Best Snake Boots of 2023: Review and Buyer’s Guide

Best Snake Boots of 2023: Review and Buyer’s Guide

32 Models Considered
64 Hours of Research
8 Experts Interviewed
218 Reviews Analyzed
Update - January 22, 2023We have updated our top-8 list for best snakes boots up to date for 2023. We defined LaCrosse Venom Scent as the most breathable boots in the list, and added a new cheap alternative to our review, which are not quite boots at all – Razer Snake Gaiters for your lower leg protection.

The idea behind snake-proof boots is simple. To keep snakes from biting your ankles and lower legs, where most snake bites occur. No matter how you feel about snakes, you have to admit that this is a pretty nice feature. The best snake boots provide unmatched protection from a number of aggressive predators, particularly those with the poisonous fangs.

According to the University of Florida researchers, between 7,000 and 8,000 people each year are bitten by poisonous states in the US. It doesn’t seem like a big number at first, but when you consider that outdoor enthusiasts and farm and ranch workers are significantly more likely to be among this number than the rest of the country, seeing as how they’re the ones out there rustling up all the snakes out of the switchgrass.

Finding the best pair of snake boots for you is about comparing protection capabilities with comfort, while keeping an eye on style and price along the way. Our team has compiled a list of the 8 Best Snake Boots for Men:

Comparison Table

Best Feature Material Waterproof Toe Pros Cons
5050
$
Check price for Muck Boot Arctic Pro Snow Boots
Best Waterproofing Pick
Arctic Pro Snow Boots
Arctic Pro Snow Boots
Muck Boot
Check Price
Rubber/fiber Yes Regular
  • Topline binding improves insulation
  • Doubling of materials around ankle, heel and instep offers excellent support
  • Premium price point
5050
$
Check price for Chippewa Boots CHIPPEWA 25115
Best Style Pick
CHIPPEWA 25115
CHIPPEWA 25115
Chippewa Boots
Check Price
100% leather No Square
  • Stylish 100% leather construction
  • Laceless; features sturdy buckles on ankle and calf
  • Not waterproof or windproof
  • Can take a while to work in
5050
$
Check price for ARIAT ARIAT CONQUEST
Best Comfort Pick
ARIAT CONQUEST
ARIAT CONQUEST
ARIAT
Check Price
100% leather No Square
  • Stylish & classic
  • Very Comfortable
  • More expensive than its competitors; large sizes particularly so
5050
$
Check price for DANNER Vital Waterproof Snake Boots
Best Hiking Pick
Vital Waterproof Snake Boots
Vital Waterproof Snake Boots
DANNER
Check Price
Leather and Textile Yes Reinforced
  • EVA midsole offers improved comfort
  • Vibram outsole provides traction and stability on various terrains
  • Some snake boots offer better-quality insulation
Check price for Guide Gear PURSUIT II
Best Value Pick
PURSUIT II
PURSUIT II
Guide Gear
Check Price
100% leather Yes Reinforced
  • Affordable; great value
  • 16” trunk for added bite protection
  • Wear down quicker
  • Waterproofing doesn’t last
5050
$
Check price for RAZER RAZER SNAKE GAITERS
Best Gaiters Pick
RAZER SNAKE GAITERS
RAZER SNAKE GAITERS
RAZER
Check Price
Denier nylon No N/A
  • Removable
  • Durable
  • Inexpensive
  • A bit heavy for long hikes
  • Straps will need replacing after a few seasons of use
5050
$
Check price for Thorogood Waterproof Snake Boots
Best Breathability Pick
Waterproof Snake Boots
Waterproof Snake Boots
Thorogood
Check Price
Leather/fabric Yes Reinforced
  • Lightweight, flexible design
  • Mossy Oak Break-Up camouflage invaluable for hunting
  • The fit can feel tight when zipped up
5050
$
Check price for ROCKY Mountain Waterproof Snake Boots
Best All Around Value Pick
Mountain Waterproof Snake Boots
Mountain Waterproof Snake Boots
ROCKY
Check Price
leather-and-synthetic Yes Regular
  • A comfortable, well-fitting shoe
  • Waterproof material means they can be used in all weather conditions
  • The zip can sometimes be stiff

