Antarctica is the only continent on the planet free from snakes. The United States, however, is home to some of the most venomous snakes in the world. You need the right pair of snake boots and this guide is here to help you find them.
There are few things better than being in the great outdoors. Whether it’s your business to work outside or you’re a weekend warrior who values their hunting and hiking excursions, a good pair of snake-proof boots should be your number-one priority.
Don't Get Bit! The All-Inclusive Guide
There’s a good reason that boots have been one of the only styles of shoe to outlive centuries of style evolution (along with sandals). They’re tough, they can last for years, protect your feet against everything from snow to snake bites, and they make a strong fashion statement. Aside from your hairstyle, your choice of boots makes you who you are.
As the saying goes, “different boots for different folks,” and today we’re going to be looking at snake-proof boots. Perhaps you never knew they existed or maybe you’ve been keeping your eye on the market for your next favorite pair. If you need a new pair, then this is the article for you!
Snake Boots 101
So why would somebody need snake-proof boots? What sets them apart from the work or hiking boots that you’re usually wearing? These are some of the first questions that first-time buyers have when looking into these boots, so here’s the low-down.
First, here's our summary table of the best options available today along with our ratings. Keep reading below the table to find out more about what we looked for when testing, and what you should look for before making a buying decision, as well as in-depth reviews of each snake boot we looked at.
Here are the Best Snake Boots you can buy:
- Best All-Around: Thorogood Men’s 17″
- Best Snake Boots for Women: SHE Outdoor Bayou NWTF for Women
- Runner-Up Overall: RedHead Lubbock 2.0
- Maximum Waterproofing for Mud and Muck: DryShod ViperStop Snake Hunting Boot
- Best Tactical Snake Boot: Rocky Men’s Lynx Waterproof Snake Boots
- Cowboy Boot Style: LaCrosse Snake Country Waterproof Snake Boots for Men
- Best of the Rest: Irish Setter Vaprtrek
- Best for Kids: RedHead Bayou for Kids
The Best Snake Boots - Detailed Reviews
Now that you have a better idea of what to look for in your next pair of snake boots, let’s do a bit of shopping! With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to make a conclusive decision. Many buyers are left with a gnawing feeling that they could’ve gotten a better deal for a better boot if they had just looked a little harder.
To make your life easier, we’ve taken care of the grueling footwork and created an all-inclusive list of some of the best options on the market. We looked through hundreds of choices, compared features, prices, and customer reviews to weed out the ones you don’t need. Whatever your personal style or requirements, we guarantee you'll find a pair that’s right for you here.
1. Thorogood Men's 17"
Available at
Features
- Z-trac slip-resistant outsole made of rubber with gripping pad and rugged lug design.
- Next, they have cushioned midsole for shock absorption.
- Also, SnakeGuard Extreme for protection from snake bites around 360 degrees.
- Further, removable dual-density insole/footbed.
- Finally, Scotchgard protection by 3M.
Overview
They’re extremely durable. Their support for your feet and calves is nearly unmatched. They’re also on the more affordable side of quality snake boots that are available today. A good hunter or outdoorsman knows that choosing the wrong snake boot can lead to a lot of pain and potentially do permanent damage to your body. The Thorogood Snake Boot is perfect if you want utility and comfort without sacrificing on snake bite protection.
Maximum Traction
The Z-Trac rubber outsole is slip-resistant and has robust construction to maximize your traction on any surface.
100% Waterproof
Having a waterproof boot is always important. If your feet get wet you’ll endure a very long and uncomfortable day on the trail. Having to constantly worry about water getting into your boots can really take ruin your day out. With the Thorogood boots Scotchgard 100% waterproof protection by 3M you don’t need to worry.
Removable Footbed
The dual density removable footbed is comfortable on its own, but also gives you flexibility to put in your own footbed or insole if you have something you prefer more.
Easy to Care For
The high quality leather upper and rubber outsoles make cleaning and caring for these boots a breeze.
For more details read our complete review of the Thorogood Snake Bite Hunting Boots.
2. SHE Outdoor Bayou Snake Boot for Women
Available at
Features
- Goodyear welt construction for stability and durability.
- 100% snake proof and waterproof for hunting and hiking.
- Ortholite removable insoles are comfortable and allow for custom inserts.
- Side zipper construction for getting them on and off easily.
- Full grain leather and rugged nylon for durability and abrasion resistance.
- NWTF (National Wild Turkey Federation) certified.
