muck-boots-vs-xtratuf-boots

Muck Boots vs Xtratuf Boots: Which One Should You Choose?

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In this guide we are going to look at Muck Boots vs Xtratuf Boots and compare the two different ranges. We’ll look at what both has to offer. Hopefully this will give you a good overview of what to expect when choosing one brand over the other. The two boots are very similar in terms of the features that they have.

Upon close examination, the two brands of the boots will show some similarities in terms of functionality. However, there are still quite a number of differences between these two kinds of hunting/snowmobile/work boots:

Xtratuf Boots

The Xtratuf boots were invented by Norm Larsen, an employee of a Minnesota logging camp in 1964. Seeing the need for an improved pair of boots, he started working on his idea and finally came up with what is now known as Xtratuf — a completely new type of boot:

Which was made from a very innovative material called neoprene (a synthetic rubber) which provides extreme waterproofing and thermal insulation with moderate protection against abrasion.

Ever since its introduction, it has gained much favor in the market due to these characteristics that make it stand out from other types of waterproof boots available at that time. It retained its popularity all throughout the years and in 1996, Xtratuf was acquired by McRae Industries of Canada.

The popularity of Xtratuf Boots rose as it gained a reputation for being one of the best boots for hunting, fishing, outdoor activities, or industrial/construction work.

Muck Boots

The Muck Boots brand began when Alaskan mushers were looking for better performance from their snowmobile boots and created an indestructible boot that can withstand any weather conditions.

After extensive research with some hunting guides, long-distance dog sled racers, and other athletes, they came up with the Muck Boots — a boot that has been designed to be waterproof, insulated, and have extreme traction on snow.

They are made from rubber that is extremely resistant to punctures and abrasions which makes them ideal for the people who need heavier boots such as loggers or farmers.

Muck Boots vs Xtratuf Boots – Durability

Since they both claim that their products are waterproof, it would not be surprising if you believe that they are equally durable too right? WRONG! It seems that Xtratuf Boots may last longer than Muck Boots.

According to some customers, they have used these for a long time without encountering any problem. Some of them have worn them for as much as 10 years already! This is not to say that Muck Boots are not durable in the first place — just that Xtratuf is considered more durable than Muck Boots.

Muck Boots vs Xtratuf Boots – Color Choices

While most Xtratuf boots come in black or brown colors, there are also some other varieties such as orange and yellow available. On the other hand, you may choose between different colors on the Muck Boot products: green, brown, gray, white, and black. These two kinds of boots may be similar in function but the colors are different.

Muck Boots vs Xtratuf Boots – Cost

The price of a pair of Xtratuf is approx. $185 while that of Muck Boots is only $100! Are you surprised? You shouldn’t be because there seems to be a lot of good things about Xtratuf Boots that made it more expensive than Muck Boots.

However, if you really want to save money, this will not be an issue for you as MuckBoot offers a way cheaper alternative. What do I mean exactly by “cheaper”“? You can get two pairs for the price of one Xtratuf! How cool is that?

  • Additional Advice 1: If you don’t mind spending a bit more for better quality, then Xtratuf is the boot that suits you.
  • Additional Advice 2: Keep in mind though that if you have a wide foot or plan to use this on rainy weather conditions – Muck Boots may be more suitable for you!

Variety

Since Muck Boots are cheaper, it also means that you can get a pair of boots for each member of your family. For the Xtratuf Boots, on the other hand, this maybe beyond your budget. This of course depend on your needs.

Although Xtratuf do provide warmth and comfort to those who wear them — it is also important to know that they do not have as much variety in terms of use. Whereas with the Muck Boots products they are versatile. Since Xtratuf is only used for hunting/snowmobiles or work purposes, it may not make sense to get them. This is because you may just want some boots to go out for walks with your family.

Styles

We all know that fashion is a vital part for choosing footwear. We expect boots to be well-designed and attractive. Both Muck Boots and Xtratuf Boots offer different styles. This makes it easy for you to choose which one would fit your preference more.

One thing about Xtratuf that makes them unique is the fact that each pair of boots has a name printed on its bottom. This is better than just by seeing “XTRATUF” written somewhere. I find this quite cool personally.

If you are looking forward to buying some stylish yet practical footwear, then make sure you check out Muck Boots first before looking at Xtratuf. They have a wide range of products which are not only affordable but will surely satisfy your needs and requirements!

Warmth

We know that Xtratuf is more durable and protective than Muck Boots. But in terms of warmth, it appears that the latter has more to offer. Since they are made from thicker materials, you will have a pair of boots that provide protection for your feet against the cold. But still make sure to wear thick socks.

Although both products provide maximum protection for your feet, some users found that the Xtratuf Boots did not last long enough. A customer said that after using his boots for only three months he started to notice holes in them!

Fortunately, Xtratuf helped him fix his boots by providing even stronger replacements. So there is still hope if you think that the boots are already broken.

Grip

Another great thing about Muck Boots is its non-slippery grip! Let me tell you, slipping and falling are so difficult to do with these on your feet. Without a doubt, these boots will not fall off easily as well.

Xtratuf Boots does provide traction but of course, this differs from one model to another. It appears that because they are used for hunting purposes, their grip is more outstanding than its counterpart’s grip. But if comfort is what you want most then Muck Boots has proven itself worthy too many times already!

Muck Boots vs Xtratuf BootsALL IN ALL…

If the above analysis has not yet made it clear as to which one is better suited for your needs, here’s some additional factors that may help you decide:

  • If you feel like using these boots mostly in cold and snowy conditions, then it would be best if you get the Xtratuf ones. This is because they offer much lower thermal conductivity at low temperatures than Muck Boots.
  • With them, your feet will stay warm even if temperatures drop to -40°C. Muck Boots on the other hand can be used for both warm and cold weather conditions (up to -25 degrees Celsius).
  • If you are looking for a waterproof boot that is also durable then Xtratuf should be your best pick. Though it may be a bit more expensive than Muck Boots, it lasts longer than them! The two types of boots are similar when comparing their function but where they differ is in durability.
  • As I have said before, these products have different prices. But don’t worry if you want something cheaper because MuckBoot offers an alternative which costs less by half! If you need one or two pairs of boots, you can get two pairs of Muck Boots for the price of one Xtratuf Boot!
  • And most importantly is your comfort. If these boots are not comfortable for you, then don’t buy them! There’s no point in wearing something that does not really suit your taste and preference.

Just think about it. If you will be wearing these every time you go out, it may as well be in the comfort zone. That would mean having a pair of boots that feel like they were made especially for your foot — so always choose wisely.

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