Muck Boot Men’s Arctic Pro Snow BootsBest Waterproofing Pick

Lace None
Toe Regular
Waterproof Yes

Waterproofing is a crucial consideration for many people purchasing snake boots, and Muck Boots’ 8mm neoprene manufacturing means that these boots contribute to a 100% waterproof snake boot. The build quality means that the waterproof functionality of these shoes is long-lasting and hard-wearing.

Several factors make these shoes a leading choice in adverse weather conditions. Aside from the neoprene material, which moulds to the foot shape, the thermal foam layer in the shoe’s base retains heat within the shoe even at very cold temperatures.

Neoprene is favored as a manufacturing material in hunting boots for several reasons, including insulation and water resistance. It is also lightweight, flexible and durable, which makes it comfortable to wear and ideal for use in wet or marshy conditions.

This material can retain its flexibility in cold temperatures, which allows for a better range of motion in all conditions. These shoes have a platform height of 18 inches providing ample protection up the lower leg.

Ankle support is another factor we focused on in our testing. In rugged use, these shoes offer stability and rigidity where it matters around the ankle and surrounding area. This resilience is offered by a design that doubles material around the ankle, instep and heel.

The tread on the shoe builds on this stability, promising excellent grip. A topline binding adds to the insulating effectiveness of this product. This is fairly typical in Muck Boot’s product range, with many items designed to offer comfort in sub-zero temperatures.

Whilst these shoes are at a premium price point, the build quality and design reflect that. For outdoor use in winter, this versatile, innovative shoe offers a stable, comfortable base in all weather conditions.

Muck’s products tend to run a little tight around the heel and calf; for this reason we highly recommend aiming for one size higher than you normally would.

Pros
  • Neoprene shaft and foam base offer high-quality waterproofing and insulation
  • Topline binding improves insulation
  • Doubling of materials around ankle, heel and instep offers excellent support
Cons
  • Premium price point

Chippewa 25115 Snake BootsBest Style Pick

Lace Buckles
Toe Square
Waterproof No

Without question, the Chippewa 25115 Model snake boots are the sleekest, most fashionable snake boots on the market. 100% leather construction not only looks good but provides unmatched durability and bite protection. These things are designed to last, and you can tell from the moment you take them out of the box.

The square toe construction will offer a familiar comfort style to all the cowboys out there, preventing your toes from getting all mashed up in the front of the boot during a long hike (or ride) through the backcountry.

One thing these boots are lacking is a 100% waterproof rating, and this is largely due to the whole leather construction. Now there are plenty of leather waterproofing agents on the market, but few that won’t alter the color of the leather itself, and it is unlikely that you will be able to achieve full waterproofing.

They hold up just fine however to puddles, dense mud, snow, and sudden rainstorms, so everything short of crossing a high creek and you’ll do just fine.

A common complaint with all leather boots and one that the Chippewa boots certainly share is that they tend to be more than a bit stiff when they’re brand new. It is not entirely uncommon for the boots to have a slightly different fit from foot to foot. In almost every case, this goes away after a few days of breaking them in (leather has a high ability to ‘grow’ around your foot) but if you just can’t get your foot inside, then it’s time to send them back for a larger size.

Pros
  • Stylish 100% Leather Construction
  • Laceless; features sturdy buckles on ankle and calf
Cons
  • Not waterproof
  • Can take a while to work in

Ariat CONQUESTBest Comfort Pick

Lace None
Toe Square
Waterproof No

Seeing as how Ariat got their start by dedicating themselves to crafting the highest performance footwear for equestrian sports, it is no surprise that their CONQUEST snake boot looks just like an old fashioned cowboy boot with a bit of a modern flair, while at the same time offering full protection from unwanted snakebites.

