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Best Snake Boots for Women and Men in 2024

Don’t Get Bit! The All-Inclusive Guide to Snake Boots

Antarctica is the only continent on the planet free from snakes. However, the United States is home to some of the most venomous snakes in the world. You need the right pair of snake-proof boots for both safety and comfort when traversing the great outdoors. Our guide has been updated for 2023 with the best snake-proof boots of this year, as well as our long-standing favorites from the year before!

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 boots on the market. We looked through hundreds of options, and compared features, prices, and customer reviews to weed out the ones you don’t need. Whatever your personal style or requirements are, you’re guaranteed to find a pair that’s right for you here.

Stock photo, closeup of a boot about to step on a live rattlesnake outdoors.

Snake Boots 101

There are few things that are better than being in the great outdoors. Whether it’s your business to work outside or you’re a weekend warrior who values hunting and hiking excursions, a good pair of snake boots should be your number one priority.

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.

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, they protect your feet against everything from snow to snake bites, and they make a strong fashion statement that can be seen by every person that you walk by. Aside from your hairstyle, your choice of boots makes you who you are.

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 new snake boots, then this is the article for you!

We’ll start off by discussing some of the advantages and differences between snake-proof boots and traditional hiking boots. After that, we’ll get into some qualities that you’ll want to take into consideration and give you our top recommendations.

First, here’s our summary table of the best snake boots available today along with our reviews.  Keep reading below the table to find out more about what we looked for, and what you should look for before making a buying decision, and in-depth reviews of each snake boot we selected for our top 9!

The Best Snake Boots You Can Buy in 2023

 

The Best Snake Boots of 2022: Evergreen Picks

 

Best Snake Boots of 2023

We’ve done a full evaluation of our recommendations and revised our list for this year’s best of the best. Read on for our new snake bite boot reviews for 2023!

Best All-Around Snake Boots – Dryshod Men’s ViperStop Snake Hunting Boot

Product photo of the Dryshod Men's ViperStop Snake Hunting Boot, came print.

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Features

  • Comfortable over long periods of walking on rough terrain
  • Fully waterproof
  • Bite-resistant rubber from top to bottom
  • Hydrokote water-repellant keeps boots from getting soggy
  • Breathable Airmesh lining
  • Stretchy materials make getting it on and off a breeze

Overview

In the battle of materials that are best for resisting bites, you’ll be hard-pressed to find better than rubber. Dryshod proudly uses “only genuine, hard-laid rubber” in the Viperstop Snake Hunting Boot, meaning no PU, PVC, or TPR. In addition to being bite-resistant, they also have all the best and necessary features of a hunting boot: comfortable over long walks, 100% waterproof, and a number of built-in conveniences like the pull-tab and roll-down calf pipe to make them versatile in the field.

Waterproof and Breathable

Dryshod uses a combination of comfortable insole cushioning and airmesh lining to ensure your feet have enough padding to prevent foot fatigue no matter how many miles you trek outside. The airmesh lining provides decent airflow to ensure that working up a sweat won’t be a problem either.

The boots are waterproof, not just water-resistant, from top to bottom. They’re also water-repellant, meaning that not only will water not get in, the boots themselves will dry fast.

Snake-Proof Rubber Overlays

While synthetic materials such as PVC and PU are cheaper to manufacture, they’re less durable than natural rubber. And when it comes to preventing snake bites, you absolutely want to invest in boots with a lining that’s heavy and durable enough to prevent fang penetration. Consequently, rubber is also more comfortable and flexible than many synthetic materials, meaning you’ll have a more enjoyable time wearing the Viberstop boots than others at a lower price made with synthetics.

Best Rubber Snake Boots – Muck Wetland Pro Snake Boots

Product photo of the Muck Wetland Pro Snake Boot, camo print.

