Patrick Orcutt 07.13.26
If you’re the type of hunter who stays out for long periods of time you can rely on a good pair of boots to make or break your season. That’s why Meindl has made such a solid name for itself in the footwear game. The German organization has been making boots for over 300 years and is renowned for creating top-shelf, high-performance hunting gear. their Comfort Fit Boa Speed Hunter Boots This is an example; They’ve put a modern spin on a proven design boa system For speed and precision.
More Meindel @AOD
Meindl launches Perfect Fit app to fix boot sizing
All Outdoors Review – Meindl Alpine 4.1 Hiker Boots
Meindl Boots – German craftsmanship and American detail
All Outdoors Hands-on Preview: Meindl USA Alpine 4.1 Boot
i have Meindl Boa Speed Hunter Boots I’ve now been on my feet for three tough seasons, so I can tell you that this review will not be influenced by the fact that the company provided them for me. Nor did Meindl get a look at the piece before it went into print. Here in Maine I have logged hundreds of miles with them from fall to spring. He’s seen wet and muddy conditions during early deer hunting, deep snow as the season winds down and the humidity of spring turkey races. In that entire area, Boa Speed Hunters have become my first choice. They’re as capable as they are comfortable, some of the best things I’ve owned.
Specifications – Comfort Fit Boa Speed Hunter Boots
- Height: 8.25 inches
- upper material:Premium nubuck leather with full rubber toe guard
- waterproofing:100% Gore-Tex membrane
- outer sole: Vibram Alpin Lite
- closing system: BOA® Speed Fit System
- Last: Comfort Fit®
- midsole: polyurethane
- footbed: Moldable cork insole that conforms to your foot
- weight:about 3.16 pounds
- best for: Hunting in all seasons (fall, winter, spring), rough terrain, long days on foot
- country of origin:handmade in slovenia
- MSRP:about $460 USD
First Impressions and Design – Comfort Fit Boa Speed Hunter Boots
The first thing you notice when you unbox them is how they look. The rich brown nubuck has a professional yet sturdy quality that doesn’t overdo the tactical vibe, yet still makes an impact at the trailhead or camp. The lines are clean and the rubber toe cap gives them an air of purpose.
I’ll be honest, I was a little wary of the BOA system on a boot made for serious work. I’m used to the no-nonsense reliability of traditional laces and I was skeptical that the dials wouldn’t get clogged with mud or abandon you in the field. A kill put those fears to rest. This is a good arrangement. You can make precise adjustments in seconds with one hand and your gloves on. The way it spreads pressure means you won’t get hot spots with traditional laces. On a long day when you need to make a quick change, I appreciate it.
Comfort – Comfort Fit Boa Speed Hunter Boots
you will find that comfortable fit® system is what actually puts Meindl’s hunting boots In a class of my own. This is a feature you don’t get from the competition. The latter is designed to be more spacious than the traditional European Fit you’re used to, with a toe box and overall size that’s far more accommodating. For a hunter who is on his feet for hours, it is exceptionally comfortable. There’s plenty of room in your forefoot but the heel is still tightly closed so you don’t have to worry about blisters or hot spots when on long stems or when glassing. Then there’s Meindl’s moldable cork footbed, over time it will contour to your foot for support and cushioning that feels custom made. With a flexible midsole and good arch support, the whole package gives you the performance you want in the backcountry without compromising comfort. I can tell you from three seasons with the Boa Speed Hunter boots that they make a huge difference when you’re out in the woods for a hard day’s work, relieving fatigue on your feet.
Then there is the matter of stability. I’ve put these shoes through three seasons of constant abuse on rocky trails and dense bushes and the uppers show very little wear. And when it comes to footing, the Vibram outsole has no trouble with loose leaves or smooth rocks, so I don’t think twice about steep slopes or technical terrain.
Real-World Performance – Comfort Fit Boa Speed Hunter Boots
In the field, the Boa Speed Hunters have lived up to everything I’ve asked of them. Whether it’s removing glass from a hill in the cold, working through wet wood on a stationary hunt, or packing up game, they have performed excellently. You don’t want to think about wet or cold feet when you need to concentrate, and these shoes let you focus on what matters. The warmth and comfort make long periods of sitting and hard stalking more enjoyable.
what i like
GORE-TEX provides breathability and waterproofing. The durability is excellent after three seasons of hard use. They’re nice to look at too, and I really like the BOA system for a quick, precise fit. There is hardly any break-in period and the support is there when you need it for all-day comfort.
the only drawback
It’s the price tag that gives me pause. You are investing $410 or so. A serious hunter can see value in the workmanship and performance of these shoes, but there is a lot more to the shoes than that. If they continue like this for the next few seasons, I’ll consider it money well spent.
Closing Thoughts – Comfort Fit Boa Speed Hunter Boots
I have no doubt about it Meindl Boa Speed Hunter Boots They have a place in my gear closet after the heavy use they see. They have old world quality with a modern twist. I was a little cautious about the BOA at first but that soon went away, it makes things easier in the woods. They have protected my feet and kept them dry on some of my tough days in the field, while looking the part and feeling good to boot. Any hunter who cares about longevity and performance should take a look at them. He has made my time on the field much more productive and I look forward to many more seasons in them. I would recommend these to anyone who is particular about their footwear.
