I used to work in trucking in the far north of Canada. One of the other guys I used to work with used to wear mocassins to work while everybody else was wearing $300+ heavy winter boots. Said he traded a bottle of whiskey to an old Native trapper on his old truck route and that they were the warmest footwear he'd ever owned. That tech worked for hundreds of thousands of years for a reason, not really too many ways to improve on it.
@@1ReneDumont Can't say I'm surprised, that guy got somewhat lucky. That old timer never used to go to town, he traded game, furs, and mocassins for everything he needed, lived 8ish hours from anything even resembling a village and barely spoke any English. I'd heard a few years later the cabin was abandoned and caved in, I don't think he made it much past that season. Not many old timers like that around anymore.
I, spent a lot of money on boots in my lifetime, and the military mickey mouse boots have been the best winter boot I've ever had. As far as being on the heavy side, they are but once your legs are used to them there not a problem. I'm 70 years old, walk 3-mile hikes with the dog daily in the winter months, no big deal. If your feet get wet they will rewarm quickly in these boots, absolutely love them, best boots you can buy at an army surplus store.
I have a pair of seal skin boots that do really well in Arctic Canada . I turn them inside out and can dry them in 10 minutes by the fire after freezing the water condensate off , and giving them a shake. Glad to see you healing up lars .
Just found your channel and of course I'm binge watching. Just wanted to say thanks. The government's would want us to all be enemies but people are the same no matter where you live. Theres good ppl everywhere and I love that the Internet can bring us together to enjoy what we love. Greetings from Pennsylvania(US)
The native beaver boots look like they can probably walk you home on a dark winter night when you have had a little to much vodka and caviar with your friends. :-)
People forget military equipment is made by the cheapest bidder. It is the lowest quality that fulfills the requirements. Plus cold weather clothing is meant to be used in tandem with other issued warming layers. "Military Grade" is usually used as in insult in service. There is always a much better civilian version.
Can you do a review on the types of winter jackets you use? I live in a very cold part of Canada and would love to hear your opinion, think you have a great channel and always look forward to your videos, stay safe brother.
Used to drive a bulk truck delivering propane...temps down to -35 C .We wore rubber boots on our work boots but eventually the steel cap on the work boots made it really cold for the toes. Back at home I put in theses rubber boots 2 layers of wool insoles plus a thick wool sock insert and wore 3 pairs of wool socks to fill the space. Never bought again a pair of real winter boots. They are very light and have the feel of a mocassin and since the rubber is so soft they have a good grip on ice. Thanks Lars for the review and take care.
Hello Lars, thanks for the great video. I served in the US Army and I was stationed in West Germany in the 70's and 80's. Winter there would get down to the low teens F or even single digits at times. We were issued the black Mickey Mouse boots with the valve. Haha, we thought you were supposed to blow into the valve when you expected very cold weather. I only wore my Mickey Mouse boots one time on an FTX. They were too warm and made my feet sweat. Maybe as you said it was water from condensation. I preferred to wear my standard US Army leather Jump Boots with my rubber Galoshes over them.
Great and interesting video, Ill be looking into where I can get some EVA boots since this winter seems to be coming in cold. But more than anything I'm just happy that you seem to be doing better after your bout with covid. God bedring, Lars.
I was issued mucalucks boots when I was stationed in North Dakota and they was great to wear and was comfortable too. Some people was issued the boots with the valve on the side and they was not as comfortable and warm, but those was the two types issued to us by the Air Force when there.
I bought some Steger Mukluks 25 years ago. Made in Ely Minnesota back then. They have a tradition leather lacing and come to just below my knee. Made of a thick moose hide with a rubber sole. They have a removable wool felt inner boot and sole. They are very light and really warm, BUT...as Lars said, this type of boot is not for wet conditions, or just "standing around".
Great video, Lars. I switched to EVA boots and this will be my 4th winter with the same pair - no discernible wear at all but I've worn out a set of liners that came with it and replaced it with thick wool ones. They weigh nothing. People laugh at them until I take one off and show them how light they are. Then, they ask where to buy them. Those traditional beaver/sheep/wolverine boots look - awesome!!. I also have a pair of Russian Valenki I use when it's nice and dry cold out.
Hi Lars I asked about winter footwear my colleague from Finland. He told me that they wear crocks with many layers of wool socks. One cannot see it in towns but in the country side where they don't care about esthetic but follow simple solutions which work well. Cheers
Ugh! I did a hike up to Camp Muir (About a 10,000 foot elevation) on Mt Ranier. The hike itself isn't very long and I had some very thick wool hiking socks but my boots weren't insulated. Maybe two-thirds of the way to the Camp Muir I really started feeling the cold. By the time I got to Camp Muir proper, I was actually worried about frostbite. My hiking partner got our shelter setup while I went into the hiker hut to try to warm myself. Luckily, after our shelter was up I was able to change socks, and warm up in my sleeping bag. No frostbite, but cold weather hiking is no joke. Make sure you have the right boot for the job.
Great video as usual. I find the strongest point of the Mickey boots is the inside is also rubber and doesn’t absorb the condensation and sweat. So when you swap out socks in very cold weather you’re right back to cozy and dry with no waiting.
I was on the British Army test for Mickey Mouse boot, I still have a pair and they are very good indeed, they also come in white, the scientists would weigh our socks to see how much moisture could be gatered and like you say changing socks is really fast and they dry out in a couple of minutes.
