Winters are the best times of the year to enjoy outdoor activities and leisure time with family or friends. Activities such as ice skating, fishing, or hiking are the most preferable things to do in the countryside. To head out of the house and tackle such cold weather, you must be equipped with the best protective accessories. One such important accessory is footwear.
You cannot just go out ice fishing in your regular sports shoes. There are dozens of things you have to check before going fishing on a frozen waterway. To ensure your ice fishing experience is enjoyable, you must keep yourself warm and protected at all times.
Choosing ice fishing boots might seem easy, but there’s more to it than mere blind selection. If you are unfamiliar with the parameter that goes into selecting boots for ice fishing, here’s my compilation of the best boots for ice fishing that can be your good-to-go boots. All the boots reviewed in this post adhere to safety precautions so that you don’t have to worry about any accidents, electrical hazards, etc.
In this article, you will also get a detailed buying guide for warm fishing boots to make a better decision.
LIST OF THE BEST ice fishing boots
No. | Product Name | IMAGE | RATINGS |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Kamik Men's Greenbay 4 Cold-Weather Boot |  | |
2 | MUCK Men's Arctic Sports Winter Boot |  | |
3 | Baffin Men's Control Max Insulated Boot |  | |
4 | Baffin Snow Master |  | |
5 | SOREL - Men's 1964 Pac Nylon Snow Boot |  |
8 BEST ICE FISHING BOOT REVIEW
1. KAMIK GREENBAY - BEST BUDGET ICE FISHING BOOT
Features
Greenbay 4 from Kamik is an excellent pair of men's ice-fishing boots that reaches half the calf length and is suitable for all kinds of ice activities. This practical boot is very easy to get on and off and has good tolerance for stubborn winter conditions.
These boots have extra room unlike snowshoeing or hunting boots and are much simpler looking than other boots. The upper consists of water-repellent 600D nylon that gives the boot a 14-inch height. Its footbed is removable, having 8mm dense thermal guard liners that keep the inner temperature below ~40°C.
The best thing about these ice-fishing boots men's type is their simple design that gives you the ease of slipping on and off without having to tie laces etc. This boot has a huge Velcro strap that tightens around the ankle so that the heat traps around the feet and does not go out. Slushy and damp are not a problem with these boots as they're equipped with waterproof rubber bottoms that keep the feet dry and warm from within.
PROS
CONS
2. MUCK - BEST WATERPROOF BOOT FOR ICE FISHING
Features
Muck's Arctic Winter boots are all not nacy but serve the necessity, i.e., To keep the feet warm and comfortable throughout the day. These are high-performance cold-weather fishing boots that will keep your feet warm up to -40°C temperatures, all thanks to its 2mm thick thermal foam around the instep area for better comfort and support.
The 5mm Neoprene fits out flexibly along with a waterproofing feature and the shock absorption property that automatically adjusts itself into the shape of your feet to prevent blisters and injuries. The boot has a sealed rubber shell that extends to the ankle for extra protection and moisture control above the ankle area.
In this boot, the fleece lining is soft, protects against the freezing environment, and keeps your feet cozy without having a hint of ice dripping on the shoes. As you know, snow trails are slippery thus to get better traction. This boot is equipped with a rugged molded outsole so that you don't slip on the floor.
PROS
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3. BAFFIN - BEST TRACTION BOOT FOR ICE FISHING
Features
Baffin is a well-known boot manufacturing company that produces occupational footwear. With their leading technology and engineering, they are now producing insulated boots using their very own foam-based inner boot system.
Since here we are discussing ice fishing boots, I believe Baffin ice fishing boots are the best options you have. This boot has been tested in extremely low temperatures and has shown successful outcomes. This Baffin boot is well insulated, all thanks to its full-grain leather that controls temperature and comforts your feet to their maximum potential.
Worried about the old exhausting lacing system, you will be pleased to know that this boot has multi D- ring lace fastening that is much quicker and easier than zipper or hook and loop closures. The sole material used in these boots is ethylene vinyl acetate, which is waterproof and durable.