The shaft is about a foot and a half from the arch, meaning that these aren’t the tallest snake boots on the market, but if they were they probably wouldn’t offer the same equestrian style. They’ve got the wide and spacious square-toe design nailed; these are some of the most comfortable boots that we had the pleasure of reviewing. In fact, they feel more like sneakers than heavy duty outdoorsman boots.

If there is any drawback to the CONQUEST snake boots, is that they can get a bit pricey, especially when you are looking at any size above a men’s 11 and with EE (double wide) sizes. Considering the price you might expect these to be waterproof, but they aren’t quite.

What you are most likely paying for is all that imported leather, but the upgraded sole is comfortable enough that it makes them worth it.

Pros
  • Stylish & Classic
  • Very Comfortable
Cons
  • More expensive than its competitors; large sizes particularly so

Danner Men’s Vital Waterproof Snake BootsBest Hiking Pick

Lace Yes
Toe Reinforced
Waterproof Yes

Danner Men’s Vital Waterproof Snake Boots are stable, comfortable and hard-wearing, making them a natural choice for hiking. We focussed on factors such as ankle stability, waterproofing, grip and build quality.

A great hiking shoe excels in these areas whilst maintaining a lightweight design. Rating shoes in the testing pool by these characteristics, Danner’s flagship men’s hunting shoe topped our list. The design combines some of the main features of hiking and snake boots, with this crossover reflected in the varied benefits.

With a height of 17 inches, this product offers the core protection to the lower leg expected from a snake shoe. The additional support offered around the ankle and foot provides a stable hiking platform. Danner Plyolite EVA improves comfort and support in the midsole, offering rebound with each step.

A Vibram outsole provides traction across the full range of surfaces encountered whilst hiking. On longer hiking trips, a lightweight shoe can help reduce fatigue, and Danner’s compact design and efficient build help to facilitate that.

Danner employs 360 degree snake protection whilst maintaining breathability in the design. This is implemented through a fabric which sits between the liner and the exterior of the shoe. The outer lay combines high-quality, durable leather with waterproof panels for a practical and aesthetic finish.

Whilst some snake boots offer higher-quality insulation, Danner Men’s Vital Waterproof Snake Boot excels in a wide range of areas that places it as a clear frontrunner for hiking. With a varied hiking offering, Danner has implemented the same innovative approach to this shoe to offer a stable and durable foundation whilst retaining the core benefits of a snake boot.

Pros
  • The waterproof design offers a versatile shoe for wet and dry conditions
  • Vibram outsole provides traction and stability on various terrains
  • EVA midsole offers improved comfort
Cons
  • Some snake boots offer better-quality insulation

Guide Gear PURSUIT IIBest Value Pick

Lace Yes
Toe Reinforced
Waterproof Yes

We actually had a hard time getting our hand on a pair of the PURSUIT II boots from Guide Gear. The new model that just hit the shelves is apparently so popular that many outlets have been on back order for some time. If that does not say something about the performance quality that I do not know what does.

Perhaps it’s the construction. These puppies are sturdy indeed, and though we haven’t had them for that long, it is hard to imagine them giving out anytime soon. At 16’’, the trunk is amongst the tallest of any other snake boot in its class. This can provide a welcome increase in protection from even the gnarliest diamondback. Anyone who has ever come close to stepping on one of those will know how valuable that extra peace of mind can be.

The strength of these boots is definitely the value; they are more affordable than LaCrosse or Danner and offer many of the same features. There is however a slight reduction in longevity as a result. The PURSUIT II boots will break down a bit faster than other brands, and the waterproofing will start to fade after a few seasons of wear.

While these are a great pair of beginner boots, enthusiasts and experts may want to consider springing for a pair of Ariats or Danners.

