I remember the classic “duck boots” that my grandfather wore while deer hunting, gear I emulated once I began hunting on my own. Funny, but somewhere in the last three decades those waterproof boots with a soft, pliable sole were replaced with inches of foam and rugged soles that allowed me to stand on hot coals or ice picks.
The other day, I took a step back in time (no pun intended) and laced up a pair of Field & Stream Merrimack boots for the opening day of deer season. Normally, I break in a pair of new boots for a week or two, yet one step in the Merrimack’s and there was no need.
Aside from all of the normal benefits of this classic gear like waterproof, insulating, and ultra comfort, I could feel the earth under my feet. Walking to my stand wasn’t a crunch as much as a stalk, a sensation I couldn’t ignore. The boots were exceedingly comfortable, warm in the moderate 40-degree temperatures, sure-footed when climbing into my stand, and otherwise eliminated the thought of my feet for the next six hours. What? On a deer stand without cold feet? That’s right!
On a side note, I ordered a pair for my wife, and the reaction was like one of those diamonds-for-Christmas commercials. Consider giving the Merrimacks a try. Visit the Field & Stream Shop for more information.
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