I’m considering buying the Jim Green Razorback boots because they’re affordable, have good water resistance, and are known for their comfort. However, I’m concerned about how they’ll perform in winter conditions, especially with snow and water, since they aren’t fully waterproof.
I’ll be hiking in the Smokies around December-January, and I know the weather can be unpredictable. Do you think these boots are good enough for winter hiking, or should I consider other affordable options?
I’d be cautious about using non-waterproof boots in the snow. Even with Gore-Tex boots, my feet sometimes get wet during extended snow treks. It depends on how often you’ll be in wet conditions and how much you value dry feet. Some people prefer non-waterproof boots because they dry faster once wet. If you’re interested in alternatives, check out resources like Switchback Travel.
@Jordan
Would something like Sno-Seal help make them more waterproof? I’m not sure how much snow or rain I’ll encounter yet.
Clove said:
@Jordan
Would something like Sno-Seal help make them more waterproof? I’m not sure how much snow or rain I’ll encounter yet.
I haven’t used Sno-Seal myself, so I can’t say for sure. It might help with light rain, but constant exposure to snow and water could still be an issue.
Jim Green boots are made in South Africa, where winters aren’t as harsh. I’d be skeptical about how well they’d perform in snowy or wet winter conditions.
Harley said:
Jim Green boots are made in South Africa, where winters aren’t as harsh. I’d be skeptical about how well they’d perform in snowy or wet winter conditions.
True, but South Africa does have regions with heavy rains. If OP is more worried about wet feet than the cold, thick socks might help. Sno-Seal could add some water resistance, but it’s not perfect for extreme wet conditions.
@Ren
I’m definitely more worried about getting wet than staying warm. Would applying Sno-Seal make them waterproof enough for winter hiking?
Clove said:
@Ren
I’m definitely more worried about getting wet than staying warm. Would applying Sno-Seal make them waterproof enough for winter hiking?
Sno-Seal might work for light moisture, but in heavy snow or rain, your feet will eventually get wet. Consider boots specifically designed for winter hiking.
If you’re worried about wet feet, consider boots like Muck Boots. They’re designed for wet and muddy conditions and might work better than leather boots in snowy environments.
The Razorbacks are decent for the price but not ideal for winter hiking. For winter, I’d recommend a good leather hiking boot with Gore-Tex, like the Asolo TPS 520 GV Evo or Zamberlan Vioz GTX. Treat them with a waterproofing product like Grangers Wax. Avoid Sno-Seal if you plan to resole the boots, as it can cause issues with some adhesives. Proper winter boots are worth the investment for durability and comfort.
@Finch
Thanks for the detailed suggestions! The Asolo boots look good but are a bit pricey. Are there any more affordable options you’d recommend?
Clove said:
@Finch
Thanks for the detailed suggestions! The Asolo boots look good but are a bit pricey. Are there any more affordable options you’d recommend?
Focus on fit and features rather than price. A good pair of boots is a long-term investment, especially if they can be resoled. If you’re on a budget, check out sales or secondhand options, but prioritize comfort and durability over cost.
@Finch
Got it, I’ll start looking around and make sure to get the right fit. Thanks for the advice!
Clove said:
@Finch
Got it, I’ll start looking around and make sure to get the right fit. Thanks for the advice!
Good luck! Once you find the right boots, they’ll make a huge difference in your hiking experience.
I love my Razorbacks—they’re super comfortable and durable. However, for winter hiking, they’re not the best choice due to the leather lining. Thick wool socks might help, and you can use mink oil or beeswax for waterproofing, but I’d still recommend looking into proper winter boots.