Pros
  • Affordable; Great Value
  • 16” Trunk for Added Bite Protection
Cons
  • Wear Down Quicker
  • Waterproofing doesn’t last

Razer Snake GaitersBest Gaiters Pick

Lace Straps
Toe N/A
Waterproof No

So we’re technically breaking the rules by adding a pair of gaiters to a list that’s all about snake boots, but we think the infraction is worth it when you consider all the benefits you’re getting with a pair of gaiters over a full pair of boots.

Oregon based Razer Gaiters has created a product that provides the same level of snake bite protection that traditional snake boots offer with the added benefit of being easily and quickly removable. This is a handy feature for anyone out riding on the trail or working the fields who might only need snake protection in certain areas.

Ready for the best part? They’re only about $60.00. So even if you don’t feel like springing for a shiny new pair of boots, there’s a way to keep the snakes from biting.

The RAZER GAITERS are basically leg armor that you strap on. The polycarbonate nylon is tough and thick (they weigh about 13oz) and feels like it would be able to stop a lot more than just a snake bite.

The added weight makes these a bit heavy for long hikes, unless you are into weight training, in which case, just think of the gains, bro.

Pros
  • Removable
  • Durable
  • Inexpensive
Cons
  • A bit heavy for long hikes
  • Straps will need replacing after a few seasons of use

Thorogood Waterproof Snake BootsBest Breathability Pick

Lace Yes
Toe Reinforced
Waterproof Yes

One of the most overlooked considerations when choosing high-quality boots is breathability. Thorogood’s waterproof snake boots lead on this factor, offering versatility and comfort throughout wide-ranging surfaces and climates.

Thorogood has implemented a synthetic snake-proof fabric into an ergonomic breathable shoe that offers many of the same benefits of their wider product range. As a brand, Thorogood is known for providing high-quality, durable footwear, typically with a tailored practical focus such as industry, sport or hunting.

This practical focus is evident in Thorogood’s Waterproof Snake Boots, with features ranging from a Dual-Density Comfort Footbed to cushion heel strikes and 3M Scotchgard to maintain the finish of the high-quality leather exterior in the long term.

Snake boots are often used over varied terrain in rapidly changing weather conditions. The challenge in choosing a pair of snake boots is finding shoes which offer the necessary protection and support whilst still retaining a lightweight, breathable design.

Similarly to many other shoes in Thorogood’s product range, the waterproof snake boots design retains this breathability whilst offering premium-quality protection and support. The Z-Trac Traction outsole utilizes deep grooves to improve stability and grip in muddy conditions allowing you to take steps in rainy or icy conditions with confidence.

One drawback with these shoes is they can feel tight when zipped up. This means it can be worth exploring different sizing options to find the ideal fit. With a classic look, these shoes incorporate a range of modern features from Mossy Oak Break-Up camo to synthetic snake-proof fabric to offer a dependable and comfortable item of footwear.

Pros
  • Lightweight, flexible design
  • Snake Guard material integrated to provide comprehensive protection
  • Mossy Oak Break-Up camouflage invaluable for hunting
Cons
  • The fit can feel tight when zipped up

Rocky Men’s Mountain Waterproof Snake BootsBest All Around Value Pick

Lace None
Toe Regular
Waterproof Yes

From a value standpoint, Rocky Men’s Mountain Waterproof Snake Boots offers a durable, comfortable and versatile boot. One of the critical features of this shoe is the lightweight design of the snake guard.

The Realtree EDGE High Abrasion Snake Guard is also flexible ensuring that the range of motion is not restricted. With 17 inches of protection, this design also focuses on offering protection from briars and thorns.

Rocky’s shoes are known for offering high-quality waterproofing, and the VP Waterproof technology ensures that the brand’s snake boot is no exception. The outsole provides traction and grip across a range of terrain.

With a zipper on the back, this removes the often time-consuming process of lacing snake shoes up before use. As with most snake boots, they may take several uses before the stiffness leaves completely. This is to be expected, and once worn in, they provide flexibility and a good range of motion.

