Backup pair of boots

[N2TRKYS]

I've got an October deer hunt in WY that I'll be covering a lot of ground doing day hunts. I've got a pair of Kenetrek Mountain Extreme NI as my main boots and love them. What would be a good pair of boots that I could take on the trip as back in case something happens to my main boots?

FWIW, I won't be able to spend as much on my backup boots as my main boots.

Thanks.

 

[Matt W.]

I have used a pair of Salmon XA Pro 3D GTX trail shoes as my back up pair. Spent most of a hunt in them once and with my gaiters I survived. I often take them along as my "camp shoes." Campsaver has sale going that puts them at ~$130. Definitely no replacement for a boot, but worked well for me as a backup...
Salomon XA Pro 3D GTX Trail Running Shoe - Men's - Trail Running Shoes - Men's Footwear - Footwear :: CampSaver.com

 

[Nubs]

In my old age of 32, I'm finding lighter is better. Last year on my antelope hunt I traded my trusty Danner Acadias for my pair of Danner stalking boots I brought as a backup. I have seriously been considering trying the Salomons as well. Just my .02.

Think I paid 40$ for the stalking boots out of the Cabelas bargain cave.

Sent from my SM-G930U using Tapatalk

 

[Laelkhunter]

I have the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme NI for my main boot. I have a pair of Danner Pronghorn (old model) as backup.

 

[Tony Trietch]

I always have a backup. That goes or everything.
My plan with boots is to get new ones when the old pair is at what I repressive to be 50% life.
Then break in the new ones and start using old pair for work and as back up.

 

[gumbl3]

I always take two pair, heck sometimes 3. Feet are just too important.

 

[1signguy]

For me on a day hunt deal- I would take a light pair of hiking boots and some camp/hotel shoes. Most importantly I would take leukotape and tape up before I start hunting... Not knowing your feet maybe change socks at lunch and a clean pair off socks daily.

The most important thing is a proper break in... My Fall hunting boots are on my feet as I write this...

 

[mcseal2]

I run the Kennetrek NI Mountain Extreme boots also for a lot of my hunts. I have a pair of 200 gram insulated Cabelas Meindl Alaskan boots I wear that fit and function similar to the Kennetrek boots but are a little heavier and warmer. They are about the same for stiffness. I use them conditioning and save the more expensive Kennetrek boots for hunting since both are well broke in now.

The other boots I just bought recently I'm trying out is the Salomon GTX 4D. It's replacing a pair of Danner pronghorns that got stolen with my vehicle a while back. So far I like them better. They are much lighter than the Kennetrek or Cabelas boots and have decent ankle support although not nearly what the other boots do. I will likely use them on some hunts with less steep terrain or side hilling. I need the ankle support if I'm side hilling all day. I will also always have the stiffer boot in the truck or at base camp so I can switch when packing meat after the first load. The Salomon is light and comfy but when I've worn them conditioning I can definitely feel the thinner sole after a few miles of hiking over rocks. It has it's advantages too, easier to walk quietly and feel what's underfoot.

For camp or hotel shoes I have LL Bean rubber bottom, leather top moccasins that work well and keep socks dry with a dew or after a rain. If weight is an issue I like the Dawgs brand Hound shoes that look like Crocs but are lighter and really comfortable to me. They won't stop a big thorn from getting to your foot though, they need used with caution.

Basically the Kennetreks are my main boots. For cold wet weather the Cabelas boots are my back-up. For warm dry weather the Salomons are my back-up.