Post by: Jonathan_S on July 07, 2015, 08:39:14 AM
What's the best boot out there? I'm thinking hard (pun intended) about the Kenetrek Hardscrabbles. I want something bullet proof, water proof, mid height, steel shank, no insulation and less than $100...okay less than $600 :chuckle:
I was going to send some PMs but I though this would be a good topic for others to read too.
Post by: bracer40 on July 07, 2015, 08:51:15 AM
They're not marketed as a hunting boot. But I can say they've held up well under heavy loads in steep terrain..
I think they were in the $225-250 range at REI about 3-4 years ago
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 07, 2015, 08:53:06 AM
Anyone else? What's been good, what's been bad?
Post by: Netminder01 on July 07, 2015, 09:02:07 AM
Good timing on this thread - I just took my favorite boots into Dave Page (Fremont shoe-smith) and he recommended I trash the boots. Noooooooooooo!
This means I'm in the market for another pair. I've had Lowa and Danners in the past but many years ago. Looking forward to feedback on this thread.
Post by: coop2424 on July 07, 2015, 09:05:02 AM
The key is to find the one that fits your foot best.. Brands Zamberlan, lowa, shnee, meindl, hanwag, scarpa, danner us made.
Post by: quadrafire on July 07, 2015, 09:25:26 AM
Post by: GoldTip on July 07, 2015, 09:51:21 AM
Post by: CoryTDF on July 07, 2015, 09:55:09 AM
http://ireviewgear.com/boots/schnee-schnees-beartooth-hunting-boot-review
http://ireviewgear.com/boots/lowa-ranger-ii-gtx-boot-review
http://ireviewgear.com/boots/zamberlan-164-elk-gt-boot-review
That said I have also had very good luck with Lowa Tibet GTX HI and the Lowa Camino. Kenetreks were ok as well until they failed me. Below is my experience with them.
Kenetrek
I had a pair of the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme noninsulated boots and had a serious problem with them leaking. I cleaned the boots and when I was taking out my insoles i notice a HUGE hole in the heal where my foot had rubbed a hole all the way to the plastic. This surprised me as they had really only been used on a few hunts and had maybe 100 miles or so. I sent the boots to the company and after a week called to make sure they received them. I was told they would call me back. After another week of not hearing anything I called again and was told I was not in the system. They then had to go find my boots. They told me they had called me and e-mailed me and that they were going to offer me a new pair at the discounted price of $300. This floored me! Why the hell would i spend another $300 on a pair of boots that i already spent $400 on and they failed me???!!! I said as much. I was told the tech would call me back and explain. After checking both my email and my voicemail i found that neither had messages from Kenetrek. I called back and told them i had not received anything from them. Obviously, I had not know about it or why would i call to inquire about the boots if i had gotten a message? The person on the phone said they had to review the boots and they would call me back. a short time later i got a call and was told that they would be sending me a new pair and that after review they could see that the boots where not overly worn and that it was not a normal wear issue.
It is great that they are going to send me a new pair of boots and i am thankful but i feel like i should not have had to fight so hard to make that happen. Had i not said anything they would have been fine with letting me spend another $300.
will say this of the boots though, they preform very well in rough terrain. No rolled ankle or sore feet from me. Not ever! The only issue i had was some heal slippage and a few blisters before i broke my feet in. I say feel because I don’t think you can go from shoes and sandals on flat ground to boots and hills without expecting your feet to have a toughing up period. The waterproofing ultimately failed me and a thunderstorm wetted the grass enough that my 8 mile hike was soon very unpleasant as my feet quickly became soaked. Yes, i was wearing a synthetic/wool blend lightweight sock so it was not a sock issue. I use Lorpen socks every time i put on my boots.
Kenetrek boots are comfortable and stable that i can say without a doubt. My boots held water out about as good as a pair of flip flops though. The customer service was shaky at first but in the end they made things right with me. If they fix the leakage issue i would say they are worth the money for sure
Post by: Fl0und3rz on July 07, 2015, 10:12:18 AM
I've had the Vasque summit GTX for a few years with no complaints.
