WINTER BUSHCRAFT GEAR - FOOTWEAR (Altberg, Haix & Seeland)

The second part of my Winter Bushcraft Gear series. Boots....you DO NOT need to spend £300 on a pair of boots to wear in the woods during the winter! I'll show you how you can spend a fraction of that and get all the performance (and the right accessories ).
If you missed the first in the series, it was all about the Carinthia Defence 4….go check it out.
Music "Mockingbird" by David Mumford. Sourced from the Free Music Archive.
If you are looking for Army Surplus, visit my friends at Endicotts in Exeter (www.endicotts.co.uk)
Have a look at my Etsy shop here:
www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Greencra...

[@stevenroche9874]

Great footwear advice ! Army surplus gear will perform well for a fraction of the price.

[@amblernectar]

Really good video mate. As a serviceman I can agree on the recommendation on the altberg defenders. For something also issued and available for more or less 50 quid, iturri cold wet weather boots are excellent: virtually no breaking in needed, gortex lined, wide footbed, warm, comfy, and a high rand. There a bit chunky but it's worth it for the practicality of them. For the altbergs, don't use kiwi dark tan polish as it turns them a strange sort of maroon colour, just use natural or clear polish or dubbin/nikwax etc

[@mike_outdoors4918]

I absolutely love my Altberg boots, rugged, breathable and quick drying if they do get saturated. Thanks for sharing Neil 👍🙂

[@x8studs]

Alt-berg Defenders/Peacekeepers (wide fit) every time mate, I've worn them at work (police) & camping/walking for years, excellent choice matey..!!

[@lewisward4359]

Good information. Haix hunting boots are very pricey in the USA! I used Sorel Pack boots (Canada) in the winter from 1975 to about 1993.Wore them out. About that time I picked up a lighter and narrow pack boot with 15" leather for hunting-great boots because they provided more agility when walking on rough hilly ground. Used them even after a knife poked through the toe area-missed my toes. Put on a tire patch and cement to fix the boot. My feet got particular about what shoes and boots gave me aches and they also got larger so I gave them up and purchased Irish Setter Gortex and 1000 gram Thinsulate boots. Light in weight and very comfortable. In the hills of New York's Finger Lakes winter temperatures use to get down to -20F now more like 10F to -10F. While a week before or after it can be 40F. I've used the boots for work and in wet snow I used leather boots work boots with buckle galoshes or hiking boots.

[@keepthefaith35]

Alt-berg Defenders are my choice, but also looking at a pair of desert boots for summer. Your advice is as practical as ever , like the content of your videos, Thx for showing this vid, looking forward to reviewing the others in the series.

[@derealovesurvival7549]

Good video Neil boots are our number one for any out door situation . Thanks for sharing ATB

[@greencraft4783]

Thanks mate.

[@ronaldroberts9556]

First class content. My Haix desert, three years old, used everyday, walked allover Eryri and Great Smoky Mt have been best boots in 60 yrs of walking. First boot to wear sole out before insides get shot. Have a second pair ready. Haix Cold Wet weather are just awesome. They take some breaking in though. Haix Still my first choice! My forester chainsaw version just superb quality. Keep up good work!

[@RobEvansWoodsman]

Excellent information again Neil.👍

[@greencraft4783]

Cheers buddy.

[@arctichare8185]

I like your pace of presentation.

[@TheFalcos22]

Very informative video as always Neil, thank you for taking the time to put this together. I had previously owned the Haix boots and they are pretty indestructable although after a couple of years I still found them quite heavy and once transitioned over to the Altberg defenders haven't looked back. The Altberg's matched with a set of waxed canvas gaiters is my autumn/winter setup and it seems to work well for me.

[@greencraft4783]

The altbergs are a great all round boot, the haix are hard work, but have their place .

[@likeadog7752]

Great video. Now I have a new boot on my list!

[@johncamps1337]

I have a pair of altberg boots and I also bought a pair of Austrian Army mountain boots a black pair. They were second hand but I cleaned them up with boot Polish and put wax dubbing on them. They came up really good and looked in better condition than before..made by mendi 👍🏻 🙂.

[@richardhunt920]

Thanks Neil . good vid.

[@greencraft4783]

Thanks Rich

[@ontherunplmr1218]

Very nice presentation

[@festadams9896]

Great video as usual Neil. A good pair of wool insoles can greatly improve the performance of boots during winter. They are cheap wick well and you can place them near the fire without fear of a spark igniting them if you need to dry them out at the end of the day.

[@greencraft4783]

Good idea mate, I have a set too (in my barefoot shoes). Never thought to pop them in my altbergs. Thanks

[@nieljohn4614]

Alt-berg Defenders are my go to choice, especially when tramping around Italy in the summer combined with issue desert socks. I wear Alt-berg P3 Aqua's at work, and Hogg's on the bike, though the new Alt-berg Ops boot might be a better option now for tramping and bushcraft.

