Best Hunting Boots | Kenetrek Boots | CaribouGear.com – Caribou Gear Outdoor Equipment Company

At Caribou Gear, the products we choose to carry in our store are the ones we personally use in the field. And that’s certainly true of Kenetrek boots.

We’ve been using Kenetrek boots on our hunts for years. In fact, I have a pair of Kenetrek boots that I’ve been using for the past six seasons – with nearly 250 days of hunting, scouting and hiking under their soles, I can say without a doubt that these boots have been well worth the investment.

If we were to pick one boot that’s versatile enough to handle any hunt, it would be the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme. Here are a few reasons why we love this boot:

1. Comfort

When we say, “comfort” we’re not talking about your favorite pair of slippers. We're talking about all-day mountain hunting comfort. Actually, these boots are relatively stiff and might feel strange at first when walking around on flat ground. I remember the first time I put on my Kenetrek mountain boots – it felt a little bit like wearing a ski boot. Not that extreme – but you get the point.

If you’ve never worn a tall, stiff boot, they may take some getting used to. But as soon as you’re hiking through rough terrain, climbing or descending a steep mountain, or hauling a heavy load of meat on your back, you’ll immediately recognize their value. These boots shine in the nastiest conditions.

Whether you’re chasing sheep at high altitude or scurrying down a desert coulee to get in position on an antelope, these boots keep your feet protected and comfortable on the most uneven terrain. They offer excellent support for any mountain or western hunt.

2. Durability

There’s no escaping the fact that a pair of Kenetrek boots are pricey. We understand that it’s a significant investment. But we believe is a worthwhile investment.

Boots are one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll purchase. Bad hunting boots can absolutely ruin a hunting trip. Blisters, wet feet or frozen feet can end a hunt in a hurry – or at least make you a less effective hunter. No matter what pair of boots you decide to purchase, it’s worth investing in a quality pair.

Using the best possible materials and high quality construction, Kenetrek boots are extremely durable. They are built for the long haul. This year will mark my seventh season in my Kenetrek mountain boots – and they’re still in good shape! When you invest in a pair of high quality boots, you should expect outstanding durability. And that’s exactly what you get with the Kenetrek Mountain Extremes.

3. Versatility

One thing we love about our Kenetrek boots is their versatility. From September archery elk hunts to November mule deer hunts, these boots carry us through the hunting season. This is truly the “do it all” western hunting boot.

Kenetrek boots are completely waterproof. The breathable membrane allows moisture to escape, helping to keep your feet comfortable in a wide range of conditions.

If you’re only going to purchase one pair of boots, we’d recommend the Mountain Extreme 400-Gram Insulated boot. We find these boots to be just the right balance – not too much for those early season archery hunts – but warm enough to take us well into the later seasons.

Quick Specs: Men’s Kenetrek Mountain Extreme Insulated 400-Gram

10” Tall
4lb 2oz
8mm Thick Premium Full Grain Leather Uppers
One-Piece Construction – No Seams Down the Tongue for Abrasion Resistance and Waterproofness
Reinforced Double and Triple Stitching
7mm Nylon Midsoles for Support with Heavy Pack Loads
Premium Hardware that Swivels Instead of Breaking
Reinforced Rubber Sole Guard – Extra Abrasion Resistance
Windtex Waterproof/Breathable Membrane
400 gram Thinsulate Lightweight Insulation
K-Talon Outsoles Provide Excellent Traction

Shop for the Men’s Mountain Extreme Boots Here

Quick Specs: Women’s Kenetrek Mountain Extreme Insulated 400-Gram

8” Tall
2lbs
8mm Thick Premium Full Grain Leather Uppers
One-Piece Construction – No Seams Down the Tongue for Abrasion Resistance and Waterproofness
Reinforced Double and Triple Stitching
5mm Nylon Midsoles for Support with Heavy Pack Loads
Premium Hardware that Swivels Instead of Breaking
Reinforced Rubber Sole Guard – Extra Abrasion Resistance
Windtex Waterproof/Breathable Membrane
400 gram Thinsulate Lightweight Insulation
K-Talon Outsoles Provide Excellent Traction

Shop for the Women’s Mountain Extreme Boots Here

Merino Wool Socks

When purchasing a pair of high quality boots, don’t forget the importance of socks. The best boots in the world won’t perform well if you’re wearing cotton socks underneath! For the waterproof/breathable membrane to work properly, you must wear a sock that will wick moisture and dry quickly.

We highly recommend a merino wool sock for any hunting expedition. The merino-nylon blend from Kenetrek is an excellent choice. They come in medium, heavy and super heavy weight versions. Kenetrek also offers a great liner sock that can be paired with any of the three. You can vary the sock weight based on the weather – or you might find that your boots fit best with one particular sock. For example, I personally find that my boots fit best with a heavy weight sock – no matter the weather or season.

Shop for Kenetrek Merino Wool Socks Here

Kenetrek Boot Wax

When you invest in a high quality pair of mountain boots, make sure you take great care of them. We recommend cleaning and waxing your boots after every trip. This will help keep the boots waterproof and the leather in great condition for years to come. To learn more about re-waterproofing your boots (and other gear) see our previous article on that subject.

Shop for Kenetrek Boot Wax Here