If You are Looking for the Best Ice Fishing Boot it’s the Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot.
Nothing compares to pulling an icy bass out of a small black hole in the middle of a frozen lake. Of course, winter fishing sessions are a lot more enjoyable when your feet are toasty and dry. For this reason, we’ve taken the time to compare and review the top ice fishing boots to go with your ice fishing rods and cold weather gloves. From the liner down to the soles, there are several dynamic components that go into fending off the bite of a below-zero day.
In the section below, you’ll find pointers on identifying Float Nation-approved boots as well as a few of our favorite selections. Winter is definitely coming. With the perfect ice boots, you’ll finally be ready for it!
The Best Ice Fishing Boots Go as Follows:
- Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot (Top Budget Pick)
- Muck Boot Arctic Sport Rubber High-Performance Men’s Winter Boot (Warmest Ice Fishing Boots)Â
- Muck Boots Arctic Ice Extreme Conditions Tall Rubber Men’s Winter Boot (Top Camp Pick)
- Columbia Ice Maiden IIÂ (Best Pick for Women)
- Baffin Men’s Wolf Snow Boots (Best for Wide Feet)
Table of Contents
Ice Fishing Boots Reviews
The top ice fishing boots as rated by fisherman are as follows.
1. Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot
The Kamik NationPlus men’s ice fishing boots are one of our favorite leather winter fishing boots. With brown leather uppers and high rubber soles, these are the cold-weather beasts that most anglers dream of. The base of the shoe rises to around ¾ of an inch from the ground. As such, anglers have plenty of space between the soles of their feet and the unforgiving icy barrier below them. The boots also have plenty of interior reinforcement. The combination of 200-gram Thinsulate insulator and waterproof liner provide superior protection from the elements. Meanwhile, the boot’s rustproof lacing system offers easy adjustments with or without gloves.
According to the manufacturer, these incredible boots offer cold-busting insulation in temperatures as low as 40 below zero. While we don’t always take manufacturer-lead marketing seriously, we have reason to believe that this claim is correct. From the moment we slipped on our Kamiks, we felt comfortable and toasty.
Customers seem to agree with these sentiments too. So long as you pair the Kamiks with a decent pair of cold-weather socks, you’re nearly guaranteed to have toasty, dry toes. Most customers agree that the Kamik’s ankle-length shafts are just the right height for trekking through deep snow. A good pull of the laces ensures that no snow sneaks into the collar. Besides that, there’s not much you need to do to improve the comfort of these all-terrain shoes.
Pros
- Premium brown leather uppers
- 0.75-inch rubber soles with thick tread
- Rust-resistant lace system with strong laces
- Rated for 40 below zero
- Moisture-wicking liner
- Thinsulate liner
- Shaft measures 10 inches from arch
- Shaft rises above the ankle to prevent snow from entering
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Lack quality midsoles
2. Muck Boot Arctic Sport Rubber High-Performance Men’s Winter Boot
If you’re looking for a substantial boot to get you to a remote ice fishing site, then Muck Boots for ice fishing are a great option. Rated as the warmest boots for ice fishing, These sleek waders have a nearly seamless appearance. Nevertheless, the uppers are made from rugged Neoprene. Meanwhile, the soles are made from premium rubber. There’s no laces or closure system, just a relatively tight 15.5-inch boot opening. While there are no loops to pull the boots up , the spandex-like Neoprene uppers slide on like a glove. What’s more, the boots’ seam sealants eliminate the only potential weak spots.
We love that these boots have a sealed rubber shell that extends from the sole to the ankle. Not only is this area flexible and soft, but it provides extra protection from moisture and cold. The boots’ interiors are jam-packed with insulating materials too. There’s a soft, durable fleece lining as well as a 2-millimeter thermal foam midsole. According to the manufacturer, these boots will keep your feet toasty in temperatures as low as negative 40 degrees. Since the liner is 100% waterproof, you never have to worry about wet snow seeping through the surface.
The Muck Boot’s rubber soles have molded rubber lugs for much-needed traction in icy spots. This type of tread is extremely adaptive in all conditions, including uneven and slippery terrain. Above that, contoured EVA midsoles provide added support.
While it’s hard to find outdoor footwear that is both warm and comfortable, these tall boots most-certainly meet our key qualifications. Customers agree that they hold up well in below-zero temperatures. Not to mention, they can be worn during physically exhausting expeditions. Most people are pleasantly surprised by the light, flexible materials used to create these winter boots. While the layers are thin, they offer superior protection from moisture and cold.
