Humans have been hunting as long as they have been alive. We’ve always been evolving and adapting our techniques, and so has been our equipment.
Today, we have abled ourselves to not hunt larger and faster creatures but also fight against the harsh environments some of these creatures reside in. One of the most important parts of your hunting attire is your footwear.
In this article, we will be briefly going upon the different types of boots traditionally used for hunting and which ones we think are the best according to the general consensus.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Pac Boots For Hunting
- OUR TOP PICK: Kamik Men's Greenbay 4
- RUNNER-UP: Sorel Men's 1964
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Carhatt Men's CMC1259
Comparison of the Best Pac Boots For Hunting
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What Are Pac Boots?
Pac boots basically winter boots that have a lining inside of them that is often referred to as a ‘soft inner shoe.’ This lining is insulative, thick, and can be removed.
If we look at the actual definition, a pac is essentially a ‘soft moccasin’ type configuration, which is designed to be worn inside your boots. With the warm pac inside your shoes, you’re ready for the cold weather with a pair of boots that can withstand the freezing temperatures.
Why Are They Called Pac Boots?
It’s called a pac boot due to the removable inner lining. This lining is basically a soft shoe inside your shoe or boot that keeps your feet warm and is designed to be waterproof.
Are Pac Boots Important While Hunting?
You may think that pac boots are not all that important while hunting, and you can do with a good-quality pair of hunting boots. But, pac boots can give you a considerable leg up, considering the tough and harsh conditions some hunters go through. In some parts of the world, while hunting, pac boots are an absolute necessity. Here’s why:
Impervious to Water
With a thick insulating inner lining, sturdy rubber outsole, leather construction, and special interior designs to separate sweat, pac boots are immaculate when it comes to water resistance. All boots in our catalog are made from high-quality waterproof material, which is extremely important while hunting to keep your feet warm and dry.
Ability to Withstand Rugged Conditions
Hunting is not an easy job; it requires you to go through rugged terrains and harsh conditions where normal hunting boots just won’t do. Pac boots come with a comfortable cushioned interior lining to keep your comfortable and blister-free while you run through the bumpy lands. But also, they are designed with special features to offer extra stability and grip. This is why they can’t be overlooked.
Temperature Resistance
Pac boots showcase several layers of interior lining or thick and cushioned ones in addition to special insulation mechanisms. One example is lite fire, an aluminum-based membrane that has the ability to reflect body heat, which is equivalent to 1000 g of traditional insulation. This and several other mechanisms are put into place in these boots, so they’re tough and able to withstand temperatures of as low as minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Hence, if you don’t want your feet getting cold, wet, or essentially frostbit, pac boots are the obvious choice. This makes them perfect for snow slush and even dirt, mud, etc.
Characteristics of Our Favorite Pac Boots
Pac boots have taken the world by storm. They are an immaculate amalgamation of comfort and stability. However, not all of them are the same; some showcase better features than the others. Let’s have a look at the top characteristics we searched for when looking for pac boots:
Durability
Saving time and money has always been everybody’s priority, right? This is exactly why investing in superior-quality footwear is important that can last you for years without any wear, tears, or cracks, etc.
Durability is assessed by examining the material of the shoes. Materials such as leather and rubber are perfect for corroborating longevity. What we’ve included in our list is a unique set of products that are a blend of a leather body and a rubber outsole at the bottom. This elevates durability by combining both their phenomenal characteristics. This is crucial if you want resilience to harsh conditions and extreme temperatures.
Water Resistance
Nobody likes getting their feet wet as they make you miserable. Hence, whenever the thought of buying a pac boot crosses your mind, make sure you remember to look for a waterproof design. All products mentioned on our list are a hundred percent waterproof.
Waterproof pac boots become essential if you want to trek in wetlands or snowy areas; if you commit the mistake of getting your feet wet in such extremely cold temperatures, the outcomes can be catastrophic for your health.
Look for thick outsoles to give you considerable height when walking through watery lands and leather or rubber-based construction for water resistance.
