The Best Boots For Upland Hunting

by Dave Veldman 

Is there really such thing as the best upland hunting boot? Probably not, as everyone has their individual preferences and fit, but in my opinion, it’s hard to beat a backpacking inspired hunting boot. As someone who solely hunts upland birds(and a few ducks), I’ve come to realize that traditional hunting boots, while cheaper and readily available at your local sporting good store, aren’t always the best fit for the demands of today’s upland hunting. I spend long hours on my feet, covering miles and miles of rugged terrain in search of all types of upland game. In the past, I used boots that were sturdy but often heavy, stiff, and not designed with long-distance hiking in mind. However, as hunting gear and variety of game has evolved, so have my boots.

 I’ve learned that a hiking-style upland boot—one that blends the durability and protection of a traditional hunting boot with the comfort and flexibility of a hiking boot—is exactly what I need for the type of hunting I do.  These boots offer the support, waterproofing, and traction required for upland hunting, while also providing the lightweight, comfort and breathability that make long treks across varied terrain more manageable. For the purposes of this post, I’ll compare two boots that I have personally owned and put through their paces.  There are many options out there, but these really stood out to me initially as boots for someone who hunts a lot and on a wide variety of terrain. The Schnee’s Timberline and the Crispi Briksdal, both of have quickly become my go-to choices for upland bird hunting.  Both have their strengths, but each has distinct qualities that make them well-suited to different types of upland hunting. In this post, I’ll compare both boots and share my personal take on how they stack up for bird hunting in diverse conditions.

What Makes a Good Upland Hunting Boot?

Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to note what makes a great upland hunting boot. First, let me stress, buy the best boot you can.  Your feet will thank you.  The initial purchase may make your stomach drop, but in the long run, it is worth it.  If a good boot outlasts the cheaper one by 2-3x, you end up spending the same over time.  Second, take all the types of hunting you do into consideration.  As any hunter who spends long hours on their feet knows, boots need to be more than just waterproof. For me, a perfect upland hunting boot needs to deliver:

• Ankle support for tricky, uneven terrain.
• Waterproofing to keep feet dry in wet grass, stream crossings, and muddy conditions.
• Comfort for long days in the field, without causing blisters or sore feet.
• Traction to handle everything from rocky ridgelines to slippery slopes.
• Durability to withstand the rough demands of upland hunting.

The Schnee’s Timberline and Crispi Briksdal boots both check these boxes, but how do they compare when it comes to performance and comfort? Let’s compare each and see what they offer.

Schnee’s Timberline Upland Hunting Boots

I first tried the Schnee’s Timberline boots several years ago and they quickly became my go-to pair for pretty much everything. I bought them and a week later took them to North Dakota sharptail hunting and the break-in time was almost null.  We covered around 90 miles that week, and I had zero issues.  They were comfortable out of the box and fit me quite well.  I do have pretty narrow feet, but they aren’t loose or too roomy in any dimension.  I eventually bought a second pair and have put 100’s if not closer to 1000 miles on the first pair and close to as many on the second.  The full grain leather upper is what really attracted me to them initially, and the weight(or lack thereof) is what really sealed the deal. 

Schnee’s has been a well-respected name in the hunting community for almost 50 years, and the Timberline boots live up to that reputation. They are designed to tackle the harshest terrain with comfort and durability in mind.

Features of Schnee’s Timberline:

1. Construction & Materials:
   The Timberline boots are made with a full-grain leather upper, which I’ve found to be incredibly durable, especially when dealing with tough, rocky ground or thick brush. Inside, the boots feature a Gore-Tex lining, which keeps my feet dry no matter the conditions. The leather construction gives the boots a stiff, supportive feel, offering excellent ankle support, which is crucial when hiking through rocky, uneven terrain. The boots also feature a Vibram outsole, which is fantastic for grip on both slippery surfaces and dry, rocky ground.
2. Comfort & Fit:
   The Timberline boots are surprisingly comfortable for their durability. They come with a removable EVA footbed and a dual-density polyurethane midsole that provide cushioning and support for long days in the field. The fit is a bit narrower, which works well for my feet, but if you have a wider foot, this might be something to consider. The boots fit snugly, offering great support, especially around the ankle.
3. Traction & Stability:
   I can’t say enough about the Vibram outsole. Whether I’m chasing chukar in the hills or walking across damp fields in search of pheasant, the traction is excellent. The tread pattern gives me plenty of grip on rocky outcrops and muddy trails, and the boots feel stable underfoot, even on steep slopes.
4. Durability:
   These boots are built to last. Schnee’s Timberline boots are some of the most durable I’ve worn. The leather construction and Vibram outsole have held up season after season, even after countless miles of walking. I’ve walked through thorny brush, climbed rocky slopes, and crossed slippery rocks without any issues. They’ve proven to be a great long-term investment.
5. Weight & Price:
   The Timberline boots weigh in at around 3.5 pounds per pair, which is on the heavier side but not crazy. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning on doing a lot of walking, but for me, the added weight is worth it for the durability and support they offer. In terms of pricing, you can expect to pay close to $500 for a pair of Schnee’s Timberline boots, which is a bit of an investment, but considering their durability and comfort, I find them to be well worth the cost.  Granted when I bought my first pair back in 2019, I got them on sale for under $300.