The Rocky Red Mountain Waterproof Snake Boot is a great-looking boot, comfortable and perfect for outdoor activities. The design of the boot is modern and sleek, making it a great aesthetic choice that prioritizes functionality.

In terms of sizing, the boot offers a snug fit, so it can be a good idea to order a ½ size larger than you normally would. Although the zipper can sometimes be stiff, the materials throughout the shoe offer a durable and practical snake shoe with no clear weaknesses.

Pros
  • A comfortable, well-fitting shoe
  • TerraSuspension footbed reduces the impact
  • Waterproof material means they can be used in all weather conditions
Cons
  • The zip can sometimes be stiff

How do Snake Boots Work?

Best Snake Boots

Snake-proof boots, so simply snake boots, are a specialized version of hunting boots that utilize dense fabrics and thinly woven nylon layers to achieve a barrier that protects against snakebites. Because the majority of snake bites occur below the knee, this is the ideal way to protect yourself from poisonous predators if you’re going to be shuffling about in snake country.

Construction Material & Insulation

There are a few things to pay attention to when selecting a pair of snake boots:

Different brands utilize different fabrics and construction techniques to make their boots more and more effective at guarding against snakebites.

  • Leather is the old standby, and has been the material of choice for footwear since the very beginning. Incredibly durable, lightweight, and water resistant, leather usually compromises some portion of the boot.
  • Gore-Tex is no newcomer to the outdoor industry. It’s a breathable waterproof fabric that offers high durability and tear resistance at a remarkably light pack weight.
  • Nylon Weave is a construction technique as well as a material, and offers many of the same waterproofing benefits of Gore-Tex but can often be cheaper.

Waterproofing

Best Snake Boots

Not all snake boots are 100% waterproof, so it is important to double check before you make a purchase.

While waterproof boots can come in quite handy in river crossings and bog hunting, they can also get a little warm in the summer months and offer lower degrees of breathability than non-waterproof models.

In general, rubber pull-on boots will be more waterproof than lace-up boots.

Related: How to Waterproof Your Hiking Boots

Trunk Height

Best Snake Boots

The ‘trunk’ of the boot is the part that comes up over your ankle and up your calf. Essentially, where the leg goes. When hunting for a good pair of snake boots it is important to consider how high this trunk rises from the heel.

The higher the trunk, the more of your leg is protected against both predators and water entry.

The snake boots we reviewed varied from 13” to 17”, but there are both taller and shorter pairs on the market that offer the same protective construction.

Comfort & Style

Best Snake Boots

A good snake boot has to me more than just a piece of armor. A comfortable pair of boots can go with you everywhere; an uncomfortable pair can ruin your day real quick.

Look for boots that have good ankle grip and tightening mechanisms to ensure that the boot holds snugly around your foot.

Wrapping it All Up

It was no easy task narrowing down all the products on the market into one best-of list. But hey, someone had to do it. The best snake boots for men and women alike need only to focus on two things to be successful: protection and comfort, and our candidates were certainly up to the task.

For my dollar, it doesn’t get any better than Ariat CONQUEST. I like a well-made boot that looks cool, and this one has them both.

Anyone not wanting to shell out the extra cash should go with the Guide Gear PURSUIT II. It’s a great entry level boot that provides professional level protection and high comfort without breaking the bank.

Snakeproof Materials Used on Boots

A short review on most common materials used for snake boots.

There is a short number of materials used in snake boots manufacturing. In most cases, you will see a combination of materials where each material type provides its own benefits. Leather and and textile provides breathability to your legs while rubber makes a boot 100% waterproof and not breathable at all. Synthetic parts of a boot make manufacturing process cost less so the final price can be lower for those who aren’t yet ready to invest $200+ into snake boots.

