9 Best Lightweight Hunting Boots: You’ll Barely Notice Them
Hunting is a subtle sport that requires a lot of patience, skill, and most importantly-the right gear. Being properly equipped for your hunt could make the difference between a successful day and an unsuccessful one. That’s why it’s so important to have lightweight hunting boots for the job.
But with different types of hunting boots on the market, it can be tough to select the right one for you. In this article, we’re going to break down the best lightweight hunting boots to help you secure your hunt.
Quick Answer : Best Lightweight Hunting Boots
Muck Boots Men’s Arctic Sport II Tall Rubber Hunting Boots-Best Overall+Lightest
Material: Rubber
Size: 5-15
Weight: 1.13 lbs
Height: heel to top 17 inches
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Super lightweight and comfortable | Not slip-resistant; be cautious on slippery surfaces |
| 100% waterproof | |
| Available in both men’s and women’s sizes | |
| Fleece-lined for extra warmth |
Don’t be fooled by their rugged good looks—the Muck Men’s Arctic Sport II Tall Rubber Hunting Boots are super lightweight thanks to their neoprene and rubber construction. Strictly designed for extremely cold conditions, you’ll appreciate these boots if you are serious about your comfort and flexibility during the winter.
These boots are 100% waterproof and feature 5mm neoprene booties that are lined with fleece for extra warmth and comfort. Their EVA midsoles provide cushioning and support, while the reinforced toes and heel counters add durability.
The neoprene and rubber exterior of the boot is both flexible and durable, making it ideal for those who are constantly on the move. They also play a huge role in the lightness and waterproofing of the boots.
Their heels measure 1.25 inches, and the boots weigh just 1.13 pounds according to the manufacturer. They’re available in sizes 5-15 both men and women, and they come in an all-black color version.
Bogs Men’s Classic High Waterproof Insulated Hunting Boot-Best Waterproof
Material: Neoprene, Rubber
Size: 7-18
Weight: 2 lbs
Shaft: 12
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Lightweight and comfortable | Slightly slippery; not great on ice |
| 100% waterproof | |
| Neo-Tech insulation for warmth | |
| Durable rubber outsoles for traction |
Bogs has set a new standard of quality and comfort that goes beyond everyone’s expectations. They have demonstrated this in their Men’s Classic High Waterproof Insulated Hunting Boots. Weighing in at only 2 pounds, these boots are 50% lighter than other leading hunting brands.
This means that you can walk for longer without getting tired, and you’ll be able to move more quietly and stealthily when hunting. The Bogs Men’s Classic Hunting Boots are also 100% waterproof and feature Neo-Tech insulation to keep your feet warm and dry in the harshest conditions.
The slip-on design of these boots makes them easy to put on and take off, even when you’re in a hurry. They are lined with 7mm of waterproof neoprene and have a contoured EVA footbed for comfort. The outsoles are made from durable rubber that provides excellent traction on slippery and uneven surfaces.
The Bogs Men’s Classic Hunting Boots are available in sizes 7-18 and come in black color.
Kamik Men’s Forester Insulated Rubber Boots-Best Insulated (For Cold Environments)
Material: 95% Rubber, 5% Nylon
Size: 7-15
Weight: 4.6 lbs
Comfort Rating -40C
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| 100% waterproof | On the heavier side; not as light as some of the other boots on this list |
| Feature a thermal guard liner for extra warmth | Not very durable |
| Durable rubber outsoles for excellent traction | |
| Easy to wear and take off |
Weighing in at 4.6 pounds, the Kamik Men’s Hunter Boots are on the heavier side of this list but are still among the lightest hunting boots on the market. These boots are made from a combination of 95% Rubber and 5% Nylon, making them extremely tough and durable.
Rubber is a great material for hunting boots because it is waterproof and offers good traction. The Nylon adds to the durability of the boot without adding much weight.
It’s also worth noting that Kamik Forester is made in Canada, so you can be sure that they’re designed to withstand the coldest conditions. These boots are 100% waterproof and feature a -40 comfort rating.
The Kamik Men’s Hunter Boots are also 100% waterproof and feature an 8mm thermal guard liner to keep your feet warm in the coldest conditions. Their synthetic rubber outsoles provide excellent traction on slippery and uneven surfaces.
The Kamik Men’s Hunter Boots are available in sizes 7-15 and are available in 7 different color options.
