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 Boot-ilicious
GunMart February 2004
As
for boots, every hunter needs a pair - the High Hunting Boots
from Shark might be of a specialist design but there's a lot
to like here as well
Shark
Group's hunting boots are a traditional style of a field boot
- albeit in the very high leg design more popular in mainland
Europe. But more of that later as firstly here's the lo-down
of the boot specifications and manufacture.
On
first appearances you might think the boots look heavy, yet
due to the materials used in construction they're surprisingly
light. This is probably due to the extensive amount of Cordura
used in the leg section. Now to another clever design feature
- the lower part of the boot takes its strength and waterproof
properties from the leather used and the way it has been stitched
together in the process of manufacture. The upper is made
from special Anfibo leather, a naturally water resistant material
which is further treated to ensure the sole to leather upper
is waterproof. There is a hard rubber toecap to protect the
toes (obviously) and prevent the leather from scuffing and
a 'strap' of what again appears to be leather runs from the
sole up the back of the boot affording a supple but high level
of ankle support. The heavy rubber sole is specially manufactured
for this boot by Vibram® and has wide cleats - a nice
compromise that offer good grip, yet shed mud easily. There's
nothing worse than walking in boots that have mud caked soles
- making the boots feel heavy and the cleats less effective
for assured footing.
The
'High Hunting Boots' come approximately ¾ of the way
up the calf - more the length of a Wellington in fact. For
lacing they have metal eyelets and speed hooks - the latter
are riveted into the leather that runs up either side of the
open tongue. This is generously sized so putting the boots
on is a very comfortable affair. Once laced up they give a
very secure feel, less chance of twisting an ankle or pulling
a calf muscle in these. The amount of flexibility is also
surprising given there such a high leg design. The boots have
obviously been designed and manufactured to give the ultimate
in comfort and performance. The full grain brown leather has
Realtree Hardwoods® Green HD™ Cordura trim, and is
lined with a Veratex breathable waterproof membrane for internal
protection and 200gm Thinsulate for warmth without bulk. In
fact, as for the waterproof claims - I can vouch to the effectiveness
as I've absolutely abused mine for over 6-months. All weathers,
all-terrains and they've been as good as the marketing blurb
claims.
As
I checked the website for the price of the High Field Boots
(£148.50), I noticed that the company has already brought
in a Mid Length Hunting Boot, for those that prefer a shorter
field boot. In fact I highly recommend you go on-line to check
out the company website and use their secure 'webstore' for
purchasing any of the products featured. Go on - buy British…
Click
here to buy online now
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