About 30 years ago I bought in Quebec, Canada, a pair of high mocassins made by "first nations" (native americans) craftmen from the Hurons-Wendats reservation. Their construction is similar to the Siberian boots, with a felt removable inner boot that has a sole laminated with space blanket like material. The color is a natural tan. They were described to me as "hunting or trapping" boots, associated with snow shoes that are made from ash (the wood) and rawhide.
@@mattmax11 The concept of first nation people is a bit of a mess, as there was no feeling of common identity between native american tribes before europeans arrived. They were separate tribes, yet now native americans are sort of lumped together and are considered a united people with their respective tribal lineages. There still isn't a term to refer to north american native people specifically (That is, what you would consider a classic "indian"), so there's many umbrella terms that do cover native americans, one of them being first nation people.
I am surprised you did not include the Russian valenki felt boots. I use them in Canada and find them good all round winter footwear when combined with a moccasin rubber. Best winter footwear ever is moose hide moccasins, with wool duffel liners and rubbers over top when conditions are slushy. Very warm, ultra light, and comfortable to walk in. Perfect for snowshoes. Modern materials cannot compare to natural fibres.
Back in my mountaineering days we used a Super Gator boot cover, works excellent for extreme temperature. Also your crampons still fit on your feet. Get better my friend. PS, I know you're not political but, any comment on the Ukrainian situation? Best wishes to you and your family this holiday season. Peace
The best boots I have used here in Montana, are Muck boots, though I did made a mistake in buying the -40F boots. Even with a lite sock, I sweat in them in weather above -10F. I have dug up water lines many times in -20F pre windchill, and no issues. I would have been fine with -20F boots even in lower temperatures, as my feet rarely get cold.
One thing I love about this channel is you can be sure that when it comes to information about how equipment performs in extreme cold weather Lars is speaking from experience. You aren't getting an opinion based on an hour or two of trying something out you are getting an opinion based on the equipment being taken out into the field over days, weeks or months and you can see the resulting wear and tear. Also, the new camera looks good. I imagine getting the brightness levels right in those conditions is a pain.
glad to see you have recovered back to your normal self after your brush with the dreaded C19. keep up the awesome work and hopefully we can see you on a winter camping trip at some point this winter season. best wishes to you and Mrs. Survival Russia
i spent a couple winters living off land in idaho wilderness, i used us airforce survival boots my dad used in greenland when cold weather testing airplanes - they are made with deerskin lowers and canvas uppers, made quite large, and laced up - worn with 2 or 3 pairs wools socks worked for me down to minus 40 - when it gets real cold they can be stuffed with any insulating material, pine needles etc - they hardly get wet and dry quicly, dont freeze - extremely versatile and easy to make in the wilderness - also one size fits all, dont have to be made to fit
He must have been on the Thule Airforce Base I guess. If the boots can be used up there, they can be used in all cold weather. You will not find many pine needles on Greenland though lol Lot's of moss though.
Good video. In my region of the US the most important quality for me in winter boots is if they're water proof since there is usually a slushy mix on the ground. I use something similar to the EVA boots that's like a rubber boot with a really thick removable inner sock.
Just found your channel and of course I'm binge watching. Just wanted to say thanks for the great content. The government's would want us to all be enemies but people are the same no matter where you live. Theres good ppl everywhere and I love that the Internet can bring us together to enjoy what we love. Greetings from Pennsylvania(US)
I live in Maine I have worn the black balloon boots and white balloon boots for over 40 years and I have never had cold feet ever not even the slightest little bit... True story we were going ice fishing in northern Maine it was a four-hour ride for my home and my boots were in the back of the pickup for the entire ride when we arrived in northern Maine I proceeded to put my boots on and there was a layer of ice on the bottom and snow on top of it I dug the snow out and put my feet with one set of white cotton socks into the boots immediately the ice layer melted and saturated my white cotton socks and made them wet and cold and then immediately after that they started to warm up and ever since that experience I swear by these boots and I have never ever even look any other direction because if it ain't broke don't fix it I personally really like the white balloon boots better than the black just a little short story and my personal opinion... although every other man that I have talked to you about the white or black Mickey Mouse boots they all have said that they are too warm in their feet sweat but you can only use one pair of white cotton socks you cannot use wool socks or two layers of socks one single layer white cotton socks and I have been fine for 40 plus years and I will not change thank you Lars for your videos Also... you couldn't pay me ten million dollars to ever wear a winter boot with a foam inner liner
I wore a pair of Inuit hand made mukluks for years until my Mother's 2 month old puppy tore them up. 3 Christmases ago I bought another pair for myself and a pair for my mother and she can only wear them when the temps go below -30 for feet to not sweat real bad.
Nice to see a video up Lars, and glad to see you back as well. Great video. Keeping those feet warm and dry is key to any outings in the winter....Cheers Fred
I have to agree, I've had a pair of foam boots for two winters now and at the price they came at, the performance is excellent. But I have to say, when it gets around minus 30 C I still prefer my more expensive pair. But as work boots the foam can't be beat. Great video, glad do see you doing well.
Hey Lars - great vid... nice to see you back to your .."more or less" normal self. Totally agree - depends on usage. I've got a pair of Sorel Galcier's for ice fishing and snowmobiling ... super warm for standing around on ice but too heavy and warm for hiking around. A pair of rubber boots and bare feet are perfect for working in snow when the temp is 20 ish F.... add some wool socks when it dips below that ...keep those feet dry and your day goes so much better.
Good to hear the economical boot is simply a smart buy. I would have thought that it was pretty cheap looking due to the material, but looks do not matter when comparing the need to keep a foot warm & dry. Whoever designed this boot should be followed to see what ever other smart ideas the creators come up with. Good business sells itself. Sandy Rinaldi, Arkansas, US Army veteran 1971 to 1974, 5 DEC 23
In the Wyoming Rockies we experience -50°F for a few weeks every year. Most of us use Baffins or boots that are similar to your foam boots, but which are neoprene covered in foam rubber. And everything with wool socks! Even the Baffins!
