Post by: coonhound on March 08, 2008, 05:45:06 PM
I'm considering the Lowa Sheep hunters and the Meindl Alaska hunters but I also ran into the Scarpa Liskamm anyone ever use these? I really want a serious boot, performance is more important than cost, this boot looks great but I've never heard of them.
Any thoughts?
Coon
Post by: Red Dawg on March 08, 2008, 06:06:36 PM
Post by: coonhound on March 08, 2008, 06:23:56 PM
Coon
Post by: Slider on March 08, 2008, 07:06:18 PM
Post by: Red Dawg on March 08, 2008, 07:07:59 PM
Post by: jackelope on March 08, 2008, 07:38:08 PM
they are made in mt.
Post by: coonhound on March 08, 2008, 07:45:52 PM
i really like the looks of the kenetrek boots and would like to try them out next time i need to buy boots. there's a thread on here somewhere about them.
they are made in mt.
I've also looked at the Kenetrek boots, they look great also. PS they are made in Italy for Kenetrek. It really bumbs me out that we can't try any of these boots on before we buy them. Well I guess I could drive to Montana.
Thanks for the reply,
Coon
Post by: jackelope on March 08, 2008, 07:48:42 PM
:chuckle:
thats a great reason to go to montana, isn't it?
fishing will be good soon too.
there's a couple reasons.
Post by: 280ackley on March 08, 2008, 07:52:02 PM
i really like the looks of the kenetrek boots and would like to try them out next time i need to buy boots. there's a thread on here somewhere about them.
they are made in mt.
I've also looked at the Kenetrek boots, they look great also. PS they are made in Italy for Kenetrek. It really bumbs me out that we can't try any of these boots on before we buy them. Well I guess I could drive to Montana.
Thanks for the reply,
Coon
My dad and I both have Kenetreks and they are great. I used to use Danners but the Kenetreks are better IMO. There Pac boots are made in Montana and coonhound is right the others are made in Italy. They are very nice boots. Here is there link. http://www.kenetrek.com/
Post by: coonhound on March 08, 2008, 07:53:01 PM
Go figure. I thought mountains were mountains!!! ;)
Red Dawg,
Sorry, I wasn't trying to imply that I hunt harder or steeper ground. What I should have said is I have wierd feet and I need really good support. I typically bivy hunt so I have a 30lb pack on my back all the time adding to my foot stress. I tried the Pronghorns and they just didn't treat my feet very well when I was hunting steep side hills.
Thanks for the feed back,
Coon
Post by: Red Dawg on March 08, 2008, 08:31:13 PM
Post by: bobcat on March 08, 2008, 08:34:43 PM
Quote
Where are they manufactured?
The KeneTrek Pac Boots are currently assembled one pair at a time in our Bozeman, Montana factory.
Post by: 280ackley on March 08, 2008, 08:50:15 PM
Post by: bobcat on March 08, 2008, 08:52:30 PM
Post by: jackelope on March 08, 2008, 08:56:43 PM
:chuckle:
Post by: 280ackley on March 08, 2008, 09:02:51 PM
Post by: bobcat on March 08, 2008, 09:08:21 PM
Post by: bobcat on March 08, 2008, 09:12:10 PM
Post by: 280ackley on March 08, 2008, 09:16:27 PM
One more thought...there is one Danner boot I've always wanted to try. It's called the "Elk Hunter." I've seen it in Cabela's catalog. I wonder if it is still being made in Oregon, and if so, I wonder if it's any good? Has anybody ever tried that boot?
My cousin uses them at work and while hunting, seems to like em. Not sure where they are made though.
Post by: Red Dawg on March 08, 2008, 09:35:21 PM
Post by: actionshooter on March 09, 2008, 12:52:29 AM
I'm going to buy the hardscrambles soon for the summer.
