Review: Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 400 Boots

Late-season hunting in Montana can be a recipe for frostbite: moving, sweating, then sitting for extended periods of time. To combat frostbite and stay comfortable, a good pair of insulated boots is essential. For that, look no further than the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 400 ($540). These 10-inch-tall, full-leather boots are built for business. No frills to speak of. Double- and triple-stitched seams, a full rubber rand, deep outsole lugs, and quality lacing hardware. 400 grams of insulation throughout offers an additional layer of protection from the elements, while still being breathable enough to hunt with before the snow starts flying.

I’ve been wearing a pair of Mountain Extremes all through bow season, and into the start of rifle season. The sign of a good pair of boots is that you forget about them being on your feet—as has been the case ever since I broke them in (which took only a handful of day hikes). That means less time thinking about cold or uncomfortable feet, and more time napping—er, glassing, on the mountain.

One of the best parts about buying a pair of Kenetrek boots is that the company is based in Bozeman. Swing by the showroom to be sized and try on boots. Whether you end up in the Mountain Extreme 400 or one of their lighter boots, the boot experts will make sure you walk out the door with the perfect size and model for the type of hunting or hiking you’ll be doing.

Available in-store or at kenetrek.com.