You’ve heard of stories of people dying from snake bites. The frightening truth is that deaths can happen very quickly after a snake strike. Fatalities from venomous snakes are rare (out of 8000 snake bite cases, less than 16 die). However, it remains a prospect you do not want to happen to you or anyone else you care about. Buying snake proof boots gives you added protection in the outdoors from snake bites.
Regardless of whether you are a person that loves the outdoors or not, it is important that you have the correct shoes for occasions such as these. You want to be ready for every place your adventures take you to. It is also important that you have the correct gear for hiking, camping and hunting.
Even for those with experience, the prospect of going through swampy terrain, grassy plains, massive undergrowth, downed logs, and havens for snakes is daunting. Coming across a snake is still unnerving. No matter how long you have been in the outdoors – especially when you consider the increasing cases of people suffering from snake bites.
However, you do not need to worry anymore, because that is where snake boots come in. They provide protection, so you need to make sure you are buying snake proof boots that do their job. First of all though, we need to know what snake boots are, and discuss the factors that make them different form regular boots and shoes.
What Are Snake Boots?
These boots feature a combination of materials, such as neoprene and rubber, that prevent punctures from snake fangs. They come with a snake guard lining on the inner part, made from impenetrable material, so this adds safety. Also, it is flexible enough so that you do not feel like you are walking in a cast.
Factors to Consider When Buying Snake Proof Boots
Coverage levels
Unlike another piercing object like a pin or nail, snakes never lie on the ground motionless. They pose a risk to strike on your shins and feet. This makes this factor essential – the higher the boots are, the more protection they guarantee you.
The shortest length they should go to is the middle of your calves. Never choose boots as low as the height of your ankles. Most snake bites happen between the knees and ankles. Therefore, you really want a pair of boots that goes all the way up to the knees. This gives you better protection.
The materials need to protect against bites
In case you encounter a snake, make sure the shoes you wear are enough to protect you from bites.
Snake proof boots feature a few materials. All of these are durable and strong enough to prevent the fangs from going through. The materials include denim, leather, Cordura nylon, synthetic weaves, Kevlar, and others.
When Buying Snake Proof Boots, Make Sure They Are Comfortable
While it is good to have boots that prevent snake bites and protect you from injuries, comfort is important too. Considering you will wear these boots while out working, hunting or hiking all day you need to make sure you get boots that fit, and are comfortable on your feet. Because of their height, people with large calves often find snake boots uncomfortable on their lower leg. Try out several pairs to see what works for you.
It pays to try out different boots before buying them, as some are made to be very rigid and stiff. They may protect you more often, but they will sacrifice a lot of your comfort levels. The shoes should allow you to walk or run without feeling like you are wearing a heavy cast. The experience is going to be very uncomfortable if your boots don't fit properly.
When looking for proper snake boots, ensure they give you a good range of motion, without leaving you feeling stiff.
The Closure
Because you are looking for a pair of boots that offers you the most protection you can get, you cannot afford to overlook even the seemingly insignificant aspects. A factor such as the way your boots close will have a major result on the overall protection and comfort levels.
An instance would be choosing a pair with zippers. These are easy to close ad very common, but they have the drawback of being caught in twigs, undergrowth, and thick bushes. They also tend to break down many times, leaving your feet exposed to attacks from snake bites.
Another option would be slip on boots. These are easy to wear, as the lack of laces and zippers means you do not need to spend time agonizing about snags. However, they will cause a lot of discomfort if you choose the wrong size.The best option is picking lace boots. These are more likely to give you a custom fit, and you can close them up all the way to the shaft.
The ultimate choice will depend on your needs and preferences, so make sure you choose them wisely. In addition, it is important to know the terrain, as this will help you make a proper decision on the kind of closure you need.
Aeration
This may be an overlooked factor, but it is still important. The height of the shoes will tend to make your feet sweaty and lead to bad smells. Ensure you purchase boots that have breathable fabric and linings, which will maintain the cool environment for your feet.
Final Thoughts on Buying Snake Proof Boots
Getting snake proof boots is not an easy task, and it involves a lot of consideration before making a choice. However, with these factors, you can equip yourself to make a choice that will protect you while giving you comfort.
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