Some of the most common materials include:

Genuine Leather (Lacrosse Venom Scent, Chippewa 25115, Ariat, Danner Pronghorn, Rocky)

Synthetic/ Textile

Rubber/ Neoprene (Muck Boot Pursuit)

Nylon (Razer Gaiter)

The boots made of these materials do not guarantee a snake bite from penetrating thru the inner layer. However, these are the most flexible and durable materials simultaneously that will keep your legs moving and make risk of biting by a snake extremely low.

What To Do If You Get Bitten By A Snake

Best Snake Boots

While snake boots offer protection for the areas most commonly bitten by snakes, they cannot protect against all attacks.

The Mayo Clinic offers this advice for anyone who has been bit by a venomous snake:

  1. Call 911 right away, especially if there are signs of discoloration or swelling. Many first responders carry antivenomous drugs and will be able to help.
  2. Remain calm and move beyond the snake’s striking distance.
  3. Remove jewelry and tight clothing before you start to swell.
  4. Position yourself, if possible, so that the bite is at or below the level of your heart.
  5. Clean the wound, but don’t flush it with water. Cover it with a clean, dry dressing.

They also offer the list of actions restricted after a snake bite:

  • Don’t use a tourniquet or apply ice.
  • Don’t cut the wound or attempt to remove the venom.
  • Don’t drink caffeine or alcohol, which could speed your body’s absorption of venom.
  • Don’t try to capture the snake. Try to remember its color and shape so that you can describe it, which will help in your treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Do I Even Need Snake Boots?
a:

Well, I suppose that depends on whether or not you are going to be in the vicinity of any snakes!

The US has over 20 varieties of poisonous snake, and many of them have neighboring habitats to humans. If you are unsure about the snakes that might be in your area, contact your local wildlife department for more information.

Even if there aren’t a lot of snakes in your area, a good pair of snake boots provides protection against other threats like mud, water, and rocks, while also disrupting your outline with effective camouflage patterns.

q: What’s the Difference Between Snake Boots and Snake Gaiters?
a:

Unlike snake boots, snake gaiters are not really a piece of footwear, but rather items that you strap around your lower leg that offer the same bite protection as boots but without the full buildout.

The benefit of gaiters is that you can take them off and put them back on easily and quickly. This can be helpful for anyone who doesn’t want to have to wear knee-high boots all day.

q: Are there even venomous snakes in the United States?
a:

Yes! In fact there are over 20 different lethally poisonous snakes in the United States.

While fatalities from snake bites do occur, they are becoming more and rarer in the face of cell phones and ever progressing medical technologies and procedures.

Still, it is important to stay protected against snakebites, which even if not fatal can lead to severe pain and possible limb amputation.

q: Do They Make Snake Boots for Ladies?
a:

Until recently there were not a whole lot of options on the market for a woman looking for a good pair of snake boots. Fortunately that’s all changed. Today all the top producers offer boots specifically fitted for women that offer the same high degree of bite protection as the men’s varieties.

q: Are Snake Boots Waterproof?
a:

While many varieties of snake boot are fully waterproof, not all of them are, and it can be difficult to tell by just looking at them. Be sure to check the product specifications before purchasing.

q: Are the Insoles Removable?
a:

Removable insoles is a feature that only some boots offer with their base product, so be sure to look at the specifications before you buy.

Even if the boots don’t come with removable insoles, it is always possible to add your own pair of hunting insoles for extra comfort, odor control, and moisture wicking.

q: Which Type of Toe Profile is More Comfortable?
a:

That depends a lot on the shape of your feet. In general, square toed varieties offer a bit more room than their rounded counterparts, but are built for more narrow feet. Round toe construction is more common with wider boots and tend to be more comfortable if you have big feet.

Best Snake Boots of 2023: Review and Buyer’s Guide
1 Comment
  1. Reply
    James Herrera April 6, 2021 at 7:54 pm

    I’m one the few that are allergic to neoprene and I have purchased boots; I then have to return them because they are lined with neoprene

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