The good thing is no amount of dirt can stay on this boot as it has rubber outsoles that do not trap wet mud or dirt in it. Even if it does get stuck, you can always wash it off easily with water.
PROS
CONS
4. BAFFIN SNOW MASTER - BEST THERMAL BOOT FOR ICE FISHING
Features
This Baffin boot is designed to withstand adventurous pursuits in extremely cold conditions. These boots are arctic-rated for handling extreme cold weather. Polar Proven is one of the harshest weather on this planet. Hence, Baffin has introduced these high-end, superior, lightweight hiking boots so that you can enjoy thrilling adventures without worrying about your feet being cold.
These boots have a Removable Comfort-Fit multi-layer inner boot system that gives optimum insulation during winter seasons. Once set on the boot, ice can dampen the boots in no time, but here even that's not possible.
All thanks to its B-Tek™ Dry Waterproof Base that keeps the entire boot at bay and does not let even the slightest drop of water get inside the soles.
You'll be surprised to know that these boots are snowboard compatible, so you can take them during your hike and surf in them. If you are looking for a nice pair of men's ice fishing boots, don't forget to consider Baffin Snow Master, it will be the warmest ice fishing boots.
PROS
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5. SOREL1964 PAC NYLON - BEST ICE FISHING BOOT FOR EXTREME COLD WEATHER
Features
These pac-style Soren snow boots are one of the classiest boots you will find on the market in today's time. These Sorel ice fishing boots are versatile to use for any kind of activity, including snow skiing or ice fishing.
If you are a fisherman and want to have premium snow boots in your collection, this is the best alternative. The boots have a tint of vintage look but are equipped with modern waterproofing and heat insulation technologies. The boot upper is constructed using nylon and seam-sealed lining that makes this boot lightweight and also waterproof at the same time.
These boots have a 9mm large removable and washable insole with a Sherpa Pile snow cuff to give you a cozy and soft feeling while wearing them. The midsole has a 2.5mm bonded frost plug that extends the height of the boot to tackle snow depths.
On the other hand, outsoles are handcrafted with vulcanized rubber shells to give better traction over slippery icy waterways.
PROS
CONS
6. SOREL CONQUEST - BEST SPLURGE BOOT FOR ICE FISHING
Features
These boots are ideal for you if you actively participate in winter sports. These Sorel are the best ice fishing boots which are made with 100% full grain leather melded with synthetic upper and seam-sealed lining to keep your feet warm and dry even in the coldest weather.
The warmth level in a boot determines how good the insulation is. In this case, the insulation membrane consists of 400g of Thinsulate that can tackle extreme cold conditions by blocking the ice at the outermost part of the boot. The boots have an excellent rubber outsole that provides uncompromised traction that will save you from accidental slips on snowy terrain.
With these boots, there is no lacing pressure, and it offers an Achilles strap with shatter-resistant buckle closure that allows you to adjust the fit as per your choice. In my contention, these boots are best to be worn if you are going ice fishing.
PROS
CONS
7. BAFFIN WOLF SNOW - BEST STABLE FIT BOOT FOR ICE FISHING
Features
By looking at this snow boot's overall construction, you will get an idea of how comfortable and stylish these boots are. These boots not only feel comfortable to wear but also make a fashion statement for winter wear. The upper of this boot is made with nylon and waterproof leather material that keeps the dirt off the boot.
Their proprietary cold-resistant EVA midsoles are designed to give a nice foundation and stable fit that is much needed during mountaineering. For insulation, these boots have Thermaplush combined with 5 layers of inner liners to add extra warmth inside the boot and trap any ice particles in the exterior itself.
The 6mm footbed is provided for contoured fitting and the highest stability to blend the footbed in the shape of your feet and make you feel more comfortable. The outsoles are rubber arch support to prevent ankle and toe fatigue.
PROS
CONS
8. KENETREK Extreme 400
Features
The search for ice fishing boots is never ending because there are tons of things you have to ensure your boots have before you make a purchase. However, with Kenetrek your hard-earned money will not be in vain. The Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 400 hiking boots are also suitable for ice-oriented activities.