Overview
Put your worries about rattlesnakes, diamondbacks, and cottonmouths to rest with the SHE Outdoor Bayou NTWF Waterproof Side-Zip Snake Boot. Designed for women hunters and hikers and certified by the National Wild Turkey Federation these women’s snake proof boots will keep you safe and comfortable while in areas with venomous snakes. These have a side-zip construction that allows you to get them on and off quickly. Further, they feature full grain leather and durable nylon to stand up to rough terrain.
Goodyear Welt Construction
The sole construction uses the Goodyear welt construction to lock the lightweight outsoles to the upper, giving unparalleled durability that will last. This is especially important in a hunting boot that sees a lot of wet conditions. The heavy use while the shoe is wet can cause the outsole on some lower-quality boots to start peeling away from the upper. This causes foot pain, and impacts the waterproofing of other boots, so the Goodyear welt construction here is a real plus.
Removable Ortholite Inserts
These boots are for rugged use, so sweating and long days out in them are likely. That’s why it’s important to have removable insoles, if you want to clean your sole and let it air out, all you have to do is reach down, pull it out, do what you need to do, and then slide it back in. This also allows you to swap out the insoles the boots come with for custom orthotics, an insole designed for flat feet, or some other special cushioning for any foot condition such as plantar fasciitis or fallen arches.
3. RedHead Lubbock 2.0
Available at
Features
- Made from full-grain leather and canvas uppers with SnakeGuard.
- YKK side zippers for easily getting them on and off.
- Welt construction by Goodyear for durable and rugged boot sole.
- 100% waterproof and breathable membrane protection.
- Lightweight outsole by Vibram for comfort and sure footing.
- Removable polyurethane insoles with moisture wicking linings.
Overview
If you’re looking for a snake boot that will survive even the most extreme hunting excursions through the forest, then the RedHead Lubbock 2.0 boots are for you. These tall, side-zipped boots will give you the protection that you need from venomous snakes of all shapes and sizes. In addition to their sheer durability and impenetrable outer, they feature a 100% waterproof canvas and full grain leather construction which makes them a great addition to almost any hunting get up.
Side-Zip with Rugged Zipper by YKK
If you’re going to be doing some serious trekking through unstable terrain, then you’re going to want a boot with a tight fit that doesn’t flop around and let dirt, water, or twigs in through the top. You’ll also want a durable zipper that isn’t going to break or get stuck while trying to get the boots on and off. These boots have an oversized YKK side zipper for durability and ease of use. Being able to actually get your boots on is an important first step in protecting you from snake bites!
Removable Polyurethane Footbed
These boots are heavy-duty, so you’re likely going to sweat in them after taking them out for a long day. Thankfully, if you want to clean your sole and let it air out, all you have to do is reach down, pull it out, do what you need to do, and then slide it back in. This also means that you’ll be able to swap it out for a personal sole should you need some with custom orthotics, an insole designed for flat feet, or some other special cushioning for any foot condition.
Hardened Rubber Sole with Vibram Gumlite Outsole
The Vibram gumlite rubber outsole on these boots is incredibly durable and comfortable. You can hike through rocky mountain terrain for hours at a time, and barely wear them down. This material is also slip-proof which means you don’t have to worry about stepping on a bunch of wet rocks resulting in a painful fall. Snakes bites aren’t the only injury you need to be watching out for when hunting or hiking in snake country!
4. DryShod ViperStop Snake Boot
Available at
Features
- Waterproof.
- High-platform heel.
- Simple and easy to clean.
- Hand laid rubber.
- Three different styles.
- Superior traction.
- Designed for cold and wet weather.
Overview
While they have a simple design, these boots embrace the ideology of pure functionality. They are a mid-weight hunting boot that protect you from snake bites, thorns, and other sharp vegetation. They’re made of a durable rubber which is 100% impervious to water, and will allow you to plow ahead with complete confidence.
High-Platform Heel
These boots have a high-platform heel which really comes in handy when you’re on slick, icy terrain. It also gives you an extra inch of clearance if you’re going to be wading through deeper water. This way you make sure that your feet stay dry and protected.
Superior Traction
The all-rubber sole is not only slip-proof, but can dig into snow, slush, mud, and unstable gravel terrain. This allows you to make sure that you’ll always stay feet-to-the-ground.
Best Camo for Marshy or Wet Conditions
Are you picky about your camo? These boots allow you to be with some of the best hunting camo styles we’ve reviewed. Whether you’re trying to match your boots to other gear or you want to be harder to see, your have options.
Perform in Cold Weather
While these boots can be worn in the Spring and Summer months, you’ll find that they get a bit hot. They’re designed to keep your feet warm in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius. This ensures that you won’t get cold feet on your next hunting trip.
5. Rocky Men's Lynx
Available at
Features
- Polyurethane/Rubber outsole.