Comfort
While functionality is important, you should never overlook comfort. Boots that are well-fitting and comfortable to walk, stroll, or run in are absolutely essential. If you opt for anything less, it can lead to blisters, feet pain, muscle fatigue, hot spots, or twisted ankles.
Comfort is validated when your choice of boots features cushioned inner lining that’s soft and insulated to keep your feet warm. Moreover, look for options with a good outsole that has special mechanisms at the bottom to facilitate easier gripping and hence traction.
Fit
Your shoes need to have the perfect fit for your particular size of feet. Wearing the wrong size can get you tired and unstable, restraining you from enjoying the essence of what you came for. Shoes that feature Velcro straps or drawstrings, etc. are good for giving you a snug fit after you choose a size that fits your feet.
Outsole
The outsole is what’s responsible for handling the friction at the bottom of the shoe so you can have a firm grip and don’t slip. Hence, the outsole of the shoe should be thick and made of good quality material. We personally recommend rubber outsoles. It should further be designed with special patterns and mechanisms to provide excellent traction in the snow, slush, mud, oil, etc.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
- Materials: The main materials the boots are made of.
- Insulation: The measurement of insulating qualities the boots possess. This is denoted by both the type and rating of the insulating material.
- Boot Height: This is how tall the boot is.
- Cold Rating: This indicates the lowest temperatures the boot is rated for.
- Waterproof? Whether the boots are considered waterproof or water-resistance.
Review of the Best Pac Boots For Hunting
Now that we’ve talked about the most important attributes to look for, let’s see these characteristics being put into practice.
Best Overall:
Kamik Men's Greenbay 4
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Reports
Apart from all other great features, buyers especially liked the thick felt lining in the boot that was both extremely warm and comfortable. Moreover, they were fans of the honeycomb design because it was an excellent tool to keep the water or sweat separate from their feet. They also loved the Velcro and drawstring design because it helped the shoe snug tight to their feet.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you’re looking for a good winter boot that does it all, this is a really good choice. The construction encompasses a highly durable rubber bottom for users to remain active without having to fret about the boots falling apart. Another important thing to note here is that the rubber bottom is flexible so you can comfortably walk and run in them all while ensuring paramount durability.
The boots are waterproof so you can hunt or stroll all day in the snow and slush whenever you please. Thanks to the removable front liner installed on the inside that provides a ton of warmth, these boots will remain warm even in extreme temperatures.
Two features that make these boots really convenient are the drawstrings at the top and the Velcro across the center. If you’re someone who’s constantly putting them on and back off, these features will prove to be extremely convenient for you.
Bottom Line
The style on the Kamik Men’s Greenbay is a classic; we’re especially fans of the black ones. With such ruggedness and strength, you’re going to be able to wear these boots every day. These boots run pretty true to size, and the high-quality material makes sure that the boots don’t stretch at all.
Product Specs
Materials:
600 denier nylon and rubber sole
Insulation:
8 mm Thermal Guard
Boot Height:
14"
Cold Rating:
-40 °F to 40 °F (-40°C to 4°C)
Waterproof?
Yes
Runner-up:
Sorel Men's 1964
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers seemed pleased with the boots after purchase. They claimed that the pair fit perfectly and offered good control. They were fans of the color and style but what really hit the mark for them was that the boots remained dry even in extreme snow conditions. Overall, they said that these were great winter boots that get the job done.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The waterproof construction and the waterproof leather going all the way to the top stand out to us on the Sorel’s Men’s 1964. The design showcases a 9mm thick liner that’s removable and washable and made from recycled material. We love how the company corroborates eco-friendliness.
Moreover, the outsole is fabricated from a durable rubber designed to tackle all those cold and nasty elements you’re going to encounter, whether you’re out hunting or searching. These boots are great for snow shoveling or outside activities when deep snow usually becomes a hindrance.
Bottom Line
The soles on this design have excellent tracking and grip, and the shoes are very comfortable yet warm. They’re lightweight and perfect for people with wide feet. We would recommend them to anyone looking for good-quality pac boots with a good price range.
