Huk Rogue Wave: The Ultimate Fishing Boot

When I first received a pair of Huk Rogue Wave boots, I didn’t anticipate them becoming a part of my everyday life, but they did. Three years into owning a pair of Rogue Waves, these boots still perform like new, except looking like they’ve been through hell. Which, in many ways, they have.

What started as my saltwater fishing boot for keeping my feet dry on boats and around boat ramps has become a crucial part of my outdoor gear arsenal. These are the most comfortable waterproof deck boots I’ve ever worn, and I’ve tested a bunch over the years.

My original plan was for the Rogue Waves to be my “boat ramp boots”—something to change into after pulling off the waders from a hunt or fly fishing trip. They excelled at that task, but were so comfortable that I didn’t want to take them off. So, I started wearing them while pond hopping for bass, shoveling snow, any boating adventure, and running errands around town. Hell, I even killed a turkey in these shoes (more on that later).

Quick Overview

Specs

Sizes: Men’s 7-14, Women’s 5-11

Colors/patterns: Over 20 options, including Mossy Oak

Pros

Fully waterproof

Grip-X outsole non-marking traction pattern

Webbing pull-straps

Cons

Boots can get sweaty in warm environments

Testing Results and Analysis

I was never a deck boot guy, but I eventually got fed up with getting my feet wet after changing into sneakers at the boat ramps, put-ins, and muddy parking lots. So, I buried the notion of “not being a deck boot guy” and got myself a pair of Rogue Waves. The design is pretty simple: durable, waterproof neoprene rubber provides the overall construction with good traction, an EVA footbed, and pull straps.

The pull-on loops at the heel are a big highlight. Amanda Oliver

Comfort and Fit

When I say these boots are comfortable, I really mean it. I even had multiple family members comment on how much I wear them. I always answer with the same line, “They’re the most comfortable boots I’ve ever worn.”

The boots only come in full sizes, and I normally wear an 11 1/2 shoe. I opted to downsize to an 11, and they fit perfectly. While the Huk website only offers three solid colors and three different patterns, you can find more options on Amazon and Cabela’s. I have them in the Volcanic Ash pattern, although they now just look like a faded gray due to the sun, mud, saltwater, snow, ice, and rain these boots have endured over the last three years. I could probably use a new pair, but a drop of water hasn’t leaked through yet, so why bother?

Performance

Now, I want to be clear: these are, first and foremost, fishing boots. Huk just happens to make them in cool enough colors to wear around town. But the Rogue Waves perform best in the environments they were made for—water and mud.

My pair usually lives in my truck where I immediately change into them after a day of hunting or fishing in Colorado. But last year, I brought the Rogue Waves with me for a three-month stay in Florida, where I fished four to five days a week. They excelled just as well on the flats boat as they did on the grassy banks of Florida’s largemouth-filled ponds and snakehead-filled canals. They offer great traction and stability, especially on the deck of a boat.

A close-up look of the superior traction on the boot’s sole (even after lots of wear). Amanda Oliver

Versatility

Huk doesn’t advertise these as hunting boats, and they aren’t. I am not recommending them as hunting boats, but if you’re ever in a pinch, listen up. Two years ago, after three consecutive days of turkey hunting, my traditional hunting boats had torn my feet up so badly that I had trouble hiking. On the morning of day four, I reached for of my Rogue Waves instead. Later that day, I connected on a tom while wearing my Volcanic Ash Rogue Wave boots. So, if you’re ever in a pinch on a turkey hunt, just know that the Rogue Waves are up for the task.

Proof I was able to nail a turkey in my Huk boots. (Photo/Ryan Chelius) Ryan Chelius

Verdict

Out of curiosity and for the sake of gear testing, I’ve tried many other brands and models of deck boots. Nothing has even come close to the comfort and durability of the Huk Rogue Waves. If you or someone you know enjoys fishing, boating, or running around in the mud, this boot is a must-have. Prices vary based on what website you shop and what color you choose. But, generally, they go for around $100 and are worth every penny.

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