I have a pair of Vasque for about 12 years now, and while they don't get as much use these days, they have held up well with regular maintenance. This is their current iteration.
http://www.amazon.com/Vasque-St-Elias-Backpacking-Beluga/dp/B00AJHDIB2/
They make a fine dry weather boot and do well with gaiters in the dew. Great sole and ankle support.
For really wet and rainy, you cannot beat rubber. I have the Lacrosse 18" uninsulated and carry an extra pair of socks. They are sturdy but lacking in ankle support for side-hilling. But for slogging through wet underbrush in the rain or through slush, no leather boot can keep your feet drier. Something like this.
http://www.amazon.com/LaCrosse-Alphaburly-18-Realtree-Hunting/dp/B00B28UEE6/
For late season in the snow, I have a pair of White pac boots that are sturdy, warm, and dry. I have an extra liner to change out daily if needed. They are heavy, so not a likely candidate for a lightweight backcountry boot.
http://www.whitesboots.com/index.php?dispatch=products.view&product_id=29863
All told, that is near $600 in boots.
Post by: pianoman9701 on July 07, 2015, 10:13:49 AM
Lowa is a brand that I haven't paid much attention to. I'll check them out.
Anyone else? What's been good, what's been bad?
Love my Lowa Ranger GTXs
Post by: BULLBLASTER on July 07, 2015, 10:23:05 AM
I spent enough on boots in the last 5 years that either went to crap or didn't fit right that I feel if these work for a few years I'll be money ahead. Plus my feet love them. :chuckle:
Post by: Rainier10 on July 07, 2015, 10:27:18 AM
Post by: b0bbyg on July 07, 2015, 10:40:45 AM
Lowa is a brand that I haven't paid much attention to. I'll check them out.
Anyone else? What's been good, what's been bad?
I have primarily used Lowas for the last 4-5 years. First pair worked great for 2 years and still was very comfortable but had a minor leak starting. Took back to REI and asked if I could get partial trade or send in for leak fix. They just gave me a new pair and sent me on my way :IBCOOL:
This will be year 3 on that pair I think. At the time they were around $210
Lots of miles in varied terrain. Still happy with them.
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 07, 2015, 10:47:47 AM
Here are a few reviews I have done and a few choices to look at.
http://ireviewgear.com/boots/schnee-schnees-beartooth-hunting-boot-review
http://ireviewgear.com/boots/lowa-ranger-ii-gtx-boot-review
http://ireviewgear.com/boots/zamberlan-164-elk-gt-boot-review
That said I have also had very good luck with Lowa Tibet GTX HI and the Lowa Camino. Kenetreks were ok as well until they failed me. Below is my experience with them.
Kenetrek
I had a pair of the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme noninsulated boots and had a serious problem with them leaking. I cleaned the boots and when I was taking out my insoles i notice a HUGE hole in the heal where my foot had rubbed a hole all the way to the plastic. This surprised me as they had really only been used on a few hunts and had maybe 100 miles or so. I sent the boots to the company and after a week called to make sure they received them. I was told they would call me back. After another week of not hearing anything I called again and was told I was not in the system. They then had to go find my boots. They told me they had called me and e-mailed me and that they were going to offer me a new pair at the discounted price of $300. This floored me! Why the hell would i spend another $300 on a pair of boots that i already spent $400 on and they failed me???!!! I said as much. I was told the tech would call me back and explain. After checking both my email and my voicemail i found that neither had messages from Kenetrek. I called back and told them i had not received anything from them. Obviously, I had not know about it or why would i call to inquire about the boots if i had gotten a message? The person on the phone said they had to review the boots and they would call me back. a short time later i got a call and was told that they would be sending me a new pair and that after review they could see that the boots where not overly worn and that it was not a normal wear issue.
It is great that they are going to send me a new pair of boots and i am thankful but i feel like i should not have had to fight so hard to make that happen. Had i not said anything they would have been fine with letting me spend another $300.
will say this of the boots though, they preform very well in rough terrain. No rolled ankle or sore feet from me. Not ever! The only issue i had was some heal slippage and a few blisters before i broke my feet in. I say feel because I don’t think you can go from shoes and sandals on flat ground to boots and hills without expecting your feet to have a toughing up period. The waterproofing ultimately failed me and a thunderstorm wetted the grass enough that my 8 mile hike was soon very unpleasant as my feet quickly became soaked. Yes, i was wearing a synthetic/wool blend lightweight sock so it was not a sock issue. I use Lorpen socks every time i put on my boots.
