Your choice for a good winter hiking boot?

[jerseydave]

I've tried the search, but it doesn't seem to like me anymore.

I'm looking for some input from actual hands-on users for a good WATERPROOF, INSULATED Hiking boot.

Will likely be used in snowy conditions by itself, as well as with snow shoes in the heavier stuff.

What have you got and are you happy with them?

Thanks,
jd

[Tipi Walter]

A lot of winter backpackers opt for the Asolo 520's---either in goretex or not. They're my favorite winter boot---see below from a winter trip on the Mill Branch trail in the Cherokee NF.

[jerseydave]

Thanks Walter,
A recommendation from you means quite a bit in my book.
I've always enjoyed your trip reports and envy your abilities and experience.
jd

[Tipi Walter]

Thanks for the blurb. You may find the Asolos to be comfy right out of the box vs break-in boots like the Limmers, etc. On the other hand, some backpackers can't tolerate Asolos, and the boots do have a tendency to have soft soles which wear out quicker than on other boots. Asolos do offer Wide size choices which come in handy in the winter when my feet swell and the boots get frozen like a rock.

[Tom Murphy]

I love these for day hikes in the winter.http://www.altrec.com/merrell-shoes/...rproof-bootFor overnights, I use a pair of PAC boots from BAFFIN.http://www.WinterFootwear.com/p2960c...ter_boots.html

[Tipi Walter]

I love these for day hikes in the winter.http://www.altrec.com/merrell-shoes/...rproof-bootFor overnights, I use a pair of PAC boots from BAFFIN.http://www.WinterFootwear.com/p2960c...ter_boots.html

Do you find the PAC boots to be clunky and tiring after a long day of backpacking? I used to use and still swear by the old Sorel packboots---see below fotog---but they were awkward. And dangit after several months of winter usage I got a good case of foot rot, sort of like trench foot. My feet couldn't breathe properly, etc.

[Slo-go'en]

I had suprisingly good luck with a pair of cheap insulated boots from Wal-Mart last winter. Wouldn't want to stand around in the cold for long with them, but worked well even at 10 below snowshoeing. (though must also have good socks).

My plastic double boots are getting really beat up and don't have much life left in them. I just don't do enough winter stuff anymore to justify spending 3-400 bucks for a new pair.

[Ironbelly]

I only own two types of boots , both of which i use in winter. The pair I bring depends on the conditions. My year round boot of choice is Zamberlan Trekker RR's, they are a full leather non goretex boot that can take crampons and snowshoes. I usually only use my zamerlans in early winter or early spring (little to no snow on the ground, or snow ice mix. For full on winter where i will be on snowshoes all the time i use a pair of TNF Arctic pull on boots. I absolutely love the pull ons for winter, no fussing around with a frozen boot, they are still easy to get on and off. Wearing a pair of heavy winter socks they do not slip at all and fit me very well. They are also insulated and have a good sole for snow/ice traction. I had originally bought these just for around the yard and town, but i used them on a trip in NY last january and was very impressed with them and now they are my boot of choice for the heart of winter.

I also like having tall gaitors when in snow, i use OR crocodile gaitors.

[Ironbelly]

This doesn't show the boots really well, but shows the or croc gaitors which are awesome in deep snow.


BPAT-202.jpg

[ScottP]

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they were good enough for cavemen!