One thing about any gear in the winter I've learned is that nothing is warmer than fur. I use my Baffin trappers boots there awesome. I think your socks are a huge accessory to the good or decent boot. The socks I get are very expensive made in Vermont. They are by far the best damn sock I've ever used and guaranteed for life no bullshite warranty. 👊💀 which I believe I learned from you to be honest.
Lars!!! You have all of our snow! It’s still +50°F in the Wyoming Rockies. I may need to rethink my position on global warming. We haven’t made it to December without snow until now.
The girlfriend and I both agree that, "tra la la la, la" and "Bla, bla bla" conveys more information than most camping/ survival information videos. 268k people disagree with you about your being in the middle of nowhere when you are in the center of ours. Family!
Mukluk boots with fur tops and moose hide bottoms, no rubber or plastic work best here in MN, they breathe so no condensation with wool liners and wool socks, Eskimos have been using for centuries, and they probably have seal or walrus skin, not sure.
I had a pair of baffin control max boots that were rated for -90f, i just tossed em because the rubberized lower finally split wide open on both boots (even though my feet were warm, they were extremely wet). I had em down to -60f and my dogs were WARM. The steel toe version I have are equally as warm, but as for commercially made winter boots baffins are the best you are ever going to get. With all of that noise being said the best material to stay warm is fur, point blank end of story.
@@tjellis1479 so far the best substitute ive found is that merino stuff but youre not going to out perform fur, im up in Alaska so rockin fur whatever any time of the yr is pretty standard. We have peta come up every yr to protest the iditarod and they generally get boo'd off but some get ballsy and want to fight so I oblige. As for stayin warm, I do whatever I see fit regardless of anyones opinion.
Very fair comparisons video. Excellent job Lars. Avoid tight fit and one could wear heavier wool socks for extra warmth. Pounds equal pain so Mikey and Bunny are last choice.
I whant "skoterkängor" like we had i the early 80s. Its like scooter boots but not the same. Never was my feet cold back then. It was a boot specialy made for riding skidoos. They came with a halv inch wool inner boot. Never got vett and never got cold.
I am glad the coldest ever registered temp in my area was -17°C. In fact the current military issue sleeping bag reaches -20°C (extreme/survival temp). Nice to see the options up north tho
Super informative video Lars. As always, great content and information we know that has been actually tested. Your a trusted source of knowledge for tons of people. Much love from TEXAS
I wouldn't mind those felt boots from Beaver Sheep and wolverine for dry cold. But i am currently wearing Meindl's Leather boots with gore tex. they are about the same price as Baffins. They work ok in snowy sludge. Still can get cold when standing still though.
Speaking of Chinese boots I have had a pair, from America. Warm yes, durable, fell in bits within a couple of months a costly exercise with import tax and all. Yes unfortunately a lot of Canadian boots have gone the same way. But I do have two pairs of Sorel originals made in Canada. A short pair in very good condition with decent tread for their age, and a long pair (-80) in practically new condition. they are from maybe the 1970s or before. Those have like a ventilation screen across the front just above foot level to stop them getting too warm and stop the sweat ( it doesn't work ). Unfortunately I am no longer greatly active so now they gather dust but they are pretty heavy anyway. The big ones it's like Frankenstein's monster walking about when you have them on. I do like the look of the traditional boots mind, problem here although we get a little snow still it is far too wet now for such boots. Its like all things mind the right tool for the right situation. Nice to see you active again Lars and you get to look healthier each time.
At min 40 you had better not be still or you'll freeze!!! The natives in northern Alaska use boots made from musk ox some times line with carabu. I've worn a pair they are warm but if you hold still at extreme cold no boot will hold heat long. Water freezes instantly. Anything of -20°f one can throw a boiling cup of water in the air it freezes before hitting the ground
Happy to see you are recovering well from Covid! Been waiting a long time for this particular video ever since you teased about it a long while ago :) Great review, and for now my Baffin’s will have to do.
Hi Lars, great video. Condensation is always an issue in boots, even in summer if I wear my wading boots, I always have condensation issues. No matter what the delta between the water and air is.
I utilize an inner thin polypropylene liner, then a 2mm neoprene sock, and finally a mid weight polypropylene outer sock. Although there will be condensation, or moisture build up from perspiration, this system has worked for me. This can be used with a pac (felt) boot, or bunny boot.
Have you ever seen the Dunlop Purofort? Ppl here in Canada love them, especially fishermen and oil field workers. They are very expensive, but rated to -50°C sort of like a high tech neoprene.
Just suggestion. I don’t know how the liners of your foam boots are, but the liner of your Baffin boots should be pretty good at wicking the sweat from your feet towards the shell of the boots. That should help keep your feet warm. If they fit, maybe you could try to use the Baffin liners in your foam boots. Just an idea.
Hey Lars, I feel bad about the Baffin boots you got. I have no doubt those are not very warm and your foam boots are much better. The good Baffin boots will have a waffle insole and thicker liner than the ones you have. And the best Baffin boots will have a combination of a waffle insole and a foil like insole like you have, plus an even thicker liner. Having said that, the warmest Baffin boots don’t fit too well in snowshoe or ski bindings. The Baffin I have are the second warmest (Snow Monster) and rated to -70° C. but quite honestly I need to add a wool insole to be confortable for several hours outside past -20° C. I live in the Canadian Rockies. Having said that, their boot liners are quite great. After a while they start wicking the sweat from your feet towards the outer shell of the boot. When that starts to happen your feet usually get warmer. But without a waffle insole this won’t work so well. I believe the better Baffin boots would basically work on the same principles as your preferred Russian foam boots, they would just have a thicker liner and be much more expensive. What’s your shoe size in US? Don’t hold your breath, but one day I’ll send you a good pair if I can.
