What are the key features of Lacrosse NWTF boots for turkey hunting. How do these boots provide snake protection. Why are waterproof and breathable designs important for turkey hunting footwear. What are the advantages of lace-up vs pull-on boot styles. How do Lacrosse NWTF boots ensure proper fit and durability.
The Importance of Proper Footwear in Turkey Hunting
Turkey hunting demands specialized gear, and boots are no exception. The right pair of boots can significantly enhance your hunting experience, providing comfort, protection, and support in challenging terrains. Lacrosse NWTF boots, designed in collaboration with the National Wild Turkey Federation, offer a range of features tailored specifically for turkey hunters. Let’s explore the essential characteristics that make these boots a top choice for avid turkey hunters.
Superior Snake Protection: A Critical Safety Feature
One of the primary concerns for turkey hunters is the risk of venomous snake bites. Lacrosse NWTF boots address this issue with advanced snake protection features. How effective is their snake guard design?
- Extended coverage: Guards reach at least 16 inches up from the foot, with some models offering up to 20 inches of protection
- Durable materials: Flexible TPR (thermoplastic rubber) construction provides better resistance against snake fangs
- Additional barriers: Some models incorporate snake fences for extra protection
These features combine to create a robust defense against potential snake bites, allowing hunters to focus on their pursuit without compromising safety.
Waterproof and Breathable: Keeping Feet Dry and Comfortable
Turkey hunting often involves traversing wet and muddy terrain, especially during early spring seasons. How do Lacrosse NWTF boots manage moisture?
These boots utilize advanced waterproof membranes such as Urethane Coatings and Gore-Tex. These technologies serve a dual purpose:
- Keeping external moisture out, ensuring feet stay dry in wet conditions
- Allowing internal moisture (sweat) to escape, promoting breathability and comfort
This combination of waterproofing and breathability is crucial for maintaining foot health and comfort during long hunting expeditions. It helps prevent issues like blisters and unwanted odors, which can be detrimental to the hunting experience.
Lace-Up vs. Pull-On: Choosing the Right Boot Style
Lacrosse offers both lace-up and pull-on styles in their NWTF boot line. Each design has its unique advantages, catering to different preferences and hunting situations.
Lace-Up Boots:
- Customizable fit: Allows for tightening or loosening specific areas
- Enhanced ankle support: Lacing provides better stability for uneven terrain
- Adjustability: Accommodates varying sock thicknesses or foot swelling
Pull-On Boots:
- Quick on/off: Easier to remove for crossing creeks or navigating obstacles
- Uniform support: Fixed design offers consistent fit throughout
- Convenience: Side zippers make them easy to put on and take off
The choice between lace-up and pull-on styles often comes down to personal preference and specific hunting scenarios. Some hunters even opt to own both types for different situations.
Ensuring Proper Fit and Sizing for Optimal Performance
A well-fitting boot is essential for comfort and performance during long hunting trips. How does Lacrosse ensure proper fit in their NWTF boots?
- Variety of sizes: Offered in full and half sizes for a more precise fit
- True-to-size design: Most models fit as expected, reducing sizing guesswork
- Accommodating fit: Slightly roomier toe boxes allow for thick socks and natural foot swelling
When selecting Lacrosse NWTF boots, it’s advisable to try them on at the end of the day when feet are naturally larger. This ensures a comfortable fit even after hours of hunting. Additionally, opting for a slightly larger size can accommodate thick hunting socks without compromising comfort.
Durable Materials for Long-Lasting Performance
Turkey hunting can be tough on footwear. How do Lacrosse NWTF boots stand up to the challenge?
These boots are constructed with high-quality materials designed to withstand the rigors of hunting:
- Premium leathers: Provide flexibility, water resistance, and durability
- Robust synthetic textiles: Offer strength and additional waterproofing
- Gusseted tongues: Create a barrier against dirt and debris, extending boot lifespan
The combination of these durable materials ensures that Lacrosse NWTF boots can endure multiple hunting seasons, making them a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters.
