Best Rubber Hunting Boots of 2023

The best rubber hunting boots are worth the money, and here’s why—comfort. Hunters can pinch pennies on other outdoor gear, but when it comes to your feet, never sacrifice quality. Always choose the best pair of hunting boots your budget allows. Doing so will keep you in the field longer. Here are detailed looks at top picks in the most important rubber boot categories.

Best Overall: Irish Setter MudTrek

Best for Scent Reduction: LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro

Best Insulated: Thorogood Infinity FD Rubber Boots

Best Lightweight: LaCrosse Burly

Best for Cold Weather: Muck’s Arctic Pro

Best for Warm Weather (and Snakes): Rocky Sport Pro Pull-On Snake Boot

Best Waterproof: Bogs Blaze II

Best for Hiking: LaCrosse AeroHead Sport

Best Under $100: Rocky Sport Pro Rubber Waterproof Outdoor Boot

How We Picked the Best Rubber Hunting Boots

As a lifelong hunter and professional outdoor content creator, I spend several months in the field each year. Over the last few decades, I’ve handled rubber hunting boots from almost every brand on the market. I’ve analyzed new models year after year, studying both subtle and major changes from one design to the next. And I’ve worn many of these while hunting, putting them to the ultimate test. Some failed. Others met expectations. And some were clearly the best at what they do.

I analyzed hundreds of current rubber hunting boot options to reach my conclusions in this gear roundup. I took into consideration the following categories:

Affordability: You can spend a mint on rubber boots, but that’s no guarantee that they will keep your feet warm, dry, and comfortable. I selected boots that will perform well, but not break the bank.  

Breathability: Sweat created on a tough hike can chill you when you reach your stand. I looked for boots that were breathable enough to manage moisture effectively.

Comfort: If your feet are unhappy, you’re going to be unhappy. I placed a premium on comfort, selecting boots that offer support where needed and cushion where possible.

Insulation: Nothing ruins the mood like cold feet. I ensured that the boots I choose had enough insulation for the task at hand. Warm-weather footwear such as snakebite-resistant boots don’t need to handle arctic temperatures, so insulation wasn’t considered in their selection.

Stealth: Animals often smell you before they see you, and the scent you leave behind can clue them to your presence well after you’ve left. I looked for options that kept scent to a minimum. I also searched for models that let you creep through the woods as quietly as possible, so your footsteps won’t give your position away.

Waterproofness: One of the best qualities of rubber boots is their ability to keep your feet dry. All of the picks listed here will handle trouncing through muddy fields, setting decoys in sheetwater, and shallow stream crossings.

Weight: It’s hard to imagine a worse place to put weight than on your feet. I ensured the boots I picked were as light as possible, without sacrificing durability.

Best Rubber Hunting Boots: Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall: Irish Setter MudTrek

Specs

Very warm (800-gram insulation)

Incredible comfort

Impressive durability

Pros

17-inch height

Long-lasting waterproofing

Vulcanized rubber

Durable design

Cons

Expensive

Limited sizing (currently)

Minimal width availability

Hunters looking for the best all-around hunting boot that scores high marks in all categories should certainly consider the Irish Setter MudTrek. This boot sets the standard.

The 17-inch MudTrek rubber hunting boot is great for those who prefer a taller boot. The boot is 100-percent waterproof and keeps feet warm with 800 grams of PrimaLoft insulation. ThermalBoost technology is built into the areas of the boot where heat loss is more common. Irish Setter’s TempSens technology reacts to the foot’s body temperature and sweat level, effectively keeping feet dry. Furthermore, its ScentBan odor-control technology helps reduce bacteria and eliminate odor.

The MudTrek is tough and durable, sporting vulcanized rubber that lasts. Its 5mm neoprene material offers advantages in certain categories without sacrificing performance in others. And don’t forget about this boot’s comfort level. It has the Artic Fleece interior and a design that hugs the foot, yet allows it to move as you ease across the landscape. Best of all? The PrimaLoft insulation is made of 90 percent post-consumer plastic, keeping feet warm and reducing the amount left in the environment.