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Features

  • Comes in Realtree Edge camo print and brown
  • 100% waterproof
  • Breathable 3D Airmesh lining
  • Certified Against Snake Strike with top-to-bottom rubber coverage
  • Easy on and off with pull tab
  • Cushioned EVA midsole for comfortable walking to combat foot fatigue
  • bio DEWIX antimicrobial footbed insert

Overview

The Original Muck company prides itself on footwear that stands up to the worst of the outdoors, and the Muck Wetland Pro Snake Boots are no exception. Certified “muckproof,” they’ll provide comfort as well as protection against not only snake bites but also sticks, rocks, briars, and scratches.

The aggressively durable outsole ensures you’ll have continuously stable footing, while the interior is cushioned and retains heat to keep your feet and calves warm and comfy over long hours outdoors. And, of course, security in the knowledge that your feet and calves are safe from snake bites.

Exceptional Comfort

Comfort means not just cushioning, but also protection from water and extreme temperatures. The Wetland Pro Snake boots have a 5mm Neoprene bootie to keep out water and both heat and cold, ensuring comfort in all climates and damp weather. It also provides more flexibility when paired with the rubber layer that makes these boots “certified against snake bites,” according to Muck.

Cold Weather Protection

The company claims that the boots have a temperature range of “sub freezing to 65°F/18°C,” meaning that they’re best suited for the cooler months of the year. However, reviewers with extensive experience say that the 3D Airmesh lining provides adequate breathability that general temperatures above the stated limit are still comfortable for the Pro Snake boot. 

There are pull tabs and small heel kicks that make on-and-off a breeze, while the EVA midsole cushioning and bio DEWIX antimicrobial footbed insert prevent foot fatigue during long hikes and reduce both odor and bacteria that might cause infections.

Best Waterproof Snake Boots – Rocky Prolight Hunting Waterproof Snake Boot

Product photo of the Rocky Prolight Hunting Waterproof Snake Boot, camo print with leather lining on ides and around lace eyelets.

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Features

  • Protection against most North American snakes (rattlesnakes, copperheads, coral snakes)
  • Sixteen inches of snake proof protection
  • Full-grain leather trim to reinforce waterproof construction
  • ProLight BioMech outsole for superior traction
  • PU/Rubber outsole for additional waterproof protection
  • Unisex sizing

Overview

When the weather warms up around March or April is when you need to start being careful where you step.  We picked these boots because their thorough waterproofing and snake-proofing materials mean your feet will be safe from snake bites as well as damp feet no matter where you go. In addition to Rocky’s “16 inches of snake proof protection,” the full-grain leather and nylon construction paired with a PU/rubber provides stability and durability as well.

Waterproof and Snake Proof Technology

Full-grain leather is a lightweight and sturdy alternative to some synthetic materials for waterproofing shoes and boots. The Prolight boots mix leather with nylon for breathable insulation that keeps water out but doesn’t leave your feet sweaty on the inside. The lacing also ensures the boots will fit to the shape of you leg, preventing openings where water might seep in.

While you can mostly count on any thick leather, rubber, or neoprene boot being snake proof, a few reviewers have chimed in to testify about encounters with venomous snakes outdoors while wearing the Prolight Hunting Waterproof Snake Boots.

Great Comfort, No Break-In Needed

Multiple sources have stated that they didn’t need any break-in time for their boots before setting out. While we leave that decision up to each individual hunter (better to spend an extra month breaking in your boots than come back from a long trek with blisters), the boots seem to hold up to the hype.

Best Snake Boots for Women – LaCrosse Women’s Alpha Agility Snake Boot

Product photo of the LaCrosse Women’s Alpha Agility Snake Boot, camo print on calf and brown rubber on foot and ankle.

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Features

  • Premium waterproof rubber over 5mm Neoprene core
  • Secure and comfortable fit around ankles and calf
  • Maximum flexibility for quick and confident movement
  • Full 15″ height for increased protection from snake bites
  • Snake Guard protection between liner and exterior

Overview

Boots made specifically for women’s feet make a big difference in the comfort and insulation of your boots. LaCrosse Women’s Alpha Agility Snake Boot combines a number of essential qualities for outdoor activities from hunting to yard work that’ll keep your feet safe not only from venomous snakes but also foot fatigue, wet conditions, and rough terrain. 

