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Ice fishing means drilling a hole through the ice cover and searching for fish in the water underneath. While it sounds very simple, there are several dynamics associated with ice fishing that make it one of the most challenging domains of fishing.
It is one of those sports where the need of selecting good equipment is equal to that of developing a fine skill set. An important part of the gear needed for ice fishing is the ice fishing apparel. Therefore, in this article, we shall tell you about the best ice fishing boots available these days.
Table of Contents
Special Equipment For Ice Fishing
Since ice fishing poses such great challenges in front of an angler, the ice fishing gear needs to be highly specialized to meet the difficult requirements of this sport. Carrying equipment like an ice saw is also important for ice fishing because ultimately you will be looking for fish through an opening in the ice cover.
Mostly, this opening has to be created by the angler himself. Besides the ice fishing boots that we discussed in this article, it is important for you to understand the importance of other equipment like snow shovels, ice augers, spears, spools, etc.
Ice fishing is gradually noticing modernization with advanced fishing gear and other changes rapidly coming into this field. Earlier, anglers had to drill a hole, and then wait for the fish for hours altogether. Now, with lighter equipment and other devices, the accuracy of ice fishing has improved significantly.
Top 10 Best Ice Fishing Boots 2021
1. Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot
The Women’s Ice Maiden Ii Snow Boot is premium ice fishing boots made with advanced technology. This pair of ice fishing boots are made predominantly with leather and some textiles. Moreover, the foot bedding is made with advanced rubber that has additional flexibility properties.
The boots have a unique lightweight midsole, to provide utmost comfort to the anglers while walking amidst the snow. When the feet get such superior cushioning, the energy requirements for walking get reduced drastically. Hence, the anglers can continue fishing for a longer duration.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
2. Men’s Forester Snow Boot
The Men’s Forester Snow Boot is another good option for snow anglers. It is made with a combination of rubber and nylon. Moreover, it has a very flexible base and sole, made with several synthetic materials. The boots do not have leather around the lower part of the legs. However, the shaft height of the boots is around the mid-calf region.
It is a comfortable pair of ice fishing boots that keeps the feet warm even at -40C. The waterproof mechanism is also top-class.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
3. Dream Pairs Winter Snow Boots
The Women’s DP Warm Faux Fur Lined Mid Calf Winter Snow Boots is a very stylish pair of ice fishing boots for women. It has 200g of Thermolite and keeps the feet completely warm in extremely cold weather. A temperature of around -25 degrees can easily be tolerated using these boots.
The boots come with impressive all-weather protection. To make it easy for you to take it off, the manufacturers have provided zippers. However, they are difficult to grasp with thick gloves on.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
4. Crampons Ice Cleats Hiking Boots and Shoes
The Crampons Ice Cleats for Hiking Boots and Shoes are used by ice-sports professionals as well. These are hiking boots, with some additional features that make them suitable for ice fishing as well. These contain traction spikes that offer a much better grip on the snow.
Even in slippery conditions, these boots are effective. Walking in the snow with these boots is effortless. The strong metal spikes are the highlight of this pair of boots.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
5. EnergeticSky Ice Cleat Spikes
The Upgraded Version of Walk Traction Ice Cleat Spikes Crampons is the successor of the previous pair of boots that we had mentioned. It is the most popular variant manufactured by Crampons currently. The stainless steel spikes are resistant to abrasion, unlike the simple metal ones present in the previous model.
The outer covering of the boots is made with Silicone. Silicone provides excellent cushioning and lasts much longer than conventional TPR rubber coverings. Even with so many features, the boots are lightweight and are easy to carry and wear.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
6. Nortiv Men’s Snow Boots
The Men’s Waterproof Hiking Winter Snow Boots are one of the very few ice fishing boots that have a soft fur lining on the inside. What is more fascinating is that the lining is removable, and can be washed and dried after every use. Genuine premium fabric is used for making the lining.
The boots have a TPR outsole, which provides a great deal of waterproofing to the entire shoe. Keeping the feet dry and warm is easy with these shoes. Overall, a high-quality product.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
7. Men’s Icebreaker Cold Weather Boot
The Men’s Icebreaker Cold Weather Boot is a stylish snow boot made entirely with rubber. The lack of neoprene in these boots is an area of concern. Otherwise, it is among the best boots for ice fishing available today.
The boots are of the slip-on variety, so you don’t need to worry about the durability of the laces, zippers, etc. It has a knee-high length, which can be closed with adjustable drawstrings.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
8. Women’s Sugarloaf Boot
The Women’s Sugarloaf Boot can be bought by women who are going ice fishing for the first time. It is because these boots are the safest option for fishing in cold climates and amidst dry ice as they have a higher degree of stiffness. With higher stiffness, the ankles remain in position and do not twist while you walk or run over ice.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
9. ArcticShield Men’s Winter Snow Boots
The ArcticShield Men’s Cold Weather Waterproof Durable Insulated Tall Winter Snow Boots are bungee-type ice fishing boots that are made entirely with nylon. It has a very good cold weather rating and can give good insulation at a temperature of -40 degrees as well.