Best for Scent Reduction: LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro

Specs

Crafted with scent-free rubber material

Embossed liner improves air circulation

Weighs only 4.8 pounds

Pros

Scent-free rubber

Moisture wicking

Easy on/off

Adjustable calf size

Cons

Bulkier design

Non-insulated

Not as quiet

Most game animals have great noses, and one of the main reasons hunters wear rubber boots is to reduce the amount of scent they leave behind. Some rubber boots are better at this than others. But the LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro is king.

LaCrosse is an innovative company, and the Alphaburly Pro is a premium hunting boot. It’s crafted with scent-free rubber material. It also incorporates a neoprene interior that’s comfortable. And the jersey knit liner helps wick away moisture and keep feet dry and as scent-free as possible. It also has a tough outer shell. Plus, its durable, neoprene gusset helps accommodate different calf sizes. It’s easy to take on and off.

With Active Fit technology, this boot cradles feet securely while in motion. An aggressive tread pattern makes it great for walking in mud and snow. Being 18 inches tall, it’s perfect for wading through shallow water and sludge, too. Overall, the boot is durable, flexible, and waterproof. And best of all, it helps reduce the scent left behind.

Interestingly, the average human has 5 million olfactory receptors, the average dog has 220 million, and the average whitetail deer has 297 million. In other words: Hunters should wear boots that help reduce scent. LaCrosse recognizes this and offers a boot specializing in that category, which is something many brands don’t do.

Best Insulated: Thorogood Infinity FD Rubber Boots

Specs

1,600-gram 3M Thinsulate Insulation with SolarCore

Anti-microbial wicking liner

Adjustable calf gusset

Pros

Heavy insulation

Great tread design

Sheds mud and muck

Very comfortable

Cons

Bulkier than less-insulated boots

Less stealthy than some models

Less maneuverable than some models

Finding a heavily insulated boot isn’t hard. But finding one that also checks all the other necessary boxes is difficult. The Infinity FD Rubber Boot ends that search, though. It offers more than enough insulation. According to tests, it retains 50 percent more heat.

Thorogood’s Infinity FD Rubber Boot offers some of the best insulation on the market with 1,600 grams. While some boots offer up to 2,000 grams of insulation, those boots are made for extremely cold situations that most American hunters won’t experience and are too warm for typical hunting scenarios. Also, those more-insulated boots are generally clunkier, heavier, and less comfortable. The Thorogood Infinity FD Rubber Boot has the right balance of insulation and comfort, making it the appropriate representative for this category.

The boot also sports a multi-traction, self-cleaning tread pattern that’ll help keep you moving. Its flex-drive, anti-fatigue, energy return system absorbs shock and helps propel you forward. A composite shank helps keep you comfortable, too. This boot is waterproof, stands 17 inches tall, and has a round toe. Those seeking a well-insulated hunting boot should consider this model. It outperforms in this category and given my analysis that shows its high marks across the board, it certainly wins the day.

Best Lightweight: LaCrosse Burly

Specs

Weighs 4.5 pounds

Stands 18 inches tall

Slip-resistant traction

Pros

Very lightweight

EVA footbed

Waterproof design

Taller height allows access via deeper waterways

Cons

Limited insulation

Less stealthy than some models

Less breathable than some models

In 1957, LaCrosse introduced the Grange boot, which was uninsulated. In 1963, they released an insulated version of it, known as the Burly. That game-changer of a boot is still in production today, and it’s our pick for the category of best rubber lightweight hunting boots.

The LaCrosse Burly is a time-tested boot. It’s still made from ZXT rubber and continues to provide a long lifespan. The slip-resistant sole offers quality traction, even under rougher conditions. Inside, an EVA footbed, fiberglass shank, and waterproof lining boost its appeal even more.

