Coming from the east I have never been too concerned with footwear. We mostly use knee high rubber boots due to scent, low laying water and short hikes to a stand. Eastern hunting is pretty static compared to western hunting.
Over the past years I've consistently upgraded my gear for the western hunts. The one thing that has eluded me is a great pair of boots. I've read many threads. opinions and info on this site is valued to me.
last elk season I purchased a pair of Lowa's. They were bank! They were light, comfortable, lace locks are on point. Great boots! What I found hunting was, during elevation gains I would get a incredible amount of heel pressure on the back of my heel. My feet were pre-taped with leukotape so no blisters. Pain was so intense I could not even rest my feet on the floor board of the pickup after hunting. I had foot beds and high quality wool socks. 9 days hunting, no blisters. Just killer back of heel pain. Felt like my heels were being pushed against a wall.
This year I purchased a pair of "idahos" from crispi. Though not as stiff, still pressure on heel. Both boots have the ABSS. Ankle bone support system.
I've tried a couple different gel cushions for the back of the boots. Only small amount of relief. I'm going to try a pair of "summits" once my size comes in stock.
Question is, has anyone ran into this problem and if so are there any hacks? Thanks, tpeirce
Over the past years I've consistently upgraded my gear for the western hunts. The one thing that has eluded me is a great pair of boots. I've read many threads. opinions and info on this site is valued to me.
last elk season I purchased a pair of Lowa's. They were bank! They were light, comfortable, lace locks are on point. Great boots! What I found hunting was, during elevation gains I would get a incredible amount of heel pressure on the back of my heel. My feet were pre-taped with leukotape so no blisters. Pain was so intense I could not even rest my feet on the floor board of the pickup after hunting. I had foot beds and high quality wool socks. 9 days hunting, no blisters. Just killer back of heel pain. Felt like my heels were being pushed against a wall.
This year I purchased a pair of "idahos" from crispi. Though not as stiff, still pressure on heel. Both boots have the ABSS. Ankle bone support system.
I've tried a couple different gel cushions for the back of the boots. Only small amount of relief. I'm going to try a pair of "summits" once my size comes in stock.
Question is, has anyone ran into this problem and if so are there any hacks? Thanks, tpeirce