Kenetrek boots are comfortable and stable that i can say without a doubt. My boots held water out about as good as a pair of flip flops though. The customer service was shaky at first but in the end they made things right with me. If they fix the leakage issue i would say they are worth the money for sure
This is great info...thanks Cory!
I am really thinking more about the Lowas now...hmmm?
Post by: KNOPHISH on July 07, 2015, 10:51:54 AM
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 07, 2015, 11:06:43 AM
I just got some Lowa Hunters begining of last year & so far the best boot I've ever had. I laughed when I saw the prices of these top shelf boots & others like Kenetreks but I think they're worth it plus I got em on sale for about half off. They are tall, supportive, light weight, & very comfortable.
I am gun-shy about buying Kenetrek's because there are horror stories with any brand of boot. I understand that there are comfort issues with anything with some people but if I bought a $500 pair of boots and they broke or leaked...I would blow a gasket of my own :)
Post by: trophyhunt on July 07, 2015, 11:07:54 AM
Post by: CoryTDF on July 07, 2015, 11:18:57 AM
I know that Ranch and Home in Kennewick has several styles to choose from and try on. Trust me you will want to try them on before you make a purchase.
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 07, 2015, 11:23:10 AM
Early archery through MF deer and putting on high miles in uneven terrain is what I'm looking at. I don't want a low boot because I seem to be good at finding wet grass >:(
Post by: pianoman9701 on July 07, 2015, 11:26:49 AM
Post by: WapitiTalk1 on July 07, 2015, 11:28:56 AM
Post by: Fl0und3rz on July 07, 2015, 11:31:14 AM
Lowa Ranger GTX are uninsulated, fairly lightweight, great fitting, waterproof (as long as you keep treating with beeswax), and really tough.
Yeah, I think I would go with a mid-height leather hiker and some gaiters for the specified use. Gaiters when you need them, otherwise, pack them.
Post by: Bronson on July 07, 2015, 11:45:02 AM
I cant say how well they will hold up yet since I just got them but first impression and fit seems very nice.
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 07, 2015, 11:54:48 AM
I am going to be a princess and refuse to buy anything I haven't worn yet.
Post by: BULLBLASTER on July 07, 2015, 12:16:36 PM
Tough finding an un-insulated Gore-Tex boot that has an 8" + upper.Fit definitely has a major impact in a boots performance. Run to whites and have someone there fit you and talk with them about what you want and they should be able to reccomend some options. They sell lowa there I believe.
I am going to be a princess and refuse to buy anything I haven't worn yet.
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 07, 2015, 12:23:39 PM
Post by: walleye1 on July 07, 2015, 12:36:58 PM
Post by: SkookumHntr on July 07, 2015, 01:11:18 PM
Post by: BULLBLASTER on July 07, 2015, 01:17:35 PM
I ordered a pair of kenetrek mi, they won't ship till aug 10th!! Sounds like I'm gonna be pushing it to get them broke in by October! Grr1.5 months to Break boots in? That's a long time.
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 07, 2015, 01:26:30 PM
I ordered a pair of kenetrek mi, they won't ship till aug 10th!! Sounds like I'm gonna be pushing it to get them broke in by October! Grr1.5 months to Break boots in? That's a long time.
:yeah: couple weekends ought to do it :tup:
Post by: SkookumHntr on July 07, 2015, 01:43:35 PM
the rest of aug I will be salmon fishing, but I think I will have time to still get um' broke in! ;)I ordered a pair of kenetrek mi, they won't ship till aug 10th!! Sounds like I'm gonna be pushing it to get them broke in by October! Grr1.5 months to Break boots in? That's a long time.
