You don’t have to be a scent-control junkie to appreciate a good pair of rubber hunting boots. They’re perfect for those late-season whitetail hunts when you need to layer extra socks, run some toe warmers, and keep your scent to a minimum. But, they’re also necessary if you spend a lot of time in warm, swampy conditions. Unlike application-specific boots, you can use a good uninsulated pair all year round.
However you use them, rubber boots should keep your feet dry above all. Over the past few decades I’ve had the opportunity to hunt with and test the best rubber hunting boots available. These are my top picks.
Depending on your distance from the equator, you might require a heavily insulated (1600g) boot or an uninsulated one for the majority of deer season. Regardless, make sure you opt for boots that you wouldn’t mind wearing all day.
Rubber hunting boots come in a variety of insulation options for certain tasks or hunting seasons. Uninsulated boots work great for turkey or early bow seasons around much of the country. In fact, most southern hunters can get away with an uninsulated boot for most of the year. Hunters above the Mason-Dixon require more insulation by the time winter rolls around.
Cheaper rubber boots are susceptible to tearing, especially in the uppers. If your boots can’t keep you dry, you might as well go barefoot. Spend more on the front end and you’ll have a solid pair of boots that should give you years of service.
Whether you’re chasing squirrel dogs through hardwood bottoms or sitting on stand all day, make sure your boots fit properly. If your boots are too big or small they’ll create blisters, and nothing ruins a hunt faster than mangled feet.
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