I work in the ski industry and have been using the KEEN Revel IV High boot. They feel a bit like moon boots at first, but they have kept me warm no problem down to -20C with a single pair of good socks. I also regularly wear them in +10C conditions, and though they are definitely warm they do not make my feet sweat badly. I have yet to test them in truly frigid conditions, but I am confident that they will keep my feet warm. I suppose I will have to see for sure, though. They also have a nice gaiter hook on the front if you want to wear them with a pair. The only downside so far is that they are $200 in the US. I do not want to imagine the price in Russia.
The finnish army winter boot is by far the warmest boot I've ever worn. It's made of triple layer butyl rubber, with a removable wool insert like the siberian hunting boot seen on the video. They also have a ski groove and an adjustable collar. They kept you warm well in below -40 celsius. Their downside of course is the weight, they are HEAVY, but it doesn't really bother when you're skiing.
Horses for courses. I have 5 different boots for here I the Sierra Navada spain that are matched to the various conditions through the year and what I am doing. Today I was bringing wood up from the ravine on a 45 deg loose slope so grip and ankle support were the key. In January when I have an overnight and summit I may need my boots that have an inner boot that I will take into my sleeping bag . Hope the covid recovery goes on .lost some ex colleagues to it .
I like the locally made boots! One could hear the Greenies complain about them! worth it!!!!!!!!!!! Yes I remember your other talk about winter boots with the Russian winter boot one ??was rubber covered was it? A friend had sent it to you wasn't it?? The need for traction ,compact snow/ice and warmth is imperative in winter time. When one is not going to ruin winter boots using them in a city. Second or third liners during the day are good to have when needed! aka Dry foot ware.
Hello Lars , another awesome show . You really hit the jack pot with this episode . All the comments & questions , shows , just how much people trust you and value your opinion . That is truly a rare quality on youtube . My boots for Christmas will be thongs . I live in far south west Queensland Australia & I will be safe in saying it will be about 45c or more . In my dreams it may snow on Christmas day , but I doubt it .. Glad you & your Family will be having a White Christmas . As for the boots , the companies should ask for your input before selling . That would apply to any camping gear .. MERRY CHRISTMAS .🕊🕊🍸🍸🍸🍻🍻✨🎁 aussie bob
Removable liners are good if one spends more time in the woods. I dont think it is just condensation that they get wet, but plain old sweat. Winter rubber boots or EVA boots are just great and they have great range from slush to very cold.
The U.S. Army winter boots are hard to walk in and you need to change your socks every hour is you are marching or heavy activity. Otherwise if you stop or not moving the sweat turns to ice and your feet freeze.
I used to work in trucking in the far north of Canada. One of the other guys I used to work with used to wear mocassins to work while everybody else was wearing $300+ heavy winter boots. Said he traded a bottle of whiskey to an old Native trapper on his old truck route and that they were the warmest footwear he'd ever owned. That tech worked for hundreds of thousands of years for a reason, not really too many ways to improve on it.
Very lucky he could get those at that price. 🙂 I’ve been looking for a good pair of moccasins and they are in the $300 range and more. :(
@@1ReneDumont Can't say I'm surprised, that guy got somewhat lucky. That old timer never used to go to town, he traded game, furs, and mocassins for everything he needed, lived 8ish hours from anything even resembling a village and barely spoke any English. I'd heard a few years later the cabin was abandoned and caved in, I don't think he made it much past that season. Not many old timers like that around anymore.
@@ErokLobotomist sad he did not make it too long after that. At least he lived his life free.
The native boots are called mukluks, good if you are moving and don't get them wet, Lars had a pair on his video.
There are cheap boots.But useful.There are specific boots from dog furs in Russia.Name-unti.Унты.
Would love more of these types of videos! We respect your opinions since we know they are based upon knowledge and first hand experience. Cheers 🍻
I would agree. This video is much appreciated! Especially being a homesteader out in the frigid tundra that is Russia!
Have to respect someone with first hand experience!
I, spent a lot of money on boots in my lifetime, and the military mickey mouse boots have been the best winter boot I've ever had. As far as being on the heavy side, they are but once your legs are used to them there not a problem. I'm 70 years old, walk 3-mile hikes with the dog daily in the winter months, no big deal. If your feet get wet they will rewarm quickly in these boots, absolutely love them, best boots you can buy at an army surplus store.
I can see this being a very popular video, Lars. Can you also do a similar video for russian/military fur hats.
I have a pair of seal skin boots that do really well in Arctic Canada . I turn them inside out and can dry them in 10 minutes by the fire after freezing the water condensate off , and giving them a shake. Glad to see you healing up lars .
Just found your channel and of course I'm binge watching. Just wanted to say thanks. The government's would want us to all be enemies but people are the same no matter where you live. Theres good ppl everywhere and I love that the Internet can bring us together to enjoy what we love. Greetings from Pennsylvania(US)
Just ask yourself - Americans who hate America or Russians who love Russia?
The native beaver boots look like they can probably walk you home on a dark winter night when you have had a little to much vodka and caviar with your friends. :-)
I live in Aussie and I still watched this video lol.