The outsoles of these boots are rugged. In all, they are sturdy ice fishing boots that are made to last long.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
10. Women’s Snovalley2 Snow Boot
The Women’s Snovalley2 Snow Boot is another stylish option for women. It comes in bright colors, lined with premium-quality fur to provide warmth to the anglers. Imported fabrics have been used in these boots, and their sole is predominantly made with rubber.
It has a seam-sealed construction, which allows better waterproofing as well. With 200g of 3M Thinsulate, they give excellent warmth to the feet. The special faux shearling cuff adds to the warmth significantly.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
Factors To Consider
Ice fishing in itself poses an extreme challenge for the anglers and is nothing short of an adventure sport. However, these challenging conditions are not just difficult for an angler because they never find ample amounts of fish in the water, but also harsh on their body as well.
In such extreme conditions, the body finds it difficult to cope, and if one does not wear adequate protective gear, the body is bound to give way and this can have dangerous health-related consequences.
Besides being protective, the ice fishing equipment such as the boots needs to be comfortable for the angler. Walking on either dry snow or wet, slippery ice can be tricky, and can hamper all chances of fishing successfully. There are some features that you need to check before finalizing a pair of fishing boots.
1. Materials
Under such harsh climates and biting cold conditions, if your ice fishing boots do not contain premier protective material, then your feet are bound to get numb within minutes and can even develop frostbite. Fishing in areas where the ice is predominantly wet requires waterproof materials to be used in making the shoes.
Similarly, in areas where dry snow is present, the ice fishing boots need to be breathable. Moreover, all these ice fishing boots have to be durable enough to withstand these extreme conditions.
As you can see, there are several features that an ideal ice fishing boot needs to have. Naturally, all these features cannot be guaranteed by a single material. Hence, most ice fishing boots that are available in the market today are made with composite materials or a combination of several high-quality elements.
Leather
The most conventional and traditional choice for making such boots is leather. While finding authentic leather in itself is a difficult task, molding and treating it to make ice boots that are flexible, durable, breathable, waterproof, etc. is an even tougher task. As stated before, a good pair of ice fishing boots are generally made with composite materials.
In such a combination, leather is usually used to make the uppermost part of these shoes. The main reason behind using leather for the upper part is because having a heavy material that snugly binds to the lower leg provides adequate warmth and necessary grip to the angler.
Rubber
The nature of rubber that is being manufactured these days makes it a suitable material for ice fishing boots. Earlier, the problem with rubber was that while it was one of the most flexible and moldable materials, its durability always remained in question. However, with composite models of ice fishing boots being developed, high-quality rubber is slowly becoming the element of choice for making ice fishing boots.
Rubber is most commonly used for making the soles of these shoes. Using rubber provides a highly comfortable footbed to the angler which makes it easier for them to walk on snow. Besides, rubber has a natural elasticity that gives essential traction to the legs when one moves on dry snow.
Neoprene
Neoprene is considered a miracle of polymer science. The material is being used in diverse fields for making several kinds of products. The main aim of incorporating neoprene in the composite ice fishing boot model is to increase the rigidity and toughness of each boot.
Neoprene has a natural characteristic of resisting any degradation by harsh weather conditions. Moreover, the amount of physical toughness that you see in neoprene is much higher than any other material. Not just in cold climatic conditions, neoprene remains viable for long and performs all its essential functions in a wide temperature range.
All these characteristics make neoprene a suitable material for making ice fishing boots. Moreover, many anglers suggest that any ice fishing boot that does not contain neoprene will definitely pose some kind of problem when one starts walking in the snow.
Other Synthetics
Many other synthetic materials can be present in an ideal ice fishing boot. While these can offer some good features to the anglers, the amount in which they are present in good fishing boots is usually very low. These materials offer enhanced softness, flexibility, and breathability, and have a supportive role to play alongside other major materials that we have discussed so far.
Synthetic materials offer better insulation, which is extremely crucial in cold conditions. Moreover, many manufacturers prefer using synthetic materials to give a better look to their ice fishing boots. So, any stylish ice fishing boot that you come across will definitely contain some unique synthetic materials as well.
2. Degree Of Stiffness
Even after ensuring that the ice fishing boots that you have selected contain the ideal materials, it may be possible that the boots might end up being uncomfortable and stiff for your feet.
So, checking the stiffness of the ice fishing boots is very crucial before finalizing a pair. Stiffness of the shoes is a desirable quality when it comes to activities like biking, because it keeps the ankle in a fixed position, preventing any twisting or subluxation around the joint.