The boots’ top-selling rank doesn’t surprise us one bit. The boots are relatively inexpensive. What’s more, they eliminate the hassle of laces and closures. Streamline options like these are definitely the future of ice fishing. As such, we’re happy to place them among our favorites.
Pros
- Quality 5-millimeter thick Neoprene uppers offer maximum mobility and protection
- Dense rubber soles with plenty of gripping power
- 0.75-inch platform
- Extremely flexible for long-distance adventures
- Shock-resistant platform
- Flexible rubber seam seal
- Sealed rubber shell around foot
Cons
- Pricey
3. Muck Boots Arctic Ice Extreme Conditions Tall Rubber Men’s Winter Boot With Arctic Grip Outsole
Yet another reliable option, Muck Boots’ Arctic Ice Extremes are an excellent choice for serious ice anglers. These impressive boots feature flexible 8-millimeter neoprene uppers with extended rubber casings and rubber-enforced seams. At their bases, thick synthetic rubber soles and molded lugs offer premium shock resistance and stability. An additional high-grade rubber casing even extends from the base to the ankle. This extra reinforcement keeps deep snow and cold water from seeping between an angle’s toes.
We love that these boots have no buckles or laces. One of the anglers’ biggest qualms is dealing with rusty metal and other inferior accessories. Unlike the previously mentioned Muck Boots, these models boast a rear pull tab. It’s hard to believe how handy such a small accessory can be. With that said, we used ours to put on, take off, and even dry out our boots.
We also loved that the shaft doesn’t have any bulky adornments. While padded collars and tongues add cushioning to otherwise bulky and rigid footwear, there’s no need for them on the Muck Boots. The combination of neoprene and thin synthetic insulator manages to create a surprisingly flexible and lightweight upper. While we were skeptical about how thin these boots appeared, they proved to be an absolute match for mother nature’s antics.
Another pleasant surprise was the contoured EVA foam midsole. While we didn’t expect much chock-resistance from a winter boot base, we felt like a tennis shoe core was hidden underneath our boot’s slick black exterior. The extended rubber shaft also gave us something to smile about. With so much underfoot support, we felt like we could actually focus on our fishing.
Customers seem to agree that this model of Muck Boots pulls out all the prizes. The grippy soles grab hold of ice and snow without issue. What’s more, we think that it’s safe to say that the neoprene is 100% waterproof. While Muck’s claim that these boots remain comfortable at minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit seems a bit egregious, we can certainly see what they are alluding to. These boots are purely built for cold, moist, slushy conditions.
Customers also agree that the price on these boots is a bit high. However, serious anglers shouldn’t have any trouble making a purchase. After all, a long day with inadequate foot coverage costs more in discomfort. While the most skeptical consumers were apprehensive about the thin materials, it gave us no trouble.
Pros
- Premium neoprene uppers with rubber seals
- Extended rubber casing up to ankle
- Synthetic soles with wide lugs for improved traction
- Resilient to damage, cold, and moisture
- Holds up well at below-zero temperatures
- Keeps toes toasty and dry for extended periods of time
- Cushioned, flexible midsoles
- Shaft measures 14 inches from the arch
Cons
- Pricey
4. Columbia Ice Maiden II
We know our list wouldn’t be complete without a solid pair women’s ice fishing boots. So, we cannot tell you how excited we were when we stumbled across the Columbia Ice Maiden II. This incredible boot is built with female ice anglers in mind. The blended leather and synthetic uppers create an impenetrable layer around your feet. Meanwhile, the thick rubber soles provide a solid platform for all-day ice fishing. We love that these boots have a bulky 1-inch heel with a 0.25-inch platform. The structure embraces the natural shape and contours of the female foot.
Another great feature on the Ice Maidens is the incredibly lightweight Techlite midsoles. These soft and shock-resistant underfoot panels have anglers feeling as though they are walking on clouds. Meanwhile, on the other end, the boots’ Omni-Grip rubber sole offers nearly slip-free movement across icy patches. Columbia is one of the few footwear companies that take the time to develop proprietary technologies, many of which are far superior to conventional cold-weather technologies.
The insulation in the Ice Maidens is made from 200-gram synthetic fleece. In addition to keeping your toes toasty for extended periods, its waterproof liner makes for a dry environment. On the outside of the boot, an adjustable lace-up closure gives users full control over their fit. Most customers agree that the technologies hold up well in the coldest, slushiest conditions.