Product Specs
Materials:
100% Full Grain Leather and rubber sole
Insulation:
Removable 9 mm washable recycled felt inner boot with Sherpa pile snow cuff
Boot Height:
14"
Cold Rating:
-40 °F to 40 °F (-40°C to 4°C)
Waterproof?
Yes
Best for the Money:
Carhartt Men's CMC1259
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users claim that these boots were well worth their money. They said they are well-constructed and not as heavy as they seem for how big they are. They are comfortable yet stiff in the perfect proportion. All in all, they were happy with their purchase and looked forward to many years of continued use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Carhartt Men’s CMC is insanely well built with its waterproof design and an extremely tough steel toe to give you all the protection you need. The texture on the front is specially formulated to be resistant to bumps, and the synthetic material used in the assembly of these boots ensures indemnity.
Moreover, there’s huge synthetic support at the heel that corroborates excellent stability, and the triple-stitched leather on the top ensures longevity. The laces come way up to the top of the shoe with quick hook loops to get them on and off faster.
The boots also feature an extremely soft collar and lining with a cushioned footbed. There’s a pull tab at the back to ease the wearing and removing process. Lastly, the textured outsole on the bottom of the shoe is oil-resistant and very flexible.
Bottom Line
Take these boots to heart as they’re going to keep your feet protected no matter the circumstances. You’re going to be steady footing, all while being extremely comfortable in the soft cushioned lining. We don’t think you can go wrong with this model from Carhartt.
Product Specs
Materials:
100% Leather and rubber sole
Insulation:
1000 LiteFire
Boot Height:
14.4"
Waterproof?
Yes
4. Sorel Men's Alpha XT
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers reported back saying they had no problems while wearing these shoes and strolling through several treacherous footings. They provided excellent traction. Not only that, but they did an impeccable job of keeping their feet dry. They’re super warm, comfortable, and offer superb insulation.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Sorel Men’s Alpha XT is constructed out of a polyurethane-backed synthetic textile. With this design, you’ve got reflectivity throughout to give you great visibility in low light conditions. There’s a bungee lacing system in the front center for an extra sung fit and a super-soft lining on the inside. The company really focuses on keeping your feet nice and comfortable all day long.
Moreover, there’s a super shock-absorbing midsole designed to give you light-weight comfort and tons of thermal protection. At the bottom, there’s an extremely durable rubber outsole with a multi-directional rubber lug pattern for excellent stability.
Bottom Line
These boots are just as much stout as they are flexible. The innovative rubber design at the bottom of the sole makes for an excellent shoe design that’ll give you the greatest stability in your urban adventures. Make sure to check these out; your money will be invested in the best way possible and for long.
Product Specs
Materials:
100% Polyurethane, Synthetic, Textile and rubber sole
Insulation:
Removable 9 mm recycled felt inner boot with Omni-Heat reflective lining, 2.5 mm bonded felt frost plug and 9 mm felt footbed
Boot Height:
21"
Cold Rating:
-60F
Waterproof?
Yes
5. LaCrosse Outpost II
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers were happy that the boots were exactly as they expected, and the fitting was top-notch. They say that the boots remained comfortable and extremely functional, even in the occasional minus 40-degree Fahrenheit temperatures. They’re confident these will last them a long time. Overall, users are satisfied with the boots and also the company.
Why it Stands Out to Us
LaCrosse is probably one of the original companies to come up with rubber bottom and leather top design in pac boots. The LaCrosse Outpost is a classic boot with its tractioned outsole and comes in a variety of different colors for every need. The 100% full-grain leather, nylon, and suede construction validates this particular model's longevity and durability.
The model is constructed from high-quality materials, making it resistant to wear and tear abrasions, and other tough labor. Furthermore, it’s resilient enough to withstand cracks when it’s hotter and extreme hardening when it’s colder. The fit is excellent as well. Overall, it’s a top-quality boot that’s not only well-constructed but also well-insulated.