However, for ice fishing, it is important that some amount of flexibility is allowed around the ankle because otherwise, it becomes hard for the angler to have a strong grip on the ground.
Many ice fishing shoes are high-leg boots. If such boots are stiff, the flexing and bending of the knees will be extremely difficult and painful for the angler. Thus, one needs to try the ice fishing boots carefully before buying them.
The degree of stiffness depends on the personal choice and liking of the angler. The percentage of flexibility and support offered by the boots needs to be different for each individual, as the shape and size of the feet are unique for everyone. However, determining this ideal ratio of flexibility and support will not be very easy for first-time buyers.
Therefore, we recommend that you try different ice fishing boots thoroughly, and make a decision only when you are completely satisfied with a particular model. Experiencing the feel of different ice fishing boots is important to understand which combination of materials and properties is best suited for your preferred usage patterns.
As a general rule, the ice fishing boots should always be on the rigid side. Maintaining some amount of flexibility will certainly help the anglers, but better fishing mechanics inside a rather unstable watercraft will require added stiffness around the ankles.
Sometimes you will also have to hike to a suitable ice fishing spot. For such occasions, it is crucial that you ensure the safety of your ankle joints, and not compromise it by wearing highly flexible ice fishing boots.
3. Outer Covering
Many anglers simply check the list of materials used in making a pair of ice fishing boots and then try it on to check the comfort after which they finalize and buy the shoes. However, one needs to check the outer covering of these shoes as critically as possible. The outer covering of ice fishing boots should be durable and completely waterproof.
It is because the outer covering prevents the permeation of water inside the boots, and thereby helps in keeping the feet warm throughout. The upper parts of the outer layer are made with slightly flexible leather, which is completely impermeable to water. The base and the footbed are made with rubber, which is specially designed to possess waterproof qualities.
Since most of the ice fishing boots available today are made with composite materials, there is a special way by which you can check the effectiveness of the waterproof materials used in making the outer covering. On the outer side, the junction where different materials fuse will have a watertight seal.
If you test this seal by pouring some water over it, you get to know the effectiveness of the waterproofing mechanism of the constituent materials. While it might not be a great test of the real-time waterproof performance of the boots, it will certainly give you an idea as to how it may perform, especially in wet ice conditions that are extremely slippery as well.
4. Insulation
The insulation covering of the ice fishing boots is extremely crucial and directly influences the comfort as well. At any temperature under zero degrees, the feet coming in contact with ice are highly susceptible to developing frostbite.
Moreover, if your ice fishing boots do not have at least 200 grams of insulation material, your feet will frequently become numb, and it will be difficult for you to move adequately for casting or pulling the line.
A good pair of ice fishing boots will always give you a great temperature range. It means that they will not be extremely warm, but will maintain a decent amount of comfort around the feet when you are standing in the snow by blocking the ice.
Besides the natural insulation properties of all the materials that we have discussed so far, manufacturers prefer using a special insulator in their ice fishing boots called Thinsulate.
To prepare this material, polypropylene is used in high amounts and weaved together to create a comfortable fabric that is most effective in blocking icy cold winds.
To create that barrier, specialized stitching of polypropylene fibers is absolutely necessary. There will always be a description on the package which will tell you about the grams of Thinsulate used in making the ice fishing boots. Checking this aspect will certainly be beneficial for you.
The grams of Thinsulate material present in the ice fishing boots is directly proportional to the warmth that the shoes will provide to your feet. While deriving more insulation from the shoe is always a desirable characteristic for an angler, the presence of higher amounts of Thinsulate adds greatly to the weight of the shoes.
When the boots weigh more, even the added warmth that you get with the material will not be sufficient enough to make it comfortable because the movement gets restricted.
Conversely, if you require a lightweight ice fishing boot, you need to select one in which the grams of Thinsulate used by the manufacturer are on the lower side. Again, it is a personal decision and depends on the cold-tolerance of the anglers as well. If you find a pair of ice fishing boots that lies somewhere in the middle, then nothing like it.
Once your feet start becoming cold, your whole body will find it difficult to adapt to extreme conditions. Moreover, the chances of falling ill increase tremendously as well. Do figure out the approximate temperature range in which you are planning to go out fishing. Accordingly, select the thickness of the insulation material in your ice fishing boots.
Remember, if you reduce the insulation covering just because you want the shoes to be lightweight and flexible, you make yourself vulnerable to biting cold conditions, and it might end up ruining your entire day of fishing. So, the quality and amount of insulation are crucial.
5. Socks
While this might not be a part of the main focus of this article, the role of socks in ice fishing cannot be neglected. The adjustment of thick socks with the insole of the ice fishing boots is crucial for maximum comfort and stability. Firstly, you should always prefer wearing antibacterial socks that prevent any foot infection that might occur due to direct contact with wet ice.