- Waterproof.
- ProLight BioMech outsole.
Overview
If you’re an avid hunter, then you’re going to need a pair of boots that can keep up. These boots are the perfect choice if you’re looking for a flexible boot that allows you to run and climb. At the same time, it provides adequate protection from potential snake attacks. In addition to all of this, they’re 100% waterproof which means you can take them just about anywhere.
BioMech Outsole
Rocky features a ProLight BioMech outsole which offers considerable traction on even the most questionable surfaces. Even if you end up in deep and muddy marshes, you can proceed without fear of getting your feet cold and wet.
For more details read our complete review of the Rocky Lynx Waterproof Snake Proof Hunting Boot.
6. LaCrosse Snake Country Western Snake Boots for Men
Available at
Features
- 17-inch boot shaft.
- Long 2-inch abrasion resistant heel for maximum longevity.
- Full-grain leather and nylon upper.
- Flexible, lightweight 360-degree Snake Guard fabric.
- Polyurethane footbed.
- Pull-on Cowboy Boot design for most effective water-proofing (no laces or zippers that will leak).
- Dry-Core linings for breathability and waterproofing.
- Hand grips for getting them on and off.
- Easy wearing and waterproof for warmer and wetter climates.
Overview
If you’re looking for a solid hunting boot without all the extra bells and whistles of a tactical-style snake boot, then the new LaCrosse Snake Country 17-inch boots are a solid choice for you. They have a Cowboy Boot styling that is well-suited to hot climates. They’re waterproof, easy to take on and off, can fit your wide feet, and clean up easily if you get them caked in mud.
Dry-Core Lining
Don’t you hate the smell of damp or wet boots? You know the feeling. You wake up to pull on your boots, and the scent of death greets you. With the LaCrosse Snake Country boots, you won’t have to worry about this. The inside lining of the boot comes with LaCrosse’s Dry-Core lining that prevents bacteria from forming and causing your new boots to smell. This will also keep your feet dry and comfortable.
Full Grain Leather Upper
Although these snake boots have a relatively simple design, they have a strong look to them that make a silent, yet noticeable statement. The full-grain leather upper is also abrasion-resistant and will stand up to the abuse they’re certain to take in snake country. The lower has an impenetrable nylon fabric incorporating flexible 360-degree Snake Guard. While the upper has a waterproof full-grain leather to offer superior flexibility and comfort.
100% Waterproof
The LaCrosse Snake Country Western snake boot is 100% waterproof which means that you can hunt in any conditions with complete confidence that you’re feet and lower legs will remain safe from snake bites as well as completely dry. The cowboy boot design also means no zippers or laces that can start leaking if completely submersed in water while crossing a stream or in extremely muddy and wet conditions.
For more details read our complete review of the LaCrosse Snake Country Western Boot.
7. Irish Setter Vaprtrek Snake Hunting Boot
Available at
Features
- Irish Setter Dry waterproofing technology to allow moisture to escape while preventing water from getting in, helping to keep your feet dry.
- 360-degree Snake Guard flexible protection fabric for maximum safety from snake strikes.
- Lock and Load Lacing System with speed hooks for speedier lacing.
- Textile upper and full grain leather all treated with Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to provide long lasting durability for your hunting boots.
- Available with Mossy Oak Break-Up Country so that you blend with the terrain.
- Open Cell footbed to absorb shocks and provide for air circulation around your feet.
Overview
A staple of the Red Wing boot brand, Irish Setter boots have provided quality hunting and working boots since at least 1950. They have an impeccable legacy for crafting some of the best boots that the world has ever seen, and the Vaprtrek Snake Boots (along with a couple other entries on our best snake boots list) definitely live up to it. These boots are perfect for arduous hunting trips, are made of a lightweight material, and will fit like a second skin.
Lock and Load Lacing System
Irish Setter developed their Vaprtrek Men’s boots to combine the tight-fitting comfort and stability of lace-up hunting boots with the speed and ease of side-zip boots. They accomplish this through the use of the lock and load lacing system featuring speed hooks along the front of the boot and a seamless design that utilizes space and functionality over everything. It still takes a bit longer than a pure side-zip boot, but you can tighten down the laces so your ankles and calves are snug and secure. If you prefer a lace-up boot, then these are a great option since they’re a lot faster than traditional lace-ups.
Irish Setter Plyolite Midsole and Vaprtrek Outsole
Irish Setter developed their own midsole (the part of the sole between the outsole which rests on the ground and the insole upon which your foot rests) technology called Plyolite. It’s lightweight with shock absorption.
