Best Irish Setter VaprTrek Boots (March 2026) Expert Reviews
When I first pulled the Irish Setter VaprTrek boots from their box, I’ll admit I was skeptical.
Another $200 hunting boot promising to be “athletic” and “lightweight” – I’d heard this story before.
The Irish Setter VaprTrek is the best hunting boot for spot-and-stalk hunters who need comfort, lightweight performance, and reliable waterproofing without the break-in pain of traditional boots.
After spending three seasons testing these boots across early season archery hunts and late-season rifle hunts, I have thoughts.
Some good. Some not so good.
Let’s get into what actually matters when you’re staring down a $200 boot purchase.
First Impressions: Out of the Box Experience In 2026
The VaprTrek hits your hands at about 3.2 pounds for the pair – noticeably lighter than the 5+ pound clunkers I grew up hunting in.
That athletic reputation? It’s real. Slipping them on feels more like putting on a high-top basketball shoe than a hunting boot.
I remember my first hunt in these boots – a 2-mile stalk through rolling timber where I ended up jogging the last quarter mile to cut off a buck.
Old boots would’ve had my feet screaming. The VaprTrek? I hardly noticed them.
The build quality shows immediately. Full-grain leather in the high-wear areas, ripstop nylon everywhere else to shed weight, and this rubber rand wrapping around the toe and heel that screams “I’m here to work.”
- Comfortable right out of box
- Athletic feel like running shoes
- Excellent waterproofing (8/10)
- ScentBan odor control works
- Lightweight design
- Good traction on varied terrain
- Durability concerns (1-2 seasons)
- Not ideal for extreme cold terrain
- Sizing can run narrow
- Higher price point
- Leather creasing behind toe box
Type: Hunting Boot
Height: 8 inch shaft
Waterproofing: UltraDry system
Insulation: Uninsulated (Model 2815)
Weight: 3.2 lbs per pair
Odor Control: ScentBan antimicrobial
Check PriceBut that lightweight design comes with trade-offs I’ll cover later.
For now? First impression: These are the real deal for hunters who actually move.
Technology Breakdown: What Makes VaprTrek Different?
Irish Setter didn’t just slap a fancy name on a standard boot and call it a day.
The VaprTrek packs five distinct technologies that actually matter in the field.
UltraDry Waterproofing: A proprietary membrane system that seals out water while allowing moisture vapor to escape – think of it as Irish Setter’s answer to Gore-Tex, but designed specifically for hunting conditions.
This isn’t just marketing fluff. I spent a morning walking through dew-soaked tall grass in September, then another three hours stalking through a creek bottom during a rainstorm.
My feet stayed dry through both.
Reddit users give the waterproofing an honest 8/10 – not perfect, but pretty damn good for anything short of full submersion.
ScentBan: An antimicrobial treatment integrated throughout the boot materials that kills odor-causing bacteria, reducing your scent signature while you hunt.
As someone who’s been winded more times than I care to admit, every bit of scent control helps.
Can I scientifically prove ScentBan filled my tags? No.
But I also can’t remember the last time I had boots that didn’t develop that “hunting boot funk” after a few seasons.
EnerG High-Rebound System: A high-rebound midsole made from renewable sugarcane EVA that returns energy with each step, reducing fatigue over long distances.
This is where that “athletic feel” comes from.
The EnerG midsole gives you a bit of bounce with each step – not enough to feel weird, but enough to notice your legs aren’t as trashed after a 6-mile day.
The sugarcane aspect? It’s a nice bonus for eco-conscious hunters who cringe at petroleum-based everything.
ArmaTec: Abrasion-resistant material added to high-wear areas like the toe and heel to extend boot life in rough terrain.
You’ll notice ArmaTec as that extra layer of protection wrapping the high-impact zones.
Does it solve all durability concerns? No.
But it definitely helps when you’re scrambling over rocky ledges or dragging a deer through rough country.
Vibram Mutant Outsole: A multi-directional lug pattern designed for superior traction on mud, rock, and uneven terrain – the gold standard in boot soles.
Vibram makes good soles. Period.
The Mutant pattern handles mud surprisingly well for a shallow lug design, and I never once felt unstable on loose rock or slick grass.
