Kenetrek versus Schnee.update first review

[Ray Lyon]

So I’ve made 2 three hour hunts so far. Here’s the initial findings.  The construction is impeccable.  Lace posts take a little getting used to but they’re rock solid.  I have slightly wide feet, so the fit across between instep and toes is snug, but not uncomfortable.  I’m trying to get away from disposable toe/foot warmer so I’ve not used any on fist two sits.  Both sits were 32 degrees, last night was calm and today was windy(and I was up in it on a knoll in a maple tree). I put a single Two Track’s quilted wool foot liner in each boot for each hunt.  Calm night sit I used a loose knit mid weight merino wool sock which gave me a snug, but not tight fit). I felt a little moisture buildup but feet stayed warm.  This morning’s sit I tried just a thin polypropylene liner sock.  More air space, but feet got a little cold, but not unbearable.  I think I’ll try mid weight sock with no two tracks liner on next sit.  The Friday night sit was very encouraging with no discomfort. 

Walking in these is a joy. Very soft rubber so they’re cushiony to walk in and very supportive.  The bonus is the rubber being soft grips the steps and stand extremely well, which is reassuring in snowy weather.  Also, the boot to stand/step contact is extremely quiet—except if you turn your foot on the stand with weight on it the it’ll squeak. Slightly lifting and turning works great.  I’ll provide more feedback as I move through the December late season.  My initial reaction is an 8 out of ten and that’s essentially sizing related. More two come

[Dave Bulla]

Interesting post.

I guess I should be thankful I seldom have problems with cold feet.  I can hunt in my steel toe cowboy boots with just a simple medium weight wool socks comfortably at temps down into the 20's.  I've also got some muck boots that have some thinsulate.  Maybe 600 grams?  Those are my "cold weather" boots at this point.

Now, if I wear lace-ups, it's a lot different.  My feet can get cold in those unless I make it a point to lace them loosely.  Best boots I've worn for temps in the sub zero range were always a good felt pack boot like the Sorrels.  They are pretty big and bulky but that's why they work.  They work even better if they are about a size too big.  Tight boots and cold feet simply don't get along in my experience.

[Ray Lyon]

Dave, unfortunately my feet get cold easily, and I agree with you on the loose/airspace experience.  I think me and these boots will get along great and it’s a matter of fine tuning the sock combination with felt liner from two tracks