I would guess you have a scorching hot summer at the moment :)
People forget military equipment is made by the cheapest bidder. It is the lowest quality that fulfills the requirements. Plus cold weather clothing is meant to be used in tandem with other issued warming layers. "Military Grade" is usually used as in insult in service. There is always a much better civilian version.
Right on. I have said this quite a few times by now :)
Can you do a review on the types of winter jackets you use? I live in a very cold part of Canada and would love to hear your opinion, think you have a great channel and always look forward to your videos, stay safe brother.
Used to drive a bulk truck delivering propane...temps down to -35 C .We wore rubber boots on our work boots but eventually the steel cap on the work boots made it really cold for the toes. Back at home I put in theses rubber boots 2 layers of wool insoles plus a thick wool sock insert and wore 3 pairs of wool socks to fill the space. Never bought again a pair of real winter boots. They are very light and have the feel of a mocassin and since the rubber is so soft they have a good grip on ice. Thanks Lars for the review and take care.
Your looking much more stronger Lar’s good health to you all mate 🇬🇧
Thank you!
Hello Lars, thanks for the great video. I served in the US Army and I was stationed
in West Germany in the 70's and 80's. Winter there would get down to the low teens F or even single digits
at times. We were issued the black Mickey Mouse boots with the valve. Haha, we thought you were
supposed to blow into the valve when you expected very cold weather.
I only wore my Mickey Mouse boots one time on an FTX. They were too warm and made my feet sweat.
Maybe as you said it was water from condensation. I preferred to wear my standard US Army leather
Jump Boots with my rubber Galoshes over them.
Last winter I ordered those siberian hunting boots. The company was so great they were very friendly and professional.
Love my Kamik Foresters. I glue patches (using E6000 fabric fuse) into the inside of my wool liners to preserve their heels.
Great and interesting video, Ill be looking into where I can get some EVA boots since this winter seems to be coming in cold. But more than anything I'm just happy that you seem to be doing better after your bout with covid. God bedring, Lars.
Those rubber boots are very popular here in Canada as well. Steel/composite toe on the worksite :) happy holidays Lars
I was issued mucalucks boots when I was stationed in North Dakota and they was great to wear and was comfortable too. Some people was issued the boots with the valve on the side and they was not as comfortable and warm, but those was the two types issued to us by the Air Force when there.
I bought some Steger Mukluks 25 years ago. Made in Ely Minnesota back then.
They have a tradition leather lacing and come to just below my knee. Made of a thick moose hide with a rubber sole.
They have a removable wool felt inner boot and sole. They are very light and really warm, BUT...as Lars said, this type of boot is not for wet conditions, or just "standing around".
I snowshoe in Steger Mukluks. They are awesome. The rubber sole protects against water and the moose hide uppers are so comfortable.
Great video, Lars. I switched to EVA boots and this will be my 4th winter with the same pair - no discernible wear at all but I've worn out a set of liners that came with it and replaced it with thick wool ones. They weigh nothing. People laugh at them until I take one off and show them how light they are. Then, they ask where to buy them. Those traditional beaver/sheep/wolverine boots look - awesome!!. I also have a pair of Russian Valenki I use when it's nice and dry cold out.
Excellent video, thank you for the detailed rundown of each boot, it's systems and the kind of weather that you would or would not use them in.
Hi Lars
I asked about winter footwear my colleague from Finland. He told me that they wear crocks with many layers of wool socks. One cannot see it in towns but in the country side where they don't care about esthetic but follow simple solutions which work well.
Cheers
It makes sense. So does Mrs Survival-Russia actually lol :)
Ugh! I did a hike up to Camp Muir (About a 10,000 foot elevation) on Mt Ranier. The hike itself isn't very long and I had some very thick wool hiking socks but my boots weren't insulated. Maybe two-thirds of the way to the Camp Muir I really started feeling the cold. By the time I got to Camp Muir proper, I was actually worried about frostbite. My hiking partner got our shelter setup while I went into the hiker hut to try to warm myself. Luckily, after our shelter was up I was able to change socks, and warm up in my sleeping bag. No frostbite, but cold weather hiking is no joke. Make sure you have the right boot for the job.
Got some of those siberian hunter boots recently and they're brilliant. Feel like you're wearing slippers and you never ever get cold.
Thank you, Lars! God bless you and your family.
Great video as usual. I find the strongest point of the Mickey boots is the inside is also rubber and doesn’t absorb the condensation and sweat. So when you swap out socks in very cold weather you’re right back to cozy and dry with no waiting.
I was on the British Army test for Mickey Mouse boot, I still have a pair and they are very good indeed, they also come in white, the scientists would weigh our socks to see how much moisture could be gatered and like you say changing socks is really fast and they dry out in a couple of minutes.
Those beaver, wolverine, sheep boots are so styling. They would make me the winter fashion plate of my town here in Maine.
About 30 years ago I bought in Quebec, Canada, a pair of high mocassins made by "first nations" (native americans) craftmen from the Hurons-Wendats reservation. Their construction is similar to the Siberian boots, with a felt removable inner boot that has a sole laminated with space blanket like material. The color is a natural tan. They were described to me as "hunting or trapping" boots, associated with snow shoes that are made from ash (the wood) and rawhide.
First Nation people aren't Native American
@@mattmax11 The concept of first nation people is a bit of a mess, as there was no feeling of common identity between native american tribes before europeans arrived. They were separate tribes, yet now native americans are sort of lumped together and are considered a united people with their respective tribal lineages. There still isn't a term to refer to north american native people specifically (That is, what you would consider a classic "indian"), so there's many umbrella terms that do cover native americans, one of them being first nation people.