Danner Men’s Vital 8″ Hunting Boots-Most Comfortable
Material: leather and textile upper
Size: 9-14
Weight: 1.76 lbs
Thinsulate Ultra Insulation
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Designed lightweight and comfortable | Inaccurate sizing; run a little narrow |
| Feature a breathable mesh upper | Expensive |
| Made from durable materials | |
| Has a lock and load lacing system for a secure fit | |
| Very comfortable with no break-in period |
Danner has been in the game for a long time, and they know a thing or two about making quality hunting boots. With the Vital 8″ Hunting Boots, Danner focused on two things; comfort and weight.
These boots weigh in at just 1.76 pounds, making them some of the lightest hunting boots on the market. Danner also used a new construction method that reduces the overall weight of the boot without sacrificing durability or comfort.
The uppers of the Vital 8″ Hunting Boots are made from a combination of suede leather, textile and breathable mesh. This makes the boots extremely comfortable while still being durable enough to withstand the rigors of hunting.
The outsoles are made from polyurethane that is both slip-resistant and provides excellent traction. Their lock and load lacing system ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
Columbia Men’s Lakeview II Low Shoe- Best For All Terrain
No products found.
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Lightweight and comfortable | Not durable |
| Provides good all-terrain traction | Sizing is not accurate; run small |
| Breathable and durable | |
| Affordable |
This shoe is super lightweight while at the same time focusing on excellent all-terrain traction. Columbia has used a special combination of leather and textile to create a shoe that is both breathable and durable.
The Lakeview II Low Shoe features a Techlite midsole that provides cushioning and support without adding weight. This makes the shoe extremely comfortable while still being lightweight.
Its Omni-GRIP outsole provides excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces. This makes the shoe ideal for hunting in all conditions. But what really sets the Lakeview II Low Shoe apart is its price. You can purchase it without breaking the bank.
Rocky Men’s Outback Boot-Toughest Lightweight Hunting Boot
Material: 100% Leather
Size: 3.5-13 (wide)
Weight: 1.25 lbs
Shaft: mid-calf from arch
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Boots weigh only 1.25 pounds | On the narrow side; may not be comfortable for all users |
| Made from full-grain leather for durability | Not highly breathable |
| Features a removable EVA insole for added comfort | |
| Has a lacing system for a secure and comfortable fit |
At only 1.25 pounds, you’ll barely even know you’re wearing the Rocky Men’s Outback Boots. Designed using full-grain leather, these boots are extremely durable and can withstand the rigors of hunting while remaining lightweight.
The outsole is made from rubber, providing excellent traction on all surfaces. The Outback Boots are also 100% waterproof and feature a removable EVA insole for added comfort.
Unlike most boots in this list, these have a lacing system for a secure and comfortable fit. While they may take a minute longer to put on, you’ll appreciate the secure fit when you’re out in the field.
A few users complained about the boots being too narrow, so make sure to try them on before purchasing.
Irish Setter Men’s 2870 Vaprtrek Waterproof 8″ Hunting Boot-Best Value
Material: Rubber and polyurethane
Size: 6.5-15
Weight: 2.95 lbs
Ultradry Waterproofing
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Lightweight and comfortable | Expensive |
| Has a BOA lacing system | Not as durable as some of the other boots on this list |
| Provides good ankle support | |
| Features an RPM composite sole for good traction |
Not the most popular hunting boots in the market, but the Irish Setter Vaprtrek Hunting Boots are one of the best hunting boots for those who are looking for something a little different.
These boots are made from rubber and polyurethane and feature a distressed look that gives them a unique appearance. Plus with their 2.95 pounds of weight, you shouldn’t incur any problem navigating through thickets.
The boots have a BOA lacing system that makes them easy to put on and take off, while their design provides good ankle support. Their RPM composite sole also ensures that you get good traction on various terrains.
They are available in sizes 6.5 to 15 and come in brown and Realtree edge colors. However, their expensive price tag may be a turnoff for some.
Salomon Men’s Quest 4D 2 GTX Backpacking Boot-Best Stable Lightweight Hunting Boots
Material: 100% Textile and Nubuck Leather
Size: 7.5-14
Weight: 1.4 lbs
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Extremely light at only 1.4 pounds | Narrow fit |
| Made from tough and durable materials | May not be as comfortable for those with wide feet |
| Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane | |
| Has excellent traction and stability |
While Salomon is popular for its heavy-duty hiking boots, the Quest 4D 2 GTX Backpacking Boot is a great option for those who are looking for a lightweight hunting boot.
This boot weighs only 1.4 pounds and is amongst the lightest hunting boots around. Sure, the boots are designed for backpacking but they work just as well for hunting. These shoes focus on three important aspects: lightweight, protection and stability.
