Struggling to decide between two different styles of boot & want to get a few opinions on what you all prefer for trips in the BWCA. I tend to plan my trips for late May and September and currently own the older model of the NRS Boundary Boot. I'm interested in the new model of the NRS Boundary Boot but then I am also considering a Chota Hybrid Boot since I do a lot of fly fishing around Ohio where I live.
This is the Chota boot https://www.chotaoutdoorgear.com/collections/footwear/products/hyft-800-hybrid-high-top-rubber-soled-boot
This is the NRS boot https://www.nrs.com/product/30035.02/nrs-boundary-boots
Obviously they're two different style boots - any feed back for pro's / con's is appreciated.
"I don't often do equipment reviews, but I thought this would be of interest as it is a relatively new product. I purchased these in June for a mid-July solo of ten days 28 portages.
These things are light weight. So light that I worried about their durability. They did just fine on a rugged trip and seem to be no worse for the wear. I look forward to using these on many more excursions. They are right on in size. If your going to wear a heavy rag wool sock you might need a size larger. I was able to replace the footbed with a Spenco orthotic and wear a medium weight sock.
I immediately disposed of the bungee shoelaces. On uneven ground, especially going downhill I want my boots to be firmly attached to my feet. The bungees stretch and feel loose just at the time you need them to support your foot the most. I put some nice round, tough laces on them.
Best thing about these boots is their stickiness on wet rocks, wet logs and roots. In ten days and 28 portages I never had a slip. Better than any wading shoe I have ever had. They also supported and protected my feet well. Besides the portages I went on several dry land cross-country explorations and they were comfortable on really rugged ground. The soles are pretty stiff- I like that with stoney trails.
They drain fast and dry out quick except for the collar. I was not in a hurry to get out of them arriving at camp. I only wore my dry shoes on one layover day that I didn't paddle until evening.
Negatives. The dumb bungee laces-easily fixed. The soft collar, especially combined with the low cut back. For any boot that might get completely submerged in mud or soft sand a uniform height collar that can snug up to your ankle is preferred. Soft, low cut collars are just funnels for mud and sand. Its why I liked my old Converse Allstars and the old LL Bean Maine Guide shoe. But LL Bean Shoe is gone and my old feet need more protection than the Allstars can give so I'll put up with the collar to get the other advantages of this boot.
I would recommend these if you are looking for new wet shoes. I may order another pair to store away. There is always a good chance they will be discontinued before I wear these out."
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