Post by: Head-shot on March 09, 2008, 01:10:27 AM
thats ok...they make good shoes in italy...just ask my wife.That's funny, Mine too, she made me go shoe hunting while we were stationed there. If I say I hunting instead of shopping I don't feel like a homo. :chuckle:
:chuckle:
Post by: Alchase on March 09, 2008, 11:30:54 AM
http://www.rei.com/product/764888
Stay away from any of the new Vasque boots. They moved their line to China and the quality went to crap.
Post by: MountainWalk on March 10, 2008, 07:55:38 AM
Post by: WAcoyotehunter on March 10, 2008, 08:15:12 AM
Post by: Blade on March 10, 2008, 03:21:47 PM
Post by: Bearhunter on March 10, 2008, 04:24:06 PM
Post by: 257 Wby Mag on March 10, 2008, 05:18:50 PM
Post by: Hunting Cowboy on March 10, 2008, 05:27:31 PM
Post by: BlackTail on March 11, 2008, 10:55:21 AM
http://www.danner.com/product/hunting+boots/big+game+hunting/trophy+10%27%27+600+gram.do
These are probably the most comfortable thing I've ever put on my feet and required almost zero break-in. I'm on my 4th year with them and have no doubt I'll get at least a few more. When hunting I usually have a 20-30 lbs pack on and and am hiking anywhere from 4-10 miles a day and these have plenty of support. If was going to be just hunting in sharp rocks or if I was going to be doing a lot of hiking with a very heavy pack (60 lbs+), these might not be my first choice, but for what I do, I honestly don't think I could find a more perfect boot.
Post by: Intruder on March 19, 2008, 11:04:39 AM
Post by: coonhound on March 22, 2008, 09:47:45 PM
I have Kennetrek..they are awesome, tough with great support on the hard stuff. Take a while to break in, stiff. I also have pronghorns, they were fine for the westside in the soft oldgrowth but I wore them in the Teanaway rocks and my feet hurt, next day put on the Kennetreks and never went back to the Danners. Goretex lasted one season in the Pronghorns also.
Well all you guys talking about the Kennetrek's talked me into it, I just picked up a pair of the Mountain Extremes. I'll be taking them for a walk tomorrow, they feel like they will have amazing support. Compared to my Meindl Mountain hunters they are pretty rigid but that is what I was hoping for. I'll let you know in a month or so when I get them good and broke in.
Thanks for all your input everyone,
Coon
Post by: MountainWalk on March 22, 2008, 09:54:30 PM
Post by: actionshooter on March 22, 2008, 10:18:22 PM
Post by: coonhound on March 22, 2008, 10:24:29 PM
Coon
Post by: MountainWalk on March 22, 2008, 10:29:01 PM
Post by: 280ackley on March 23, 2008, 03:34:12 PM
Well all you guys talking about the Kennetrek's talked me into it, I just picked up a pair of the Mountain Extremes. I'll be taking them for a walk tomorrow, they feel like they will have amazing support. Compared to my Meindl Mountain hunters they are pretty rigid but that is what I was hoping for. I'll let you know in a month or so when I get them good and broke in.
Thanks for all your input everyone,
Coon
Well, what do you thank? I love mine.
Post by: coonhound on March 23, 2008, 04:11:43 PM
Coon
PS Mountain Walk 338, this is not the same 3 Rivers Archery you see on the web, this is just a local archery shop. That part of Longview has a ton of businesses called 3 rivers.
Post by: JBR on April 02, 2008, 03:51:51 PM
I too need to find a reliable pair of new boots, with keeping my feet dry and warm as priority number one. I'll have to check into the Kennetreks with all the good reports.