Supportive Soles and Midsoles: Comfort for Long Hunts
Turkey hunting often involves covering significant distances over varied terrain. How do Lacrosse NWTF boots provide the necessary support and comfort?
- EVA midsoles: Offer cushioning and shock absorption
- Rugged lug soles: Provide excellent traction on diverse surfaces
- Arch support: Helps prevent fatigue during extended wear
These features work together to reduce foot fatigue and provide stability, allowing hunters to stay in the field longer without discomfort.
Insulation Options for Variable Weather Conditions
Early spring turkey hunting can bring unpredictable weather. How do Lacrosse NWTF boots address temperature variations?
Many models in the Lacrosse NWTF line offer insulation options to suit different climates and personal preferences:
- Uninsulated models: Ideal for warmer weather or high-activity hunting
- Thinsulate insulation: Provides warmth without bulk for colder conditions
- Varying insulation levels: Options typically range from 400g to 1200g
This variety allows hunters to choose boots that match their local climate and hunting style, ensuring comfort in diverse temperature ranges.
Scent Control: Staying Undetected in the Field
Turkeys have keen senses, making scent control crucial for successful hunts. How do Lacrosse NWTF boots address this challenge?
Many models incorporate scent-control technologies to minimize human odor:
- Antimicrobial treatments: Reduce odor-causing bacteria
- Scent-absorbing materials: Help neutralize human scent
- Breathable designs: Minimize sweat accumulation, a common source of odor
These features help hunters maintain a low scent profile, increasing their chances of a successful hunt.
Camouflage Patterns: Blending into Turkey Habitats
Visual concealment is another critical aspect of turkey hunting. How do Lacrosse NWTF boots contribute to overall camouflage?
These boots are available in various camouflage patterns designed to match common turkey habitats:
- Mossy Oak patterns: Ideal for wooded and leafy environments
- Realtree patterns: Suitable for diverse terrains
- Specific NWTF patterns: Developed in collaboration with turkey hunting experts
Choosing a boot with the appropriate camouflage pattern can enhance overall concealment, complementing other hunting gear and increasing stealth in the field.
Quiet Performance: Minimizing Noise in the Field
Turkeys are known for their exceptional hearing. How do Lacrosse NWTF boots address the need for quiet movement?
Several design elements contribute to noise reduction:
- Soft, pliable materials: Minimize creaking and squeaking
- Cushioned midsoles: Absorb impact noise when walking
- Tread patterns: Designed to release mud and debris quietly
These features allow hunters to move more stealthily, reducing the chances of alerting nearby turkeys.
Versatility for Various Hunting Styles
Turkey hunting techniques can vary widely. How do Lacrosse NWTF boots accommodate different hunting styles?
The boot line offers options suitable for various approaches:
- Lightweight models: Ideal for run-and-gun hunting styles
- Heavily insulated options: Perfect for stationary hunting in cold weather
- Mid-height designs: Offer mobility for stalking techniques
This range of options ensures that hunters can find a boot that matches their preferred hunting method and local conditions.
Ease of Maintenance: Keeping Boots in Top Condition
Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the life of hunting boots. How easy are Lacrosse NWTF boots to maintain?
These boots are designed with maintenance in mind:
- Removable insoles: Allow for easy cleaning and drying
- Durable exteriors: Can be cleaned with mild soap and water
- Water-resistant materials: Minimize absorption of mud and debris
Regular cleaning and proper storage can significantly extend the life of these boots, ensuring they remain reliable season after season.
Value for Money: Investing in Quality Footwear
Quality hunting boots can be a significant investment. Do Lacrosse NWTF boots offer good value for their price?
Several factors contribute to the value proposition of these boots:
- Durability: High-quality materials ensure longevity
- Versatility: Suitable for various hunting conditions and seasons
- Performance features: Enhance hunting success and comfort
- Brand reputation: Lacrosse is known for producing reliable hunting gear
While the initial cost may be higher than some alternatives, the combination of durability, performance, and specialized features often makes Lacrosse NWTF boots a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters.