For the outsole (the part in contact with the ground), the Irish Setter Vaprtrek provides multi-directional lugs for gripping moss, slick surfaces, and rocks.
Abrasion-Resistant Full Grain Leather and Textile Upper
These boots were made to take a beating. The entire upper and the sides of the boots are engineered with full grain leather and abrasion-resistant textiles. You can take these boots through hell and back, and they’ll still look and function as good as they did the first day that you took them out of the box.
Open Cell Polyurethane Footbed
All the waterproofing in the world isn’t going to help you if your feet are soaked in sweat anyway. The open cell polyurethane footbed in the Irish Setter Vaprtrek helps in two ways: it allows air to circulate around your foot so that sweat evaporates quickly leaving your feet cool and dry, and it provides additional shock absorption. If you’re on rocky terrain all day you basically want shock absorption at every layer of your boot to keep you comfortable and your knees and ankles from taking you out of action.
8. Georgia Boot Athens Waterproof Snake Boots
Available at
Features
- Over ankle and rear gussets for adjustable comfort.
- Low heel height for comfort.
- Plenty of toe room and available in EE wide sizes.
- Gore-Tex lining to ensure protection from the elements.
- Leather and 900 Denier nylon uppers.
Overview
Georgia Boot is one of the world’s greatest manufacturers of boots and their reputation is based on producing quality products over a number of years. They’re waterproof, have a classic leather design passed down from the ages, and are impervious to any snake bites that might come your way.
Gore-Tex Lining
Gore-Tex is a material that’s 100% waterproof, but remains breathable. This means that even though you’re feet are protected from even the wettest environments, that they’ll still be able to breathe, preventing your feet (and boots) from picking up that awful damp smell that’s common among mainstream hunting boots.
Rugged Outsole
The Georgia Boot Athens Snake Boot features one of the better outsoles we’ve seen available on a snake boot. It’s a rugged sole that gives you traction in almost any terrain from slippery gravel and sand to slick wet surfaces. It features on the entire Athens family of hiking and hunting boots, including the snake boot here.
Low Heel
Most hunting boots feature a high heel which gives you a more powerful stride and allows you to stomp through almost any environment. However, this often comes at the sacrifice of you being able to “feel” the ground that you’re walking on, meaning that you’re going to make more noise, take your steps without care, and can also cause you to have sore ankles the next day.
Classic Leather Design
While Georgia Boots updated their design for the fourth generation model of this boot, they kept their classic leather appeal which has made them who they are for the past decades. These are a boot that will look as good with a pair of jeans as they will laced up over a nicely-ironed pair of slacks.
Why Do You Need Snake Boots?
Well the first question is a no-brainer; if you live, walk, work, and play in an area where snakes frequent, you need a way to protect yourself. While snakes don’t usually target humans, they aren’t the most discerning creatures. If they feel you’re threatening them or they’re backed into a corner or surprised by you accidentally stepping on them, then 9 times out of 10 they’ll instinctively bite you.
You should never underestimate a snake’s ability to hide. When they’re in their natural habitat, a snake can remain almost completely invisible. Most snake-bite victims won’t realize that they’ve come face-to-face with one until it’s already too late to do anything. This is where a pair of snake boots come in handy. As long as the fangs are aimed at your feet or lower legs, you’ll be 100% protected.
Don’t Underestimate the Damage a Snake Can Cause
Another important thing to consider is just how bad snake bites can get. If you’re lucky, you’ll get bitten by a non-venomous variety and experience minor to intense bleeding and swelling. In most cases, you’ll just have to stay off of your foot for a couple of weeks. However, it can require much more serious intervention in some cases.
A venomous snake bite, on the other hand, can kill you in hours. There is a very short window of time to treat these bites before they begin to take a disastrous toll on your body. Within the first few hours, you can be completely immobilized and lose all sense feeling, rational thought, and bodily function. If you’re not given the antivenom in the early stages, then you can face amputation and even death.
Of course, all of this depends on the snake that bit you. Why take an unnecessary risk, though? The reason why outdoorsmen and hikers die from snake bites is that they are often hiking alone, miles from the nearest road, and far out of range of any cellular towers. If you get bitten far out, then there’s a high chance that you won’t be coming home. All of this isn’t meant to scare you away from the outdoors, but instead to give you an idea for the vital importance of owning and wearing snake-proof boots. Why risk life and limb when you can completely eliminate the risk to begin with?
What Sets Snake Boots Apart?
While some traditional boots can be considered snake-resistant, they can’t be relied on to protect you from any and all snake bites. Sure, your steel-toe Timberland work boots might save you from getting your toes bitten into by a rattlesnake, but you have to hope that they don’t decide to target the larger portion of your foot or legs.
