The Best Turkey Hunting Boots for the 2025 Season
In 2023, I harvested this turkey wearing Muck Arctic Pro boots.
For long walks and wet mornings while turkey hunting, you need a pair of boots that offer comfort, durability, waterproofing, and good traction. Here are some of the best options:
1. Lacrosse AeroHead 18”
Pros: Extremely lightweight for a rubber boot, very comfortable for long walks, waterproof, and well-insulated (available in different insulation levels).
Cons: Some users find the ankle fit a bit loose, which could cause heel slip on long hikes.
J.D. Has worn these the past 3 turkey seasons. This year he is testing the MukTreks from Irish Setter
Photo: Johnny Carrol Sain
Pros: 100% waterproof, excellent insulation for chilly wet mornings, and flexible neoprene for comfort.
Cons: Can be too warm for late-season turkey hunting in southern states.
J.D. Has had these for 4 seasons. Loves them for a cold turkey day or late season whitetail.
Pros: High-end leather boots with excellent ankle support for long walks, waterproof Gore-Tex lining, and great durability.
Cons: Pricey, but worth it if you also use them for other hunts.
These are J.D.’s western boot of choice. Check out his review here.
Tip: Pair these with some good gators to extend the waterproof usability.
I owned and used a pair of Danner Pronghorns from 2012-2019. In that time they were my go-to boot for Elk, Whitetail, and Turkey hunting.
From personal experience, I can speak to their durability and performance.
Pros: Comfortable for long hikes, waterproof Gore-Tex, and breathable to prevent sweating.
Cons: May require some break-in time.
5. Irish Setter VaprTrek
JD (HuntXP founder) loves his Irish Setter VaprTreks
Check out his review of them here!
Pros: Very lightweight, waterproof, and designed for active hunters covering a lot of ground.
Cons: Not as durable as full-leather boots for long-term use.
Conclusion
If you're dealing with really wet conditions, knee-high rubber boots like Lacrosse AeroHeads or Muck Boots are your best bet. But if you're covering a lot of ground in mixed terrain, a high-quality leather or synthetic hiking boot with waterproofing (like Crispi or Danner) will give you better comfort and durability.
Regardless of the boot you choose, be sure to allow ample time to break them in before taking them on long treks in the field. Foot comfort can make or break a hunt. Don’t let cold feet, wet feet, or blisters be the reason you don’t get a chance at a gobbler this spring. Happy hunting!
