IceShanty.com's Ice Fishing Community
Ice Fishing Tips -Check your local regulations! => Dressing for ice fishing => Topic started by: stevepslab on Apr 19, 2018, 12:57 AM
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I am looking to upgrade my foot wear this ice season. Seems my feet get cold easy, that's why. Probably cause they sweat a lot (https://stereochoice.com/best-midi-keyboards-for-garageband/). Looking for ideas on best boot or sock combo you guys all use to keep your feet warm in weather 10 degrees to -30. Steve (https://99sides.com/).
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There are numerous boot threads in this section.....Kick back & do some reading !!
https://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=357928.0
https://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=347401.0
https://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=355005.0
https://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=349055.0
https://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=342733.0
https://www.iceshanty.com/ice_fishing/index.php?topic=347411.0
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There are several reasons for feet to get cold. One main reason is the boot fits just right. You need extra room around your foot so it isn't pressing against the cold boot all the time and there's plenty of wiggle room. Usually a size larger or extra wide will do it.
Another reason is perspiration. One thing to try if your feet sweat a lot is anti-perspirant. Use the aerosol and spray it on your feet. Dry feet are warm feet.
If you don't want to do that, get some polypropylene liner socks and a pair of nice warm Merino wool socks. The liner wicks moisture away and the wool will keep you warm. Damp wool will actually gets warmer.
Make sure your boots are insulated and waterproof. Every other year or so a good spray down with campdry or other waterproofing spray will keep out the cold.
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There are several reasons for feet to get cold. One main reason is the boot fits just right. You need extra room around your foot so it isn't pressing against the cold boot all the time and there's plenty of wiggle room. Usually a size larger or extra wide will do it.
Agree. Many guys don't realize that it's the air that provides the insulation, whether in your boots or in the attic. Squeezing the air out with tight fit will make your feet colder. An extra pair of socks is not necessarily a good thing.
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Warmest boots I have ever worn. And I have spent a ton on different boots as I have unusually cold feet
https://www.kimpex.com/en-ca/products/snowmobile/apparels-and-protective-gear/boots/ckx-boots-yukon?sku=033081&keyword=Ckx%20yukon
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Get yourself a pair of these. Warmest boots I have ever worn and I have blown a ton of money trying to find warm boots. I have colder than normal feet and these are great.
https://www.kimpex.com/en-ca/products/snowmobile/apparels-and-protective-gear/boots/ckx-boots-yukon?sku=033081&keyword=Ckx%20yukon
50 bucks cheaper.
https://www.amazon.com/CKX-Boots-Yukon-Size-9/dp/B017NSPS1W
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My vote is for the Cabelas Trans-Alaska Pac Boot. I've had mine for 4 years, maybe more, still like new and the warmest boot I've ever had. The only boot I've never got cold feet in. And they are comfortable, not the greatest for long treks but OK.
Mine are dedicated to ice fishing with ice screws installed.
Boots are definitely a personal preference item - there are several on the market that will keep you warm. Your style of fishing will be a big factor in boot selection, as well.
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Welcome to the Shanty Stevepslab. There is a treasure trove of information on boots in those links up top! I tell all my friends and family when explaining Ice shanty that there are 80,000 members, if even only 10 [there are so many more than ten] of those guys have fished 30+ years and willingly come on here and give advice and tips and tricks they have learned. Then you can learn more on here than you can experience in a lifetime. Not to mention all the younger guys showcasing the innovation and evolution of the sport. Best of luck on your boot quest, happy hunting.
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last season I started wearing the Muck Artic Pro and they worked great for me. I bought those and the Kahtoolas to start the season last year and I am very happy.
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Good info distilled down here already. Proper fit (need toe wiggle room) and antiperspirant spray for sweaty feet ( I can't wear rubber boots at all) I like Sure unscented, are difference makers. My boots are 2 season old Cabelas Trans Alaskans. Same as fishforpike, first time in my life my feet have been comfortable.
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I tried a pair of Cabela's Trans Alaska a few years back but they were just too much boot for me, especially after slapping on Kahtoola spikes. Remember those scenes where Godzilla laid waste to Tokyo. It felt like that. Since that experiment I've sacrificed the maximum possible warmth for lighter weight and simplicity and just picked up some Kamik
front zipper and replaced the Kahtoolas with ice studs. They seem fine for what I do. Very subjective topic with few wrong answers
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Last year I broke down and bought a pair of Trans Alaskans , my feet are dry and warm , , but takes a little getting use to walking as there is 3”s of space from the ice to the bottom of your foot , But do run on the small side I ordered 2 sizes up
But like already mentioned there are many good choices out there
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I greatly improved a pair of hunting boots by adding an alpaca insole (a gift). Didn't really have high expectations, but was pleasantly surprised. Then again, I don't have trouble with cold feet.