Post by: pianoman9701 on July 07, 2015, 01:58:40 PM
Post by: CoryTDF on July 07, 2015, 01:59:19 PM
I ordered a pair of kenetrek mi, they won't ship till aug 10th!! Sounds like I'm gonna be pushing it to get them broke in by October! Grr
I took my Kenetreks out of the box and hit the hills for a late archery muledeer hunt. Was that smart? No. Luckily it worked out for me and my feet were just fine. They are a stiff boot but that was what I liked about them. If not for the leaking issue I might still have mine. I do boot reviews now pretty often and am fortunate enough to be able to test quite a few different types and brands. Good luck fellas hope you find the ones you like.
Post by: WoodlandShooter on July 07, 2015, 02:57:57 PM
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 07, 2015, 03:00:53 PM
REI :peep: don't judge me if I don't wear my Ariats into the store
Post by: JJB11B on July 07, 2015, 03:07:11 PM
Post by: CoryTDF on July 07, 2015, 03:07:42 PM
Thanks guys, I am going to check out some boots this week at White's, Sportsman's Warehouse and maybe even...gulp
REI :peep: don't judge me if I don't wear my Ariats into the store
I don't think they will let you in unless you have on tie-die and sandals.
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 07, 2015, 03:57:07 PM
I bought a set of Danner Pronghorns today, I'm wearing them right now, They feel gooooood! way better than the worn out combat boots that I have been hunting in lately
Yeah man, combat boots aren't that great compared to anything I've purchased myself. I do have a nice set of Danner boots that I wear in uniform but those ran a little higher than the cheapo ones.
I had a set of Pronghorns but they blew out after about a year and a half.
Post by: Mxracer532 on July 07, 2015, 04:19:01 PM
Post by: BULLBLASTER on July 07, 2015, 04:33:23 PM
I just picked up a pair of Lowa Cevedales and soo far they are awesome!Did you get the bright blue ones? A buddy of mine has blue ones and it makes me laugh. Full camp and bright blue boots! :chuckle:
Post by: JJB11B on July 07, 2015, 04:56:44 PM
yeah, it was a money thing for me, I bought a set of Kennetreks a few years ago and after about a week of wearing them I had some severe pain in the ball of my left foot, Apparently they were too narrow for me and caused some issues. I sold them and hadn't bought any hunting boots to replace them. I plan on buying some more boots in the future but I wanted some for hot weather first as that's when my feet really bug me.I bought a set of Danner Pronghorns today, I'm wearing them right now, They feel gooooood! way better than the worn out combat boots that I have been hunting in lately
Yeah man, combat boots aren't that great compared to anything I've purchased myself. I do have a nice set of Danner boots that I wear in uniform but those ran a little higher than the cheapo ones.
I had a set of Pronghorns but they blew out after about a year and a half.
Post by: Miles on July 07, 2015, 05:03:48 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shoebuy.com%2Fpi%2Flowab%2Fjb%2Flowab371562_201447_jb.jpg&hash=aa482555db8fc679b8f78d5ab442e41115e6d97f)
Post by: Miles on July 07, 2015, 05:14:22 PM
Post by: Forks on July 07, 2015, 05:40:37 PM
Post by: Huntin4Ever on July 07, 2015, 06:36:36 PM
Post by: northwesthunter84 on July 07, 2015, 07:48:03 PM
Post by: SkookumHntr on July 07, 2015, 08:06:45 PM
Post by: hogslayer on July 07, 2015, 08:14:49 PM
Got a pair of Zamberlan 980 OUTFITTER GTX RR's a few months ago. They appear to be the real deal and will provide the needed support hiking in any terrain in the high country, and, with a pack full of boned out meat on my back. I can't speak to their longevity although I'm pretty sure they'll remain functional for quite a while. I've also owned a handfull of mid priced boots that haven't quite stood the test of time, mostly Danners and a couple of Cabelas (can't remember the types). All have lasted a few years and then failed in one way or another. I still have a pair of Danner Pronghorns that I like for early season hunts but they will leak after brushbusting through our lovely wetside vegetation or skipping across a creek. Looking forward to see how the Zamberlans do.
I also picked up those boots (promotive), and really really like them. When i went into REI to try on some different brands, people were saying that they have the most support for heavy loads out of the other brands.