The uppers of the Quest 4D 2 GTX Backpacking Boot are made from nubuck leather and textile and are reinforced with a rubber toe cap for durability. They also feature a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
The outsoles are made from Contagrip rubber (Salomon’s branded grip technology) that provides excellent traction on various terrains. They are also designed to provide good stability and support, even when carrying a heavy load.
Under Armour Men’s Stellar Tactical Side-Zip Boot Best Side Zipper
Material: leather and Textile
Size: 8-14
Weight: 2.78 lbs
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane | Runs small; order a size up |
| Made from full-grain leather and textile | Not specifically designed for hunting |
| Has a rubber outsole with excellent traction | |
| Features a side zip for easy on and off |
While these boots are designed for law enforcement officers, there is no harm in using them for hunting as well. After all, they are designed to be tough, durable and withstand the harshest conditions.
Under Armour Stellar Boots weigh only 2.78 pounds, making them very lightweight. It’s not every day you come across an equally tough and lightweight hunting boot. The boots are made from full-grain leather and textile and feature a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane.
Plus, their rubber outsoles provide excellent traction and are slip-resistant. The boots also have a side zip feature that makes them easy to put on and take off. And their comfortable design means that you can wear them all day without experiencing any discomfort.
How to Choose the Best Lightweight Hunting Boots
There are a few things you need to take into account when choosing the best lightweight hunting boots for you. They are as explained below.
Weight
Of course, the weight of the boot should be the first thing to look out for. You want a boot that is lightweight to not weigh you down, but also heavy enough to provide good support and traction. Lightweight boots are also great if you plan on doing a lot of walking, as they won’t make your feet tired.
The boots on our list range from 1 to 3 pounds, so you can choose the right weight for your needs. The lighter the boot, the easier it will be to walk long distances without getting tired. However, lighter boots might not provide as much support and traction as heavier boots.
It all comes down to finding the right balance for you.
Read our in-depth hunting boots buyer guide
Weather and Terrain
You also need to think about the weather and terrain you’ll be hunting in. If you’re going to be in cold, wet conditions, aside from the lightness of the boot, you’ll also need something waterproof and with good insulation. If you’re going to be in hot, dry conditions then you’ll need a boot that is well-ventilated to prevent your feet from overheating.
The type of game you’re going after will also affect the kind of boot you need. If you’re going to be stalking game in thick brush, you’ll need a boot with good ankle support to prevent sprains. If you’re going to be in open country, a boot with good traction will help you keep your footing on uneven terrain.
Fit
The next thing to think about is fit. A hunting boot is no good if it doesn’t fit properly. You need a boot that is lightweight and comfortable and that won’t cause blisters after a long day of hunting. Make sure you try on the boots before you buy them to make sure they fit well. You can also buy boot liners to help with fit and comfort.
Construction Material
You also want to put into consideration the construction material of the boot. The material used plays a huge role in how lightweight and durable your boot will be. Common materials used in lightweight hunting boots are tough leather, rubber, and synthetic materials.
Leather will usually last longer than synthetic materials but they are also more expensive. Rubber and synthetic materials are often lighter in weight than leather and they can be just as durable.
Read about muck boots for hunting
Support and Cushioning
A good lightweight hunting boot will provide good support and cushioning for your feet. This is important to prevent fatigue and to protect your feet from the rough terrain you’ll be walking on. The best boots will have a comfortable, supportive insole and a good cushioning system in the midsole.
Price
Finally, you need to think about the price. Lightweight hunting boots can be expensive, so you want to make sure you find a boot that is within your budget. Look for sales and discounts online or at your local sporting goods store. You can also buy used boots to save money.
Common Question Answer
What is the difference between lightweight and heavyweight hunting boots?
The weight of a boot determines whether they are lightweight or heavyweight. Lightweight boots are usually made from synthetic materials and they are designed to be comfortable. They also have good traction and support.
Heavyweight boots, on the other hand, are normally made from leather and are designed to be durable. They also have good insulation and waterproofing.
How do I know if a boot is of the right weight for me?
The weight of a hunting boot is important but it all comes down to personal preference. If you plan on doing a lot of walking, then you might want to consider a lighter boot. If you’re going to be in thick brush, then you might want a heavier boot for the extra support.
Can I use my lightweight hunting boots in the winter?
Yes, it’s possible to wear your lightweight hunting boots in the winter but you might want to consider a boot with more insulation. You can also buy boot liners to help keep your feet warm in the cold weather.
Conclusion
Now that you know the best lightweight hunting boots and what to look for when searching for the perfect pair, it’s time to get out there and start your hunt! Keep in mind the different factors that we discussed such as the type of game you’re going after, the terrain you’ll be walking on, and the weather conditions. Be sure to try on the boots before you buy them and make sure they fit well.