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I switched from my trusty mickeys boots to muck arctic pros.arctic pros are light and pretty warm but if the arthritis in my hip was gone id still wear my mickeys..warm with any sock combination.ive only used my arctic pros one season tho.but a few days i could feel my toes getting cold after being out all day.not freezing cold but wearing my mickeys i was used to never having cold feet.
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I switched from my trusty mickeys boots to muck arctic pros.arctic pros are light and pretty warm but if the arthritis in my hip was gone id still wear my mickeys..warm with any sock combination.ive only used my arctic pros one season tho.but a few days i could feel my toes getting cold after being out all day.not freezing cold but wearing my mickeys i was used to never having cold feet.
With ya' on the Mickey's Doc. If they weren't so damn heavy and these old bones and muscles were about 30 years younger, I'd still be sporting them too...You wouldn't happen to know someone who could carry me to my hole do you? :whistle: :roflmao:
Been wearing my Lacrosse Iceman's for years complete with screws for cleats...no issues.
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I love my Trans Alaskans.
Last year I broke down and bought a pair of Trans Alaskans , my feet are dry and warm, but takes a little getting use to walking as there is 3”s of space from the ice to the bottom of your foot.
I was OK walking, but picking stuff up off the ice while standing, or trying to... that produced some laughter. Like, woah, the ground is way down there!
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50 bucks cheaper.
https://www.amazon.com/CKX-Boots-Yukon-Size-9/dp/B017NSPS1W
That link is Canadian dollars so amazon is in USD so very close to the same money. Get a pair, they are amazing warm.
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Lot of people set up for cold feet. Don't drive your car to ice fish while wearing snow boots also if you walk far then you may wanna change your socks. It's all about the sweat. Avoid it if possible otherwise your feet may be cold.
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I love my Trans Alaskans.
I was OK walking, but picking stuff up off the ice while standing, or trying to... that produced some laughter. Like, woah, the ground is way down there!
:thumbsup: Yep. I'm 6'2" in the TAs... ::)
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:thumbsup: Yep. I'm 6'2" in the TAs... ::)
And I'm 6'5" before I put 'em on! Frankenstein after.
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last season I started wearing the Muck Artic Pro and they worked great for me. I bought those and the Kahtoolas to start the season last year and I am very happy.
Same combo I wear and it’s fantastic, IMO.
I also wear an ultra light thermal liner under a heavy weight merino sock. I usually spray my feet with an aerosol anti-persperant and I’m good to go for the day. Best setup I’ve come across. I’ve had my Mucks for about 5 seasons and I can’t complain at all. Light weight, low profile (especially for a 14), and warm.
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i have to say NOT Baffin. bought a pair of Baffin trappers 3 years back and the rubber is cracking at the flex points near the arch
one boot leaks
sad to say Baffin has Zero warranty. nada. chinese made you think they could warranty 120 bux a pair boots
these were good looking tall. boots with removable inserts i had high hopes
comparably the sorels pac boots dad bought me when i was 12. lasted till i was 23 before any rubber deterioration
the good old days
will be seeking a better choice. patching the baffin see how they take a patch
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I have tried just about every boot out there and for the past 4 years now I only use Eva winter boots. They are lighest boot you can get which will be a great help if you are out on the ice all day. I have never gotten cold feet since using them and they are 100% waterproof, since there are no seams in them. It also helps that most pairs have removable liners that can be washed. I only suggest that you get a pair that is a 1/2 size larger than your regular shoe size.
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Baffin Titans---#1 !!
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another one for Muck Arctic Pro
Love the shin high sides especially when things get slushy or deep.
Also nice to not have laces to tie/replace/maintain
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https://www.cabelas.com/product/CABLEAS-INFERNO-BOA-G/2498567.uts?slotId=1
Love these, super comfortable and warm even at -30.
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Baffin Titans---#1 !!
Just got some a couple days ago!!
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Here's my shoe sock boot system.
Pollypro sock liner with a heavy wool sock. When driving I aware a pair of gym shoes that are all mesh. That way my feet do sweat it should evaporate. I where white mickey boots when I fish. They keep my feet pretty warm. If they get cold I'll walk around for 5 minutes and they warm up .
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I wore 50 dollar craftsman water proof boots all last season. They have a liner.
