Who does not know the catch phrase “Keep your head in the cold and your feet warm”, how relevant it is for
winter fishing . It is worth freezing your feet and colds cannot be avoided. That is why the right footwear is one of the most important parts of a fisherman’s winter outfit.
- Why an angler needs the right boots and other special ice fishing shoes
- Old-style fishing shoes – what used to be used by fishermen for winter fishing and hunting
- New Ice Fishing Shoes: What Are They?
- EVA boots for winter fishing – top models
- Polyurethane foam ice fishing boots
- Short warm boots POLYVER PREMIUM LOW
- VIKING polyurethane winter fishing boots
- Winter fishing shoes made of modern rubber
- Boots model Goliath 1 KAMIK, -60C
- Baffin Trapper Forest Ice Fishing Boots
- Extreme fishing combo shoes
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Why an angler needs the right boots and other special ice fishing shoes
Science has proven that a large volume of blood passes through the legs, their hypothermia leads to the freezing of the entire body. Fishermen are in danger of frostbite, especially in the wilderness, when the fish is inactive, or, conversely, in the wild. In either case, he sits over the hole for hours with little or no movement. Blood circulation in the legs is disturbed, the heat loss of the body increases and the fisherman’s illness is provided. Shoes that keep your body warm will help you feel refreshed. Often, ice expanses cover gullies even in frosts, not to mention spring thaws. If your feet are wet or sweaty, they will freeze even faster in the cold. Moisture is a conductor, and there is no fat layer on the feet to retain heat, so it goes away faster. At the same time, there are many biologically active points interacting with all organs,which leads to hypothermia. Taking into account the specifics of winter fishing, the fisherman needs footwear “breathable” and does not get wet.
Important! With prolonged hypothermia, vasospasm occurs in the lower extremities, leading to serious diseases of the legs, kidneys, joints.
Choosing a fishing spot often involves long hikes over snow drifts, rolled snow or slippery ice. And you also carry a bunch of heavy fishing gear with you. In this case, the weight, size and stability of the boots are important, otherwise the risk of “being left without legs” is guaranteed. Lightweight, durable, non-slip, comfortable, always a size larger than the one worn in summer, boots are a guarantee of comfortable ice fishing in winter.
Old-style fishing shoes – what used to be used by fishermen for winter fishing and hunting
- boots, protecting and modernizing them in every possible way;
- cloaks;
- felt boots;
- high fur boots.
Moreover, now there are no problems in purchasing modern models for any pocket. Russian manufacturers and many foreign firms supply the market with high-quality models made of real felt, leather and fur, which keep feet warm and dry due to the “breathing” ability.
Name | Characteristics | Dignity | Flaws |
![]() | Manufactured from felt wool. Insulated. Felt insole. No lining. Weight 1200 grams Russia | Lightweight, warm footwear with a wide shaft. Legs don’t sweat. Withstand frost down to – 40 ° С | Glides on ice ice. Rough boot, restricting movement. Let the water pass through. Wet snow sticks to the sole |
![]() | Brown boots made of natural factory-made felt without fastening. Operating temperature up to – 40 ° С Sole material thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) Russia | The upper is breathable. Perfectly keeps the feet warm. Rubberized sole provides moisture barrier, abrasion, non-slip. The method of attaching the molded sole. Does not slip | Not intended for long journeys due to the weight of the product, weight is 1880 grams. Without protective cap. |
![]() | Material rubber | Save boots from getting wet and slipping | |
![]() | Protective function of the shoe. ; | The straps on the side surface are tightly fixed on the leg. The long shaft protects the shoe from the ingress of snow and water. The soles are thickened with durable rubber against breakouts and punctures. | Do not allow air to pass through. |
Chuni shoe![]() | Modern shoe covers made of hydrophobic membrane material. Used over shoes (felt boots). Operating temperature – 40 ° С Weight 490 grams Russia | Additionally: insulation, moisture protection. Zippers are twisted, moisture resistant. The sole is equipped with anti-slip elements. Special straps for a snug fit to the leg | |
![]() | Genuine leather bottom, warmed with felt. Top – natural fur inside, artificial top. Rubberized sole t extreme – 45 ° С Russia | The materials of the shoe help to preserve the natural heat of the body and repel water. The insulated polyurethane sole does not get wet or freeze. Fastening method glue-stitched | Relatively heavy. |
Each model has its own purpose, pros and cons, but they have a right to exist.