As an added bonus, the Columbia boots boast a pleasing feminine look. The faux fur collar is just the icing on the cake. Boots like these prove women can keep up with the boys without looking like them. Despite a bold, fashionable exterior, this boot offers more temperature and moisture regulation that some of the most rugged work boots. With a shafts that extend well beyond the ankle areas and seamless booties, there’s no telling where you can go in these impressive winter boots.
Pros
- Synthetic and leather uppers
- Seamless waterproof booties
- Adjustable lace-up closures
- Proprietary 200-gram synthetic insulation
- Moisture-wicking lining
- Seam sealed membrane
- Strong feminine features including a faux fur collar
Cons
- Don’t fit well under pants
5. Baffin Ice Fishing Boots Men’s Wolf Snow Boots
Closing out our list of cold weather fishing boots, the Baffin Men’s Wolf Snow Boots are one of the hardiest options on the market. The uppers are made from premium leather and synthetic textile. They are strong, resilient, reliable. The soles of these shoes boast chunky yet lightweight synthetic rubber soles that grip the ice as if it were raw earth. Just above the soles, soft EVA midsoles offer superior shock resistance and a comfortable foot feel.
We love that these boots have a nearly knee-high haft. Not to mention, their buckle closure system is easy to secure and adjust with gloves on. There’s really no way for snow or slush to get into the boot opening. With an impressive negative 40-degree temperature rating, cold is going anywhere either.
Part of the Baffin Boots’ magic is tied to their seven-layer removable insulated inner boot system. This dense insulated unit protects anglers’ feet during even the most extended periods of exposure. Meanwhile, an extended rubber shaft provides flexible support where anglers need it most.
Customers seem overwhelmingly pleased with Baffin Boots. Most customers agree that the color options, which include black/pewter and black/expedition, are pleasing and discreet. What’s more, many consumers say their Baffin purchases have lasted for years despite frequent usage. Another elements that pleased customers was the reinforced rubber buckle, which made boot changes easier than ever.
Pros
- 100% leather and textile uppers offer extreme cold-weather protection
- Synthetic soles with plenty of grip
- Shaft measures 11 inches from the arch
- Dual buckle closures
- Soft, shock-resistant EVA midsoles
- Seven-layer removable insulated booty
- Boasts a -40-degree temperature rating
- Utilizes thermo-set polymers for added heat retention
Cons
- Lacks fashionable aesthetics
How to Find the Perfect Ice Fishing Boots
Finding the perfect footwear is a challenge no matter what it is that you’re looking for. When it comes to finding the perfect boots for ice fishing, you cannot afford to make a bad choice. With temperatures cold enough to freeze water, you’ll want boots that keep cold and moisture away from your toes while still managing to maximize your comfort and stability. Many manufacturers have attempted to satisfy these lofty expectations, but only a few of them have succeeded. In the section below, you’ll find the key considerations we made when identifying the most amazing outdoor footwear options.
Overall Design
The best winter boots for ice fishing meet all of our cold weather requirements. They need to be warm, snug, waterproof, and tactical. In cases where your ice angling takes you into remote locations, you will also need high shafts to keep snow from entering your boot openings. Of course, the culmination of these elements needs to also come in a wearable form.
Uppers
When searching for the perfect ice fishing boots, the first thing we looked at was the quality of the uppers. We wanted to ensure that the boots we chose were made of premium weatherproof materials. Common upper options include waterproof synthetics, rubber, and leather.
Synthetic materials are typically made from tight clusters of waterproof fibers. They are typically made from nylon and other polymers. These materials tend to be lightweight, flexible, and durable. Synthetic fabrics do an excellent job of keeping moisture at bay while optimizing foot flexibility. On the other hand, leather is a natural material that can be rather stiff. Still, it holds up well in cold weather and can handle its fair share of outdoor abuse. Rubber is also used to create uppers and upper reinforcement panels. Manufacturers use rubber because it is naturally waterproof and highly insulating.
The seams also influence the longevity and comfort of winter boots. Whether you’re dealing with leathers or synthetics, the most likely point of penetration is a weak seam. As such, we searched for boots with structural reinforcements, like rubber liners and seam sealants.
