I am going on a Red Stag hunt in Scotland in late September near Glasgow. I am wondering which boots to bring? I have heard that knee high rubber boots are good, but also that leather boots are better for the long trek as long as they are waterproof. Any advice?

I've hunted the same area twice, and have worn all leather boots, all rubber boots, and boots with a leather upper and rubber lower.

The first hunt, I wore only leather boots and they were the most comfortable. I had an extra set of insoles with me which was critical. We'd hunt the morning and the boots would be soaked through, but I would pull out the insoles and let them air out a bit over lunch. In the afternoon, put in the dry insoles, and head out. At night, pull the insoles and place the boots and insoles by a heater. Next morning everything is dry and you just repeat.

The second time I had all rubber boots, which kept my feet dry, but the steep hills and rocks caused the boots to slip too much and start to blister my feet. Better fitting boots, or maybe thicker socks might have helped. Fortunately I had the 'duck' boots with the rubber bottoms and leather uppers. Those kept my feet mostly dry and since they were snug fitting, were more comfortable over the rough terrain. I still preferred the all leather boots with extra insoles, even though it was a bit of work.

One thing to watch for is the many well-hidden, yet knee deep, little streams. The grass will grow over it and you'll never see it until you fall in. Then all the knee high rubber boots do is collect water.

Thank you so much for your response. I think I am going with leather for the additional support. But I may pack the rubber boots as a backup just in case.

No question for me. It's the Le Chameau Chasseur leather lined rubber boots. They're the best boot ever, completely waterproof, and will not cause blisters if properly fitted. The only negative, they're expensive. Im on my third set. I wear nothing else when hunting.

I took Goretex "waterproof" hikers. My feet stayed wet for most of the hunt between the rain and hidden streams. I am taking LeChemeaus and a pair of Goretex Lowa hikers this fall. Who are you hunting with?

Athina Sporting.

quote:

Originally posted by 1115:
Athina Sporting.

I hunted with Athina last October. Took two nice stags. If Griff is your guide send him my regards. Good guy.

I wore my Le Chameaus the entire time. Much needed there in the lowlands as the terrain is what can best be described as high terrain swamp. There are big Scottish stags in there. Best of luck.

I like the Spanish made Chiruca boots with the Boa lace system. Around 150euro.
Worn with gaiters are a great combo

quote:

Originally posted by 1115:
Athina Sporting.

You will be in good hands with Griff and John. I am going to be there the second week of Oct. The area is hilly with numerous hidden streams. I was amazed to find swamp like areas on top of hills. There are some nice stags in the area and some wild goats.i assume that you have a room booked at the Ken Bridge Hotel-it is comfortable and the owners are very accommodating. Good luck, but save a few nice stags for me.

Like Chad, I have hunted with Kiri and the boys from Athina. You will have a great time. I have hunted various areas and terrain in Scotland and I always wear good leather boots (Danner Lights made in USA), gore-tex gaiters and good wool socks. I change my socks 1-2 times daily, use foot powder and dry my boots by the heater at night. That works best for me. I have LeChameaus but they do not work for me in rough terrain or long hikes, although they are my preferred boots for bird hunting in inclement weather.

Safe travels and good hunting!

Larry

I have some lightweight lace up 17" snake boots that are extremely comfortable and waterproof. I can walk in them all day, they have a good lug you're sole, and plenty of support. Why wouldn't they do just fine? They work well here in the southeast and it seems to me that they would be a good choice.