New Ice Fishing Shoes: What Are They?
Over the past 30 years, the market for modern models of boots, boots and other winter fishing shoes has developed significantly and continues to gain momentum. Domestic stores are filled with models from both our manufacturers and global brands. The footwear has unique features:
- waterproof and foot-shaped last;
- the boot is made of hydrophobic material;
- removable breathable insulation;
- frost-resistant sole;
- anti-slip elements and inserts.
The materials for manufacturing are lightweight, allow moisture to be removed from the feet, have high heat-shielding functions, and retain their shape during temperature extremes and mechanical stress.
Important! If the boots are too tight, the feet will quickly sweat and freeze. An air gap of at least 5 – 7 mm will allow moisture to evaporate more actively and create an additional thermal barrier. Too large – a waste of energy when walking, the risk of slipping or tripping, rubbing calluses.
Also important are specific lacing, Velcro, carabiners, waterproof zippers, adjust the wide boot to make it easier to put on or take off, this possibility is sometimes critical.
EVA boots for winter fishing – top models
Ethylene vinyl acetate polymer foam is lightweight, resilient and hygienic. Has a dense porous structure. Possesses high insulating qualities. It does not lose elasticity at low temperatures. Products are sealed because they are cast in one piece.
Advice! With prolonged walking or physical activity, the size of the foot increases to 1 cm. Buy EVA boots with a margin so as not to rub the calluses in the evening.
There is also a disadvantage of footwear for anglers who move a lot on ice – low anti-slip ability, despite the relief of the sole, but this is easy to solve with ice shoes. The table shows the top models of EVA shoes for winter fishing from trusted manufacturers, many produce not only men’s EVA winter boots, but also women’s and children’s boots:
Name | Peculiarities | Flaws |
![]() ![]() | For men. One-piece boots for extreme temperatures down to – 60 ° С Shaft height 41 cm Average weight 1700 g Liner: sandwich in 8 layers of ARCTIVIC system reliably retains body heat. The toe and heel have additional beads. Feet will stay dry thanks to the special cellular structure of the bottom inside the boot, where condensation collects. Russia Men’s. Designed for extreme conditions up to -40 ° C. Non-slip polyurethane tread sole does not freeze, does not crack, with grooves for additional studding on its own. Plug-in replaceable sandwich. Weight 700 grams Russia | It is recommended to buy one size larger. Slide. No complaints were found. |
![]() | Cast. The color is gray. Operating temperature up to – 35 ° С. They have a non-slip TPE sole on the sole, which protects the foot from punctures. Removable 4-layer stocking with fur. Wide leg height 35 cm with adjustable drawstring. Weight 500 grams | They are undersized because of the stocking. With a high instep and a wide leg, therefore it is recommended to buy 2 sizes larger |
![]() | Cast. The elasticity of the boots is maintained at optimum low temperatures. The cuff is tightened. Unique 4-layer insulation: spunbond – collects moisture from the inside of the boot; foil – retains heat, does not allow cold to pass inside; NTP – additional air layer; 4th layer – natural fur. Weight 400 grams Russia | Without protective cap |
![]() cost 2100 rubles [/ caption] | Monolithic with TPE gasket. Wide bootleg. Adjustable cuff. Internal replaceable 4-layer liner supplemented with natural fur. The height of the boot with the cuff is 35 cm.Weight is about 380 grams Russia | |
![]() | Monolithic boots with a removable stocking that provides thermal protection of the foot down to -45 ° C. The inner part of the sole with a “waffle structure” collects condensation. Studded outer prevents slipping. Insertable foil insert in 5 layers, 20 mm thick, removes internal moisture from the body, provides thermal protection. Latvia; | – |