Secondly, while these socks need to have proper insulation and provide a mechanism to block the cold, some breathability needs to be there for maintaining good foot hygiene. Matching the socks with the size of the boots is important to know whether they will get adjusted properly in the available space or not.
Do not undermine the role of good socks in influencing your fishing expedition on the whole. You will notice a great difference in the experience when you wear high-quality socks for ice fishing.
The socks that are specially designed for this purpose contain multiple thin layers between which the warm air gets trapped, rather than having a single thick one. In several cases, this layering is also customizable, allowing better thermal insulation or higher moisture-wicking.
6. Inner Liner
When it comes to ice fishing boots, it is important that these shoes have a separate inner liner. While socks are a form of interior liner for a shoe, it is better to have a dedicated liner that prevents snow from getting inside. However, what is even more important, is that this additional liner present on the inside of the boots is removable.
When a liner is removable, you can easily take it off after a day of ice fishing, and dry it completely. This is essential so that the interiors of your ice fishing boots always remain dry, and the risk of getting pneumonia is reduced. Removing the liner of your shoes and cleaning them regularly is important for maintaining proper foot hygiene.
7. Traction
The sole and the foot bedding of an ice fishing boot are much different from a regular shoe. The sole of these shoes has to provide traction to the feet of an angler so that they do not lose balance while walking on dry snow or slippery wet ice.
Rubber produced with advanced traction technology is most commonly used for making the sole of ice fishing boots. It is because they are capable of providing adjustable traction, depending on the surface on which you are walking. The kind of traction that the legs require is different for rocky terrains, snow, dry ice, etc.
Besides rubber, the innovative use of different materials is crucial for giving more traction. The most trusted design of ice fishing boots to allow the angler to obtain maximum traction involves the presence of additional spikes, like the ones present in hiking shoes or athletic shoes.
8. Laces
Since ice fishing boots are to be worn in the most extreme weather conditions, their laces should also be as durable as the shoe itself. However, the shoe needs to have an added flexibility component to allow your feet to fit into the boots while wearing thick socks for added insulation.
Many anglers make the mistake of choosing ice fishing boots with zippers instead of laces. Zippers are completely inflexible, hence, they should always be avoided. The lacing arrangement on the boots is also of prime importance. Speed lacing fittings will be beneficial if you keep removing your boots frequently.
Another aspect concerned with the kind of laces present on the shoe is that they should be thick. It is because thicker laces are easy to grasp even as you wear gloves amidst the biting cold conditions.
These are small considerations that can have a great impact on your ice fishing experience. The laces should be as similar to those of hiking shoes as possible because they have all the desired properties. Mounted eyelets can also be a good option, to make the laces easy to grasp and also add a stylistic touch to the otherwise plain design of an ice fishing boot.
Happy Ice Fishing!
So in this article, we told you about the best ice fishing boots that are available in the market today. Ice fishing is a challenging sport, and can sometimes be dangerous for the anglers as well.
The kind of equipment that you select for ice fishing greatly influences your success. The hooks and spears need to be more lethal, and the anglers need to be more attentive to spot a major opening in the ice cover to cast their rod.
A very crucial part of your ice fishing gear will be the ice fishing boots. Specialized ice fishing boots are very important to protect you from developing cold feet. If you do not use ice fishing boots or other shoes with protective insulation, you are exposing your feet to extreme cold conditions that can lead to complications like frostbite.
So use our buying guide and select a pair of high-quality ice fishing boots to enjoy your ice fishing experience to the maximum.
FAQs on Ice Fishing Boots
Q1. What Is The Best Footwear For Icy Conditions?
Both ice fishing boots and normal hiking boots are a great option if you want a sturdy pair of shoes for your ice fishing expedition. Both these boots provide additional grip while you walk in the snow.
However, buying specialized ice fishing boots will be the best option because these shoes contain added insulation that keeps the feet warm. The warmth will enable you to move much more efficiently, and make your ice fishing experience more satisfying.
Q2. Are Neoprene Boots Good For Ice Fishing?
Neoprene is considered one of the toughest polymers used in the shoe-making industry. Ice fishing boats made with neoprene last longer, and provide excellent warmth as well. However, as discussed before, composite materials are more popularly used in making ice fishing boots.
It enables the buyer to obtain the benefits of different materials in a single pair of ice fishing boots. Therefore, you should look for ice fishing boots that certainly contain neoprene, but other beneficial raw materials should also be present in it like leather, rubber, etc.
Q3. What Should I Wear If I Don’t Have Special Ice Fishing Boots?
If you do not have the special ice fishing boots, you need to create layers inside your shoes to keep your feet warm. For this, the first layer should be of thin socks that can trap warm air. Then wear thick socks over these so that they create some warmth and block the wind.
