Comfortable, calf high, waterproof hiking boots??

[cabmandone]

I've been searching for a pair of hiking boots that are comfortable, waterproof, and go up to at least the calf. My conditions tend to be mostly muddy when I'm out foraging or hunting.

I was hoping to find something like a Muck boot but with more arch and ankle support for longer hikes. I have to walk through a lot of mud sometimes to get back to my woods. When I'm finally in the woods, I don't have to contend with the mud so much but I do tend to cross a creek with a soft bottom that I can go ankle deep in mud while crossing and sometimes have water up to calf level. I'm hoping to build a bridge or two across the creek to alleviate the crossing problem. But there's no way to fix the walking back to the woods problem short of a UTV or ATV and I enjoy walking.

Ideally the right boot would be lace up with a zipper side ,be waterproof or water resistant, easy to clean with spray wand and hose. I don't care about insulation since these are for spring/summer while I'm foraging or working in my woods. I want something durable yet comfortable. Does such a thing exist??

[LWJ]

I have some Danner's that go to the bottom of my calf. Waterproof. Comfy. Same ones that got thrown off the cliff in the book "Wild."

But, Danner has roots making logging boots. Those things go nearly to your knee. I would do a google search. They won't be cheap but they will last you until you can't walk anymore.

[WPOZZZ]

Hunter brand duck boots?

[jyl]

Danner “Elk Hunter”. Calf height, Thinsulate, Goretex, infinitely resolable, repairable, made in Portland, a lifetime boot. My original pair is 35 y/o, my new pair - bought because I misplaced the OG - are just as well made.

[shadowjack1]

LL Bean hunting shoe. I purchased a pair back in 1980, still in use. Mine are the 12" high model. I have had the bottoms replaced several years ago, by Bean.

[cabmandone]

Gonna have to see who carries Danner. Cabela's and Bass Pro carry them but don't have the Elk Hunter. I'd like to try them on before buying. Looks like Tractor Supply has Danner so I might have to swing by there (edit: Nope! TSC doesn't appear to stock any based on the website)

Thanks for the info!

Another question or rather a concern with a question is break in period. Since these boots are going to be for a specific use rather than a daily walker, how is break in on the Elk Hunter or similar types?

[jyl]

Ok, I misspoke.

My boots are the “Trophy”. https://www.danner.com/men/all-footwear?sortId=product-family&product_category%5B%5D=7170&stock_status%5B%5D=1&stock_status%5B%5D=0

Similar to the “Elk Hunter” but taller and more insulation. I originally bought them for camping and hiking in the snow.

Danner makes a lot of hunting boots for specialized uses. They have a “recrafting” program for some models. Many of their more “serious” boots are made in the US; the website lets you filter for that. With some exceptions maybe, the traditionally built boots with a sewn welt are recraftable and US made. Return policy might work for you to buy online.

My boots had no particular break-in. They are not a stiff old school “hiking boot”.

[cabmandone]

I was looking at the Trophy when I went to their website. I'm concerned the 600g Thinsulate will be too warm for the time of year I'll be using them.

The search continues! I've been scouring the internet for the last week or so trying to find that "just right" pair of boots but so far no joy.

[stevej37]

I don't know why you want them that high.
Even a newborn calf is above my knees......if it's standing up.

[cabmandone]

I'm thinking the really short calves like a mini highland... so cute and fluffy! Please note, they cannot jump over the moon due to their tiny little legs.

[stevej37]

^^^^
Ok....that makes sense.