I am surprised you did not include the Russian valenki felt boots. I use them in Canada and find them good all round winter footwear when combined with a moccasin rubber. Best winter footwear ever is moose hide moccasins, with wool duffel liners and rubbers over top when conditions are slushy. Very warm, ultra light, and comfortable to walk in. Perfect for snowshoes. Modern materials cannot compare to natural fibres.
I don't like Valenki for camping. The snow melts on them and then they freeze.
Back in my mountaineering days we used a Super Gator boot cover, works excellent for extreme temperature. Also your crampons still fit on your feet. Get better my friend. PS, I know you're not political but, any comment on the Ukrainian situation? Best wishes to you and your family this holiday season. Peace
The best boots I have used here in Montana, are Muck boots, though I did made a mistake in buying the -40F boots. Even with a lite sock, I sweat in them in weather above -10F. I have dug up water lines many times in -20F pre windchill, and no issues. I would have been fine with -20F boots even in lower temperatures, as my feet rarely get cold.
Dry shod
One thing I love about this channel is you can be sure that when it comes to information about how equipment performs in extreme cold weather Lars is speaking from experience. You aren't getting an opinion based on an hour or two of trying something out you are getting an opinion based on the equipment being taken out into the field over days, weeks or months and you can see the resulting wear and tear.
Also, the new camera looks good. I imagine getting the brightness levels right in those conditions is a pain.
Thank you Furball :)
Happily the camera has a "Snow" setting for recording in very white conditions. It seems to work OK so far.
Приветствую. И снова зима наступила. Сапоги это супер.
glad to see you have recovered back to your normal self after your brush with the dreaded C19. keep up the awesome work and hopefully we can see you on a winter camping trip at some point this winter season. best wishes to you and Mrs. Survival Russia
i spent a couple winters living off land in idaho wilderness, i used us airforce survival boots my dad used in greenland when cold weather testing airplanes - they are made with deerskin lowers and canvas uppers, made quite large, and laced up - worn with 2 or 3 pairs wools socks worked for me down to minus 40 - when it gets real cold they can be stuffed with any insulating material, pine needles etc - they hardly get wet and dry quicly, dont freeze - extremely versatile and easy to make in the wilderness - also one size fits all, dont have to be made to fit
He must have been on the Thule Airforce Base I guess. If the boots can be used up there, they can be used in all cold weather. You will not find many pine needles on Greenland though lol Lot's of moss though.
Good video. In my region of the US the most important quality for me in winter boots is if they're water proof since there is usually a slushy mix on the ground. I use something similar to the EVA boots that's like a rubber boot with a really thick removable inner sock.
I'm glad you're doing better now, Lars! I'll bet you look very stylish in those beaver skin boots! LOL! Take care!
Good socks make all boots better. Live in Northern New Hampshire and I use a PVC boot that's 2 sizes larger and adjust with socks as needed.
Just found your channel and of course I'm binge watching. Just wanted to say thanks for the great content. The government's would want us to all be enemies but people are the same no matter where you live. Theres good ppl everywhere and I love that the Internet can bring us together to enjoy what we love. Greetings from Pennsylvania(US)
I live in Maine I have worn the black balloon boots and white balloon boots for over 40 years and I have never had cold feet ever not even the slightest little bit...
True story we were going ice fishing in northern Maine it was a four-hour ride for my home and my boots were in the back of the pickup for the entire ride when we arrived in northern Maine I proceeded to put my boots on and there was a layer of ice on the bottom and snow on top of it I dug the snow out and put my feet with one set of white cotton socks into the boots immediately the ice layer melted and saturated my white cotton socks and made them wet and cold and then immediately after that they started to warm up and ever since that experience I swear by these boots and I have never ever even look any other direction because if it ain't broke don't fix it I personally really like the white balloon boots better than the black just a little short story and my personal opinion... although every other man that I have talked to you about the white or black Mickey Mouse boots they all have said that they are too warm in their feet sweat but you can only use one pair of white cotton socks you cannot use wool socks or two layers of socks one single layer white cotton socks and I have been fine for 40 plus years and I will not change thank you Lars for your videos
Also... you couldn't pay me ten million dollars to ever wear a winter boot with a foam inner liner
When my boots rip while out on the mountain, first thing in my mind will be Lars saying 'and all that good stuff'. Greetings from North Wales.
Great! I was just about to by special winterboot in hunting outfit shop. But now ill just visit home depo to get me a foam boot!
Anyone else have those moon boots as a kid.
I wore a pair of Inuit hand made mukluks for years until my Mother's 2 month old puppy tore them up. 3 Christmases ago I bought another pair for myself and a pair for my mother and she can only wear them when the temps go below -30 for feet to not sweat real bad.
I like using those Hunter boots also, very light and water proof. Sincere and honest as always, your videos are inspiring and motivational, thank-you!
Lars , great comparison video and boot review , good to visit with you again , thanks for sharing , God bless !
Nice to see a video up Lars, and glad to see you back as well. Great video. Keeping those feet warm and dry is key to any outings in the winter....Cheers Fred
I have to agree, I've had a pair of foam boots for two winters now and at the price they came at, the performance is excellent. But I have to say, when it gets around minus 30 C I still prefer my more expensive pair. But as work boots the foam can't be beat. Great video, glad do see you doing well.
Glad to see you healing well. Enjoy the videos very much. Thanks.
