After your bird dog, favorite scattergun, and strap vest, arguably the next most important part of your upland wardrobe is your hunting boots. You’re likely going to be walking many miles each season, leaving no reason to sacrifice your feet to anything less than the best. Improper footwear can not only be uncomfortable but could lead to some painful blisters and back aches, and worst of all, make you want to head back to the truck to end a hunt early.

There are endless styles of boots built for serious bird hunters, with rugged treads for traction, thick insulation to prevent cold feet, and high-tech waterproofing to keep the elements out. No matter what you choose, pick a pair that will provide you with the fit and features you need to be confident and comfortable for staying out there longer.

Irish Setter Wingshooter Boots

The Wingshooter line of boots from Irish Setter is dedicated specifically to upland hunters. Available in both men’s and women’s versions, the Wingshooter boot line features four different models in both insulated and non-insulated styles depending on your needs. Non-insulated boots feature UltraDry waterproofing and quick-dry linings to wick away moisture. The Irish Setter Prairie sole gives hunters solid traction without added bulk, full-grain leather uppers provide ankle support for steep terrain, and a midsole steel shank adds underfoot support for increased stability. They are available in black, maple, and brown colorations.

$200-$210 | irishsetterboots.com

Lowa Tibet GTX Boots

Uplanders need boots that will last through multiple seasons of chasing the flush. The Lowa Tibet GTX is a workhorse and made with Nubuck Leather for extreme durability. A GORE-TEX lining gives hunters waterproof and breathable protection against early morning dew or late-season snow. An I-Lock lacing cam system allows you to ease the lace tension between your ankle and the top of your foot to keep your feet comfortable after miles and miles of following your bird dog.

$415 | lowaboots.com

Danner Pronghorn 8" Hunting Boots

For nearly two decades, the Pronghorn from Danner has been allowing hunters to go further in the wild uplands. The full-grain leather upper is strong and durable and helps to provide excellent ankle support to handle rough terrain. The TERRA FORCE NEXT platform combines an internal and external shank system along with a rugged, low-profile Vibram midsole and outsole to provide arch support and torsion control. The Gore-Tex waterproof liner keeps moisture out and lets your feet breathe. For colder climates, the Pronghorn is also available with 400G PrimaLoft insulation.

$270-$290 | danner.com

Meindl USA Lady Himalaya MFS Boots

The Lady Himalaya MFS from Meindl USA just may be the ultimate upland boot for female hunters. These non-insulated boots feature a full-grain Nubuck leather upper for a high level of support with a waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex barrier that keeps away unwanted dampness. Other highlights include an Air Active moisture-managing insole with internal memory foam to protect against blisters and sores while evenly distributing your weight. And with an all-terrain, all-season Vibram outsole with an aggressive tread for taking stable and secure steps, these kicks are capable of conquering any upland challenge you step foot in.

$340 | meindlusa.com

Crispi Nevada Legend GTX Boots

A staple in the Crispi lineup, the handcrafted, 8-inch Nevada Legend GTX is well-known for being one of the most popular outdoor boots. The Nevada features Crispi’s ABSS Ankle Support System and Crossbow frame for supreme support and stability. The air mesh footbed is breathable and antiperspirant along with being removable for easy cleaning. Take your hunts to new levels of comfort on a Vibram sole with shock-absorbing midsole and Flex 3 rating. A Gore-Tex® membrane and Nubek water-repellent upper provide moisture-wicking breathability without sacrificing coverage, and 200 grams of insulation make you ready to take on those chilly mornings and late season outings.

$450 | crispius.com

Rocky Upland Waterproof Outdoor Boots

With a name like that, you know you’re getting a product that’s built specific to your unique upland quest. These 8-inch, brown and green, full-grain leather boots from Rocky have a classic aesthetic combined with the latest in performance and comfort technology. Constructed to tackle any terrain, Rocky’s Briar and Thorn Guard will resist tears and snags for years of durable dependability. Experience all-day comfort with the EnergyBed LX Footbed with memory foam and a lightweight blown rubber outsole. A fiberglass shank is included for additional stability on those precarious climbs and scree scrambles and the Vapor Pass Waterproof Technology adds up to worry-free, dry footwear.

$192 | rockyboots.com