Advertised as one of the best investments that outdoor hobbyists, anglers, and hunters can make, the Wetland Boot from Muck Boot makes some pretty daring claims. As the design piqued my interest, I decided to dig up the dirt on the Wetland to find out if it really does prove to be a worthy investment.
Countless online reviews and in-depth product analysis and research all point to the same verdict – and that is that the Wetland Boot is nothing short of a prime footwear design that might even be able to help you step up your outdoor game. So after everything I’ve learned, it really is hard to say that the Wetland doesn’t deserve your patronage.
Still on the fence about whether or not to buy the Muck Boot Wetland? This complete and definitive guide and review should point you towards the right decision.
Not a Lot to Look At
With boots like the LaCrosse Aerohead making leaps and bounds in the market, it’s easy to see that the Wetland Boot doesn’t really have a lot to offer in terms of aesthetics. It’s simple and streamlined, that’s for sure. But aside from having a few embossed areas around the soles, there’s really not a lot of design to the entire thing.
Halfway up the shaft, the rubber shifts to a stretch-fit waterproof neoprene material that can be rolled down for extra breathability, or to adjust your boot to the environment you’re in. Coming in just two marginally different colorways – bark and brown – the boot really isn’t much of a looker. In fact, an untrained eye might think it was nothing more than a standard bargain angler boot.
Despite its rather simple design though, the Wetland does pack a major punch in terms of performance. The only problem with the aesthetic in my opinion is that there was an opportunity to incorporate patterns and prints for better camouflage. Otherwise, the whole lack of any flare can be forgivable given the other features that the boot offers.
Completely Proofed Against Demanding Conditions
Designed for anglers and hunters, the Wetland boasts a proofed construction that keeps your feet protected against wet, rain, snow, and everything else you might encounter throughout the great outdoors. The dense rubber material is pliable and lightweight, but offers impressive resilience against breakage. So there’s no need to worry about branches or rocks piercing through the material.
Towards the upper half of the boot, the design shifts to a stretch-fit neoprene that’s almost as durable as the lower half. Completely waterproof as well, the stretchy neoprene is impervious to most ripping, allowing you to trudge through treacherous waters and muddy trails in confidence. Keep in mind though that because the neoprene feels almost like a fabric at times, it can snag on anything that might act like a hook.
Construction wise, the design seems pretty seamless. Despite the shift in material halfway up, there’s very little stitching around the exterior of the boot. Even then, all the different parts of the uppers, as well as the soles come together effortlessly and securely. In fact, many of those who have reviewed the boot claim that it can survive years of frequent abuse without showing the slightest signs of damage.
Finally, I do want to talk about how the boot is 100% waterproof. Anglers and hunters often rejoice at the indication of these claims, but then find themselves disappointed that many of the designs that promise this don’t actually do what they say. The Wetland Boot from Muck Boot – with its premium materials and construction – effectively keeps water and moisture from seeping into the design.
So with its premium build, durable materials, and securely sealed construction, there’s really no need to worry about your feet when you don a pair of Wetlands.
Sealed Yet Breathable, Offering Impressive Climate Control
At a glance, you might think that the Wetland would get you to work up a sweat. Sure, it’s great at keeping moisture out, but with a design that looks way too sealed, the boot seems like it might cause moisture and sweat to build-up inside. Surprisingly however, it actually does the opposite.
Knowing how this was a common issue with most angler and hunting boots, the Muck Boot brand took the time to make sure the Wetland didn’t suffer the same problem. The solution was to add a breathable Airmesh lining inside the boot, which allows air to pass through the material to better control in-boot climate.
The lining also helps wick away sweat, preventing the accumulation of moisture, and keeping your feet satisfyingly dry for extended hours of use. What you’re ultimately left with is a breathable boot design with dry interiors that don’t only prevent moisture-related discomfort, but also keep foul odors at bay.
Incredibly Pliable and Soft Despite Its Hardy Design
Resistant to damage like cuts, rips, and tears? You would expect a boot that’s advertised with this level of durability to be as stiff as a rock. However the Wetland Boot impresses yet again by defying what buyers would assume at a glance.
Despite having the durability of a premium, hard-wearing, outdoor boot, the Wetland is actually pretty pliable and lightweight. In fact, the upper stretch material can be folded all the way down on itself to reduce the height of the shaft. This can be great for users who might not find the need for a full length outdoor boot at all times.
Together, a pair of boots weighs nothing more than 3.6 pounds. Compared to the Grubs Waterproof Rubber and Neoprene Outdoor Boots which weigh more than 4 pounds, the Wetland proves to be significantly easier on the feet.
But that’s not all that makes the Wetland a suitable investment in terms of comfort. The design also uses a 5mm CR Flex-Foam full-length footbed which shifts with your weight as you move and walk. The soft contours of the surface cradle the natural arches and shape of the user’s feet perfectly, giving impressive comfort that doesn’t wear away with time.
Lastly, the Wetland also boasts an EVA cushion midsole that’s flexible and forgiving. The purpose of this component is to allow the boot to bend comfortably against your feet. This remains true even when you step on sharp, hard, or uneven surfaces. By allowing just the right flexibility, the boot allows you to maintain your footing over challenging terrain. Thus, it keeps your feet protected against possible pain or discomfort.
Five-Star Traction and Support for a Confident Step
Of course, as expected, the impressive Wetland design offers equally efficient traction and support. The self-cleaning sole patterns are rugged and intense, to say the least. In fact, the deeply and widely spaced treads work almost like cleats. They can effectively dig deep into soil, mud, and snow to give you stable footing despite difficult terrain.
It’s also thanks to this broadly spaced pattern that the boot basically cleans itself. Stomping your Wetlands a few times can effectively get rid of any caked on mud or soil. So there’s no need to spend time washing or maintaining your boot’s original look.
Support wise, there’s really nothing else I can say except that the Wetland definitely delivers. The reinforced rubber uppers – although pliable and soft – provide dependable lateral resistance, preventing the most common types of ankle injuries. The insoles, made from CR FlexFoam features anatomically correct contours to properly support the arches.
Pros of the Muck Boot Wetland
- Ultra durable design works great through vegetation, snow, mud, and uneven or rocky terrain.
- Soft and pliable uppers are breathable and comfortable, yet still resistant to damage.
- 100% waterproof to prevent moisture and water from entering through the boot.
- Moisture-wicking interior lining keeps sweat and moisture from accumulating.
- Reliable traction and support keep you safe and confident throughout different outdoor conditions.
- CR FlexFoam insoles hug against the arches to eliminate the chances of aches and pains.
Cons of the Muck Boot Wetland
- Aesthetic isn’t anything too special, giving up the opportunity for improved camouflage.
- The neoprene upper half can snag on small, sharp, hook-like protrusions. So you need to be wary of twigs and thin branches that can damage the material.
- Definitely not the cheapest boot in the market.
The Bottom Line
It’s not easy to find a reliable companion for those dangerous and demanding trips out into the wilderness. So even with a few minor flaws, it’s hard not to recommend the Muck Boot Wetland. Offering all the features you’d look for in an outdoor boot, the Wetland is a cut above the rest. Considering all the essential aspects of a good outdoor boot, it really just delivers.
Is it practical price-wise? Sure, it’s a little on the expensive side, but ultimately, you get what you pay for. And that’s a high quality premium outdoor boot that prioritizes your safety, comfort, and efficiency while you’re out on a challenging nature trip.