One of the first things that you’ll notice about snake-proof boots is that they’re high. Most extend up the length of your calf and in some cases will be knee-high. This allows the wearer to wade through the thick brush, swampy puddles, and dead logs in which snakes love to hide.
The second thing you’ll notice is that most snake boots are waterproof. This protects you against venomous water snakes such as the water moccasin, and allows you to walk through murky swamps and marshes with complete confidence.
Thirdly, snake boots are engineered to be impenetrable by even the longest, deepest, and strongest fangs. They’re often made with hardened leather, plastic, rubber, and other synthetic materials which wrap your foot and lower legs in a protective sleeve.
When you combine all these features together, you get a high-quality outdoor boot that will serve you well for years to come.
Qualities to Look for in Snake Boots
If you’ve never purchased a pair of snake boots before, then it can be easy to get lost among all the different pairs which each have different features, weights, styles, comforts levels, and more. Before we dive into our list of top boots, here are some of the qualities and features which you’ll want to consider before you make your final decision.
Affordability
Your wallet will be the ultimate decider of what you want to wear. A high-quality pair of snake boots can range anywhere from $100 to $400 depending on a variety of different factors such as the brand name and the features you’re looking for. When it comes to a pair of boots that have the potential to save your life, however, you shouldn’t immediately choose the cheapest option. It’s worth spending a few extra dollars to get something that will last you for years and provide the best possible protection.
Design
Different snake boots are designed for different environments. Some are waterproof and are great for wetlands, others are heat-resistant and meant for hot and arid climates, and other qualification. Your personal style preferences will also play a role. Some snake boots are simple and low-key, others have the striking appearance of a military tactical boot.
Comfort
All boots have a break-in period in which they’ll be stiff and hard to walk in. After a few times of taking them out, they’ll start to feel a lot more comfortable. Aside from this, however, there are a few other things that will affect the overall comfort of the boot such as the heel height, insulating liner, insole, and the arch support. Before you decide on the boot you wish to purchase, write down a short list of personal comfort considerations that you require.
Weight
In general, snake boots are going to be pretty heavy. If you’re going out for long excursions, though, you’ll want a lighter weight boot that won’t make you tired and that you won’t be sweating in all day. If you’re going to be wading through water, mud, or snow, then you’ll want a boot that’s on the heavier side and can keep your feet warm and dry.
Water Resistance
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a pair of snake boots that aren’t water resistant. Not all snake boots are waterproof, though. This depends a lot on the material used to make the boots. Leather boots, while water-resistant, usually can’t remain fully submerged for long periods of time, making them a poor choice for wetland treks. If you’re going to be wading through endless puddles of mud, your best bet will be to opt for a rubber boot that’s guaranteed to be 100% waterproof.
Warranty
Most boots will come with some form of warranty. While a good pair should never cause you issues at first, it’s always a good idea to find something with a solid warranty to back up their work. Not only will this help to ensure the quality of the boot, but in the event that they don’t live up to your standards, you’ll be able to get them replaced or repaired at little to no cost.
Ease of Cleaning
Let’s face it, your boots are going to get dirty. If your boots aren’t getting caked with mud, blasted by sand, or scraped through rocks, then you probably live in the city and don’t need a pair in the first place. Perhaps you like the rustic, hardy look of a dirty and well-used pair of boots.
If you value the crisp and clean look, though, then you want a pair of boots that are quick and easy to clean. Rubber boots are by far the easiest to clean. All you need to do is spray them down with a hose when you come back, scrub them with a brush, and you’re good to go. Leather boots, on the other hand, require more detailed scrubbing and additional leather cleaning/conditioning products.
Some Quick Buyers Advice
That sums up our list of the best snake-proof boots on the market. We tried to include a wide variety of different styles for men women and children, and we guarantee that you’ll be able to find the perfect fit for you. Now it’s time for some quick buyer’s advice.
Before you make a final decision, take another minute to look through these boots and compare their various features with the list you made for yourself at the beginning of the article. Try to find a boot that not only matches your personal taste, but that can accommodate your physical needs for support and comfort.
Final Thoughts
Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. This rule is especially true when it comes to protecting yourself from life-threatening snake bites. Remember, all it takes is for you to get bitten out in the wilderness, miles away from your vehicle or cell service, for you to face the serious effects of a venomous bite.
With all the great boots on our list, you won’t have to sacrifice style, comfort or warmth for total protection. We spent countless hours weeding through all the competition to bring you the cream of the crop, so you can rest easy knowing that whatever choice you make, you’ll have a pair of boots that will serve you well for years to come.
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