Hunting Boots D11, D14, D15, D16

[Camo_Man]

Curious if anyone uses snake boots or gators in these hunt areas? If so, what is your preferred brand/make/model? I've been coming across several snakes on hiking paths and thinking it might be a wise investment? Especially if going trail blazing through chaparral?

 

[Snake Charmer]

Turtleskinz gators over heavy leather boots (Kennetreks) does the trick for me. This time of year I don't break brush unless I'm wearing them.

 

[8SteelTown]

Depending on the time of year, I use gaiters. Wish I had some snake boots but the gaiters work fine (not tested thank god). I've found skin sheds a bunch but have yet to run into a rattler in D15. Some of these San Diego D16 boys see them a bunch. There was another topic on gaiters. Some talk about snake boots on it too.
http://southerncaliforniahunting.com/huntersforum/index.php/topic,7592.msg59610.html#msg59610

 

[ilovesprig]

I've never worn snake boots or gaiters during deer season, but I have seen one rattler......Many years ago outside of Ramona.

Pretty slim odds, but as light and reasonably priced as gaiters are......Why take the chance?.....2 cents

 

[Mocha a]

Never seen any snakes in d11 at least in the areas I hunt. As for d15 yeah lots of them and they are some huge ones. I had the pleasure of meeting 3 of them in one day :-\ . I did get some gaiters after that but need to return them cause they were defective.

 

[ilovesprig]

Never seen any snakes in d11 at least in the areas I hunt. As for d15 yeah lots of them and they are some huge ones. I had the pleasure of meeting 3 of them in one day :-\ . I did get some gaiters after that but need to return them cause they were defective.

Just out of curiosity.......How'd you find out they were defective...... ;D

 

[Mocha a]

Took them for a hike durring a light misting rain and they started to wear from the side and ended up tearing all the way through. Almost like the rain was melting the nylon protector and outher lining. I can post picture in a few.

 

[SurfNHuntSD]

Took them for a hike durring a light misting rain and they started to wear from the side and ended up tearing all the way through. Almost like the rain was melting the nylon protector and outher lining. I can post picture in a few.

$0.02... invest in some Turtleskins. They get hot as *%$@ when hiking but they're so light and comfy its not a big deal.

 

[SD Mike]

I purchased my Irish Setters on fieldsupply.com at a great discount. Love the boots. That website has some smoking deals if you check back periodically.

 

[Camo_Man]

Thanks everyone for the input! Really appreciate it!!!

 

[Camo_Man]

Anyone know of a good hunting boot retailer with good selection in the O.C. Preferably or surrounding counties?

 

[Bonejour]

Bass pro shops in Rancho Cucamonga is a good bet. There is a Kenetrek retailer in Bakersfield but that's a drive.

 

[ilovesprig]

Bass pro shops in Rancho Cucamonga is a good bet. There is a Kenetrek retailer in Bakersfield but that's a drive.

Plus 1 on BPS......Always try hunting boots on 1st. Even brands/styles change from year to year.....

 

[Camo_Man]

Plus 1?

 

[ilovesprig]

Plus 1?

Plus 1.....Meaning I agreed with Don (Bonejour) about Bass Pro Shops. They probably have the best selection in SoCal where you can actually touch them.

 

[Camo_Man]

Thanks!

 

[MJB]

I'd recommend REI but..........they are treehuggers for the most part.....

 

[Bonejour]

Agree with MJB about REI, and besides, I have not had a good experience with hiking boots on game paths. Too little ankle support for the uneven surfaces and gopher holes we sometimes run on during a stalk, and they are often narrow in the sole of the heel which adds extra threat to your ankle. Hiking boots are built for walking human trails. They're not built for the terrain we travel when spotting and stalking.

 

[Camo_Man]

What are the opinions for ankle height ? Is 6" enough or higher or personal preference?

 

[ilovesprig]

Personal choice to me......I have Rocky's in 6", 9", and snake boots.