I need better boots... suggestion?

[Southbow]

I've heard they're using more clay in the rubber compound (to reduce cost) and that's causing the rubber boots to break down in a short period of time. The LaCrosse sure are comfortable but they never lasted me more than 2 years.

A couple of years ago I inherited a barely worn pair of rubber boots from my father. I sure couldn't bring myself to pay the price for these but they seem like they'll last for quite a few more years:

https://www.lechameau.com/us/men-s-chasseur-leather-lined-boot.html

they have a cheaper model than these, but my main point is that the rubber compound in these boots is old style. My brother has had a pair for almost 20 years now and he says they are still waterproof, no cracks. I guess over time they are worth the cost.

 

[Boomah21]

Crispi
Kenetrek
I also have put a ton of miles on my dans briar proof hunting boots with frog legs.

 

[wildmed]

Crispi
Kenetrek
I also have put a ton of miles on my dans briar proof hunting boots with frog legs.

I second the kenetrek recommendation. I just got a pair last year so time will tell, but with their boot wax treatment they look the same now as when the season started. I also used them in the mountains for hiking nearly everyday when I lived out west last year, so they took that abuse just fine too. Before these boots I went through at least one pair of lacrosse or danners every year; I'm pretty tough on my gear. A good pair of gaiters would be a good investment too, helps the waterproofing and keeps the boots protected. I use Kuiu gaiters, but I've never tested any others because they have held up so I never needed to. I'm sure other brands of gaiters would serve you well too.

 

[xdmelarton]

I have the gen 2 lacrosse aerohead 3.5's (after they changed the center seam) and the aerohead snake boots....I have 2 full seasons on the aerohead snakeboots and I wear them 100% of the time. The material isn't as flexible as the original aeroheads but they are comfortable and tough. The snake proof material is also a good insulator for colder hunts (20s to 30s). I have hunted in high singles to teens with toe warmers.

 

[BTaylor]

Lowa renegades are my everyday boot and have a pair of Crispi's for mountain or dry weather hunting in the hills here and love both boots. That said, they are worthless as teets on a boar hog for our riverbottoms. Been a hugh fan of Lacrosse boots for a loooong time but this last pair hasnt fared nearly as well as the ones before them. Havent decided what the replacements will be but will probably be something different.

 

[HappyChappy]

Going into the third year of torturing my Lowa Tibet GTX. I was reluctant to spend that kinda money at first, being a wolly world boot kinda guy, but knew I needed/wanted a good pair for work and hunting, so I took the plunge. These boots are the John Wayne of footwear. Solid, supportive, comfortable, and rugged dependability. The stiffer soles are awesome for saddle hunting and make standing on a ring of bolts no problem at all.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[BudgetBuck1]

Lacrosse aeroheads have been great for me. I put dozens - maybe even hundreds - of miles on mine each year. Have only had one pair develop a leak, which lacrosse warrantied and sent me a new pair. Otherwise great boots and darn near indestructible.

Agreed...I am on year #3 with my Lacrosse Aeroheads that I got on sale for around $100. Well worth the money and super comfortable. My math ain't so good but I am thinking that works out to around $33 per year(will be using them this year too).

 

[hokiehunter373]

Agreed...I am on year #3 with my Lacrosse Aeroheads that I got on sale for around $100. Well worth the money and super comfortable. My math ain't so good but I am thinking that works out to around $33 per year(will be using them this year too).

I've had some for at least the same amount of time. Pretty sure longer than 3 years. This year one of them got a hole near the sole of the boot on the side. Not disappointed for what they cost and how long they lasted as I've put plenty of miles on them but looking to upgrade this year. Unless I decide to just patch um and keep on keeping on hoping it doesn't happen again on a chilly day.

 

[alpaca jeff]

Not sure any boot made today will hold up as far as cuts go, try using them with gaiters. I know that lacrosse sells a rubber conditioner that might help. About a year ago there was someone from england selling 100% rubber boots for fly fishermen at about $250.