Unlike many rubber boots, this boot is known for its long lifespan. Durability and longevity are forgotten traits, but still worth knowing. Comfort matters, too, and this one has that. It features a customizable top strap for a secure fit around the calf. A revolutionary fit ensures a secure and comfortable fit for the ankles, too.

This boot’s comfort zone is advertised at -20 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Best of all, the Burly only costs $100, which is significantly less than most market options, especially within its class.

Best for Cold Weather: Muck’s Arctic Pro

Specs

Warm fleece lining

Added neoprene for comfort and performance

Completely waterproof

Pros

Optimal height, at 17 inches

Warm fleece lining

8mm neoprene

-60 degrees Fahrenheit rating

Cons

Weighing 5.4 pounds, it’s a heavy boot

Less stealthy than some models

Pricier than most rubber boots

Few rubber boots are rated to -60 degrees Fahrenheit, but the Arctic Pro by the Muck Boot Company is. That’s the primary reason it takes the cake in the cold weather boots category. Simply put, this boot will keep your feet warm and happy.

The Muck Boot Company is arguably one of the most experienced companies in the rubber boot department. I’ve analyzed, tested, and worn many of their boots, and this model doesn’t disappoint. It truly does retain heat and keeps feet warmer.

Throughout the years, this boot has advanced thanks to technologies and boot models that came before it. The Arctic Pro builds on previous performance standards, and then some. As stated, few boots offer a temperature rating as cold as this one, and yet, it also does well in areas you’d generally expect sacrificed performance (in a heavily insulated, heat-retention boot).

Best for Warm Weather (and Snakes): Rocky Sport Pro Pull-On Snake Boot

Specs

16 inches of snake-proof protection

Lightest, most flexible snake guard on the market

Removeable PU footbed with memory foam

Pros

Breathable

Snake proof (up to 16 inches high)

Briar and thorn guard

Very lightweight

Cons

Limited size availability

Less stealthy than some models

Pricier than some warm weather snake boots

Not everyone wants rubber hunting boots for cold weather. Many regions in America don’t have cold temperatures during hunting seasons, which is why many companies supply options for warmer temps. In my opinion, the Rocky Sport Pro Pull-On Snake Boot is arguably the best option for this category—especially in snake country.

This is a versatile boot that offers comfort and 16 inches of snake-proof protection. It features an aggressive, multi-directional, dual-density outsole, and vulcanized rubber. It also does well in the longevity department, thanks to added protection in common wear areas. With its 2mm neoprene shaft and briar and thorn guard, the boot is resistant to rips and tears. These are more common during warmer weather when hunters are in the field, beating through heavy cover and prepping for deer season.

This boot is also very adjustable with its expansion calf fit. Thanks to a removable PU footbed with memory foam, it’s more comfortable and has a high waterproof rating. Finally, the boot has a steel shank for added arch support.

Best Waterproof: Bogs Blaze II

Specs

Durable waterproofness

1,000 grams of insulation

Technology that fights odors

Pros

Quality waterproofing material

-40 degrees Fahrenheit temperature rating

Moisture wicking

Heavily cushioned

Cons

Heavier than many rubber boot models

Shorter boot height

Pricier than the average boot

Hunters who are seeking a quality pair of rubber hunting boots want them to be completely waterproof. The Bogs Blaze II fits that requirement—and then some.

The Bogs Blaze II not only keeps water out, but its sweat-wicking technology keeps the boot dry on the inside, too. And that’s important because a boot’s ability to keep water out doesn’t matter much if moisture gets trapped inside. This boot is also very comfortable to wear. It has a blaze-orange lining, heavy Thinsulate insulation, scent-combating technology, and a non-slip, mud-shedding lug outsole. It even has an adjustable 19-inch calf circumference.

Not all rubber boots are waterproof top to bottom. The Blaze II is—and it’s crafted from material that improves the lifespan of its waterproofing performance. It’ll remain waterproof long after other options begin leaking.

