.   Kenetreks and at size 15 they are a cow a piece. 

Dang mister I thought 14’s were hard to find  . I got a pair of insulated kenetreks for work and late season whitetail hunting last season so I’m in a good spot to get a dedicated pair for warmer weather.

[jrebel]

Same boot year round for hunting and hiking.  Good set of merino wool socks in lighter weight fabric for early hunting and heavier weight for later hunting.  Good socks and good boots really make a difference in my hunting attitude.  Happy feet….happy me!! 

[Rutnbuxnbulls]

Also put good socks on your feet. I like Darn Tough brand, lifetime warranty, tons of styles.

[High Climber]

Good points about the socks gents merino wool is the way to go, darn toughs really are great socks!

[Boss .300 winmag]

I guess I’m simple. I wear the same boots in September as I do in November.   Kenetreks and at size 15 they are a cow a piece. 

Yep.👍

[jrebel]

I wear these socks year around at work.  I work 48 hour shifts and wear boots for the majority of that time.  They hold up super well and my feet never stink.  Great sock at a very reasonable price. 

https://www.sportsmans.com/footwear-outdoor-casual-men-women-youth/mens-outdoor/socks/killik-mens-lightweight-hunting-socks/p/1737698?channel=shopping&gclid=CjwKCAjw8ZKmBhArEiwAspcJ7i_MGc-csuJYpCnOzVU0zPkXCJhF2_eGV5ur6cgDNr7ACdtWQSctAhoC52kQAvD_BwE

[mburrows]

Same for me as far footwear sept through Nov. Some thicker socks when it gets colder and pack an extra pair. I always carry an extra pair of socks to swap when my feet get sweaty especially when it’s cold, makes a big difference for me.

I’m on my 3rd pair of zamberlan baltoros, they’re good to my feet.