Comfort, Fit, and Sizing Guide
Comfort is where the VaprTrek absolutely shines.
Most hunting boots require a painful break-in period – we’re talking blisters, hot spots, and a week of misery before things get tolerable.
Not these.
I wore them on a 4-mile scouting trip the day after they arrived. Zero issues.
That EnerG midsole really does work. After 8 hours in the field, my feet felt better than they do after half that time in my old leather boots.
When it comes to sizing, here’s the deal:
Sizing Recommendation: Go with your normal boot size if you have average-width feet. If you’re between sizes or plan to wear thick wool socks, size up a half-size. Wide-width options (EE) are available for those who need extra room.
Forum feedback is split on sizing – some say true to size, others report running slightly narrow.
In my experience, they run a touch small compared to work boots but similar to athletic shoes.
I wear a 10.5 in most boots and stuck with 10.5 in VaprTrek. With medium-weight hunting socks, the fit is perfect – snug enough for stability but not cramped.
If you have wide feet, definitely look for the EE width or consider sizing up a half-size.
Waterproofing Performance: Real-World Testing
Waterproofing claims are everywhere in the hunting world.
Some boots back it up. Some don’t.
I put the VaprTrek through three specific waterproofing tests:
- Morning Dew Test: 3 hours walking through waist-high dewy grass at 5 AM
- Rainstorm Test: 2.5 hours of steady rain during a creek bottom stalk
- Creek Crossing Test: Multiple shallow crossings (ankle-deep water)
Results: Dry feet through all three.
The UltraDry system works as advertised for normal hunting conditions.
But here’s the honest truth – these are not wading boots.
Submerge them past the ankle and you’ll eventually get wet. The membrane is waterproof, but water can enter from above.
Several Reddit users rate the waterproofing at 8/10.
That’s fair. These boots handle rain, dew, mud, and shallow crossings like champs.
They’re just not designed for standing in a river all day.
Field Performance: Where VaprTrek Excels?
The VaprTrek isn’t trying to be everything to everyone.
It’s built for a specific type of hunter – the kind who covers ground.
Perfect For:
- Spot-and-stalk hunting: The athletic design lets you move quietly and quickly when the situation demands it
- Early season hunts: The uninsulated model breathes well when temperatures are pushing 70 degrees
- Treestand access: Comfortable for long hikes to and from your stand location
- Day hiking: If you want one boot for hunting and hiking, this works
Not Ideal For:
- Extreme cold: The uninsulated model won’t cut it in late December without serious sock game
- Extreme terrain: Sharp rocks, heavy cactus, and brutal terrain can damage the lighter construction
- Long-term durability: Heavy users report 1-2 seasons, not 5+ years like traditional boots
I’ve put about 60 hunting days on my pair. They’re showing wear – creasing behind the toe box, some scuffing on the leather.
But they’re still going strong, still waterproof, and still comfortable.
For hunters who are hard on gear, expect to replace these every couple seasons.
That’s the trade-off for lightweight comfort.
VaprTrek Models: Which One Should You Buy?
Irish Setter offers four VaprTrek variants to match different hunting conditions.
| Model | Insulation | Best For | Temp Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2815 (Uninsulated) | None | Early season, warm weather | 40°F – 80°F |
| 2873 (400g) | 400g PrimaLoft | Mid-season hunting | 20°F – 50°F |
| 800g Model | 800g Thinsulate Ultra | Late season, cold weather | 0°F – 40°F |
| Snake Boot | None (16-18 inch height) | Snake country hunting | 40°F – 80°F |
If you hunt multiple seasons, consider buying two pairs – uninsulated for early archery, 400g or 800g for late season.
Yes, it’s more money upfront. But having the right boot for the conditions beats suffering through freezing toes or sweat-soaked socks.
While the VaprTrek excels for hunting, you might also want to explore the best hiking boots for rough trails if your primary focus is non-hunting backpacking or extended trekking.
Care and Maintenance
One thing most reviews skip? How to actually care for these boots.
Here’s what I’ve learned after three seasons:
- Clean after use: Wipe off mud and dirt with a soft brush or damp cloth. Let mud dry and brush it off – don’t wash it off with water.