Hey Lars - great vid... nice to see you back to your .."more or less" normal self. Totally agree - depends on usage. I've got a pair of Sorel Galcier's for ice fishing and snowmobiling ... super warm for standing around on ice but too heavy and warm for hiking around. A pair of rubber boots and bare feet are perfect for working in snow when the temp is 20 ish F.... add some wool socks when it dips below that ...keep those feet dry and your day goes so much better.
I genuinely appreciate this video...you should do coats / pants next!
Good to hear the economical boot is simply a smart buy. I would have thought that it was pretty cheap looking due to the material, but looks do not matter when comparing the need to keep a foot warm & dry. Whoever designed this boot should be followed to see what ever other smart ideas the creators come up with. Good business sells itself. Sandy Rinaldi, Arkansas, US Army veteran 1971 to 1974, 5 DEC 23
Basically just Crocs made into boots :) Hard to beat for performance Vs price. The fur boots are of course warmer.
In the Wyoming Rockies we experience -50°F for a few weeks every year. Most of us use Baffins or boots that are similar to your foam boots, but which are neoprene covered in foam rubber. And everything with wool socks! Even the Baffins!
So good to hear your breathing and voice almost back to normal !!
One thing about any gear in the winter I've learned is that nothing is warmer than fur. I use my Baffin trappers boots there awesome. I think your socks are a huge accessory to the good or decent boot. The socks I get are very expensive made in Vermont. They are by far the best damn sock I've ever used and guaranteed for life no bullshite warranty. 👊💀 which I believe I learned from you to be honest.
I'll take my -70 Baffin's any day 🥾💪🏽
Lars!!! You have all of our snow! It’s still +50°F in the Wyoming Rockies. I may need to rethink my position on global warming. We haven’t made it to December without snow until now.
All my snow melted a few days ago. We had a good 4-6 inches, but then 3 days of above freezing..
The girlfriend and I both agree that, "tra la la la, la" and "Bla, bla bla" conveys more information than most camping/ survival information videos. 268k people disagree with you about your being in the middle of nowhere when you are in the center of ours. Family!
I live in a mild climate but I always enjoy your knowledge and learning of your lifestyle
Mukluk boots with fur tops and moose hide bottoms, no rubber or plastic work best here in MN, they breathe so no condensation with wool liners and wool socks, Eskimos have been using for centuries, and they probably have seal or walrus skin, not sure.
I had a pair of baffin control max boots that were rated for -90f, i just tossed em because the rubberized lower finally split wide open on both boots (even though my feet were warm, they were extremely wet). I had em down to -60f and my dogs were WARM. The steel toe version I have are equally as warm, but as for commercially made winter boots baffins are the best you are ever going to get. With all of that noise being said the best material to stay warm is fur, point blank end of story.
@@tjellis1479 so far the best substitute ive found is that merino stuff but youre not going to out perform fur, im up in Alaska so rockin fur whatever any time of the yr is pretty standard. We have peta come up every yr to protest the iditarod and they generally get boo'd off but some get ballsy and want to fight so I oblige. As for stayin warm, I do whatever I see fit regardless of anyones opinion.
@@big_ute Just let them stay there in their fake furs and fashion...see how long they last :).
I am familiar with the U.S. 'Mickey Mouse' boots because we were issued a pair. Never comfortable, very heavy, created small lakes in the boot.
Made of beaver and wolverine, that sounds like one bad ass boot.
Your gear reviews are always good. Take care.
Very fair comparisons video. Excellent job Lars. Avoid tight fit and one could wear heavier wool socks for extra warmth. Pounds equal pain so Mikey and Bunny are last choice.
Baffins, A lot of people who snowmobile use them but I think people wear thick socks or foot warmers in addition.
I wear thick wool socks and sometimes an additional felt or sheep wool insole in mine.
I whant "skoterkängor" like we had i the early 80s. Its like scooter boots but not the same. Never was my feet cold back then. It was a boot specialy made for riding skidoos. They came with a halv inch wool inner boot. Never got vett and never got cold.
Very accurate, concise ,sensible.
Than you
Still the best videos, I'm so glad you're getting better
I am glad the coldest ever registered temp in my area was -17°C. In fact the current military issue sleeping bag reaches -20°C (extreme/survival temp). Nice to see the options up north tho
Super informative video Lars. As always, great content and information we know that has been actually tested. Your a trusted source of knowledge for tons of people. Much love from TEXAS
I wouldn't mind those felt boots from Beaver Sheep and wolverine for dry cold. But i am currently wearing Meindl's Leather boots with gore tex. they are about the same price as Baffins. They work ok in snowy sludge. Still can get cold when standing still though.
Speaking of Chinese boots I have had a pair, from America. Warm yes, durable, fell in bits within a couple of months a costly exercise with import tax and all. Yes unfortunately a lot of Canadian boots have gone the same way. But I do have two pairs of Sorel originals made in Canada. A short pair in very good condition with decent tread for their age, and a long pair (-80) in practically new condition. they are from maybe the 1970s or before. Those have like a ventilation screen across the front just above foot level to stop them getting too warm and stop the sweat ( it doesn't work ). Unfortunately I am no longer greatly active so now they gather dust but they are pretty heavy anyway. The big ones it's like Frankenstein's monster walking about when you have them on. I do like the look of the traditional boots mind, problem here although we get a little snow still it is far too wet now for such boots. Its like all things mind the right tool for the right situation. Nice to see you active again Lars and you get to look healthier each time.
Awesome video Lars, straight up like always 👍👍👍
At min 40 you had better not be still or you'll freeze!!! The natives in northern Alaska use boots made from musk ox some times line with carabu. I've worn a pair they are warm but if you hold still at extreme cold no boot will hold heat long. Water freezes instantly. Anything of -20°f one can throw a boiling cup of water in the air it freezes before hitting the ground
Happy to see you are recovering well from Covid! Been waiting a long time for this particular video ever since you teased about it a long while ago :) Great review, and for now my Baffin’s will have to do.