Customer Feedback and Reviews: Real-World Performance
What do actual users say about Lacrosse NWTF boots? Customer reviews and feedback provide valuable insights into real-world performance:
- Comfort: Many users praise the boots for all-day comfort, even on long hunts
- Durability: Numerous reports of boots lasting multiple seasons
- Snake protection: Users appreciate the peace of mind provided by snake guards
- Waterproofing: Consistently positive feedback on keeping feet dry in wet conditions
While individual experiences may vary, the overall consensus among users tends to be positive, reinforcing the reputation of Lacrosse NWTF boots in the turkey hunting community.
Comparing Lacrosse NWTF Boots to Competitors
How do Lacrosse NWTF boots stack up against other brands in the turkey hunting footwear market?
While there are several reputable brands offering turkey hunting boots, Lacrosse NWTF boots stand out in a few key areas:
- Specialized design: Collaboration with NWTF ensures features tailored specifically for turkey hunting
- Range of options: Wide variety of styles to suit different preferences and conditions
- Balance of features: Combines snake protection, waterproofing, and comfort effectively
While other brands may excel in specific areas, Lacrosse NWTF boots offer a well-rounded package that addresses the diverse needs of turkey hunters.
Future Innovations: What’s Next for Turkey Hunting Boots?
As hunting technology continues to advance, what future innovations might we see in turkey hunting boots?
Some potential areas for development include:
- Advanced materials: Lighter, more durable fabrics and composites
- Improved insulation: Better temperature regulation for varying conditions
- Enhanced scent control: More effective odor-neutralizing technologies
- Smart features: Integration of GPS or other hunting-specific technologies
While these innovations are speculative, they represent potential directions for the evolution of turkey hunting footwear. Lacrosse, with its history of innovation, is likely to be at the forefront of such developments.
Introduction to lacrosse NWTF boots for turkey hunting
When it comes to turkey hunting, having the right gear can make all the difference. Boots are one of the most important pieces of equipment, as they need to provide snake protection, warmth, waterproofing, grip and support when traversing rough terrain in pursuit of these wily birds. That’s why many hunters turn to lacrosse NWTF boots specifically designed for turkey hunting.
NWTF stands for the National Wild Turkey Federation, which partners with lacrosse to produce their line of turkey hunting boots. These boots are made with the turkey hunter in mind and aim to provide key features needed for success. In this article, we’ll explore why lacrosse NWTF boots are a top choice and break down their must-have features for turkey hunting and snake protection.
Key Factors in Selecting Turkey Hunting Snake Boots
When choosing any footwear for turkey hunting, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Waterproofing – Turkey season can bring wet, muddy conditions. Waterproof boots keep feet dry.
- Insulation – Early spring turkey hunting can be cold. Insulated boots provide warmth.
- Support – Hunting requires extensive walking. Boots need to provide arch and ankle support to prevent injury.
- Traction – Gripping boots prevent slips and falls on uneven ground.
- Snake protection – An absolute must-have for turkey hunting. Snake guards keep legs safe.
- Comfort – Boots worn for long periods need to be comfortable to prevent pain or blisters.
lacrosse NWTF boots check the box on all of these fronts. They utilize waterproof membranes, insulation in key areas, EVA midsoles for support, rugged lug soles for traction, extended snake guards and designs catered to comfort. Now let’s look at some of their specific features.
Snake Protection
One of the biggest dangers facing turkey hunters are venomous snake bites. Turkey habitats overlap with areas where snakes like copperheads and rattlesnakes are found. Wearing proper snake guards can prevent what could be a trip-ending or even life-threatening bite.
lacrosse NWTF boots have guards that extend at least 16 inches up from the foot. Some models like the Alpha Agility snake boots provide 20 inches of protection. This coverage shields not only the foot and ankle, but also the lower legs and calves where bites frequently occur.
