Active Gear Review is supported by its audience. If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
The Muck Boot Men’s RealTREE Edge Arctic Ice XF Boot with Vibram Arctic Grip A.T. outsole offers several promising features for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With a price tag of $230, these boots target those who need reliable waterproofing, traction, and warmth for cold-weather excursions. After four weeks of testing these boots in various hunting conditions, I’m left with mixed feelings about whether they truly meet expectations. Let’s take a closer look.
Design and Construction
From a design perspective, these boots are built to handle rough, unpredictable outdoor environments. The RealTREE Edge camouflage pattern is ideal for hunters, blending seamlessly with wooded surroundings, while the durable rubber construction provides substantial protection against mud, snow, and abrasions. The boots feature an 8mm CR Flex-Foam neoprene liner that’s waterproof and designed to retain warmth, paired with a fleece lining for added insulation. At 17 inches tall, they offer a significant height advantage for trudging through marshy areas and wet conditions.
However, while the neoprene liner and upper rubber layers are effective, the rear expansion gusset—intended for a customized calf fit—isn’t fully waterproof. Water tends to seep in when the boot is submerged beyond 10 inches, a disappointment given the boot’s height. The tall design and the waterproof liner make these boots well-suited for most hunting and outdoor conditions, but this limitation does reduce their effectiveness in deep water.
Comfort and Fit
The Arctic Ice XF Boot offers impressive comfort, making it one of its standout features. The fit is generous and true to size, with enough room to accommodate extra socks for colder outings. The adjustable gusset around the calf provides a customized fit, allowing for flexibility based on preference. Putting the boots on and taking them off is straightforward, and the EVA footbed paired with the bioDEWIX antimicrobial insert provides excellent cushioning while managing moisture and odors.
These boots remain comfortable for extended wear, whether you’re standing, walking, or hiking through various terrains. The gusset’s adjustability supports a tailored fit around the calf, enhancing comfort even during long outings. Overall, the design promotes wearability in different conditions, making them a reliable option for outdoor activities that require prolonged use.
Traction and Performance
Where the Arctic Ice XF Boot truly shines is in traction and grip. The Vibram Arctic Grip A.T. outsole, combined with the XS Trek Evo compound, offers excellent traction on wet surfaces, making these boots well-suited for slippery mud, wet leaves, and uneven terrain. This feature held up impressively during my testing, allowing me to confidently walk through slick areas without the usual worry about slipping.
The outsole’s versatility extends beyond just ice and snow, providing good grip on a range of surfaces from rocks and mud to loose gravel. For anyone venturing into varied terrains or unpredictable conditions, this boot offers the stability and grip necessary to stay safe and balanced.
Insulation and Warmth
The Arctic Ice XF Boots are rated for temperatures as low as -60°F, which sounds ideal for cold-weather hunting. However, I found that they didn’t fully meet these expectations when worn in stationary conditions, such as sitting in a tree stand. During hunting trips in temperatures ranging from the low 30s to mid-40s, my feet got noticeably cold after a few hours of sitting still. The fleece lining and neoprene insulation perform well while moving, but for activities requiring extended periods of inactivity, the warmth could be better.
Fortunately, the roomy fit of the boot allows for extra layers of socks, which helps with warmth. But considering the advertised temperature range, I expected to get by with a single pair of socks. It’s a bit of a letdown, especially if you need reliable warmth without layering up.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Durable construction with a camouflage design that’s ideal for hunting.
- Excellent traction on wet and icy surfaces with Vibram Arctic Grip A.T. outsole.
- Roomy fit allows for additional socks and is comfortable for extended wear.
- Waterproof neoprene liner effectively repels water under most conditions.
Cons:
- Rear gusset is not waterproof, which limits the boot’s depth protection.
- Warmth falls short of expectations, especially when stationary in cold temperatures.
- Pricey considering its limitations in warmth and waterproofing.
Features
- 100% Waterproof
- Extended Rubber Coverage
- bioDEWIX™ Dry Footbed Insert Topcover with NZYM™ for Odor Control and Moisture Management
- Warm Lining: Soft, Insulation, Light-weight, Performance Materials for Warmth and Comfort
- Lightweight Midsole for All Day Comfort and Support
- 8mm Neoprene Bootie for Comfort and Performance
- Rugged Spandura® Upper for Durability
- Vibram® Arctic Grip A.T. for Wet Ice Traction Coupled with XSTrek Evo Adding Durability and Improved Grip on Wet and Dry Surfaces
Conclusion
The Muck Boot Men’s RealTREE Edge Arctic Ice XF Boot with Vibram Arctic Grip A.T. is a solid choice for those seeking reliable traction and durability for outdoor activities. While it excels in grip and waterproofing under standard conditions, there are some drawbacks. The warmth insulation doesn’t fully deliver when temperatures drop, especially if you’re stationary, and the rear gusset design limits water depth protection, which might be frustrating for those who rely on boots that can handle deeper water.
If you’re primarily using these boots for moving through varied terrain and need excellent traction, they’re worth considering. However, if you’re expecting extreme warmth and total waterproofing in all conditions, you might be left wanting. For more details or to make a purchase, you can check out Muck Boot’s official website or amazon.com.