Post by: Intruder on April 03, 2008, 01:43:39 PM
Post by: bobcat on April 05, 2008, 09:32:03 AM
http://www.schnees.com/product_categories/157/products/3211-schnee-s-sheep-hunter-gtx-by-lowa-raisin-mens
Post by: coonhound on April 05, 2008, 10:47:33 AM
In reading back through this thread I only saw my favorite boot mentioned once...the Lowa Sheep Hunter. Great boot, not once have I ever had a blister while wearing mine.
http://www.schnees.com/product_categories/157/products/3211-schnee-s-sheep-hunter-gtx-by-lowa-raisin-mens
If you look at my original post that was one of the boots I was considering, I just couldn't find any place to try them on. I'm pretty sure the Kenetrek's and Schnees/Lowa's are built very similar. Kenetrek was started up by an ex Schnees employee if you check out their web page they have a ton of similarities. I have a hunting partner that uses the Sheep hunter's and loves them. I have a crazy foot and it's tough for me to buy a boot via mail order and I was able to test fit the Kenetrek's leading me to buy them.
Coon
Post by: Armadillo on April 08, 2008, 01:37:24 PM
Post by: Skyvalhunter on April 08, 2008, 02:05:43 PM
Post by: Armadillo on April 08, 2008, 03:05:29 PM
Post by: Hunting Cowboy on May 24, 2008, 10:34:58 PM
I rarely use these boots for hunting, but there have been more than a few occasions when one of my buddies calls to help pack out a bear or a big blacktail in the bottom of some remote, steep, brushy, slick clearcut here in the Pacific NW.
Post by: 50CalJim on May 24, 2008, 11:20:47 PM
Post by: scoyoc5 on June 14, 2008, 03:39:04 PM
Post by: PacificNWhunter on June 14, 2008, 05:53:20 PM
Post by: scoyoc5 on June 14, 2008, 05:58:17 PM
www.travelcountry.com
they are on sale for a few more hours i guess
Post by: chukarchaser on July 03, 2008, 10:15:53 PM
Post by: scudmaster on July 04, 2008, 12:47:26 AM
There is another brand to consider as well. I am now using a La Sportiva Makalu ( http://www.sportiva.com/products/prod/238 ). I don't like the high uppers as they tend to annoy my calves. I chased many chukar up Clemens Mt. last year in them and after two or three trips they were broken in completely. 3k-5k feet of vertical a day and only a few hot spots the first two days. Nothing after that. Additionally, they have a unique feature in that the tongue padding is held in by Velcro, so you can move it around and find the right pressure points for your foot. The best part was Marmot Mountain works in Bellevue had them for $185 normally $270. If you want insulted, they have the Lhotse GTX ( http://www.sportiva.com/products/prod/236 ) but they are a bit more expensive.
But most critical, try them on and figure out what fits for your feet. I cracks me up when I read the boot reviews and guys with wide feet would complain about a certain type of boot made for narrow feet not working for them. Most of them bought the boot based on a recommendation of a friend or reputation of the boot etc. I have average width with low volume feet and they are perfect for me. If you have wide feet forget it.
For Chukar hunting, which I call mountaineering with a gun, a good option I have found was to look at full shank mountaineering boots, instead of top end hunting boots. They always seem to be much more expensive than the equivalent mountain boot.
I have seen many people that swear by Danner's; until it gets steep. They are like wearing slippers in the the flat lands, but when it comes to chukar, they are too soft and flexible and your legs will pay the price :twocents:
:P Doh! after posting this, I see you bought Kennetreks. Enjoy them! I have heard nothing but good about them.
Post by: ridgefire on June 13, 2010, 08:09:21 PM
Post by: Wanttohuntmore on June 14, 2010, 06:47:01 PM
Post by: colockumelk on July 25, 2010, 11:48:00 AM
One more thought...there is one Danner boot I've always wanted to try. It's called the "Elk Hunter." I've seen it in Cabela's catalog. I wonder if it is still being made in Oregon, and if so, I wonder if it's any good? Has anybody ever tried that boot?
Yes those boots are made in the USA. I am looking very heavily at that very same boot for my next purchase. I love Danners and have NEVER had a problem with them. As an infantry Marine I wore a pair of Danners during to trips to Iraq. Most of my buddies that are in Afghanistan wear them and they usually make it through a deployment there. But keep in mind they walk more miles with 70 lbs of gear on than 99% of hunters will do in 5 years.