Post by: quadrafire on July 07, 2015, 10:06:46 PM
http://m.llbean.com/product.html?skCatId=31179#31179
Post by: SemperFidelis97 on July 07, 2015, 10:17:12 PM
Post by: huntnnw on July 07, 2015, 10:32:15 PM
Post by: Mxracer532 on July 07, 2015, 10:35:24 PM
I just picked up a pair of Lowa Cevedales and soo far they are awesome!Did you get the bright blue ones? A buddy of mine has blue ones and it makes me laugh. Full camp and bright blue boots! :chuckle:
NO, actually they are BRIGHT ASS LIME GREEN! LMAO
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 08, 2015, 06:44:43 AM
best made boot means nothing if it doesnt fit your foot
Truer words haven't been spoken...the flip side is I've had some comfy boots that were garbage :chuckle:
I hate that Danner boots don't hold up for me :dunno:
Post by: Timberstalker on July 08, 2015, 07:29:58 AM
best made boot means nothing if it doesnt fit your foot
Truer words haven't been spoken...the flip side is I've had some comfy boots that were garbage :chuckle:
I hate that Danner boots don't hold up for me :dunno:
I wore the Danner Canadian for a few years before I bought my current Kenetreks. They were awesome. Most Danners aren't. These however are one of the few Danners that are still made in the USA.
Post by: pianoman9701 on July 08, 2015, 07:59:44 AM
Post by: CoryTDF on July 08, 2015, 08:05:45 AM
Here's a lunchtime break with some leaky Danners... Don't buy them unless you can find a drying rack. :chuckle:
Cotton socks.......... Shame on you! LOL
Post by: Timberstalker on July 08, 2015, 08:21:09 AM
I had a pair of Danners that I picked up at the outlet store in PDX. They were good for two seasons but then lost the support/stiffness. This is the problem I've had with all of the boots I've purchased unter $200. I believe this is my 4th season with the Lowas and they have as much support as they did the first time I put them on.
Again, there is a huge difference between the China Danners and the USA Danners. Both in Price and Quality.
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 08, 2015, 08:25:07 AM
I had a pair of Danners that I picked up at the outlet store in PDX. They were good for two seasons but then lost the support/stiffness. This is the problem I've had with all of the boots I've purchased unter $200. I believe this is my 4th season with the Lowas and they have as much support as they did the first time I put them on.
Again, there is a huge difference between the China Danners and the USA Danners. Both in Price and Quality.
I've had two pairs of USA Danners and both left something to be desired. :sry:
I'm not a hardcore PCT through hiker or anything but I want a boot that will last a few years without major leakage or structure failure :twocents:
Post by: splitshot on July 08, 2015, 08:27:13 AM
Post by: ctwiggs1 on July 08, 2015, 08:38:38 AM
Curtis
Post by: BULLBLASTER on July 08, 2015, 10:04:16 AM
even better! :tup:I just picked up a pair of Lowa Cevedales and soo far they are awesome!Did you get the bright blue ones? A buddy of mine has blue ones and it makes me laugh. Full camp and bright blue boots! :chuckle:
NO, actually they are BRIGHT ASS LIME GREEN! LMAO
Post by: Shawn Ryan on July 08, 2015, 10:40:30 AM
Aftermarket footbeds (Superfeet, Sole, Lathrop & Sons) usually really improve a boot as do high quality socks.
IMHO, footwear (boots, insoles, socks) are more important than any other clothing item. Spend your money on your feet.
Post by: ctwiggs1 on July 08, 2015, 10:42:24 AM
IMHO, footwear (boots, insoles, socks) are more important than any other clothing item. Spend your money on your feet.
:yeah: You only get one pair and they don't last forever.
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 08, 2015, 10:55:36 AM
IMHO, footwear (boots, insoles, socks) are more important than any other clothing item. Spend your money on your feet.
I agree with this unless it's pouring down rain. In that case give me barn boots and good rain gear and I'm happy ;)
Post by: blackveltbowhunter on July 08, 2015, 11:05:19 AM
Take your typical September, Its generally hot, high mileage, rocks, scree, dirt, sand, dust, blood, sweat, blackberry thorn, hawthorne thickets, sage staubs, the occasional barb wire. Throw in an intermittent rainshower, creek crossing, or mountain dew morning t help absorb all the product, a big scoop of neglect and voila recipe for boot failure.
