Quality boot help... Zamberlan Boots? Crispi?

ElkSniper · Aug 29, 2016

I've been in the market for some new boots and I'm considering getting some Zamberlan Outfitter GTX boots.

I've been recommended Kenetrek boots but they're even more pricy and seem a bit bulky and a touch on the heavy side. Also have heard mixed reviews about their durability after 1 full season.

I've also been recommended Cabelas Mendle Denalie and didn't like the way they fit despite their better price

In the past I've gone with a $200 pair of Danner pronghorn and been extremely disappointed with them. Lost their waterproof quickly. Last time I'll go with Danner that's for sure.

Seriously looking into getting a pair of the Zamberlan Outfitter GXT hunting boots. They're at bit pricy and a bit out of my price range but I'm getting real tempted to just break down and pull the trigger on a pair. From what I hear they're the way to go and you're getting what you pay for. They seem like that perfect combo of price, durability, stiffness, and are not super heavy.

Also heard a lot of good things on Crispi but need to do some more research on them

Anybody out there running these Zamberlan boots and if so what do you think?

Also open to any other suggestions...

Thanks

OLDHORNHUNTER · Aug 30, 2016

I bought a pair of the Zam 1012s earlier this year LOVE EM !! I was wearing & had been for the last 12 years the Meindl's BUT when I looked this year at them at Cabelas & they had jumped up over $300 & they are NOT even the Actual Meindl they are the Cabelas knock offs . I started looking & my search ended at either Zams or Lowas !! Everyone I talked with said they had NO issues or complaints with either boot. The Kennetreks I found with talking to people did not last . The Crispi is also a top notch boot So in my opinion either of those boots are great .. Where do you live ??

jims · Aug 30, 2016

I tried quite a few boots over the years. My go-to all round boots are Scarpa Kailash. Do yourself, feet, and legs a favor and try them! The only time I wouldn't wear them is if I want to go super light weight (use Lowa Renegades) or when hunting deep snow (Lowa Tibets).

If you need a lot of ankle support I'd go for Lowa Tibets. The Scarpas are lighter weight than Tibets and still have lots of ankle support. I've used my Scarpas on 2 dall sheep, 2 mtn goat, and multiple elk hunts and they work great!

I had a pair of Zambs a few years back and didn't like them. I returned a pair of Kennetrics the day after I tried them. They were like stilts with the super thick soles.

One other recommendation is to toss the boot insoles that come with the boots and buy ones that work for your particular boots. I also wear socks similar to Thorlos that have additional padding in the balls of the foot.

Weiserbucks · Aug 30, 2016

I also wear and love the Lowa Tibets , but I can't comment on the other quality boots . Never had any others

hank4elk · Aug 30, 2016

I went with Lowa Tibets last year and they are great boots.
Love the ankle support,padding and they are not too warm for me year round.I got half size larger for thick winter socks and they are fine with lighter ones too.
1st Lowas in 25 years.
Had been wearing Meindels.

BeanMan · Aug 31, 2016

Those of us who have really narrow feet have limited options. I' ve settled on the Lowa Renegade recently and so far they have been good boots. I'll find out how good in few weeks on my annual Black Canyon trip.

Lowa does make a few of their models in narrow, but none of their heavier duty boots are narrow.

Soj51hopeful · Aug 31, 2016

I'm on season 2 with my lowa tibets in hard use. Lots of rock / beating brush with a 45lb pack on. I take care of them about 1/2 as good as the manufacture suggests and they are still waterproof and holding up excellent.

jgriffin82 · Aug 31, 2016

Are any of these manufacturers recommended for wide sizes? I typically wear 13EE in work boots and shoes but usually need longer and wider for late season hunting boots for extra socks/insoles.I've worn danner work and hunting boots for a long time and have never been satisfied.

Jim

Solotude · Sep 16, 2016

I have the Guide 960 GTX and love them. Several trips to the Wyoming back country right out of the box and no issues. But as been mentioned before, try a bunch out and see what works for you.

kk · Oct 4, 2016

Lots of good boots to choose from. I have the Zamberlan Guide 960 GTX, I think it is a real good boot.

bamacpl · Oct 14, 2016

I have a pair of the Guide 960 GTX & like them. They are not fully broke in yet & are a lil rigid.....not as comfy as some of my cheaper boots(which is to be expected)....but overall I am pleased with them.

brushstomper · Dec 27, 2017

I also have the Guide 960 GTX. I have worn them for the last two seasons and absolutely love the comfort and support they give. Best to try on a few different pairs and get what fits your feet the best!

jims · Dec 27, 2017

LAST EDITED ON Dec-28-17 AT 02:47AM (MST)[p]I didn't mention in most post above but I buy almost all my boots from Sierra Trading. Sometimes you have to wait for the right size and model but they are usually about 1/2 the price of elsewhere...especially with a 20 to 30% off coupon code. I usually can find a nice pair of Lowas for around $80 to $120...which is a steal!

You may find that it's nice to have a small selection of boots rather than just 1. Sierra's prices are such a bargain that I can afford a couple pairs! As an example: I use Lowa Tibets in snow or steep slopes, Lowa Renegades if I want to cover lots of country, Scarpa Kailach if hunting steeper, rocky slopes where it's nice to have additional ankle/foot support and foot protection. The boot I grab the most often and actually wear every day at work are my Scarpas!

schoolhousegrizz · Dec 30, 2017

I have 1012's. They are my favorite piece of hunting equipment. Watch the Dolores elk hunt video in the Utah Forum. I had to wade out into the river. My feet were dry as a bone