Lastly, it is recommended that if you do not have ice fishing boots, you should at least wear simple hiking boots over these two layers of socks that we have created. Moreover, any shoe that offers a good tread will be suitable because it improves the grip over slippery ice.
Q4. Can You Wear Jeans For Ice Fishing?
The kind of shoes and clothes that you can wear in for ice fishing depends entirely on your tolerance of icy winds and cold weather. Even if the weather is tolerable we would recommend that you wear a pair of tights underneath the jeans.
These will stick to your skin and provide additional warmth. In most cases, the weather in the areas where people go ice fishing is extremely cold. So, more often than not, you will require special snow pants for ice fishing.
Q5. Do Hunter Boots Crack In Cold Weather?
It is a common misconception that the boots are more sturdy than ice fishing boots, and are suitable for ice fishing. It needs to be understood that regular hunter boots are not meant for extremely cold weather.
So, when you wear these boots for ice fishing and walk in the snow, they will end up developing cracks, and will not be able to block the cold winds adequately. Since the temperature is always below the freezing point in ice fishing zones, you should not wear Hunter boots.
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Ice fishing means drilling a hole through the ice cover and searching for fish in the water underneath. While it sounds very simple, there are several dynamics associated with ice fishing that make it one of the most challenging domains of fishing.
It is one of those sports where the need of selecting good equipment is equal to that of developing a fine skill set. An important part of the gear needed for ice fishing is the ice fishing apparel. Therefore, in this article, we shall tell you about the best ice fishing boots available these days.
Special Equipment For Ice Fishing
Since ice fishing poses such great challenges in front of an angler, the ice fishing gear needs to be highly specialized to meet the difficult requirements of this sport. Carrying equipment like an ice saw is also important for ice fishing because ultimately you will be looking for fish through an opening in the ice cover.
Mostly, this opening has to be created by the angler himself. Besides the ice fishing boots that we discussed in this article, it is important for you to understand the importance of other equipment like snow shovels, ice augers, spears, spools, etc.
Ice fishing is gradually noticing modernization with advanced fishing gear and other changes rapidly coming into this field. Earlier, anglers had to drill a hole, and then wait for the fish for hours altogether. Now, with lighter equipment and other devices, the accuracy of ice fishing has improved significantly.
Top 10 Best Ice Fishing Boots 2021
1. Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boot
The Women’s Ice Maiden Ii Snow Boot is premium ice fishing boots made with advanced technology. This pair of ice fishing boots are made predominantly with leather and some textiles. Moreover, the foot bedding is made with advanced rubber that has additional flexibility properties.
The boots have a unique lightweight midsole, to provide utmost comfort to the anglers while walking amidst the snow. When the feet get such superior cushioning, the energy requirements for walking get reduced drastically. Hence, the anglers can continue fishing for a longer duration.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
2. Men’s Forester Snow Boot
The Men’s Forester Snow Boot is another good option for snow anglers. It is made with a combination of rubber and nylon. Moreover, it has a very flexible base and sole, made with several synthetic materials. The boots do not have leather around the lower part of the legs. However, the shaft height of the boots is around the mid-calf region.
It is a comfortable pair of ice fishing boots that keeps the feet warm even at -40C. The waterproof mechanism is also top-class.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
3. Dream Pairs Winter Snow Boots
The Women’s DP Warm Faux Fur Lined Mid Calf Winter Snow Boots is a very stylish pair of ice fishing boots for women. It has 200g of Thermolite and keeps the feet completely warm in extremely cold weather. A temperature of around -25 degrees can easily be tolerated using these boots.
The boots come with impressive all-weather protection. To make it easy for you to take it off, the manufacturers have provided zippers. However, they are difficult to grasp with thick gloves on.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
4. Crampons Ice Cleats Hiking Boots and Shoes
The Crampons Ice Cleats for Hiking Boots and Shoes are used by ice-sports professionals as well. These are hiking boots, with some additional features that make them suitable for ice fishing as well. These contain traction spikes that offer a much better grip on the snow.
Even in slippery conditions, these boots are effective. Walking in the snow with these boots is effortless. The strong metal spikes are the highlight of this pair of boots.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
5. EnergeticSky Ice Cleat Spikes
The Upgraded Version of Walk Traction Ice Cleat Spikes Crampons is the successor of the previous pair of boots that we had mentioned. It is the most popular variant manufactured by Crampons currently. The stainless steel spikes are resistant to abrasion, unlike the simple metal ones present in the previous model.
The outer covering of the boots is made with Silicone. Silicone provides excellent cushioning and lasts much longer than conventional TPR rubber coverings. Even with so many features, the boots are lightweight and are easy to carry and wear.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
6. Nortiv Men’s Snow Boots
The Men’s Waterproof Hiking Winter Snow Boots are one of the very few ice fishing boots that have a soft fur lining on the inside. What is more fascinating is that the lining is removable, and can be washed and dried after every use. Genuine premium fabric is used for making the lining.
