Summer Hunting Boots: What to Look for and Why You Need Them

When it comes to footwear, every hunter will have different opinions and suggestions regarding brands and styles — but there can be and are some similarities that can be found across those brands and styles. Every foot is different, so every shoe or boot will fit differently from person to person, so picking the right boot can and will be different for everyone.

Not to worry, though; we can still find the ideal qualities and features you need and or should be on the lookout for when buying summer hunting boots. As you gear up for a summer hunt or scouting, keep reading to know what to look for in the right summer boots for hunting and scouting.

Why Summer Hunting Boots Matter

First, there is a 100% difference between fall/winter hunting boots and summer scouting and chores boots. You could try to use the same bulky boots year-round, but your feet won't be very happy in the warmer, wetter months. 

Your fall/winter boots will generally be heavy, bulky, hot, and not made for long walks and work. However, your summer boots should be the exact opposite.

What to Look for in the Right Pair of Summer Boots

You want to look for boots that are uninsulated, lightweight, comfortable, and designed for walking. Most of the time, you will be looking for lace-up boots that will help support your ankles while you are walking.

If you plan to do your summer scouting and chores during the early parts of the day before the heat of the day or later in the evening, it will also be very beneficial to find boots that are waterproof or at least water resistant. These times of the day will usually have dew buildup on the ground, so you need to keep your feet dry.

You should also look for boots that give good ankle support as this is a time that you will most likely be doing lots of walking and working. However, with winter hunting boots, you do not need that support as much because you do not do much other than walking to and from your stand locations.

Don't Forget the Socks

Another key thing to consider when looking for your hunting boots for summer is the type of socks you will be wearing during this time. You should look into thinner, lightweight, and breathable socks for summer, which could affect how your boots fit compared to the heavier bulky socks you will wear during the hunting season. 

Consider a Second Pair of Boots

If you are blessed with the opportunity to go out and hunt from summer to early fall, lightweight and breathable boots are ideal for this time of year. For spot and stalk hunting out west, these more rugged boots could easily be a good option for you to use. This can save you from having to look for and buy a second pair of boots.

But if you are planning on longer hunts where you could be out walking miles and miles a day in the warmer months, you may want to think about having a second pair of boots with you so that each pair has time to dry out and not grow fungus while you are out hunting. If your boots get wet from sweaty feet and you plan to go out the next day again, make sure that you dry the insides of them overnight before heading back out the next day. 

Your Boots Should Be the Best Pair for You

One hunter's boots may not be the best pair for another hunter, but you can always ask your hunting buddies which boots they love for summer hunting and scouting. The right boots should help support your comfort and ability to complete the tasks at hand all spring and summer long.

Think about how often you spend out in the field prepping food plots, cutting trees, clearing trails, hanging stands, setting up ground blinds, and so much more. Your feet need to be in a good pair of boots.

So, add these very important accessories to your list of things to get and budget for. Boots can get pricey, so definitely be on the lookout for sales and discounts if you can. Grabbing just any old pair of boots is not necessarily the best way to go. Try on different brands and styles to see what best fits you and your needs.

Again, as with most things, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to boots. So, what works for your buddy might not be what works for you.

Choose a Great Pair of Summer Hunting Boots and HuntWise This Season

Take your time and find the summer hunting boots that fit you the best. Remember: You will be using them a lot this off-season, and you want your feet and body able to keep going all summer long. The right boots can help make this happen!

Along with a solid pair of summer boots, make sure you have the HuntWise hunting app. You can use it to scout throughout the summer, plan where to place your hunting blinds or stands, keep track of trail cams, and mark deer sign you find while scouting.

Summer is an excellent time to get familiar with the app and plan your fall hunts! Download HuntWise and try it – free – for your first week.