5 Best Boots for Saddle Hunting in 2024: Ultimate Guide

Saddle hunting is a demanding sport that requires high-quality boots that can withstand long periods of sitting and standing, as well as hiking and climbing. In this article, we review the best boots for saddle hunting, based on factors such as comfort, durability, traction, and support. We also provide tips on how to choose the right boots for your needs and how to care for them properly.

Saddle hunting is a relatively new style of hunting that involves using a saddle platform to sit in a tree and wait for game. Saddle hunting is becoming increasingly popular, as it offers several advantages over traditional ground hunting, including:

  • Increased visibility and range of motion
  • Reduced noise and movement
  • Improved comfort and safety

However, saddle hunting also requires specialized equipment, including a saddle platform, climbing sticks, and a safety harness. One of the most important pieces of equipment for saddle hunting is a good pair of boots.

Choosing the Best Boots for Saddle Hunting

When choosing boots for saddle hunting, there are several factors to consider, including:

  • Comfort: Saddle hunting often involves sitting in a tree for long periods of time, so it is important to choose boots that are comfortable to wear. Look for boots with a padded tongue and collar, and a supportive insole.
  • Durability: Saddle hunting boots need to be durable enough to withstand the elements, as well as the rigors of hiking and climbing. Choose boots made from high-quality materials, such as leather or synthetic leather.
  • Traction: Saddle hunting boots need to have good traction to prevent slipping and sliding on wet or uneven surfaces. Look for boots with a lugged outsole that is designed for outdoor use.
  • Support: Saddle hunting boots need to provide good support for your ankles and feet. This is especially important when climbing trees and carrying heavy gear. Look for boots with a stiff midsole and a supportive heel counter.

Best Boots for Saddle Hunting in 2023

Here are some of the best boots for saddle hunting in 2023:

  1. Schnee’s Beartooth: The Schnee’s Beartooth is a popular choice for saddle hunters due to its comfort, durability, and support. The Beartooth features a stiff midsole and a supportive heel counter, making it ideal for climbing trees and carrying heavy gear. The boot also has a padded tongue and collar, and a supportive insole, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
  2. Kenetrek Mountain Extreme: The Kenetrek Mountain Extreme is another popular choice for saddle hunters due to its durability and traction. The Mountain Extreme features a tough leather upper and a lugged outsole that is designed for outdoor use. The boot also has a stiff midsole and a supportive heel counter, providing good support for your ankles and feet.
  3. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid: The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is a lightweight and versatile boot that is well-suited for saddle hunting. The Renegade GTX Mid features a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, making it ideal for hunting in wet conditions. The boot also has a stiff midsole and a supportive heel counter, providing good support for your ankles and feet.
  4. Crispi Hunter XT EVO GTX: The Crispi Hunter XT EVO GTX is a durable and comfortable boot that is well-suited for saddle hunting. The Hunter XT EVO GTX features a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and a Vibram outsole that provides excellent traction on wet and uneven surfaces. The boot also has a stiff midsole and a supportive heel counter, providing good support for your ankles and feet.
  5. Zamberlan Vioz Lux GTX RR: The Zamberlan Vioz Lux GTX RR is a lightweight and comfortable boot that is well-suited for saddle hunting. The Vioz Lux GTX RR features a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and a Vibram outsole that provides excellent traction on wet and uneven surfaces. The boot also has a stiff midsole and a supportive heel counter, providing good support for your ankles and feet.

Tips for Choosing the Right Boots for Saddle Hunting

When choosing boots for saddle hunting, it is important to consider the following tips:

  • Try on boots before you buy them. Boots should fit snugly but comfortably. You should have enough room to wiggle your toes, but your heel should not slip in the boot.
  • Wear the same type of socks that you will wear when hunting when you try on boots. This will help you to ensure that the boots fit properly.
  • Consider the weather conditions that you will be hunting in. If you will be hunting in wet or cold conditions, choose boots that are waterproof and insulated.
  • Consider the terrain that you will be hunting in. If you will be hunting in steep or rocky terrain, choose boots with good traction.

Caring for Your Saddle Hunting Boots

Saddle hunting boots can be expensive, so it is important to take care of them properly. 

Here are some tips:

  • Clean your boots after each use. This will help to remove dirt and debris that could damage the boots. Use a soft brush and mild soap to clean your boots.
  • Dry your boots thoroughly after cleaning them. Never put wet boots away in storage.
  • Condition your boots regularly. This will help to keep the leather or synthetic leather supple and prevent it from cracking. Use a boot conditioner that is specifically designed for the type of boots that you have.
  • Store your boots in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing your boots in direct sunlight or in hot or humid conditions.

Call to Action

Saddle hunting is a challenging but rewarding sport. The right boots can make a big difference in your comfort and success. If you are looking for the best boots for saddle hunting, consider one of the boots listed above. All of these boots are well-made and durable, and they provide the comfort, support, and traction that you need for a successful saddle hunting season.

Tips: Buying Boots for Saddle Hunting

  • Consider your budget. Saddle hunting boots can be expensive, but there are also some affordable options available. If you are on a tight budget, consider looking for boots that are on sale or that are from a lesser-known brand.
  • Read reviews. Before you buy any boots, read reviews from other saddle hunters. This can help you to get an idea of how the boots perform in the real world.
  • Consider buying a pair of used boots. If you are on a tight budget or if you are not sure what type of boots you want, consider buying a pair of used boots. You can find used saddle hunting boots online or at garage sales and thrift stores.

Best Boots for Saddle Hunting: Conclusion

The best boots for saddle hunting are the ones that fit you best and provide the comfort, support, and traction that you need. When choosing boots, consider your budget, the weather conditions that you will be hunting in, and the terrain that you will be hunting in. Also, be sure to care for your boots properly to extend their lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important factors to consider when choosing saddle hunting boots?

The most important factors to consider when choosing saddle hunting boots are comfort, durability, traction, and support. Saddle hunting boots need to be comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and they need to be durable enough to withstand the rigors of hiking, climbing, and sitting in a tree. Saddle hunting boots also need to have good traction to prevent slipping and sliding on wet or uneven surfaces. Finally, saddle hunting boots need to provide good support for your ankles and feet, especially when climbing trees and carrying heavy gear.

What are the most popular types of saddle hunting boots?

The most popular types of saddle hunting boots are leather boots and synthetic boots. Leather boots are durable and provide good support, but they can be heavy and expensive. Synthetic boots are lighter and less expensive than leather boots, but they may not be as durable.

What are the best brands of saddle hunting boots?

Some of the most popular brands of saddle hunting boots include:
– Schnee’s
– Kenetrek
– Lowa
– Crispi
– Zamberlan

How should I care for my saddle hunting boots?

To care for your saddle hunting boots, it is important to clean and condition them regularly. After each use, clean your boots with a soft brush and mild soap. Allow your boots to dry completely before storing them. Condition your boots regularly with a boot conditioner that is specifically designed for the type of boots that you have.

How long should saddle hunting boots last?

The lifespan of saddle hunting boots will vary depending on the brand, the quality of the boots, and how well you care for them. However, most saddle hunting boots should last for several years with proper care.

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