The boots have a TPR outsole, which provides a great deal of waterproofing to the entire shoe. Keeping the feet dry and warm is easy with these shoes. Overall, a high-quality product.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
7. Men’s Icebreaker Cold Weather Boot
The Men’s Icebreaker Cold Weather Boot is a stylish snow boot made entirely with rubber. The lack of neoprene in these boots is an area of concern. Otherwise, it is among the best boots for ice fishing available today.
The boots are of the slip-on variety, so you don’t need to worry about the durability of the laces, zippers, etc. It has a knee-high length, which can be closed with adjustable drawstrings.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
8. Women’s Sugarloaf Boot
The Women’s Sugarloaf Boot can be bought by women who are going ice fishing for the first time. It is because these boots are the safest option for fishing in cold climates and amidst dry ice as they have a higher degree of stiffness. With higher stiffness, the ankles remain in position and do not twist while you walk or run over ice.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
9. ArcticShield Men’s Winter Snow Boots
The ArcticShield Men’s Cold Weather Waterproof Durable Insulated Tall Winter Snow Boots are bungee-type ice fishing boots that are made entirely with nylon. It has a very good cold weather rating and can give good insulation at a temperature of -40 degrees as well.
The outsoles of these boots are rugged. In all, they are sturdy ice fishing boots that are made to last long.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
10. Women’s Snovalley2 Snow Boot
The Women’s Snovalley2 Snow Boot is another stylish option for women. It comes in bright colors, lined with premium-quality fur to provide warmth to the anglers. Imported fabrics have been used in these boots, and their sole is predominantly made with rubber.
It has a seam-sealed construction, which allows better waterproofing as well. With 200g of 3M Thinsulate, they give excellent warmth to the feet. The special faux shearling cuff adds to the warmth significantly.
CHECK THE CHEAPEST PRICE ON AMAZON!!
Factors To Consider
Ice fishing in itself poses an extreme challenge for the anglers and is nothing short of an adventure sport. However, these challenging conditions are not just difficult for an angler because they never find ample amounts of fish in the water, but also harsh on their body as well.
In such extreme conditions, the body finds it difficult to cope, and if one does not wear adequate protective gear, the body is bound to give way and this can have dangerous health-related consequences.
Besides being protective, the ice fishing equipment such as the boots needs to be comfortable for the angler. Walking on either dry snow or wet, slippery ice can be tricky, and can hamper all chances of fishing successfully. There are some features that you need to check before finalizing a pair of fishing boots.
1. Materials
Under such harsh climates and biting cold conditions, if your ice fishing boots do not contain premier protective material, then your feet are bound to get numb within minutes and can even develop frostbite. Fishing in areas where the ice is predominantly wet requires waterproof materials to be used in making the shoes.
Similarly, in areas where dry snow is present, the ice fishing boots need to be breathable. Moreover, all these ice fishing boots have to be durable enough to withstand these extreme conditions.
As you can see, there are several features that an ideal ice fishing boot needs to have. Naturally, all these features cannot be guaranteed by a single material. Hence, most ice fishing boots that are available in the market today are made with composite materials or a combination of several high-quality elements.
Leather
The most conventional and traditional choice for making such boots is leather. While finding authentic leather in itself is a difficult task, molding and treating it to make ice boots that are flexible, durable, breathable, waterproof, etc. is an even tougher task. As stated before, a good pair of ice fishing boots are generally made with composite materials.
In such a combination, leather is usually used to make the uppermost part of these shoes. The main reason behind using leather for the upper part is because having a heavy material that snugly binds to the lower leg provides adequate warmth and necessary grip to the angler.
Rubber
The nature of rubber that is being manufactured these days makes it a suitable material for ice fishing boots. Earlier, the problem with rubber was that while it was one of the most flexible and moldable materials, its durability always remained in question. However, with composite models of ice fishing boots being developed, high-quality rubber is slowly becoming the element of choice for making ice fishing boots.
Rubber is most commonly used for making the soles of these shoes. Using rubber provides a highly comfortable footbed to the angler which makes it easier for them to walk on snow. Besides, rubber has a natural elasticity that gives essential traction to the legs when one moves on dry snow.
Neoprene
Neoprene is considered a miracle of polymer science. The material is being used in diverse fields for making several kinds of products. The main aim of incorporating neoprene in the composite ice fishing boot model is to increase the rigidity and toughness of each boot.
Neoprene has a natural characteristic of resisting any degradation by harsh weather conditions. Moreover, the amount of physical toughness that you see in neoprene is much higher than any other material. Not just in cold climatic conditions, neoprene remains viable for long and performs all its essential functions in a wide temperature range.
