New Boots? How much insulation?

[tradnav]

Hey ya'll,
I have a question. I have a coupon for a pair of Wolverine boots. I'm from Maryland and I am trying to determine how much insulation i should get in my boots, or should i just wear wool socks, etc. I'll be doing about equal standing in sitting. sitting mostly when hunting and standing at my brothers football games (WV/MD). So, any suggestions would be appreciated.

Tradnav

[Curveman]

I would say 800 Thinsulate. i bought blanket booties for mine for when it gets really cold but I live in The People's Republic of Massachusetts.

[Shape Shifter]

I also like the 800 gram thinsulate as well. They should keep your toes warm and toasty.

[TaterHill Archer]

Usually, I'd say go with the 800.  However, recently I've been happier with less insulation and better socks.  You can also buy the oberboots from cabelas or Sleeping Indian Iditarod boots.  This allows you to have some lighter weight boots for walking and your feet won't sweat so much.  You can put the overboots on when sitting in your blind or on your stand and keep your feet warm.

Also, less insulation means boots you can wear during more seasons.

[John Scifres]

I think you should get a half size too big and then count on socks to keep your feet warm.  I wear sock liners all the time.  If it's warm, use an ankle sock under for some cushion.  If it's cold add a thick wool-poly blend sock over the liner.  I have grown very fond of synthetic soccer socks as a final layer instead of the thicker wool socks.  They are warm and come up to your knee, adding a nice layer on your lower legs.  If it's really cold, move around or use boot blankets and warming packs.

[vermonster13]

How cold is the weather during your season? If you get to heavy an insulation and your feet sweat, they will end up cold while on stand. Thinner is usually better if it's warm and buy the best socks you can afford like said above. Putting a second pair on at your stand isn't a bad idea either.

[artvin]

I'd pick the best boot I can afford with enough insulation to keep you comfortable while moving.
There are some boots that will bog you down if you need to move across country.  The problem is if the boots will keep you feet warm while you are sitting they will probably make your feet sweat when you have to move.

There are some excellent feet warmers made like hand warmers that are cheap.  You just strap them on your boots when you get in your stand..keeps the toes real toasty.  Take em off when you move out.  Some are reusable.

Art

[foxbo]

With the correct socks, 400 grams is plenty. I bought a pair of Danners last year called the Santiam 8" with 400 grams of insulation and they are the most warm and confortable boots I've ever owned.

[BigRonHuntAlot]

I agree with foxbo. Although your hunting temperature is a must for figuring the thinsulate and your body temperature comfort zone. No Insulation is good for me during bow season and 200 to 400 has served me well during winter. Sweat is the worst enemy when it comes to footwear and a good pair of socks goes a LONG way in that situation. Best of Luck to You.

[joe skipp]

I just ordered a pair of Danners with 400 grams of Thinsulate. Thats plenty for me and will work fine until the snow hits and temps drop below freezing....then I break out the Sorels.

[LAWYER]

I think it will depend on what type of feet you have; there are people with cold feet and people that wears sandals at 22°. Given your location I would go for the 800. Remember that heat comes from blood circulation and if you are not going to be moving is highly likely that being steady at 34° or less for a while will become uncomfortable.

[JEFF B]

i was going to buy 800 insulate but i think 600 would be just right for oct or 200 to 400 like ron said plus a good pair of NZ socks wool of corse.  

[geno]

Depends how far of a hike to your stand. if you are hunting the back forty or a couple 100 yrds from camp go with the 800. I wear wigwam socks and like them alot.I use a 200 gram boot or a -40 pack boot depend on alot of things. This yr I picked up some ft warmers you put in your boot. Cant wait to see how they work.
G

[MJB]

400-600 grm and a good pair of socks ..

[**DONOTDELETE**]

since my Heart surgry My feet freeze, I got me some 1200grn and them feet are nice and warm...

[Brian Krebs]

I hadn't noticed what gram my boots were that I hunted in all year; including winter ( down to minus 30) in snow. I do keep on the move; as where I hunt spot and stalk and stalking is the way to go.
 Just checked my boots and they are 500 gram lacrosse.
 I wear wool mix socks; and have found over decades of suffering: that one layer of loose socks beats- 'tight in the boots'- layers of socks.
 But then again; I am walking - not sitting in a stand....

[Brian Krebs]

500 gram all year; including -30 weather.. but I stay on the move stalking not sitting.

[tradnav]

Thanks guys, I put in for boots between 400-600 grams. We'll see if I get what I want.

[tradnav]

Hey Guys,
I got the 600 gram boots. Worn them once, pretty good fit.But since it still feels like summer here in MD, Haven't had a chance to wear them yet all that much. Thanks for the help!