After a couple seasons on the HOTTER and HEAVIER expensive boots I have definitley found a use for the "cheaper" boots. For me I have a good quality pair of "mountain" boots, all leather, randed, vibram soled boots. This year it will be Crispi. These are my high country, 5 day+ backpacking and or nasty weather in september/october go to. As comfy as these boots are, and they are awesome, they dont hold a candle to my salomons for warm weather comfort, and general mileage efficiency. They can't. They weren't designed that way.... A pound less in weight and much more breathable. The majority of my september hunts will likely be with these boots, as well as all my current backpacking. Granted they are not as durable, but they are saving wear and tear on the more expensive boots at less than half the cost (sales) as well. Just thoughts to consider :twocents:
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 08, 2015, 11:42:26 AM
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 12, 2015, 09:38:40 AM
Thanks for everybody chiming in on this thread and posting their favorites and observations.
Keep it going if need be :tup:
Post by: BOWHUNTER45 on July 12, 2015, 10:09:20 AM
Post by: 3dvapor on July 12, 2015, 10:52:53 AM
Post by: BULLBLASTER on July 12, 2015, 12:58:58 PM
I went with the Lowa Renegade GTX. If this boot holds up for 3 years then I will be satisfied :tup:did you get them from whites?
Thanks for everybody chiming in on this thread and posting their favorites and observations.
Keep it going if need be :tup:
Post by: CoryTDF on July 13, 2015, 08:38:24 AM
I went with the Lowa Renegade GTX. If this boot holds up for 3 years then I will be satisfied :tup:
Thanks for everybody chiming in on this thread and posting their favorites and observations.
Keep it going if need be :tup:
That is Lowa's best selling boot world wide. So, looks like you made a strong choice and I believe you will be happy.
Post by: WoodlandShooter on July 13, 2015, 01:39:00 PM
Post by: gee_unit360 on July 13, 2015, 03:51:14 PM
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 14, 2015, 07:17:57 AM
I went with the Lowa Renegade GTX. If this boot holds up for 3 years then I will be satisfied :tup:
Thanks for everybody chiming in on this thread and posting their favorites and observations.
Keep it going if need be :tup:
That is Lowa's best selling boot world wide. So, looks like you made a strong choice and I believe you will be happy.
I put about 10 miles on them yesterday with 4,000 feet elevation gain (thanks for the pain 117) I really hope that the GTX holds up. After being in them for 15 hours, the breathability of the GTX was paying for itself :tup:
They were fresh out of the box and I was comfortable all day. Well the heel hurt on my right foot but that's dirt bike related. Stupid bone bruise >:(
Post by: CoryTDF on July 14, 2015, 08:47:10 AM
I went with the Lowa Renegade GTX. If this boot holds up for 3 years then I will be satisfied :tup:
Thanks for everybody chiming in on this thread and posting their favorites and observations.
Keep it going if need be :tup:
That is Lowa's best selling boot world wide. So, looks like you made a strong choice and I believe you will be happy.
I put about 10 miles on them yesterday with 4,000 feet elevation gain (thanks for the pain 117) I really hope that the GTX holds up. After being in them for 15 hours, the breathability of the GTX was paying for itself :tup:
They were fresh out of the box and I was comfortable all day. Well the heel hurt on my right foot but that's dirt bike related. Stupid bone bruise >:(
Very good! Glad to see you found a pair that you're happy with.