All these characteristics make neoprene a suitable material for making ice fishing boots. Moreover, many anglers suggest that any ice fishing boot that does not contain neoprene will definitely pose some kind of problem when one starts walking in the snow.
Other Synthetics
Many other synthetic materials can be present in an ideal ice fishing boot. While these can offer some good features to the anglers, the amount in which they are present in good fishing boots is usually very low. These materials offer enhanced softness, flexibility, and breathability, and have a supportive role to play alongside other major materials that we have discussed so far.
Synthetic materials offer better insulation, which is extremely crucial in cold conditions. Moreover, many manufacturers prefer using synthetic materials to give a better look to their ice fishing boots. So, any stylish ice fishing boot that you come across will definitely contain some unique synthetic materials as well.
2. Degree Of Stiffness
Even after ensuring that the ice fishing boots that you have selected contain the ideal materials, it may be possible that the boots might end up being uncomfortable and stiff for your feet.
So, checking the stiffness of the ice fishing boots is very crucial before finalizing a pair. Stiffness of the shoes is a desirable quality when it comes to activities like biking, because it keeps the ankle in a fixed position, preventing any twisting or subluxation around the joint.
However, for ice fishing, it is important that some amount of flexibility is allowed around the ankle because otherwise, it becomes hard for the angler to have a strong grip on the ground.
Many ice fishing shoes are high-leg boots. If such boots are stiff, the flexing and bending of the knees will be extremely difficult and painful for the angler. Thus, one needs to try the ice fishing boots carefully before buying them.
The degree of stiffness depends on the personal choice and liking of the angler. The percentage of flexibility and support offered by the boots needs to be different for each individual, as the shape and size of the feet are unique for everyone. However, determining this ideal ratio of flexibility and support will not be very easy for first-time buyers.
Therefore, we recommend that you try different ice fishing boots thoroughly, and make a decision only when you are completely satisfied with a particular model. Experiencing the feel of different ice fishing boots is important to understand which combination of materials and properties is best suited for your preferred usage patterns.
As a general rule, the ice fishing boots should always be on the rigid side. Maintaining some amount of flexibility will certainly help the anglers, but better fishing mechanics inside a rather unstable watercraft will require added stiffness around the ankles.
Sometimes you will also have to hike to a suitable ice fishing spot. For such occasions, it is crucial that you ensure the safety of your ankle joints, and not compromise it by wearing highly flexible ice fishing boots.
3. Outer Covering
Many anglers simply check the list of materials used in making a pair of ice fishing boots and then try it on to check the comfort after which they finalize and buy the shoes. However, one needs to check the outer covering of these shoes as critically as possible. The outer covering of ice fishing boots should be durable and completely waterproof.
It is because the outer covering prevents the permeation of water inside the boots, and thereby helps in keeping the feet warm throughout. The upper parts of the outer layer are made with slightly flexible leather, which is completely impermeable to water. The base and the footbed are made with rubber, which is specially designed to possess waterproof qualities.
Since most of the ice fishing boots available today are made with composite materials, there is a special way by which you can check the effectiveness of the waterproof materials used in making the outer covering. On the outer side, the junction where different materials fuse will have a watertight seal.
If you test this seal by pouring some water over it, you get to know the effectiveness of the waterproofing mechanism of the constituent materials. While it might not be a great test of the real-time waterproof performance of the boots, it will certainly give you an idea as to how it may perform, especially in wet ice conditions that are extremely slippery as well.
4. Insulation
The insulation covering of the ice fishing boots is extremely crucial and directly influences the comfort as well. At any temperature under zero degrees, the feet coming in contact with ice are highly susceptible to developing frostbite.
Moreover, if your ice fishing boots do not have at least 200 grams of insulation material, your feet will frequently become numb, and it will be difficult for you to move adequately for casting or pulling the line.
A good pair of ice fishing boots will always give you a great temperature range. It means that they will not be extremely warm, but will maintain a decent amount of comfort around the feet when you are standing in the snow by blocking the ice.
Besides the natural insulation properties of all the materials that we have discussed so far, manufacturers prefer using a special insulator in their ice fishing boots called Thinsulate.
To prepare this material, polypropylene is used in high amounts and weaved together to create a comfortable fabric that is most effective in blocking icy cold winds.
To create that barrier, specialized stitching of polypropylene fibers is absolutely necessary. There will always be a description on the package which will tell you about the grams of Thinsulate used in making the ice fishing boots. Checking this aspect will certainly be beneficial for you.
The grams of Thinsulate material present in the ice fishing boots is directly proportional to the warmth that the shoes will provide to your feet. While deriving more insulation from the shoe is always a desirable characteristic for an angler, the presence of higher amounts of Thinsulate adds greatly to the weight of the shoes.