Shaft
Ice boot shafts come in a variety of heights. Some are short and fall around the ankles. These types are perfect for pairing with long pants or waders. Others are a foot or taller and fall about halfway between the ankles and the knees. These are preferred by anglers who expect to trudge through thick slush and snow.
Closures
Some of the key elements of warm, weatherproof boots are padded collars and tongues. These features help pad, insulate, and support an angler’s ankles while simultaneously keeping snow out of their boots. A dynamic lacing system with metal guides helps keep boots fitted and secure. Meanwhile, thick, durable laces ensure that an angler can make adjustments without having to remove their gloves.
Lining
warm fishing boots may have a combination of removable and built-in insulation panels. Boots manufacturers often have proprietary names for their liner materials. However, these marketing tools can be misleading. Thinsulate, a synthetic material made by 3M, is used by almost all major boot manufacturers. Thinsulate and other synthetic insulators consist of microfibers that shield against cold air while sealing in body heat. Because of Thinsulate’s incredible insulating properties, you’ll often see it on the label of winter jackets, gloves, and other cold-weather gear. Keep in mind that there are several different grades of Thinsulate. These grades are measured in grams.
Keep in mind that some boots utilize natural insulators. Fleece derived from sheep’s wool is a common option. This material works in the same way as synthetic insulators, with natural microfibers creating a tough-to-penetrate barrier. Many anglers prefer natural fleece because it is environmentally friendly and offers a comfortable foot feel.
It’s important to note that some manufacturers also back their boots with temperature ratings. These numbers are intended to represent a boot’s capacity for extremely cold weather. With that said, temperature ratings are often developed by boot manufacturers. More often than not, these ratings do not accurately represent the temperature range in which the boots can be comfortably worn.
Midsoles
With so much focus on boots’ weather resistance, consumers often overlook the importance of comfort. When searching for the perfect ice fishing boot, keep an eye out for options with padded midsoles. EVA and other synthetic foams offer a shock-resistant layer between an angler’s foot and a patch of unforgiving ice. What’s more, some boots offer nearly natural foot movements by utilizing flexible, lightweight midsoles.
Soles
Nearly all ice fishing boots utilize textured rubber or neoprene soles, but not all of these components are created equal. Scour reviews to ensure that the base materials do not tear up easily. The grooves on a winter boot should be deep and wide. When the tread is too small, you risk having ice and snow get stuck in the tight crevices.
At the same time, you want to avoid boots with heavy bottoms. While thick rubber is more resilient, there’s nothing enjoyable about lugging heavy rubber bricks across a barren lake. Keep in mind that the sole should also have an ergonomic design, with curves that embrace a natural gait.
Weight
Heavy boots will make walking on ice extremely difficult. What’s more, heavy gear increases your risk of breaking through thin ice. Light boots are easier to walk in an offer more maneuverability. Not to mention, they are the best option for anglers who value their lives.
Why Do Ice-Based Anglers Need Special Boots?
Ice fishing isn’t a comfortable hobby. It pulls anglers out of their comfort zones and immerses them in cold, wet, slushy environments. To optimize your catching capabilities, you need to prepare to spend extended periods outside. While winter jackets, snow pants, hats, and gloves protect your upper extremities, you need a solid pair of winter boots to protect your feet and ankles. After all, this is the one part of your body that constantly comes in contact with the ice. If the risks of hypothermia and frostbite aren’t enough to convince you to buy a quality pair of ice fishing boots, your potential discomfort should be.
To get a better look at how boots protect anglers on the ice, check out this video. As you can tell by the angler’s initial disappointment, cold, wet feet can ruin a fishing excursion. Whether you’re drilling a hole or reeling in a fighter, you constantly need a good grip on the ice. If you plan on sticking around to clean and cook your catch, there’s no telling the pain your feet will be in without a decent pair of boots.
In case you’re under the assumption that all ice fishing is one in rink-like environments, conditions, check out this realistic angling video. Slush and water often accumulate on the surface of lakes. After all, this reflective surface is constantly exposed to high sunlight.
Final Thoughts
At Float Nation, we take pride in introducing our customers to the best outdoor gear. That’s why we sifted through countless consumer favorites before settling on five of the most favorable ice fishing boots. These boots excelled in terms of insulation, waterproofing, and comfort. On top of that, they looked great and were easy to adjust. With a range of materials and designs to choose from, our list offers something for every type of angler. Whether you’re looking to take off on a backwoods adventure or just want to hang out at your local pond, our buying guide and product options are a great place for you to exlpore your options.