Two years ago I bought a pair of Danner Frontiers (now called Elk Ridge) and they are awesome. For $200 I got a full leather 10" boot that gives me PLENTY of ankle support. I got the 600gram boot and I wear them ALL year. From coyote hunting or early season archery when temps are at 90-100 degrees they are very comfy and don't roast my feet. They breathe REALLY we'll and do a great job of wicking sweat away. During the late season in the snow my feet never get at or cold. Oh also they are the MOST comfortable boot ever. It feels like I'm wearing pillows on my feet not hunting boots. I've put ALOT of miles in the Alpine Wilderness with them and they are still as good as they day I bought them. Just with a bit more character to them.
Post by: colockumelk on July 25, 2010, 11:56:03 AM
Post by: high country on July 25, 2010, 06:45:20 PM
Post by: wsucowboy on July 25, 2010, 07:01:41 PM
Post by: JPhelps on July 25, 2010, 07:07:02 PM
When hauling heavy loads 80-90+ lbs you want a quality mountaineering boot. You need to pick a boot that fits your foot the best, not which one you can get a good deal on over the internet.
The list that high country posted above is a very good start of boots that people should look into. I would also add Lowa, kenetrek and Lathrop and Sons as very good HARDCORE boots.
I currently have a pair of Lowa Tibets (uninsulated) and Meindl Perfekt Hunters (400g). Both of these boots will haul me plus a heavy loaded pack across the back country without any problems.
Post by: Antlerking on July 25, 2010, 07:11:42 PM
Post by: bonkellekter on July 25, 2010, 07:16:41 PM
I love my Russell Moccasin Sheep Hunters. While they do not have the arch support of my Whites which I wear for early season, they absolutely keep my feet dry, warm and comfortable no matter the weather or terrain.
My dad has used these boots for several years - very good boots. Since I have the same size foot as him I have used them a few times. If I had a little deeper pockets I would pick up a pair for myself.
Post by: colockumelk on July 25, 2010, 08:06:59 PM
In my opinion Danner Boots should not be considered hardcore boots. I used to have both the pronghorns and elk hunters. Both boots will fail when subjected to hardcore offroad hunting.
JPhelps this isn't directed at you. You just happened to be the one that gave me a good quote to start with. So no offence. This is more aimed at all the guys who say that Danners are crap. So just everyone who thinks that think about this little bit of info:
Would any of you consider a boot that lasted an entire year while being subjected to foot patrols in Afghanistan almost daily with 70lbs+ on your back at elevations from 6,000-12,000 feet in terrain that is far more rugged, harsh and rocky than any place we'll hunt in Washington count as a "rugged hard core boot." Or that this boot put on more miles in one year than any of us will put on while hunting in 3 years count either. FYI here's the "not hardcore boot" that was able to do this. We are all entitled to our own opinion. But facts are facts. A year of foot patrols in Afghanistan is far more hardcore than any of us will ever see in one year of hunting.
http://www.danner.com/boots/desert-acadiar-mens-womens-temperate-military-boots.html (http://www.danner.com/boots/desert-acadiar-mens-womens-temperate-military-boots.html)
Post by: colockumelk on July 25, 2010, 08:10:31 PM
I guess some people's feet are different. Many say the Meindle AK Hunters are really comfy. To me they felt like concrete when I tried them on at the store. Each and to their own. As long as they get you where you need to go comfortably and safely that is all that really matters IMHO.
FYI this is most likely gonna be the boot I deploy with next. This thing looks AWSOME!!!!! I think it was designed specifically for Afghanistan.
http://www.danner.com/boots/danner-ich-7-tan.html (http://www.danner.com/boots/danner-ich-7-tan.html)
Post by: JPhelps on July 25, 2010, 08:20:02 PM
The two pair of boots I have now have met or exceeded all of my expectations for a mountain hunting boot.
When giving examples of hardcore boots though, I would like to see comparisons of boots used in mountains summitted. I would be willing to bet that the Scarpa, Lowa, Lathrop, Asolo, Meindl and La Sportiva mountaineering boots out number Danner by a considerable margin. Once again this is just my opinion from seeing people in the mountains hiking.