Hi Lars, great video. Condensation is always an issue in boots, even in summer if I wear my wading boots, I always have condensation issues. No matter what the delta between the water and air is.
I utilize an inner thin polypropylene liner, then a 2mm neoprene sock, and finally a mid weight polypropylene outer sock. Although there will be condensation, or moisture build up from perspiration, this system has worked for me. This can be used with a pac (felt) boot, or bunny boot.
Xtratufs are popular here in southeast alaska. They look a lot like the russian boots but they usually come in brown.
"Not by any stretch of the imagination." That is a great expression.
Have you ever seen the Dunlop Purofort? Ppl here in Canada love them, especially fishermen and oil field workers. They are very expensive, but rated to -50°C sort of like a high tech neoprene.
We used to wear moon boots back in the 70’s. Never got cold.👍🏻😜
Very informative and fun to watch! Thank You!
I have Altberg Warrior they are great. Can be tailor made to your feet as well
Great to see back, great video! Thanks for your hard work, and I hope everyone stays safe.
Loved that and love your great sharing. Thanks for doing that :)
Just suggestion. I don’t know how the liners of your foam boots are, but the liner of your Baffin boots should be pretty good at wicking the sweat from your feet towards the shell of the boots. That should help keep your feet warm. If they fit, maybe you could try to use the Baffin liners in your foam boots. Just an idea.
Hi Lars great video glad see you back home. I purchased the Siberian snow boots last year ,warm as toast and cool as hell too
IMO ..
1st Rule is Insulation from the Ground
Hey Lars, I feel bad about the Baffin boots you got. I have no doubt those are not very warm and your foam boots are much better. The good Baffin boots will have a waffle insole and thicker liner than the ones you have. And the best Baffin boots will have a combination of a waffle insole and a foil like insole like you have, plus an even thicker liner. Having said that, the warmest Baffin boots don’t fit too well in snowshoe or ski bindings. The Baffin I have are the second warmest (Snow Monster) and rated to -70° C. but quite honestly I need to add a wool insole to be confortable for several hours outside past -20° C. I live in the Canadian Rockies. Having said that, their boot liners are quite great. After a while they start wicking the sweat from your feet towards the outer shell of the boot. When that starts to happen your feet usually get warmer. But without a waffle insole this won’t work so well. I believe the better Baffin boots would basically work on the same principles as your preferred Russian foam boots, they would just have a thicker liner and be much more expensive.
What’s your shoe size in US? Don’t hold your breath, but one day I’ll send you a good pair if I can.
I work in the ski industry and have been using the KEEN Revel IV High boot. They feel a bit like moon boots at first, but they have kept me warm no problem down to -20C with a single pair of good socks. I also regularly wear them in +10C conditions, and though they are definitely warm they do not make my feet sweat badly. I have yet to test them in truly frigid conditions, but I am confident that they will keep my feet warm. I suppose I will have to see for sure, though. They also have a nice gaiter hook on the front if you want to wear them with a pair.
The only downside so far is that they are $200 in the US. I do not want to imagine the price in Russia.
The finnish army winter boot is by far the warmest boot I've ever worn. It's made of triple layer butyl rubber, with a removable wool insert like the siberian hunting boot seen on the video. They also have a ski groove and an adjustable collar. They kept you warm well in below -40 celsius. Their downside of course is the weight, they are HEAVY, but it doesn't really bother when you're skiing.
Horses for courses. I have 5 different boots for here I the Sierra Navada spain that are matched to the various conditions through the year and what I am doing. Today I was bringing wood up from the ravine on a 45 deg loose slope so grip and ankle support were the key. In January when I have an overnight and summit I may need my boots that have an inner boot that I will take into my sleeping bag . Hope the covid recovery goes on .lost some ex colleagues to it .
It's so good to see you found your thing again! Take care and keep doing somethings awesome!!!!
I like the locally made boots! One could hear the Greenies complain about them! worth it!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes I remember your other talk about winter boots with the Russian winter boot one ??was rubber covered was it? A friend had sent it to you wasn't it??
The need for traction ,compact snow/ice and warmth is imperative in winter time. When one is not going to ruin winter boots using them in a city.
Second or third liners during the day are good to have when needed! aka Dry foot ware.
Hello Lars , another awesome show . You really hit the jack pot with this episode . All the comments & questions , shows , just how much people trust you and value your opinion . That is truly a rare quality on youtube . My boots for Christmas will be thongs . I live in far south west Queensland Australia & I will be safe in saying it will be about 45c or more . In my dreams it may snow on Christmas day , but I doubt it .. Glad you & your Family will be having a White Christmas . As for the boots , the companies should ask for your input before selling . That would apply to any camping gear .. MERRY CHRISTMAS .🕊🕊🍸🍸🍸🍻🍻✨🎁 aussie bob
Removable liners are good if one spends more time in the woods. I dont think it is just condensation that they get wet, but plain old sweat. Winter rubber boots or EVA boots are just great and they have great range from slush to very cold.
The U.S. Army winter boots are hard to walk in and you need to change your socks every hour is you are marching or heavy activity. Otherwise if you stop or not moving the sweat turns to ice and your feet freeze.
I was already worried. Great you are fine.
I'm working on some boots that burn coal with little smoke stacks coming out the back side...wish me luck🤣 Good to see ya!
Stay dry you will stay warm ; don't get boots to tight