How to Choose the Ideal Hunting Boots? (+Maintenance)
How to Choose the Ideal Hunting Boots? (+Maintenance)
Before buying hunting boots, consider some basic steps you need to take to be completely satisfied with your purchase!
The first thought to buy a pair of hunting boots should direct you to a specialized hunting store.
Only there will you find the information you need and a wide variety of models. We recommend that you make your purchases in the afternoon, because it is known that feet swell slightly during the day.
5 + 1 Tips for the right choice of hunting boots
To test a new pair of hunting boots, you need socks that are used in hunting, because they vary in both volume and length of the foot. We recommend that hunting socks are made of special technical and natural materials, especially if the boot has a Gore-Tex membrane.
2. Hunting boot size
Choosing a half or full size larger ensures the best fit of the boot. Feet have less volume in the morning, while the arch of the foot decreases as the day goes on. The hunting boot should not be short. Clearly, the forms differ by manufacturer. If in doubt, choose a larger size.
It is very important to properly tie hunting boots for their safety and stability. Pull back the heel and place the tongue in the center. For uphill walking, tie the bottom of the boot by passing the lace tightly through the special hooks and looser at the top to increase flexibility. The top, especially around the lock, should be tied more tightly when walking downhill.
4. Fit
Does your heel fit well? Do you feel comfortable in the boot? Pressure on the toes? These are some basic questions to consider. The general rule: There should be at least 1 cm. of space between the big toe and the toe of the hunting boot. Place the tongue in the center and stabilize it with the special hook, passing the lace through there. If the tongue slips to the side, especially on a new pair, it will stay there forever!
5. Walking
Before buying, it would be a good idea to wear the hunting boot for 10 minutes so that the material inside can adapt to the shape of the foot. The right boot should offer stability to the heel on the uphill while not coming into contact with the toes on the downhill. You can adjust the fit by tightening or loosening the laces.
Key Tip: If the boots "hit" you in some place, try walking through damp (cool) grass. The moisture will soften the leather so that it takes the shape of the foot faster.
How do I clean and maintain my hunting boots properly?
A good pair of hunting boots also deserves proper maintenance to provide a longer lifespan. Follow these instructions:
1. Preparation – Remove the sole to dry and the laces.
2. Hooks & eyes – Protect them from corrosion with Grangers G-Wax.
3. Basic cleaning – Remove tough dirt using a brush and the Footwear & Gear Cleaner included in the Footwear Care Kit.
4. Hygiene – You can clean the inside of the boots with lukewarm water for models with a GORE-TEX membrane and with green soap only for boots with leather lining.
5. Drying – Do not expose the hunting boots to the sun or place them on a radiator. Wet leather “burns” easily, while it becomes brittle and hard. Dry your boots by stuffing them with newspaper and maintain their shape by using shoehorns when storing.
6. Waterproofing – It is very important to maintain the waterproofing of your shoes, especially suede and Nubuck. Use Grangers maintenance products, such as Footwear Proofer Cherry Blossom.
7. Waxing – Leather needs “food” to remain flexible and waterproof. A good wax cream can also protect the surface, seams and metal parts of the boot. Use Grangers maintenance products, such as G-Wax, Waterproofing Wax and Leather Conditioner. CAUTION: Wax is also suitable for Nubuck boots, but it will make the leather darker and smoother.
Choosing the right hunting boots is not just a matter of comfort, but an investment in safety and performance on the mountain and by extension on the hunt. With proper care and maintenance, hunting boots can give you many years of reliable use. Take your time to make the right choice and you will be rewarded at every step!
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