Post by: high country on July 25, 2010, 09:04:09 PM
FYI this is most likely gonna be the boot I deploy with next. This thing looks AWSOME!!!!! I think it was designed specifically for Afghanistan.
http://www.danner.com/boots/danner-ich-7-tan.html (http://www.danner.com/boots/danner-ich-7-tan.html)
that is more like it. the killer for me and boots is the lack of a rubber rand. I have a knack for cutting the vamp and counters all to heck on rocks. boots that are wrapped in rubber tak those knocks well.
Post by: colockumelk on July 26, 2010, 05:31:20 AM
Clockumelk - No hard feelings. I may be in error on calling every pair of Danners "not hardcore". I based my opinion solely on the two pair of danner boots that I have tried.
The two pair of boots I have now have met or exceeded all of my expectations for a mountain hunting boot.
When giving examples of hardcore boots though, I would like to see comparisons of boots used in mountains summitted. I would be willing to bet that the Scarpa, Lowa, Lathrop, Asolo, Meindl and La Sportiva mountaineering boots out number Danner by a considerable margin. Once again this is just my opinion from seeing people in the mountains hiking.
Okay I misunderstood you. I would agree that the Danners except their latest one (see link below) are not mountaineering boots like the ones you listed. I appologize as I misunderstood your post. You are correct in they are a slightly different design. I also understand some Danners are now made in China and are not as good as the ones made in the USA. Mine have all come from the Portland, OR plant. So maybe that's why I have a different experience than you do. Like I said I guess all that matters is that a guys boots get him where he needs to go comfortably and safely.
http://www.danner.com/danner-combat-hiker-military-boots.html (http://www.danner.com/danner-combat-hiker-military-boots.html)
Post by: Alchase on July 26, 2010, 11:53:03 AM
Then I went to Vasques, they fit fantastically but were not waterproof as advertised. I then found out that Vasques are now made in China and their quality control is not up to the Vasque reputation.
Now I use Asolos Moran GTX Hiking Boots, they took a couple trips to break in, so far the best boot I have worn.
http://www.rei.com/product/796770 (http://www.rei.com/product/796770)
Post by: whacker1 on July 26, 2010, 01:07:23 PM
My Raichle boots are better, but only good for the early season. I will be picking up a pair of Kennetrek's as soon as the Elk Hunters blow out, but I am just not ready to drop $400 on a pair of boots.
Post by: arrowflinger on July 26, 2010, 01:38:43 PM
Post by: WAcoyotehunter on July 26, 2010, 03:35:30 PM
Post by: rasbo on July 26, 2010, 03:41:48 PM
I have a pair of Elk hunters. After about 10 years (guessing) of use I sent them in for repairs. I had lost a few of the bobs. The replaced the soles and fixed the stitching for 75 bucks. I figure I have another few years to use them. I like them alot.love that boot
Post by: colockumelk on July 26, 2010, 08:01:01 PM
Post by: high country on July 27, 2010, 05:04:26 PM
My wife walked out of two pairs of elk hunters in two years. I wore out two pairs of pronghorns one year and a pair of the GTX boots in a few months. I went to meindls and got a good year out of them. Now wearing a new pair of whites...kinda ugly but hopefully tough and durable. I will not own another pair of Danners, but would probably buy more meindls in the future. I think all the sidehill walking is what wipes out my boots... :twocents:
which meindl's? I have the perfekt and denaili's currently. I went to the denali after the lalaska hunters. the alaska hunter is as bulletproof a boot as I could ever imagine. the denali is close, the perfekt is a fancy hiker. I bought the denali's because they were in the cavefor 100bux and were new.....I am pleased....but will buy another pair of ak hunters.
Post by: WAcoyotehunter on July 28, 2010, 06:05:39 AM
Post by: Machias on July 28, 2010, 10:37:39 AM
Post by: cohoho on July 28, 2010, 03:14:44 PM