Between those and my bibs. I only wear really thin socks and my feet stay warm and dry.
They are one size bigger for extra room
I did wool sock thing, didnt help with the foot sweat.
I also put in some foot powder before a trip to help with the sweat my feet make.
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Like what has already been said..
pair of polypropylene liner socks
pair of merlino wool socks
During deer season, for the first time in my life I have also worn the white Mickey Mouse boots and they were warm for stump sitting.
This past year I have also purchased Cabela's Saskatchewan boots too..
I am also going to try the antiperspirant when I remember to buy a big can. My feet sweat big time.
at the end of the day put your boots on a boot dryer overnight to dry the insoles !!!!!!!
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im not recommending muck arctic pros anymore..my 2 year old pair just cracked straight across the boot..junk.back to my mickeys.why cant anything be worth the money anymore?
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im not recommending muck arctic pros anymore..my 2 year old pair just cracked straight across the boot..junk.back to my mickeys.why cant anything be worth the money anymore?
You just can’t win can ya Dr.?
It’s a bummer they cracked. I know my Arctic Pros definitely pulled their weight today. I was the only one with warm feet.
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im not recommending muck arctic pros anymore..my 2 year old pair just cracked straight across the boot..junk.back to my mickeys.why cant anything be worth the money anymore?
Hey Doc, Cabelas Trans Alaskan... you'll never have cold feet again ;)2
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You just can’t win can ya Dr.?
It’s a bummer they cracked. I know my Arctic Pros definitely pulled their weight today. I was the only one with warm feet.
lol yeah bad day for sure..
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Irish setter elk trackers
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Got a new pair of Baffin selkirks, rated to -94f , nice and light and very warm and most important dry, no leaks, 6 trips so far and I love em!
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I have a pair of Baffin Titans rated for -148F, they are nice but a little heavy
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MY LAST 2 PAIRS OF MUCK BOOTS CRACKED AND THE SOLES BEGAN TO COME OFF. I HAVE A SMALL FARM AND WEAR THEM EVERY DAY (well I used to) FOR THE MONEY THEY SUCK!!! ON THE ICE i WEAR THE BAFFIN -148 DEGREE I FORGET THE MODEL. THIS IS MY 6TH YR. I DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT MY FEET WHEN ON THE ICE.
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MY LAST 2 PAIRS OF MUCK BOOTS CRACKED AND THE SOLES BEGAN TO COME OFF. I HAVE A SMALL FARM AND WEAR THEM EVERY DAY (well I used to) FOR THE MONEY THEY SUCK!!! ON THE ICE i WEAR THE BAFFIN -148 DEGREE I FORGET THE MODEL. THIS IS MY 6TH YR. I DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT MY FEET WHEN ON THE ICE.
its funny,well not really but my mickeys are still in great shape and made in 1976 and ive wore them for more than 15 years. my mucks that I wore 3 months last year and 1 months this year icefishing and a few steelhead trips are already junk.
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Baffins are bullet proof, put them through helland back and they still keep my toes warm, I used to have to use heat warmers...not with those :-), though you do need a size or two larger then normal when you get them, and just wear one pair of thin wool socks....thats how they work best :-)
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As mentioned by someone's earlier post: do NOT wear your boots while driving to your ice fishing spot. I wear SmartWool socks. They are expensive but they are worth it. SmartWool socks keep your feet warm & dry!
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MICKEYS WITH KOLD KUTTERS. NOTHING NEATER--NOTHING SWEETER.
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Hey Doc, Cabelas Trans Alaskan... you'll never have cold feet again ;)2
+100
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I’m happy with my Trans Alaskans warm and comfy , installed Kold Kutters
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Another vote for the trans-alaskan from Cabelas. A bit "clumsy" but comfy and warm, for me, always. But then not everyone's going to like that style boot.
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Sorel XT boots (with liner). I have this one and only one. been using for almost 6 years for fishing and still strong. I put some screws into the soles for better gripping. working well, especially shoveling heavy snow.
I bought an a little bit larger in size recommended by the seller. Great product!
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As mentioned by someone's earlier post: do NOT wear your boots while driving to your ice fishing spot. I wear SmartWool socks. They are expensive but they are worth it. SmartWool socks keep your feet warm & dry!
Yup. I wear nothing but my base layer stuff to and fro...including no boots...no matter how short or long the travel. First, it is not comfortable driving or riding with all of my gear on. Second, we do sweat whether we feel it or not, and sweat and cold weather do not make for good companions.