![]() | Keeps men’s feet warm at -35 ° C thanks to the combined insulation made of pile with woolen interlayer and foil-clad fabric. 44 cm cuff. Tractor outsole protector prevents slipping. Pair weight 1.15 kg Brand NOVA TOUR Russia | – |
![]() | Men’s. Extreme temperature – 75 ° С Non-cracking, elastic. Shaft 40 cm with stiffening ribs. Condensation trays in the sole. Removable 8-layer insert with addition of 20% natural fur. Pair weight 1.2 kg Russia | The declared temperature values correspond only when driving. |
![]() | Soft, lightweight boots with a warm removable stocking made of multilayer non-woven fabric. Drawcord adjustable snow cuff in waterproof Oxford fabric. Monolithic with a thick sole. Height 24.5 cm Brand WOODLINE Sweden | |
![]() | Operating temperature – 45 ° С Boots that do not lose elasticity in extreme conditions will help to ensure comfortable fishing from the ice, and will give fishermen elegance. Removable 6-ply liner will secure the body. WOODLINE Sweden | Leads required |
![]() | The budget version of men’s boots is designed for use in the mode up to – 55 ° С. Monolith with thick EVA sole. Insulation insert of 8 layers, contains fur with sheep’s wool, knitwear, non-woven fabric, foil with a protective mesh. The stocking not only retains heat as much as possible, but also wicks away sweat. Pair weight 1300 grams WOODLINE Sweden | Shallow tread, glides on ice and rolled snow. |
In order for EVA shoes to serve for a long time, it is worth following the operating rules. Due to the porosity of the material, it is not recommended to deform the boots, they are also easy to puncture or cut. Dry boots away from fires and stoves – EVA melts at high temperatures.
Important! Manufacturers declare temperature limits given by high activity tests. When buying shoes, be guided by a minimum comfort temperature of 10 ° higher than stated.
Polyurethane foam ice fishing boots
For winter fishermen, footwear made of foamed polyurethane is suitable. The synthesized polymer is obtained from refined products with the use of various additives using a complex and expensive technology. Accordingly, the price of the products will become higher. Due to impurities, shoe polyurethane is multifaceted:
- smooth;
- foamed:
- fluted.
Fisherman’s winter boots are made of foamed elastomer. The material is stronger than EVA, but slightly heavier. Its porous structure is an excellent heat insulator, but does not allow air to pass through at all. The polymer is distinguished by its protective properties and high wear resistance. It is hypoallergenic, but at + 100 ° C it emits hazardous substances, and at -70 ° C its structure is destroyed.
- Models from the Swedish company POLYVER , which specializes only in the production of boots. In its assortment there are models for all age categories.
- The Norwegian firm VIKING mainly produces winter boots for children from molded polyurethane.
The companies have subsidiary campaigns in other countries. Their shoes are of high quality and a little cheaper than the original ones.
Short warm boots POLYVER PREMIUM LOW
The LOW model is the sister version of the PREMIUM, perfect for ice fishing. Polyurethane boots are 30% lighter than similar rubber or PVC boots. The reduction in weight by almost 1 kg due to the shortening of the shaft allows you to save strength during long movements. It is convenient to tuck trousers into a short, wide bootleg and tighten the cuff with a drawstring. For people with a full ankle and a high instep, it is more convenient to put them on, and a special tongue on the heel will help to remove the boot without hands.
VIKING polyurethane winter fishing boots
The warmest children’s boots are designed by the Norwegian company VIKING for extreme relaxation. Made in Vietnam from high quality elastic PU Elastopan on the latest equipment and meet all safety requirements. The material provides 2.5 times more thermal protection than conventional polyurethane and is twice as strong.