Post by: Jonathan_S on July 14, 2015, 09:08:51 AM
Post by: moocher97 on August 28, 2015, 09:54:12 AM
Sent from my XT1254 using Tapatalk
Post by: Jonathan_S on August 28, 2015, 09:55:46 AM
Post by: cbond3318 on August 28, 2015, 10:07:23 AM
Post by: Jonathan_S on August 28, 2015, 10:13:06 AM
Post by: cbond3318 on August 28, 2015, 10:17:58 AM
Post by: Jonathan_S on August 28, 2015, 10:26:06 AM
Winter boots are the ones I had trouble shelling out the clams for. Until I realized how bad life can suck without them. Gets pretty easy then :chuckle:
Post by: bracer40 on August 28, 2015, 10:32:26 AM
I have been liking the hybrid style boot for hiking and early hunting. Last year I was able to hunt late season in my Keens... I just wonder about what you mentioned, the support and how they hold up clambering through rockslides and abrasive underbrush...I just haven't been able to stomach breaching the 200$ mark on seasonal boots.I wore a pair of keens for most of a season and loved them. One of the most comfortable, well supported boots I'd owned"......unfortunately, the fabric loops that contained the laces didn't hold up in the rocky terrain and I returned them.
I was happy to see they've just rolled out a new model that fixed that problem called the Liberty Ridge. @$200 I would buy them in a heartbeat if I needed a new pair. Saw them at Cabelas and they look to be well constructed.
Post by: blacktailcody on August 28, 2015, 12:36:22 PM
Post by: Jonathan_S on August 28, 2015, 12:41:21 PM
Who needs boots? I hunted in Vibram Fivefingers all of last year. Quiet, comfy and light.
Good one. :chuckle: or are you serious? :dunno:
Post by: SkookumHntr on August 28, 2015, 12:42:03 PM
Post by: cbond3318 on August 28, 2015, 12:42:30 PM
Who needs boots? I hunted in Vibram Fivefingers all of last year. Quiet, comfy and light.
Gross dude...those things are creepy. I used to always say you can never trust a man in sandals, then these hit the market. :chuckle:
Post by: BULLBLASTER on August 28, 2015, 12:49:03 PM
Any special boot grease do you use on kenetrek boots? Will normal obenoufs boot grease work?No obenaufs on any of my boots. It will break down the adhesives and stitching on most hunting boots. I use graingers (what lathrop and sons said to use and sent with my boots) you could also look at the kenetrek treatment.
Post by: Jonathan_S on August 28, 2015, 12:52:09 PM
Post by: SkookumHntr on August 28, 2015, 12:53:00 PM
Post by: blacktailcody on August 28, 2015, 01:02:37 PM
Who needs boots? I hunted in Vibram Fivefingers all of last year. Quiet, comfy and light.
Good one. :chuckle: or are you serious? :dunno:
Dead serious! They are amazing! :tung:
Post by: BULLBLASTER on August 28, 2015, 01:12:44 PM
A good buddy of mine said the same think a few years ago. Wore them in on a 5 day backpack elk hunt where he earned the name tenderfoot. He now will not go near the frog feet shoes. :chuckle: I'll take my boots.Who needs boots? I hunted in Vibram Fivefingers all of last year. Quiet, comfy and light.
Good one. :chuckle: or are you serious? :dunno:
Dead serious! They are amazing! :tung:
Post by: Duckslayer89 on August 28, 2015, 01:29:49 PM
Any special boot grease do you use on kenetrek boots? Will normal obenoufs boot grease work?No obenaufs on any of my boots. It will break down the adhesives and stitching on most hunting boots. I use graingers (what lathrop and sons said to use and sent with my boots) you could also look at the kenetrek treatment.
Was it the waxy paste stuff? Or a spray or what they have different products. I've been using it on my LOWA TIBET HI and also DANNER QUARRY work boots with no issues.
Post by: BULLBLASTER on August 28, 2015, 01:35:02 PM
i had the paste. Lathrop and sons told me to throw it away. It would void the warranty on my lowas. I'm guessing it lead to some of the issues I had with my meindls coming apart also.Any special boot grease do you use on kenetrek boots? Will normal obenoufs boot grease work?No obenaufs on any of my boots. It will break down the adhesives and stitching on most hunting boots. I use graingers (what lathrop and sons said to use and sent with my boots) you could also look at the kenetrek treatment.
Was it the waxy paste stuff? Or a spray or what they have different products. I've been using it on my LOWA TIBET HI and also DANNER QUARRY work boots with no issues.
Post by: nastybynature on August 28, 2015, 01:47:09 PM
Who needs boots? I hunted in Vibram Fivefingers all of last year. Quiet, comfy and light.
