So you decided to try a new hobby in wintertime, ice fishing. You’ve got a pair of warm, insulated snow pants, a comfortable winter parka, insulated and wind proof gloves, but your snow shoes have seen better days.
You can’t step out onto the ice with holey boots that won’t keep you dry and warm. Now you’re on the prowl for the best ice fishing boots available, but not sure which pair to buy.
Should you get Baffins, Muckboots, or another brand? Well we’ve got a buyers guide to help you know what to look for and provide you with three ice boot reviews to give you an idea what’s out there.
Buyers guide
Finding boots that are waterproof will improve your icy experience, as you won’t have to contend with cold feet 2 hours into your first trip.
Ideally, rubber-based boots will provide ample water protection.
You’ll ideally want boots that extend up to the calf to keep ankles and lower leg toasty and protected against water.
Some styles offer a clasp or drawstring at the top of the boot to ensure a nice seal so slush or water doesn’t invade the inner boot.
Another option that many provide is a removable liner, which is nice if you plan on doing multiple trips in a short time.
Boots that are noted to handle low temperatures are ideal because when combined, wind, collected snow, and the air temperature can make it seem much colder than it actually is.
Many are rated to minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and it’s better to have that extra security rating just in case.
Next, taking into account the fastening system the boot utilizes is important as well. You wouldn’t want to take your thick gloves off in 0 degree weather just to tie a lace.
Finding ones with buckles or zippers will be more convenient for you.
1.Kamik Men’s Greenbay 4 Cold-Weather Boot
Marked as 100 percent waterproof, and capable of a max of minus 40 Fahrenheit temperatures, the Kamik’s Greenbay 4 boot is durable, strong, and not afraid of the cold.
It utilizes a Velcro strap fastening system, so you won’t have to remove your mittens or gloves in the freezing cold to adjust your uncomfortable foot.
The boot has a nylon shell, and a an internal 8 mm (.315 inch) thermal guard liner to protect and keep your feet toasty warm and ready for fishing.
At the top of the boot is a drawstring fastener that will help ward off slush and water from infecting the inside of the boot and contribute to providing a safe, warm environment.
Several Amazon reviewers note how warm, comfortable, and dry their feet stayed while using these boots.
These boots are not offered in half-sizes, and a few Amazon reviewers had issues with this.
2. Baffin Mens Arctic Winter Boot
Baffin remarks that their Artic Winter Boot is made of synthetic recyclable leather, and has a flexible light midsole.
Same as the Kamik, the Baffin ice fishing boot is rated at an insulation temperature of minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so you’ll be able to withstand the worst of the worst in regards to arctic-like temperatures.
The boot has a rubber sole to ward off slush and water, so you won’t have to worry about water splashing up on the boot after you’ve removed the auger.
Baffin has a buckle style fastening system installed on the boot, so it’s easy and convenient to adjust and unclasp.
There is a drawstring fastener at the top of the boot to ensure a snug, tight seal to thwart water penetration.
Several Amazon reviewers remark how stable they are and how easy it is to walk in these boots.
Sorel Mens Conquest Boot
With more of a hiking boot look, the Sorel Conquest boot offers 400 grams of Thinsulate Ultra insulation and are rated to minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
This is the same temperature rating as the Kamik and Baffin.
It has a seam-sealed waterproof leather design that will ensure no liquid slithers in and hampers your day.
Sorel remarks that it has an easy barrel-lock closure at the top of the boot as well. This will help prevent splashed water or snow from creeping down inside the boot.
A cool feature of this boot is what the manufacture calls an Achilles adjustment strap. Right about the ankle is a clasp that can be tightened to provide more stability and rigidity in uneven terrain.
Compared to the Baffin and Kamik, the Conquest’s are tied by laces, so they wouldn’t be very easy to loosen or tighten without taking off gloves or mittens.
One Amazon reviewer notes how it fits more like hiking boot than a snow boot.
Another Amazon reviewer noted they had no problems in minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit and survived a few trips in the Alaskan winter.
Whether you pick the Kamik, Baffin, Sorel, or another pair, these three boots provides a strong footing for deciding if they’re a good fit for being the best ice fishing boot for you.
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