In addition, some lacrosse NWTF boots use flexible TPR (thermoplastic rubber) in their snake guard construction. This material holds up better against fangs compared to softer fabrics. Snake fences incorporated into some boots provide yet another barrier against bites.
Waterproof and Breathable Designs
Early spring hunting sees its fair share of rain showers and muddy fields. lacrosse utilizes waterproof membranes like Urethane Coatings and Gore-Tex in their turkey hunting boots. These sealed layers keep water out while allowing sweat vapor to escape.
Breathability prevents moisture build-up inside the boots that could lead to hot spots and blisters. It also reduces unwanted odors. Having both waterproof and breathable boots means you stay dry on the outside and the inside.
Lace Up vs Pull On Boots
lacrosse offers both lace up and pull on turkey hunting boots. Each style has its own advantages.
Lace up boots provide a more customizable and adjustable fit. You can lace certain areas tighter or looser as needed. Many hunters prefer lace ups for the ankle support lacing allows.
Pull on boots with side zips are quicker and easier to take on and off. Their fixed design offers uniform support. Zippers also make pull on boots easier to get into and out of.
When turkey hunting, being able to quickly remove boots to navigate creeks or tangled areas can be helpful. So both lace up and pull on designs have their place.
Proper Fit and Sizing
Any boot is only going to perform well if it fits correctly. Ill-fitting boots will cause discomfort on long hunts. lacrosse NWTF boots are offered in full and half sizes to help find an ideal fit. They run pretty true to size for most people.
When in doubt, size up slightly for hunting boots to allow room for thick socks. Also try boots on at the end of the day when feet are naturally larger. Having a bit of extra room in the toe box is preferable to tight boots that jam toes.
Durable Materials
lacrosse utilizes premium leathers and fabrics in their turkey hunting boots. Leather provides flexibility, water resistance and durability. Synthetic textiles can also be strong and waterproof. Having boots made with robust materials ensures they hold up during abusive turkey hunts.
It’s worth noting that some lacrosse hunting boots feature gusseted tongues. These tongues connect to the uppers creating a barrier against dirt and debris. This protects boot linings from premature wear and helps extend a boot’s lifespan.
Supportive Soles and Midsoles
Hiking through forests and fields after turkeys takes its toll on feet. lacrosse boots include technologies to provide support during these demanding hunts.
Midsoles made from EVA foam cushion feet and absorb shock. Shank plates add stability to the arch area. Outsoles with deep, rugged lugs improve traction on slick surfaces and uneven terrain.
All these elements together help prevent rolled ankles, hot spots and other discomforts to keep you moving on the trail.
In summary, lacrosse NWTF boots provide all the essential features needed by turkey hunters. Their specialized designs address the specific needs of pursuing spring gobblers. By keeping the dangers and demands of turkey hunting in mind, lacrosse creates boots hunters can rely on season after season. Give lacrosse NWTF boots a try and experience turkey hunting footwear done right.
Why snake proof boots are essential for turkey hunting
As we touched on briefly already, having reliable snake protection is an absolute must for any turkey hunter. The areas and habitats where turkeys are found unfortunately overlap with places where dangerous snakes like copperheads, cottonmouths, and rattlesnakes also reside.
Every seasoned turkey hunter likely knows someone who has been bitten by one of these venomous critters while out pursuing birds. Or they may have had their very own too-close-for-comfort snake encounter in the turkey woods themselves.
That’s why proper snake proof boots can quite literally be lifesavers. Snake bites that occur far from medical care can turn fatal. And even bites treated promptly can still cause permanent damage and disability. Not to mention excruciating pain.
Wearing snake boots reduces the risk of getting bitten and injected with hemotoxic or neurotoxic venom. Let’s examine why snake proof boots are so essential when turkey hunting.
Preventing Leg and Ankle Bites
One reason snake proof boots are a must is that they prevent snakes from being able to bite your lower legs and ankle area. Research shows that the majority of venomous snake bites occur on the feet, ankles and lower legs.