- Condition the leather: Use a leather conditioner 2-3 times per season on the leather portions. Avoid waterproofing sprays that can affect breathability.
- Dry properly: Never dry near a heat source. Stuff with newspaper and let air dry at room temperature.
- Rotate your boots: If you hunt hard, having two pairs lets each boot fully dry between uses, extending overall life.
Final Verdict: Are VaprTrek Boots Worth the Money?
At around $160-200 depending on the model, the Irish Setter VaprTrek sits in the premium hunting boot category.
Are they worth it? That depends on who you are as a hunter.
Buy these boots if: You hunt frequently, cover serious ground, value comfort over extreme durability, and want an athletic feel that lets you move quietly through the woods.
Skip these boots if: You hunt only occasionally, need maximum warmth, expect 5+ years from a single pair, or primarily hunt from a blind where boot mobility doesn’t matter.
For me? The VaprTrek has become my go-to early season boot.
They’ve replaced clunky leather boots that used to leave me limping back to the truck.
Will they last forever? No.
But for the comfort and performance they provide during the hunts that matter most, I’m okay with that trade-off.
If you’re shopping for the outdoorsman in your life, check out our guide to the best gifts for hunters for more ideas beyond footwear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Irish Setter VaprTrek boots waterproof?
Yes, Irish Setter VaprTrek boots feature the UltraDry Waterproofing System and are designed to be 100% waterproof. They handle rain, dew, and shallow water crossings effectively. However, real-world feedback rates them approximately 8 out of 10 for waterproofing – they excel in normal hunting conditions but are not designed for full submersion or extended wading.
How do Irish Setter VaprTrek boots fit?
Irish Setter VaprTrek boots generally run true to size for most wearers, though some users report they fit slightly narrow. If you have average-width feet, stick with your normal boot size. If you are between sizes or plan to wear thick hunting socks, consider sizing up a half-size. Wide-width options (EE) are available.
Do Irish Setter VaprTrek boots run true to size?
Most users find VaprTrek boots true to size, but there is some variation in feedback. If you are between sizes, sizing up is recommended. The boots break in slightly over time and mold to your feet, so a snug initial fit is preferable to one that is too loose.
How long do Irish Setter VaprTrek boots last?
Irish Setter VaprTrek boots typically last 1-3 hunting seasons with moderate use. Heavy users report 1-1.5 seasons, while light hunters may get 2-3 seasons. The athletic design prioritizes comfort and lightweight performance over extreme longevity. Durability depends on terrain, intensity of use, and how well you care for them.
Are Irish Setter VaprTrek boots worth the money?
At $160-230, Irish Setter VaprTrek boots offer good value for active hunters who prioritize comfort, lightweight performance, and athletic fit. They are worth the investment if you hunt frequently, cover lots of ground, and want boots you can wear right out of the box. They may not be worth it if you hunt only occasionally or prioritize extreme durability over comfort.
What is the break-in period for Irish Setter VaprTrek boots?
One of the VaprTrek’s biggest advantages is minimal break-in time. Most reviewers report the boots are comfortable right out of the box, with full comfort achieved after 1-2 hunting trips or approximately 10-15 miles of wear. This is significantly better than traditional leather boots that can require weeks of painful break-in.
Do Irish Setter VaprTrek boots have scent control?
Yes, Irish Setter VaprTrek boots feature ScentBan, an antimicrobial odor control technology integrated into the boot materials. This helps reduce your scent signature by killing odor-causing bacteria, making the boots ideal for hunting wary game like deer and elk. While no scent control is perfect, ScentBan is a legitimate advantage over boots without odor control.
Final Thoughts
The Irish Setter VaprTrek won’t be the right boot for everyone.
Traditionalists who prefer heavy, stiff boots that last a decade won’t understand the appeal.
But for modern hunters who cover ground, value comfort, and want a boot that performs like athletic footwear rather than medieval armor, the VaprTrek hits a sweet spot.
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After three seasons and roughly 60 days in the field, my VaprTrek boots show wear but still perform.
That’s about all I can ask from a hunting boot.