That isn't likely in November on the wetside I don't think. Especially with any elevation. Unless they make a 400gr insulated boot? They just don't seem like the ideal footwear in the snow... :dunno:
Post by: Duckslayer89 on August 28, 2015, 01:59:28 PM
i had the paste. Lathrop and sons told me to throw it away. It would void the warranty on my lowas. I'm guessing it lead to some of the issues I had with my meindls coming apart also.Any special boot grease do you use on kenetrek boots? Will normal obenoufs boot grease work?No obenaufs on any of my boots. It will break down the adhesives and stitching on most hunting boots. I use graingers (what lathrop and sons said to use and sent with my boots) you could also look at the kenetrek treatment.
Was it the waxy paste stuff? Or a spray or what they have different products. I've been using it on my LOWA TIBET HI and also DANNER QUARRY work boots with no issues.
My friend in Spokane has Meindls and uses the obenaufs and hasn't had any issues, but I'm kind of skeptical about lathrop and sons telling you to use their product instead. But I'm also skeptical of using obenaufs now with this report. I've read in other forums about guys using it with no complaints. Does anyone have any positive experiences with it?
Post by: Jonathan_S on August 28, 2015, 02:02:35 PM
Who needs boots? I hunted in Vibram Fivefingers all of last year. Quiet, comfy and light.
Good one. :chuckle: or are you serious? :dunno:
Dead serious! They are amazing! :tung:
For lowland blacktail and elk hunting I can see them working but you'd be walking on stubs if you tried hunting most areas with those :chuckle:
Post by: BULLBLASTER on August 28, 2015, 02:09:25 PM
here is some info from lowa reccomending the graingers boot care products.i had the paste. Lathrop and sons told me to throw it away. It would void the warranty on my lowas. I'm guessing it lead to some of the issues I had with my meindls coming apart also.Any special boot grease do you use on kenetrek boots? Will normal obenoufs boot grease work?No obenaufs on any of my boots. It will break down the adhesives and stitching on most hunting boots. I use graingers (what lathrop and sons said to use and sent with my boots) you could also look at the kenetrek treatment.
Was it the waxy paste stuff? Or a spray or what they have different products. I've been using it on my LOWA TIBET HI and also DANNER QUARRY work boots with no issues.
My friend in Spokane has Meindls and uses the obenaufs and hasn't had any issues, but I'm kind of skeptical about lathrop and sons telling you to use their product instead. But I'm also skeptical of using obenaufs now with this report. I've read in other forums about guys using it with no complaints. Does anyone have any positive experiences with it?
http://www.lowaboots.com/faq/grangers.cfm
Post by: moocher97 on August 28, 2015, 03:48:36 PM
Sent from my XT1254 using Tapatalk
Post by: nastybynature on August 28, 2015, 03:53:24 PM
Post by: BULLBLASTER on August 28, 2015, 04:03:19 PM
They are very durable and comfy.
http://www.cabelas.com/product/cabela-s-xpg-trade-men-s-lightweight-hiking-socks-ndash-crew/1760471.uts?No=0&destination=%2Fcatalog%2Fbrowse%2Fmens-hiking-socks%2F_%2FN-1102529%2FNo-0%2FNs-CATEGORY_SEQ_104030280%3FrecordsPerPage%3D18
Post by: blacktailcody on August 28, 2015, 04:49:20 PM
Post by: dscubame on August 29, 2015, 05:15:19 PM
I have been liking the hybrid style boot for hiking and early hunting. Last year I was able to hunt late season in my Keens... I just wonder about what you mentioned, the support and how they hold up clambering through rockslides and abrasive underbrush...I just haven't been able to stomach breaching the 200$ mark on seasonal boots.I wore a pair of keens for most of a season and loved them. One of the most comfortable, well supported boots I'd owned"......unfortunately, the fabric loops that contained the laces didn't hold up in the rocky terrain and I returned them.
I was happy to see they've just rolled out a new model that fixed that problem called the Liberty Ridge. @$200 I would buy them in a heartbeat if I needed a new pair. Saw them at Cabelas and they look to be well constructed.
Keen was no longer a option with me when they stopped using the Vibram sole.