Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Backpack Hunting Best sheep footware?

Pointer ... what ever you do don't pull out that blister picture! Please it hurts just lookin at it. LOL

Just keep this thread going and I may have to use that to prove a point...

I have been following this thread with strong interest as I am in the market for some new boots to add to my line-up of three Danners (all stitch-down models of varying insulation) and a pair of Irish setters. The niche I am trying to fill is a non-insulated boot for early season backpack hunting in the Idaho backcountry. We make camp about 10-11 miles in, move it often, and I go through boots fairly qickly. I am a bigger guy (6'4" weighing 220) so seam to "walk out" of the Danners in a season and ankles feet break down after several days. I have tried on the Kenetrecks and even the "wides" were too narrow for my foot. Went into the local Cabelas yesterday and the Meindl Alaska Hikers were on sale for $195. The store clerk did everything she could to discourage me from purchasing due to significant customer returns complaining that the boots were too stiff (the reason I was attracted to the boots to begin with). I would plan to purchase the better inserts for the boots as suggested by several, but I am interested in input from those who have used for high mile treking in these boots on the way to steep mountain hunting. I am fairly confident I will really appreciate the "stiffer" boots while hunting, just a little concerned after input at the store regarding the trail hiking to camp. Anyone experience these boots under said conditions. All feedback appreciated.

My money goes to Lathrop's Han Wags with their custom footbeds. Good stuff.

I used, and abused, a pair of Lowa Sheep Hunters this year scouting and hunting for a Montana bighorn. They're by far the best boot I've ever had on my feet.

Another vote here for the Lowa Sheephunters.

Ditto. Lowa Sheep Hunters. The best boot I've ever owned.

I finally made up my mind as well, and went with a pair of Lowa Tibets. I decided to give goretex a shot again. It's been over a decade since I last tried it in a pair of boots.

I'm just starting the break in process, but so far I'm wondering why I didn't abandon my quest for the perfect norwegian welt mountaineering boot a couple of years ago. The Lowas are much lighter and almost as supportive as the Asolo Yukons I was working with. A good trade-off boot. I sure do hope the new school construction Lowas hold up at least OK.