Crispi Briksdal Upland Hunting Boots

The Crispi Briksdal boots are a newer addition to my repertoire, but they quickly won me over. I would say break-in time was slightly longer than the Timberline, but not by much.  They feature a little more padding on the inside which worried me at first, but as they broke in, I never had an hot spots or unusual wearing because of it.  I only have one season on them so far, but they have hunted in Michigan, Montana, Oklahoma and Nevada.  Known for their sleek design and Italian craftsmanship, Crispi boots seem to be the popular choice for western upland hunters, offering a great balance between comfort and performance. I took a risk on these as they are the first boot I’ve owned that features all synthetic materials. Easy on maintenance, but time will tell on longevity.  They also have a slightly lower water line than the Timberlines, but I haven’t found that to be an issue…yet.

Features of Crispi Briksdal:

1. Construction & Materials:
   The Briksdal boots are made from synthetic leather, which feels softer compared to the stiffer leather of the Timberline. It also requires less maintenance.  The upper is built using brushed microfiber synthetic combined with high-performance and rugged PUtek® fabric to provide structure, breathability, and abrasion resistance. A GORE-Tex® full-surround lining ensures your feet stay completely dry while maintaining breathability, providing protection against extended exposure to extreme or severe wet conditions.. The boots also feature an IntelliGrip Vibram outsole, which provides excellent traction.
2. Comfort & Fit:
   Comfort is one of the first things I noticed about the Briksdal boots. They have a Crispi Air Mesh lining, which helps with breathability, and a Crispi Asoflex insole that adds great cushioning underfoot. The boots are very comfortable straight out of the box, with minimal break-in time required. The fit is slightly more generous in the toe box compared to the Timberline, making them a great option for hunters with wider feet or those who prefer a little more room in the front of the boot.
3. Traction & Stability:
   The IntelliGrip Vibram outsole is another highlight. It’s designed for diverse terrain, from rocky hills to slippery grass. I’ve used these boots in both dry and wet conditions, and the traction is superb. Whether I’m climbing a steep slope or walking across a damp field, these boots give me the stability I need without feeling too heavy or cumbersome.
4. Durability:
   While the Briksdal boots are lighter than the Timberline, they still hold up well to the demands of upland hunting. The leather and construction are durable, but they might not be as robust as the Timberline in terms of extreme ruggedness. That being said, they’ve held up well during my hunts and are perfect for those who are looking for a lightweight yet durable option.
5. Weight & Price:
   At around 2.5 pounds per pair, the Briksdal boots are much lighter than the Timberline, which I appreciate when I’m covering long distances. The reduced weight doesn’t compromise the performance, which is a big plus for me. When it comes to price, the Briksdal boots typically run over $400, making them a bit more affordable than the Timberline, though still an investment in quality footwear.  Again, watch for a sale.  It can save you a lot of money.

Which Upland Hunting Boot is Right for You?

Both the Schnee’s Timberline and the Crispi Briksdal boots are exceptional choices for any serious upland hunter, but the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and the conditions you most often hunt in.

• Schnee’s Timberline is ideal if you need a rugged, durable boot for challenging terrains like steep ridges and rocky hills. The added ankle support and stability make it an excellent choice for hunters who spend a lot of time in rough, mountainous environments. The Timberline’s higher weight is offset by its incredible durability and support, making it a great long-term investment if you’re tackling tough ground.
• Crispi Briksdal is perfect for hunters who prioritize lightweight comfort and breathability. If you’re often covering long distances on relatively less demanding terrain or you prefer a more forgiving fit, the Briksdal is a fantastic option. The lighter weight and innovative materials make these boots a favorite for hunters who are after a comfortable, all-day boot.

Final Thoughts

Both boots have earned their place in my gear rotation, and each has proven its worth in the field. Whether you’re chukar hunting, chasing grouse, or walking miles in search of sharpies and huns, you can’t go wrong with either of these bird hunting boots. For me thus far, the winner if you will, is the Briksdal.  Both are great boots but there is something about the Crispi’s that just work better for me.  I find I have less foot fatigue and the fit is slightly better.  I still wear my Timberlines too, don’t get me wrong.  Either way, investing in quality footwear will make your hunts more enjoyable, comfortable, and successful. Obviously, there are many more options out there.  Be sure to choose a quality boot that fits your foot and is built for every type of hunting you plan on doing.  

Any good boot needs a good foundation. A quality Merino wool sock like the Pyke TekWool sock will help keep your feet dry, stink free and comfortable all day. Our TeKwool socks also have the added benefit of built-in bugshield technology.

Tekwool Midweight Socks

14.95 USD

24.95 USD

*all products were bought by the author. This post is not sponsored or encouraged by any manufacturer or distributor. Opinions are solely those of the author.