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Fished over the weekend first time with new Baffin Eiger boots. The boots are about same weight as my old retired Sorels. Slightly bulkier but easy to walk around in. Air temps were in the teens and feet toasty warm all day.
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my 2 cents, just got a set of korker polar 1200. so far amazing, warm and easy to get on and off with boa system. easy swap soles are a added bonus of being able to go from standard lugs to a cleated sole in about 2 min. been out 2 times with them 1 time average temp was under 30, stayed almost to warm, adjust socks for next time out single digit temps all day and 0 issues with foot warmth. they do run a big but nice for socks etc.
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Another vote for the trans-alaskan from Cabelas. A bit "clumsy" but comfy and warm, for me, always. But then not everyone's going to like that style boot.
X2
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I tried a new brand called Dunlops this year. Very similar in construction to Mucks. So far I haven't had any issues with cold feet but I haven't really been out in super cold weather, maybe low teens or single digits one day. TBH, I think Polypropylene sock liners under a good pair of wool or smart wool socks is just as important as the boot itself. My feet sweat a lot and the poly socks wick away the sweat and if the wool gets damp it continues to stay warm.
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im still rockin my 50 dollars craftsman boots I posted last Dec about. No signs of cracking at all, soles are still in great shape.
I may buy new liners at the end of this season, they are getting old and tired.
I have mucks at home but I dont use them fishing, no need to.
Still only wear thin dress socks and put in some foot powder before each trip, i do drive to my spot in socks, I don't wear any shoes at all, I take them off as soon as I am in car. Keeps my feet dry (assuming there is no wet stuff on the ground before I head out), gets them nice and warm for my day fishing.
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I ordered a pair of Cabela's Trans Alaskan pac boots. Received them today but they feel like they are squeezing my feet. My teenage son tried them on and he is ok with how they fit him. I guess he's getting his first and I'll have to order mine next month but larger size. We both wear shoe size 9 1/2. I ordered boots in size 10. I'm going to order them in size 11 next time.
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Baffins are bullet proof, put them through helland back and they still keep my toes warm, I used to have to use heat warmers...not with those :-), though you do need a size or two larger then normal when you get them, and just wear one pair of thin wool socks....thats how they work best :-)
I love my Baffins. They are hard to size, The key to getting a good fit is to take out the liner and fit the liner to your foot. That's from Baffins recommendations. Stores don't like you doing that, but it makes for a great fit.
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I think it's more important to get a pair of properly fitting boots rather than focusing on any particular brand. I'm not saying to go and buy the cheapest boots you can find, but a pair of boots that are great for me may not be the best solution for you. Buy a pair a 1/2 to a size up from what you normal size is to trap heat in the boot and not to restrict the circulation in your feet. Also keep your feet dry and take extra socks to change into. Once your feet sweat and your socks get wet, it won't matter what boots you have,your feet will get cold.
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Haven't found the best yet - but I won't buy Alphaburly pros again. They are plenty warm, but I had one pair spring a leak and they aren't overly comfortable if you do alot of squating/kneeling.
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Baffin Titans
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I was hoping muck arctic pros were,being how light and comfortable they are,however they cracked in one ice fishing season and now slathered with shoo goo.so my choice of best warmest boots are still black mickeys.made in the 70s and still good.
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Baffin Titans
Yup---the best
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Baffin control max for days in the negatives or single digits, Simms G3 guide pull on boot for wetter days.
As for socks, I wear a liner sock (polyester I think?) and a wool sock over the liner sock.
Honestly both have been awesome.
I did try a pair of Keen boots a few years ago and they sucked...
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I ordered a pair of Cabela's Trans Alaskan pac boots. Received them today but they feel like they are squeezing my feet. My teenage son tried them on and he is ok with how they fit him. I guess he's getting his first and I'll have to order mine next month but larger size. We both wear shoe size 9 1/2. I ordered boots in size 10. I'm going to order them in size 11 next time.
Ordering up a size is always recommended..take out the removable liners and walk around in them for a couple days ..they will conform to your feet. Got this this as a recommendation from Baffin years ago .
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Seems like the trans Alaskans don’t come in a bigger size? I need 15-16.
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My street/work shoe is 10.5 US and I got my TAs in size 12 figuring to leave room for a couple pairs of wool (always had freezing feet). Found them to be the warmest thing I've ever put on my feet and never worn more than a sock liner and one pair of wool. Plenty of room for feet, again for the first time ever. Got a mangled left foot that always gets squeezed very uncomfortably in cheaper boots, not so in these. If they made 11.5 I could probably do those but they do not.