This part of the body is the most vulnerable when walking through brush, tall grass or other snake habitat. Snake proof boots have tall guards and thick materials that act as an impenetrable barrier.
Trying to get by wearing just high hiking boots or sneakers leaves the ankle and lower calf exposed. Not worth the risk!
Protection When Stepping Over Logs
Another common way hunters get bit is when stepping over downed logs. It’s easy to miss seeing a well-camouflaged snake on the other side. As you lift your leg and stretch over the log, exposed ankles or legs become easy targets.
But snake proof boots with sufficient coverage protect you even during this vulnerable act. Stepping over and onto logs can be done with confidence knowing your legs are guarded.
Security in Brush and Tall Grass
Pushing through dense brush and fields of tall grass are part and parcel of turkey hunting. It’s also the perfect place for snakes to blend in unseen. Copperheads in particular are masters of camouflage and easily blend into leaf litter.
Wearing snake proof boots allows you to wade into questionable areas without stress. You can focus on the hunt rather than worrying about where every step lands.
Peace of Mind
In addition to physical protection, snake boots also provide vital peace of mind. Hunting turkeys is already challenging enough without having to constantly stress about snakes too.
Rather than tiptoeing nervously through the woods, snake proof boots allow you to hunt with confidence. You can think about finding birds rather than being preoccupied with avoiding bites.
That mental freedom lets you hunt harder, deeper, and longer. Snake boots allow you to capitalize on every minute of precious turkey hunting time.
Insurance Far From Help
Many turkey hunters venture far from roads or sources of help. Getting bit miles into the backcountry or a large private tract could make it difficult to get prompt medical care.
Wearing snake proof boots provides insurance in remote settings. Even if hours from the truck or an ATV, you can rest assured your legs and feet are protected.
Hunting some of the most remote woodlands and ridges is possible if you have snake proof boots providing reliable security blanket.
As you can see, there are many compelling reasons why turkey hunters need snake proof boots. From preventing bites to boosting mental freedom, they make hunting safer and more enjoyable. Lacrosse NWTF boots check all the boxes for keeping you protected. Don’t head into the turkey woods without them!
Key factors when selecting the best turkey hunting snake boots
As we’ve covered, lacrosse NWTF boots are purpose-built for turkey hunting. But even within their lineup, there are a variety of models and features to consider when choosing the best snake boots for your needs.
Factor like fit, flexibility, insulation, camo patterns, scent control and cost all come into play. Let’s explore some of the key factors to weigh when picking turkey hunting snake boots.
Finding the Right Fit
An ill-fitting boot can quickly ruin a hunt. An improper size leads to slippage, blisters and foot pain. Lacrosse offers their boots in multiple widths and size increments.
Measuring your foot size and consulting sizing charts helps zero in on the right fit. It’s better to size up if in between sizes for room to add thick socks.
Trying boots on at the end of the day when feet are larger accounts for swelling. Have a friend help test the flexibility by bending the ankle forward and backward.
Evaluating Flexibility
The flexibility of a boot determines how naturally it allows you to walk and move. More flexible boots offer greater comfort and a more athletic feel.
Lacrosse uses flexible TPR in their snake guards rather than rigid plastic. This allows the boot to move with your ankle versus resist it. So judge flexibility when selecting boots.
Height of the Snake Guards
As mentioned earlier, the taller the snake guards on turkey hunting boots, the better. But boots do vary in how far their protection extends up the calves.
Guards reaching 16-17 inches tend to be sufficient for most hunters. But those who want maximal coverage can opt for 20 inch guards found on certain lacrosse models.
Level of Insulation
Hunting spring turkeys often means cold mornings. Lacrosse boots offer different levels of insulation based on hunting seasons.
400 grams or less is ideal for early season hunts where extra warmth isn’t needed. Late season boots have 1,000 grams or more insulation for frigid spring conditions.
Camo Patterns
The camo pattern used on your snake boots should match what you wear on your legs. This prevents the disruption of having mismatched colors.
