The best boots in the market

Suited and booted on the hill

Whether you’re preparing to stalk Highland red deer or walk-up grouse over dogs, reliable boots are essential. A single misplaced step in the wrong footwear can leave you wet, cold, and miserable.

I learned this the hard way on my first stalking trip to Ayrshire. My host, professional stalker Chris Dalton, guided me through the Galloway hills with his German shorthaired pointer, Zosia. The mist clung to the hills and dew soaked my boots, but my socks stayed dry — for a while.

Later that morning, one plunge into a stream left me with a sodden sock. There was no trophy buck, only the reminder that good boots matter more than most kit.

Why the right boots matter

Stalking and game shooting put heavy demands on footwear. Long hours on wet moorland or forestry tracks mean comfort, stability and waterproofing are vital. Boots that pinch, leak or rub will ruin your outing.

Modern designs combine traditional leathers with advanced membranes and soles for better grip and comfort. Below are some of the best boots available in 2025, from proven classics to innovative new launches.

Buy with confidence: Best boots for 2025

Irish Setter Elk Tracker XD

Irish Setter Elk Tracker | RRP from £289.90

A proven name in hunting footwear. The latest XD range offers Energ high-rebound cushioning, Tempsens Swiss temperature control, and UltraDry moisture management to keep feet warm and dry. Vibram Bulls-Eye soles deliver grip, while abrasion-resistant Armatec protects against undergrowth.

Crispi Futura PWR

Crispi Futura PWR | RRP £330

Award-winning Italian boot, first shown at the British Shooting Show. Full lacing to the toe provides a precise fit, while the sole ensures comfort and control on demanding stalks.

Lowa Hunter GTX Evo Extreme

Lowa Hunter GTX | RRP £350

Straight out-of-the-box comfort with PrimaLoft insulation. Dual-zone lacing allows tailored adjustment for forefoot and ankle support. Waterproof yet breathable.

Hoggs of Fife Aonach II

Hoggs of Fife Aonach II | RRP from £206.95

Built from Anfibio leather with an H-Tex waterproof membrane. Memory foam insoles and shock-absorbing midsoles provide all-day comfort. Vibram Bifida sole ensures grip across wet ground.

Gateway1 Fiordland II

Gateway1 Fiordland II | RRP £314

Designed for hill stalking, with 2.4mm full-grain nubuck leather, reinforced toe and heel, and waterproof SympaTex lining. Cold-resistant midsole keeps feet warm down to -15°C.

Final thoughts

The right footwear makes the difference between an enjoyable day and a miserable trudge. Whether you favour classic leather stalker’s boots or the latest technical innovations, invest in quality. Boots from Irish Setter, Crispi, Zamberlan, Lowa, Hoggs of Fife and Gateway1 all offer proven performance.

Comfort, grip and waterproofing will keep you going on the hill — even when the deer don’t play ball.