These boots are taller in shaft having about 10 inches upper integrated with 2.8mm full grain leather, which has triple stitching construction to increase the durability of these boots. The forged hardware in these boots provides excellent flexibility and corrosion resistance no matter how many times you have used these boots. No ice hiking boots go without having an insulation feature in them.
Similarly, in this boot, insulation is served by a 400g thinsulate waterproof membrane that keeps the feet warm and dry at all times.
PROS
CONS
Do I Need Special Boots for Ice Fishing?
This question might strike your mind at least once before you buy the best ice fishing boots. Do you need special boots for ice fishing? Couldn’t I use any other kind of footwear? The answer to this depends on several parameters.
The major parameter would be how cold the temperature is at your location or where you are going for fishing. If the temperatures are down or the location is dry, then you can use your regular boots. But to be on the safer side, you should buy a dedicated ice fishing boot.
It is because they are specially designed to withstand bad weather conditions and protect your feet from cold or bruises. Not to mention, the boots are water-repellent, which is the key feature you’ll need if you are going to trample through snowy trails.
Here are the parameters your boots need to have to qualify as reliable the best winter boots for ice fishing;
Waterproof
This goes without saying, waterproofing is the most important criterion for ice fishing boots. Imagine if you are going ice skating or ice fishing and the water goes inside the boot; there is no worse feeling than being cold and wet at the same time.
Moreover, no amount of insulation will keep you warm once the water is inside the shoes. Parts of the boots can be cuffs, seams, and tongues. The waterproof cuffs on the ankle will prevent any snow from staying on top of the boot while you walk. Another place where the water cannot sneak inside the boot is through the sealed seams.
Make sure the seams are well-stitched so that no water can drip. Having a fully stitched waterproof tongue ensures water does not sneak through the laces. When all of these parts are made water-repellent, there is no way water will find its way in.
Warmth
One way to ensure warmth in the boot is by knowing the level of insulation and coverage a boot provides. Some of the materials used in the construction also determine the amount of warmth the boot can provide.
If you want to know which ice fishing shoes deliver excellent warmth, look into the insoles' padding and shaft height. The shaft height should be above the ankle so that your entire feet are covered, and there are no loose ends for cold air or water to trap. Zipper or lace closures are also important for quick and protective hold in ice fishing boots.
Traction
When you are ice fishing, you will have to spend most of the time walking in the snow and as you know, snow is the slipperiest and toughest surface to walk on. If your winter fishing boots do not have good traction, it will be 10x times more difficult for you to walk on the snow.
Thus, it is a lot important to have good traction in the boots that could be served if the boots have rubber outsoles. Make sure the outsole has groovy spikes or micro spikes that will keep you protected and safe from slipping through mud or ice for that matter.
Height & Weight
If you pay attention to the height of your ice fishing boots, then you’ll notice that these are taller as compared to your traditional shoes. Some of the boots reach till the calf and some a quarter of the way. In any way, it will be at least above the ankle length.
Choosing between the height of the boot is a user’s choice. You must ensure the boots have protective features, good insulation, better snow depth, and excellent traction. Regardless of the height, your ice fishing boots should offer at least better insulation and protection.
Taller boots will be heavier to lift, so if you are planning on hiking for a long distance, I would suggest looking for ankle-length ice fishing boots, as they are comfortable and lighter to lift while walking in deep snow terrain.
Durability
Durability is defined by what type of materials are used to make the boots. No one would want their boots to tear apart after certain uses. Luckily, the options boots in this review are far more durable and rigid than any other boots on the market for ice fishing.
The stitching, insole material, outsole material, and footbed laces all contribute to the product's longevity. Since you are going to head out in these boots, you at least have to make sure they sustain well in the snow, and you can know that by reading their product specifications and the material used.
In the end, your boots must be able to stand strong in the snowy terrain, even under temperatures so lower that your eyelashes freeze.
Comfort
No boots on this planet can function well if they are not comfortable. Comfort is as equally important as insulation and traction. Wearing hard-soled boots for a long journey is very difficult and icy terrain would bring more disaster to your entire adventure.