While not as insulated against the cold as some models (the Alpha Agility’s comfort zone is “Mild”, meaning temperatures 0 – 70°F (-18 – 21°C), it covers enough bases in addition to snake proofing that we’d consider it the best all-around option.

Snake Guard

Rubber on its own is fairly snake proof, though not 100%. Not all snake fangs are strong enough to bite through rubber, making it a good option for snake proofing boots. That’s why LaCrosse uses natural rubber in addition to a Snake Guard non-woven fabric laid between the inner liner and boot exterior for additional protection.

All LaCrosse snake boots are sent to a third-party testing facility that uses “a range of penetration tests” to check how well each model stands up to the challenge. You can read more about LaCrosse’s snake proofing testing process here, and you can find their complete snake boot warranty information here.

The Total Package

We’ll hit a couple points here that are worth mentioning in our review. 

The first is comfort, which we’d say is even more important in boots and shoes meant for primarily outdoor use. It’s a lot easier to get foot fatigue from subpar cushioning when you’re walking on uneven ground that includes rocks, mud, sticks, and anything else hidden in the dirt. The Alpha Agility Snake Boot combines a cushioned footbed, lightweight LXA midsole, and durable rubber outsole for protection as well as great rebound on each step.

Second, don’t underestimate the advantages of a waterproof boot in any conditions! The boots are lined with quick-drying jersey knit to prevent moisture buildup. This is in addition to the natural rubber laid over neoprene for full waterproofing. Combined with the secure Active Fit on the foot and calf, these boots are made to keep your feet dry without sacrificing agility or comfort.

Best Work Boots – Red Wing Men’s Supersole 2.0 Soft Toe Boot

Product photo of Red Wing Men's Supersole 2.0 Soft Toe Boot, above ankle height, red leather and black outsole.

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Features

  • Dual-density urethane sole for comfort and stability
  • Full-grain leather upper with 8″ ankle for protection and support
  • Available in wide, narrow, and regular sizes
  • Heavy-duty durable welt construction
  • Outsole resistant to chemicals and oil
  • Removable footbed for customizable comfort

Overview

The “Best Work Boot” category could also be called “Buy It For Life,” because that’s what the Red Wing Men’s Supersole 2.0 Soft Toe Boots are: boots you buy for life.

What makes these boots a stand-out is their construction. Many wearers have reported owning the same pair for 5 years or more, keeping them in good shape with monthly oiling and brushing. The sole is dual-density urethane, keeping your feet insulated in cold conditions and well-ventilated in warm ones. The full-grain leather upper and sturdy outsole provide durability and protection for years.

Red Wing Leather

The company states on their site that they “control every step of the process” when creating the leather they use on their products. All hides come from US-raised cattle, meaning the boots are not only high quality but an excellent example of domestic craftsmanship. Leather is one of the best materials for resisting a snake bite.

We recommend the Red Wing Supersole 2.0 for general everyday wear at a work site or out hiking where snakes might be a concern. However, they won’t stop a rattler on their own, so if you’ll be out in tall grass among bigger snakes, we recommend investing in snake gaiters for extra protection or hunting boots.

Comfortable and Durable Sole

Some of the most important qualities in a work boot can be judged by their sole: slip resistance, comfort, and durability over time. The Supersole is named as such for these exact qualities. It has excellent traction on a variety of terrains and incredible slip-resistance as well. It’s also cut-, oil-, and chemical-resistant, meaning that it’ll tough out whatever abuse it takes during the day and at work. This extends to snake bites, protecting your feet from any that try to take a shot at you while you’re on a hike or at work.

Best Snake Boots of 2023 – Evergreen Picks

These are the boots that made the cut from last year, all terrific options that stood the test of time.