Best for Hiking: LaCrosse AeroHead Sport

Specs

4.8 pounds per pair

All-season outsole

Non-loading tread

Pros

Very lightweight

Great traction

Comfortable, jersey-knit liner

Long-lasting waterproofing

Cons

Mild temperature rating (0 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit)

Pricier than some models

Less stealthy than some models

Some hunters desire a high-quality hunting boot that keeps feet dry and is comfortable for hiking, too. The LaCrosse AeroHead Sport does both very well.

The AeroHead Sport is better than most rubber boots because it replaces older rubber-shell designs with one crafted from durable, lightweight, insulating polyurethane. It’s designed for a great fit and increased flexibility, making it ideal for hiking.

The boot also incorporates the Brush Tuff material and abrasion-resistant shin guard, which stands strong against pesky brush and briers. This is necessary for a rubber boot made for hiking, as you’re more likely to encounter things that could puncture a lesser boot. The best part is it does this without the added bulk some boot models have. Overall, this 16-inch boot is great for hiking in various conditions, including mud and snow. It has an aggressive tread pattern that is well-suited for tackling long hikes.

Best Under $100: Rocky Sport Pro Rubber Waterproof Outdoor Boot

Specs

Budget-minded pricing

Excellent waterproofing

Adjustable calf circumference

Pros

Very affordable

Aggressive tread design

Comfortable interior

Durable outsole

Cons

Heavier weight

Less flexible than other models

Not as warmth as other boots

Most hunters don’t have hundreds of dollars to spend on rubber boots, and that’s OK. There are plenty of quality options under $100 that do more than get the job done. Enter the Rocky Sport Pro Rubber Waterproof Outdoor Boot.

The Rocky Sport Pro Rubber Waterproof Outdoor Boot features an aggressive, multi-directional, dual-density outsole. It has vulcanized rubber that helps protect it in key wear areas. And its 5mm neoprene shaft improves comfort while maintaining maneuverability.

The boot even has an open-cell PU foam footbed, expansion fits calf circumference adjustments and helps reduce scent. It incorporates a 1.75-inch heel and has a nice on/off design. It also utilizes waterproofing construction that offers the highest level of waterproofing while maintaining breathability. Best of all, it costs less than $100.

What to Consider When Choosing Rubber Hunting Boots

Rubber hunting boots aren’t for everyone. Some hunters prefer lace-up, hiking-style boots. Those hunting boots offer more comfort than rubber boots. They’re also better suited as elk hunting boots or other hunts in steep country or the mountains. You should reconsider purchasing rubber hunting boots for hunts in that kind of terrain.

Rubber hunting boots are better for moderate to flat terrain, and for those who want protection from snakes (if the boot is designed to be snake proof) and increased warmth. Rubber hunting boots also have the advantage of scent reduction, which is key for deer hunting. And nothing beats a rubber hunting boot for when you have to cross or wade through shallow water, mud, and muck. You should consider specific styles if you’re looking for turkey hunting boots or upland hunting boots.

FAQs

Best Rubber Hunting Boots: Final Thoughts

Best Overall: Irish Setter MudTrek

Best for Scent Reduction: LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro

Best Insulated: Thorogood Infinity FD Rubber Boots

Best Lightweight: LaCrosse Burly

Best for Cold Weather: Muck’s Arctic Pro

Best for Warm Weather (and Snakes): Rocky Sport Pro Pull-On Snake Boot

Best Waterproof: Bogs Blaze II

Best for Hiking: LaCrosse AeroHead Sport

Best Under $100: Rocky Sport Pro Rubber Waterproof Outdoor Boot

It’s hard to pick just one in a field filled with winners, but the Irish Setter MudTrek ticks a lot of boxes. The combo of warmth, comfort and impressive durability sets the standard by which all others should be judged and makes this the best all-around rubber hunting boot. Hunters looking for a versatile boot to perform during duck, deer, and turkey seasons should put the MudTrek high on their list.

Why Trust Us

For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.

The post Best Rubber Hunting Boots of 2023 appeared first on Field & Stream.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.