Lacrosse boots feature camo like Realtree Edge and Mossy Oak Bottomland. Pick a pattern suited for your hunting area.
Odor Control
Containing human scent is crucial when hunting wary spring gobblers. Some lacrosse boots use activated carbon or antimicrobials to reduce odors.
This keeps more of your scent from permeating out through your boots as you walk. Every little advantage counts when trying to get the drop on turkeys.
Traction of the Soles
Rubber outsoles with deep, irregular lugs provide the best traction. Deep lugs give you footing and stability on muddy, uneven ground.
The better your boots grip the terrain, the safer you’ll be traversing logs and crossing creeks in pursuit of birds.
Ankle Support
Lace-up lacrosse boots allow you to customize ankle support by how tight you tie them. Pull-on boots offer uniform support without pressure points.
Some hunters prefer built-in ankle padding for extra support. Test ankle flexion when trying on different boots.
Overall Comfort
Consider factors like cushioning, weight and tread profile when evaluating comfort. Breaking in boots properly also enhances comfort.
Prioritize comfort since you’ll likely be on your feet all day hunting. Blisters or foot pain can ruin any hunt.
By dialing in the perfect turkey hunting snake boots for your needs, you’ll stay comfortable and protected in the spring woods. Weigh all these factors when selecting your next pair of lacrosse NWTF boots.
Importance of waterproof and breathable turkey hunting boots
Turkey hunting season coincides with the wettest time of year in many parts of the country. Spring rains and morning dew are inevitabilities hunters face.
That’s why having waterproof boots is absolutely essential. But waterproofing alone isn’t enough. Boots also need to be breathable to prevent interior moisture buildup.
Let’s look closer at why turkey hunters need waterproof AND breathable boots.
Waterproofing Keeps Feet Dry
Without waterproofing, your boots will saturate the moment you walk through wet grass or encounter early morning precipitation. Once the water barrier is breached, your feet get soaked.
This leads to a miserable hunt as wet feet quickly become cold. Plus, focusing on uncomfortable wet feet makes it harder to focus on hunting.
Lacrosse NWTF boots utilize waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex to keep outside moisture completely out. Rain, snow, dew and creek crossings are no match for quality water barriers.
Breathability Prevents Swamp Foot
While we need boots to keep water out, our feet also naturally sweat. Without breathability, all that foot sweat has nowhere to go. This leads to swamp foot.
Excessive interior moisture causes hot spots and blisters. It also leads to accelerated boot deterioration and pungent odors. Breathable boots have pores that vent vapor out while blocking liquid moisture.
Why Hunting Boots Must Be Both
Having either waterproof OR breathable boots isn’t enough for turkey hunting. You need both. Non-breathable boots trap sweat and cause swamp foot. Non-waterproof boots soak through.
That’s why lacrosse NWTF boots use innovative linings like Gore-Tex. This material provides a complete water barrier but remains highly breathable.
Other technologies like Urethane Coatings offer similar wet/dry performance. Dual waterproof and breathable function keeps hunters comfortable all day.
Superior Temperature Regulation
Boots that lack breathability also struggle to properly regulate foot temperature. Without venting, feet overheat in warm weather or when hiking uphill.
Venting foot sweat keeps your feet from getting hot and uncomfortable. You stay cooler in warmer conditions or when exerting yourself during a hunt.
Faster Drying Time
Even the best waterproof boots eventually let some moisture in. Maybe you had to unexpectedly creek hop or traversed flooded terrain.
Breathable linings allow any moisture that does penetrate to evaporate quickly. This prevents long-term saturation from minor water ingress.
Reduced Odor
Trapped foot sweat rapidly causes foul odors inside non-breathable boots. Air circulation provided by breathability whisks sweat away before bacteria can break it down.
Less interior moisture means less stench. Keeping boot odor down helps minimize scent contamination in the turkey woods.
Hopefully you now understand why serious turkey hunters need waterproof AND breathable boots. Lacrosse NWTF models perfectly balance these two critical functions for dry, comfortable hunting.