When the boots weigh more, even the added warmth that you get with the material will not be sufficient enough to make it comfortable because the movement gets restricted.
Conversely, if you require a lightweight ice fishing boot, you need to select one in which the grams of Thinsulate used by the manufacturer are on the lower side. Again, it is a personal decision and depends on the cold-tolerance of the anglers as well. If you find a pair of ice fishing boots that lies somewhere in the middle, then nothing like it.
Once your feet start becoming cold, your whole body will find it difficult to adapt to extreme conditions. Moreover, the chances of falling ill increase tremendously as well. Do figure out the approximate temperature range in which you are planning to go out fishing. Accordingly, select the thickness of the insulation material in your ice fishing boots.
Remember, if you reduce the insulation covering just because you want the shoes to be lightweight and flexible, you make yourself vulnerable to biting cold conditions, and it might end up ruining your entire day of fishing. So, the quality and amount of insulation are crucial.
5. Socks
While this might not be a part of the main focus of this article, the role of socks in ice fishing cannot be neglected. The adjustment of thick socks with the insole of the ice fishing boots is crucial for maximum comfort and stability. Firstly, you should always prefer wearing antibacterial socks that prevent any foot infection that might occur due to direct contact with wet ice.
Secondly, while these socks need to have proper insulation and provide a mechanism to block the cold, some breathability needs to be there for maintaining good foot hygiene. Matching the socks with the size of the boots is important to know whether they will get adjusted properly in the available space or not.
Do not undermine the role of good socks in influencing your fishing expedition on the whole. You will notice a great difference in the experience when you wear high-quality socks for ice fishing.
The socks that are specially designed for this purpose contain multiple thin layers between which the warm air gets trapped, rather than having a single thick one. In several cases, this layering is also customizable, allowing better thermal insulation or higher moisture-wicking.
6. Inner Liner
When it comes to ice fishing boots, it is important that these shoes have a separate inner liner. While socks are a form of interior liner for a shoe, it is better to have a dedicated liner that prevents snow from getting inside. However, what is even more important, is that this additional liner present on the inside of the boots is removable.
When a liner is removable, you can easily take it off after a day of ice fishing, and dry it completely. This is essential so that the interiors of your ice fishing boots always remain dry, and the risk of getting pneumonia is reduced. Removing the liner of your shoes and cleaning them regularly is important for maintaining proper foot hygiene.
7. Traction
The sole and the foot bedding of an ice fishing boot are much different from a regular shoe. The sole of these shoes has to provide traction to the feet of an angler so that they do not lose balance while walking on dry snow or slippery wet ice.
Rubber produced with advanced traction technology is most commonly used for making the sole of ice fishing boots. It is because they are capable of providing adjustable traction, depending on the surface on which you are walking. The kind of traction that the legs require is different for rocky terrains, snow, dry ice, etc.
Besides rubber, the innovative use of different materials is crucial for giving more traction. The most trusted design of ice fishing boots to allow the angler to obtain maximum traction involves the presence of additional spikes, like the ones present in hiking shoes or athletic shoes.
8. Laces
Since ice fishing boots are to be worn in the most extreme weather conditions, their laces should also be as durable as the shoe itself. However, the shoe needs to have an added flexibility component to allow your feet to fit into the boots while wearing thick socks for added insulation.
Many anglers make the mistake of choosing ice fishing boots with zippers instead of laces. Zippers are completely inflexible, hence, they should always be avoided. The lacing arrangement on the boots is also of prime importance. Speed lacing fittings will be beneficial if you keep removing your boots frequently.
Another aspect concerned with the kind of laces present on the shoe is that they should be thick. It is because thicker laces are easy to grasp even as you wear gloves amidst the biting cold conditions.
These are small considerations that can have a great impact on your ice fishing experience. The laces should be as similar to those of hiking shoes as possible because they have all the desired properties. Mounted eyelets can also be a good option, to make the laces easy to grasp and also add a stylistic touch to the otherwise plain design of an ice fishing boot.
Conclusion
So in this article, we told you about the best ice fishing boots that are available in the market today. Ice fishing is a challenging sport, and can sometimes be dangerous for the anglers as well.
The kind of equipment that you select for ice fishing greatly influences your success. The hooks and spears need to be more lethal, and the anglers need to be more attentive to spot a major opening in the ice cover to cast their rod.
A very crucial part of your ice fishing gear will be the ice fishing boots. Specialized ice fishing boots are very important to protect you from developing cold feet. If you do not use ice fishing boots or other shoes with protective insulation, you are exposing your feet to extreme cold conditions that can lead to complications like frostbite.
So use our buying guide and select a pair of high-quality ice fishing boots to enjoy your ice fishing experience to the maximum.