Bottom Line
The LaCrosse Outpost II will be the ideal choice when it comes to outdoor recreational opportunities. Whether you’re out snowmobiling or hiking, you won’t even feel the resistance of the tough temperature when you’ve got these by your side.
Product Specs
Materials:
Rubber and Leather
Insulation:
Removable foam liner
Boot Height:
11"
Waterproof?
Yes
Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind
The following are a list of factors you should keep in mind while you’re making a decision. It’ll help you in buying a pair that actually fits well within your requirements and the conditions you engage in.
Weather
Hunting requires patience and time. This is only possible when you are equipped with the right tools, especially when out in extreme temperatures.
Pac boots are the warmest boots you can get, and they come with different temperature ratings that need to be considered, depending on the place you are going to be hunting in. This is where built-in insulation with removable liners is quite essential as it is not only useful when drying and cleaning the boots but also to have a little bit of control over the level of heat being retained.
Comfort
Another factor to keep in mind is the comfort and fit of the boot itself. Usually, you will be spending a lot of time with these on your feet, and as long as your feet are happy, you’ll be happy. Handcrafted pac boots are a lot more expensive, but they are known for the quality and comfort they provide over others. And since pac boots are meant to last a lifetime, investing in such a product can go a long way.
Material
The materials used to make the boot itself are essential as the grade of rubber, for example, might determine how much moisture it can withstand or additional spikes below the soles can help you trek better on sloping and slippery terrains.
These materials will also help determine the longevity and life of the boot. This is also why pac boots are heavy and bulky; thus, they might not be the best option if you plan on walking a lot.
Comparison Overview
Pac boots have been around since the 1960s, but they’re not the only type of boots being manufactured all across the globe. There’s quite a variety available, and while they serve a similar function overall, it comes down to the little details that make one variation better than the other. Here’s a comparison between different types to help you determine what you really want.
Insulated Hunting Boots vs. Pac Boots
It is quite obvious that hunting boots are made for the specific sport of hunting. It’s like the saying that the right pair of boots might make or break your hunt.
Hunting boots are generally quite light as compared to traditional pac boots. This is due to the heavy-duty insulation in the latter. Insulation in hunting boots works just as well, especially when using “Thinsulate” and keeps the weight much more feasible comparatively, but it can only go so far.
In colder environments where snow, rain, and wind chills are more common, even insulated hunting boots fall short when it comes to sufficiently protecting your feet from the extreme cold. Both boots are generally waterproof, but that doesn’t always help keep them dry, as you can imagine.
Most hunting boots don’t feature removable felt lining like pac boots, so they are quite harder to dry. Therefore, hunting boots lack the versatility available in pac boots, that is, if you can bear the extra weight that comes with them.
Pac Boots vs. Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are known for their lightweight designs. They are made for walking with comfort for longer periods of time. Their components also differ, such as uppers, midsoles, and the internal support of the boots. They are made to fit with as much comfort as possible with added ankle support. This is where pac boots start lacking.
Though they can be used for walking and hiking, too, pac boots can be a little heavy for that activity. They also do not provide much ankle support in comparison to hiking boots. But hunting isn’t all about hiking and walking.
Hiking boots will not be able to provide the warmth that pac boots can nor the versatility in the same boot, which is probably why they come in such a wide variety. Some hunters use hiking boots, but even they will not use it in below-zero temperatures as a heavy and warm boot is always better than a frozen foot.
Muck Boots vs. Pac Boots
Muck boots are generally a lot lighter than most other types of boots. They are quite long and made of rubber with high-grade insulation. They generally are 100% waterproof and are very useful to have.
An advantage they have over others is that in hunting conditions where the scent is a factor, they come in extremely handy as rubber doesn’t hold scents very well. Therefore, a quick scrub and rubbing some dirt all around is all you need. They are best for wet country hunting, or whenever you know it’s going to rain on a hunt day.