Discomfort in shoes is experienced when the fitting size is wrong. If you go by the thumb rule, it is said that you should always go one size bigger than your actual size, which is better because you will be wearing thick socks beneath it.
The boots shouldn’t be too tight that it restricts your circulation or too loose that it causes discomfort and cause blisters in the feet. Thus, choose a proper size because ice fishing boots aren’t the same size as your regular boots.
Insulation
This is the most important factor when choosing the best ice fishing boot. If there is proper insulation, your feet will be warm which is mediated by insulating materials such as neoprene, Thinsulate, or lining. Most ice fishing boots use Thinsulate as a key insulation component not only because of its highest insulation capacity but also for its breathability.
However, the level of insulation depends on the person’s preference. If you live in a location where temperatures go down by -10 C, then it is better to buy highly insulated fishing boots. The insulation is measured in grams, so check the insulation(grams) when buying the boots.
What you’ll also need
No matter how warm your boots might be, you always want more warmth. In the case of ice fishing boots, the warmth can be induced by,
Thermal socks
Thermal socks are designed to maintain the temperature of your feet. The thermal socks have thick cushioning that restricts the entry of any cold particles inside the socks. You can also go for fleece socks, which provide warmth and comfort and support due to their extra thick woven material.
Ice Cleats
Ice cleats are the most used materials in ice fishing boots. Ice fishing boots provide good traction, but there is no harm in carrying extra support at the bottom of the shoes. Ice cleats work best at reducing the risk of slipping on the ice. These contraptions boots as have tiny spikes that prevent you from slipping on the snow. You can also pair these ice cleat straps with your hunting boots.
Ice fishing bib
You might wonder if it’s really worth carrying a fishing bib. In my suggestion, if you are going to be in the snow for a long time, you need some serious protection. Just shoes and gloves won’t work! These bibs are a great alternative to jackets. They are not only breathable but also designed with high insulation to keep you warm and dry.
FAQ
1.Why is it necessary to get special boots for ice fishing?
Conventional boots are not designed to withstand snowy conditions. On the other hand, specialized ice fishing boots are built with proper insulation, waterproof capability, and traction, all of which are absent in your regular boots. Thus, it is important to have special boots for ice fishing.
2. Can I use snowshoes with ice-fishing boots?
Yes, you can use snowshoes as long as they are the right size. As you know, ice fishing boots are bigger and so do snowshoes. Therefore there is no harm in wearing snowshoes along with ice fishing boots. Nevertheless, I suggest using ice fishing boots as they are warmer and well-insulated.
3. Do you need ice cleats for the boots?
For dewy weather, I would suggest using ice cleats because they have better traction and impact resistance even better than your ice fishing boots' outsole. If the weather is dry and there is less snow on the ground, you can go out without ice cleats and enjoy your fishing time.
4. How can I prevent snow from getting into the boots?
Ice kinds its way easily when you are not wearing waterproof boots. The water can get inside from the laces, lining, or tongue. If any one of these parts is trapped in the snow, the whole motive of wearing ice boots is in vain because it will quickly wet your boots and no amount of insulation will be able to keep you warm. Thus, to prevent snow from getting into the boots, ensure the entire boot is water-repellent, the lining of the seams is well sealed and the tongue of the boot is nicely domed.
CONCLUSION
Once your fishing gears are in place, your part of being a good fisherman is done. Footwear is really important when it comes to ice skating or snowshoeing or ice fishing. I hope this article was helpful in choosing some good ice fishing boots for yourself. No matter which boots you choose, all you have to ensure is that the boots are well insulated, waterproof, lightweight, and provide excellent traction on slippery snowy terrain.
Myself Jerry, Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) certified coach. I was a personal trainer and a fitness nutrition specialist certified by the American Council on Exercise. I started the competitive running carrier in the sixth grade. Since then, I participated in countless races and ten marathons which including two marathons held in Boston. I am one of the author of ShoesGrow who shares real-world experience and helps the reader understand complex information in an easy, clear, and unbiased way.