Winter fishing shoes made of modern rubber
Technological rubber samples are obtained by vulcanization of synthesized rubbers. Science and innovative technologies create types of thermoresins, boots, boots and other winter footwear from which, they meet the individual characteristics of each fisherman and are suitable for fishing, hunting, tourism. Rubber boots for winter anglers are stylish, comfortable, durable, relatively light, like for winter fishing. The average weight of an insulated male pair weighs about 2 – 3 kg. The products retain their flexibility and thermal insulation at extreme temperatures. Manufacturers of our firms and the best world campaigns present their models on the domestic market.
Boots model Goliath 1 KAMIK, -60C
The Canadian brand KAMIK has an excellent reputation in the global market and presents many of its products. The boots of the Goliath 1 model are made of high-precision molding from durable elastic thermorezin. All parts of the model are completely waterproof. Maximum thermal protection up to – 60 ° С. Long lasting. The pair weighs 2.9 kg.
Baffin Trapper Forest Ice Fishing Boots
The Canadian company BAFFIN, familiar to our extremals, presents a model made of elastic rubber, designed for operation in the temperature range from -5 ° C to -60 ° C with active use. Monolithic molded boots are distinguished by increased strength, insulation, waterproofing in the open air. Stylish unisex model, remains flexible in extreme cold. Weight 2, 37 kg.
Important! Boots should not be worn with woolen socks. Rubber does not let air through at all, and wool absorbs moisture. The legs will sweat and freeze faster. Insulating “sandwich” and thermal socks will reliably keep your feet warm.
Extreme fishing combo shoes
These are stylish hybrids of galoshes and bootlegs made of natural or high-tech synthetic materials. Combine them for a more comfortable fit.
- a light weight;
- moisture resistance;
- vapor permeability;
- resistance to mechanical stress.
Such shoes “breathe”, and the soft bootleg is easily adjustable with straps, lacing and other accessories. Top rated combo winter boot models available for purchase in 2021:
Name | t ° mode | Materials (edit) | Peculiarities |
![]() | – 45 ° C | Upper: OXFORD with polyurethane impregnation 300/400 D Reinforcement from genuine leather. 6-layer insert stocking. Galosha: molding rubber with a protected nose 15 J Russia | Height 35 cm Weight 1.9 kg Reflectors. High performance of thermal insulation of the stocking. Tungsten studded outsole. Regulating bootleg and rubs laces |
![]() ![]() | – 30 ° C | Upper: OXFORD 900 D fabric, additionally insulated with Thinsulate. Galosha: TPE (thermoplastic) with shock-absorbing effect. PRC | The high shaft is adjustable at the top and bottom with straps. Foil insert 9 mm Weight 2.3 kg |
![]() | – 40 ° C | Upper material: nylon. Faux fur insulation. The sole is joined by molding. The tread is non-slip rubber. EVA Canada insole | Boot height 24.13 cm Pair weight 1044 grams The fabric repels water and dirt, lets air in from the inside, does not let cold inside. The full-height rubberized drawstring closure fixes tightly on the leg, preventing water and snow from getting inside. The tread configuration guarantees stability and traction on any icy surface. |
![]() | – 30 ° C | Upper material: textile. Insulation natural fur. Insole: natural fur. PU outsole Molded joining method. Genuine leather toe and heel protection. Nordman | The water-repellent boot is secured tightly to the baby’s leg with Velcro. Water-repellent dense fabric repels water and wind, releases steam from the inside, together with a natural lining, retain heat. The molded sole is lightweight and elastic, does not get rough in the cold. Cast on special equipment without glue and seams. |
![]() | – 15 ° C | Upper: Water-repellent textile with faux leather trim. Lining: sheepskin + artificial wool. Cast galoshes: rubber China | Boots are made using Water Resistant technology. Do not let water through, let off steam. Waterproof zipper and drawstring fastener securely fix to the leg. |
The manufacturing process for fabrics and footwear is complex, so quality models are expensive. The choice of winter fishing shoes depends on your specific requirements. The weather conditions of fishing, walking comfort, comfort during the duration of use and safety are taken into account.