Muck boots, however, are a nuisance to put on and take off due to their height. Pac boots also have the edge over them as most pac boots are a lot more comfortable than most muck boots. They breathe better and are better for covering the ground. And again, pac boots are a lot warmer comparatively. Therefore, it does come down to the time for the year you will be hunting, which will decide which boot to put on.
How to Clean and Care For Pac Boots
Pac boots are a little tricky to care for as the lower shoe part is made of rubber while the uppers are made from leather. Thus, both require slightly different techniques. Basically, here’s what you must do:
- Start by brushing off the dirt if there is any left after a hunt.
- If you have a pac boot that comes with a removable lining, take it out first. You can replace the lining while the older when it is being washed and dried.
- Since they are waterproof, cleaning them with a wet cloth is quite easy and helps start the process. Always use circular motions.
- Leather, much like skin, needs to be moisturized; therefore, using leather cleaner occasionally will help keep the upper part fresh and looking better.
- Applying wax or polish with a dauber brush is a nice way to shine the boots. Let the wax dry and buff the boots. You can repeat the process as many times as you wish.
- Stains can be removed using a stain remover, such as a salt stain remover, etc.
- Wear breathable socks and never let your boots be wet or damp for longer than they need to. Otherwise, this increases the chance of odors. If they already smell, sprinkling some baking soda or talcum powder in them overnight can help eliminate them. Otherwise, there are products available to keep your boots fresh.
- There is a multitude of products available for the care of boots, and researching them is a good step to take. This might be a trial and error process, but it will help to increase the life of your boots and comfort in the long run. Watching a YouTube tutorial for a specific need (such as how to remove a certain kind of scent or stain) might also come in handy.
Conclusion
Pac boots have become a personal favorite due to the myriad of benefits they offer while staying relatively stable and comfortable. There’s no doubt that a lot of thinking goes into the process of manufacturing these products, so only the best contenders emerge out of it.
We’ve tried our best to present to you some of the best options in this product category while keeping in mind specific traits that they should possess. The result is a carefully formulated catalog of only the top-of-the-line designs ensuring premium quality. We’re confident you’ll be able to make a well-informed decision now.
People Also Ask
We understand that there might still be some questions left on pac boots. If you want further clarity, you can go through these frequently asked questions:
How Do You Keep Hunting Boots Scent Free?
It’s natural to have scents in your boots after you come home from a long day of hunting. It’s a consequential element of your hunting endeavors. The key here is to maintain cleanliness after every activity, so the scent doesn’t build up.
One piece of advice is to remove the inner lining wherever you come back from a trip and keep it in the sun to dry to soak up any unnecessary odor. You should also wash the inner lining, so it stays clean and fresh. Store the boots in a scent-free bag and try to limit their use. It’s ideal if you use them only for hunting.
Are Pac Boots Good For Winter Hunting?
Pac boots are perfect for winter hunting. The thick and insulated inner lining makes sure you don’t get cold feet, and the tractioned outsoles make sure you have a firm grip while strolling through snow and slush.
ey can withstand a temperature of up to 40-degree Fahrenheit, so they’re basically the ideal choice.
How Should My Pac Boots Fit?
Your pac boots should be true to your size, and they should offer a nice, comfortable fit. Your toes should have a little space so they can breathe and are not so tight that you are unable to move. They should be able to stretch, and you should be able to walk freely when strolling.
What Materials Are Pac Boots Made Of?
Pac boots are made from a variety of different materials like leather, rubber, synthetics, textiles, and foam. However, rubber and leather are the best options, in our opinion.
Do I Really Need Pac Boots in Addition to Everyday Hunting Boots?
If you’re going out for activities like hiking in snowy hilly areas or any other practices during the winter seasons, you will need pac boots. Without them, you won’t be able to enjoy the added insulation and a firmer grip in the snow. Your practices will also be a lot harder to do than if you were to use pac boots during your adventures.
When Were Pac Boots Invented?
Pac boots were introduced in 1960 by the company Sorel. This was the first company to come up with the innovative feature of manufactured boots with removable pacs. Also, they initiated the leather top and rubber bottom design that has now been adopted by virtually every company.