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I wear a 13 and have a very narrow foot. Ordered my TAs in 13 'cause that's the biggest size. When they came, I panicked because they felt so small. Called Cabela's to arrange a return and the representative said why not try them because you have 30 days.
Between being able to wear just one nice pair of insulated socks and having them break in a bit, they turned out to be my favorite boots ever and I still have them years later.
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Baffin Control Max have been excellent to me.
On days in the double digits I wear Simms G3 pull on boot.
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Just got some a couple days ago!!
Another vote for Baffin Titans. I've been using a pair for two years. Now I just wear them like giant slippers with no socks. I've only used them down to 5 degrees or so, but can just sit with no shanty and my feet are the warmest part of me.
- Joe
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Baffin Titans---#1 !!
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Yup---I'll say it again!
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Ive got arctic pros that are about 5 years old or more. Need replacing, but I’m size challenged wit a size 15 foot! (Feet actually) doesn’t appear tp be a ton of options out there. What are us sasquatches to do?
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Cold feet should be my nickname. Too much boot insulation or too many heavy socks and my feet sweat and socks get wet and then it is all over. I tried the polypro socks which sure do help and my boots are LaCross Ice Kings 1 1/2 size larger. I am fine if I can jump in the boots and onto the ice without much walking and sweating. That never happens so I found a much better solution.
ODABAN! This is a foot antiperspirant that is a bit of a process but it works great for me. Follow the directions and treat your feet and they will stay dry and warm.
https://www.odaban.com/products/antiperspirant-spray/
If your feet get cold because they are wet inside you can waste a ton of money on the warmest boots money can buy and still have frozen feet.
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I bought a pair of Kamik's about 8 yrs ago, supposed to be so good. Worst I've ever had for warmth. My feet freeze in 'em, that's with wearing a thick Merino wool sock. IMO, pass on these!!!!! Temp rating -40? NOT! >:(
https://www.amazon.com/Kamik-Nationplus-M-Mens-Nationplus-Boot/dp/B0078J8BF2
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worst boot I ever had!!
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worst boot I ever had!!
Well, guess I'm not alone! ;D
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Kamiks suck. Another one for Baffin Titans. Smartwool socks then regular wool. Have never had cold feet since I got them.
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Well after using my kamik hunter boots rated to -40 twice,that rating is bullshat..barely keep feet warm at 25 degrees.but for 35$ if they last longer than the 100$ pair of muck arctic pros that lasted 1 icefishing season im good.i didnt expect the kamiks too be that great for the cheap price.
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the problem with titans is bib legs wont go over them.
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Striker Ice Bibs do
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I'll add to the fodder... been wearing mucks ( artic pro) the last 10 years or so, sized like my work boot,poly pro liner Marino wool .. most conditions, no issues, always a little tough to remove at the end of the day, sizing like work boots didn't help I'm sure. last fall, dealt with a case of platarfaciitis, didn't want to be tugging on that boot to get It off, Wife bought me a set of Baffin Snow monsters 1 size up per their recommendations, I must say, lightest, warmest most comfortable boot I have ever worn, I'v only had to fish down to 10 above so far, but they are nice, also a breeze to take off and put on on the side of the road ( I drive almost 2 hours each way to fish).. feet dont sweat in then and the liners can be removed for drying, and are easily reinstalled...
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Been running the Baffin Impacts for 3 years now. Will likely move to the Titans as they are fully waterproof. 10" G2 pulls a lot of water above the ice.
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Well, guess I'm not alone! ;D
Mine were a different---maybe a cheaper model but still not cheap.The seam between the rubber and the cloth wore out quite quickly.
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Baffin Titans are by far the best ice fishing investment I have ever made. Warm dry feet in any and all conditions. My ice runner bibs fit perfectly around the Titans. Nice and snug so you don't get the ice balls on the bottom of your bibs.
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I'm in the market for a new pair of ice fishing boots. I had been using the Baffin Titans. My right boot starting cracking all over the bottom of the boot, and I patched it with some sort of goo. The cracks just kept coming, and the boot is now junk. Weird thing is, the left boot looks like new.
I'm now looking for the best waterproof boot out there. I don't care about the price, to a point! I did see some boots online yesterday for $1800, that's a bit high!
I do have a pair of Dunlop Purofort's, which are warm and waterproof, but are not warm enough for ice fishing on a bucket.
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I have Striker Ice Boots I picked up for $120. Only wore a pair of regular socks in them and I was warm for the 4 hours I was out (15 degrees with wind up to 30mph).