Best Looking Snake Boots – Danner San Angelo 17″ Pull-On Snake Boot for Men

Danner San Angelo Pull On Snake boot for men side and rear details featuring made in the USA logo

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Features

  • Stylish stitchdown construction leather and textile boot
  • Made in the USA with 365-day warranty
  • Soft leather lining of the interior molds to your foot
  • Pull-on design means no laces to trip you up or get snagged in overgrown terrain

Overview

Just because you’re going to be in the great outdoors doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style. The Danner San Angelo Men’s Snake Boot is the perfect blend of a rugged outdoor snake boot and a stylish hunting boot. These are also our top choice for a pull-on snake boot, so if you prefer pull-on boots or work in overgrown and difficult terrain where laces might get in the way these might be for you.

Unbeatable Style

These boots stand apart from most snake boots because of their unique design and unbeatable style featuring Danner’s stitchdown construction which they’ve been using for durability since their founding in 1932. They feature a brown leather lower and trim that has a solid and understated appearance. You could wear these boots down the street on a cool fall afternoon or you could take them through the rugged forest brush and not look out of place.

Soft Leather Lining

They don’t just look good, but they have an unbeatable feel on your foot as well. They feature an inner that is lined with soft leather to cradle your feet and prevent them from getting sore from pressure points where the outer might rub against your foot. It seems like a small detail, but little pressure points digging into your foot over thousands of steps can get really uncomfortable by the end of the day!

Danner San Angelo Outsole

The outsoles on the Danner San Angelo are a little different than the outsoles on most hiking and hunting boots. They’re shock-resistant and  slip-proof of course, but they feature a much smoother and flatter design than most boots.  No big lugs sticking out at all angles. This is great for slicker or terrain or walking over vegetation where you want to maximize the surface area of the outsole that is in contact with the ground. This gives better traction on such surfaces. The downside is that it provides a little less grip on uneven rocky terrain.  Combined with the pull-on design, this makes the San Angelo great for forests and streams, not as good for rocky desert. 

For more details read our complete review of the Danner Men’s San Angelo Snake Boot.

Best Cowboy Style Snake Boots – LaCrosse Snake Country Western Snake Boots for Men

LaCrosse Snake Country Western Snakeproof Cowboy Boots. Detailed images of side and rear of boots

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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 are very easy to clean 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 you’re greeted with the scent of death. With the LaCrosse Snake Country boots, you won’t have to worry about this. The inside lining of the boot is made with LaCrosse’s Dry-Core lining that prevent 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 is made from an impenetrable nylon fabric incorporating flexible 360-degree Snake Guard, and the upper is made from 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 there are no zippers or laces that will start to leak if your feet are 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.

Best on a Budget – Rocky Men’s Lynx Waterproof Snake Hunting Boot

Rocky Lynx Snake Boot image of both sides including side zipper, with camo print.

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Features

  • Polyurethane/Rubber outsole
  • 10 shades of camo
  • Waterproof
  • Full-grain leather trim
  • ProLight BioMech outsole

Overview

If you’re an avid hunter, then you’re going to need a pair of boots that can keep up with your rugged lifestyle. These boots are the perfect choice for those who are looking for a flexible boot that allows you to run and climb in, but that 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’re prey runs off into the deep and muddy marshes, you’ll still be able to track them without fear of getting your feet cold and wet.

Full-Grain Leather Trim

The majority of this boot is made from a thick nylon which prevents you from getting snake-bitten or whipped in the shins by painful thorn bushes. However, Rocky decided that they wanted to make these boots a bit stylish and decided to top off the cake with full-grain leather trim which offer great abrasion resistance and make them look great.

Plenty of Choices

These boots come in 10 different Mossy Oak camo shades which means that whatever your preference or hunting environment is, that you’ll be able to find the right boot for the job.

For more details read our complete review of the Rocky Lynx Waterproof Snake Proof Hunting Boot.

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 (which just so happens to be almost everywhere in the world), 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.

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 your foot for a couple of weeks.

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.

Stock photo of a person zipping up snake boots.

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.

Sources
  1. https://fashion-history.lovetoknow.com/fashion-accessories/boots
  2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterproofing
  3. https://www.outsideonline.com/1775816/what-material-will-protect-me-snakebites
  4. https://www.medicinenet.com/snake_bite/article.htm

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