[@bigfatpear]

great video.

[@BalearicBeatnik]

That’s really useful boss, super video for a beginner like me

[@greencraft4783]

I'm glad you found it useful Matthew. Let me know how you get on.

[@AndysEastCoastAdventures]

Just bought a pair of altberg defenders for general use & the karrimor SF or winter use. Decent boots for relatively little money. Can't beat a decent pair of leather boots.

[@battlebustherapymorton2578]

I can actually tell you. Ss I was the require manager for the military boot contract. Over 5000 boots where trucked I set the trial conditions. They where trailed by the tri service community. All had been in a operational deployment in tbe last 18 months. Nobody above the rank of corporal. All fighting soldier. Army infantry, Royal Marines including their mountain war fare. Lastly RAF regiment, plus numbers to the special forces. By far and with a massive scoring gap Alterbergh came way on top there wasnt a close second. I wouldnt be suprised that Altbergh is the most trailed boot in the world. Only issue is the army dont do half sizes or the 5 width fitting.

[@georgemorley1029]

Yes so I suppose that’s why you get spacers to try to make up for it and pusser throws more socks at you. Must be cost-prohibitive to procure a wider range (half sizes and different widths).

[@seanthomasdowd]

got a pair of the Haix boots hardly used in a charity shop for a tenner about 2 months back

[@MrJimJD]

Good video. I generally use a pair of Salomon quest 4D. I also use ex-issue Altberg boots - good boots (though mine have a hole in the back). The Haix look good tbh. ATB

[@BrianParkes]

Altberg every time. Never had an issue with damp but treat regularly with Leder Gris. I also have the Haix and find them heavy and slow by comparison, I find them hard to run in and a bit 'clompy' in comparison but they do offer better ankle support so good when carrying heavy load or where there is a high chance of rolling your ankle. You are dead right on value, I just had to get my Wife a new pair and she didn't like the high-leg boots so had to go Civvy. Ended up spending over £200 on a pair of boots from Meindl to get anything like approaching the same quality.

[@benewgillian6823]

If the boot is too new , too stiff and hurt your feet so bad that you get painful blisters , i've learn in the army to just walk with them in puddles of water until they get really soaked , then once dried put some dubbin on them and repeat the same again ... They will take the shape of your feet faster that way .

[@Ratsotone]

I bought a pair of Altberg Defenders Grade 1 last year, a great looking boot and really well made, the problem I had with them was, after hiking for a couple of hours they really started to dig in around the ankle, the area just below the lateral bone, so now I've been looking at the Haix Commander GTX Boots on an Army Surplus store, Grade 1's for £50, I was hoping these were going to be more pliable than the Albergs, but going by what you say in the video I don't think they're going to be, but I'll order them and see how I get on. But that was a helpful review you did, thank's.

[@georgemorley1029]

Ha! Frankenstein’s flip flops. Just what I was thinking when I saw the Haix. With you on altberg and also I love Meindl. Wore the two side by side yesterday and they are very hard to choose between, the Meindl Vakuum that I have is more space age (with memory foam and a very nice lacing system) but I bet the waterproof lining wears through before the leather in the altberg defenders. And if you take care of your boots, the leather won’t be letting water in. Re-soling or buying more? Well, which is cheaper at the end of the day? Nice vid.

[@marcdewilde518]

Invaluable information Neil.! I cringe when I see the prices that they charge nowadays for outdoor gear! Thanks and ATB - Marc - Belgium

[@greencraft4783]

So much kit is SO expensive, but folks don't need to spend that amount of cash.

[@bobmarley6161]

Excellent video... For me the best boots are the altberg bergen boots... Unbelievable fit and comfort.... Also the haix cold wet weather boots are fantastic.... Rock solid boots. Comparable to high end Meindl Boots....

[@lazycarper7925]

why choose the bergen over the defender boot?

[@bobmarley6161]

@@lazycarper7925 the bergen is much better built much more suited for my needs for long hikes... And fits and feels a million times more comfortable.... Read this for more info scramblekit.uk/review/index.php?id=outdoor&post=altberg-bergen-meindl-desert-fox-trekking-boots-hot-cold-weather

[@bobmarley6161]

I love the haix cold wet weather boots..... They cost over £200 for a similar boot from a outdoor gear shop.....

[@welshwoodsman]

Great video Neil. Love my altbergs, a lot of boot for the money.

[@greencraft4783]

You are right there Scott

[@archiemticehurst8086]

This is honestly the exact type of video I have been looking for since I'm looking for new boots currently. It's a real help that you discuss other boot brands and makes other than the three main ones you discuss since I can do further research. I've been looking for boots for a bit now but all I get come up is hiking boots that are okay until you sprain your ankle or have them swamped in bogs and this video has been such a godsend with me looking for better footwear since I've been using some really cheap Magnums for years now and I've wanted something a little more substantial. Bloody good job mate, you've gotten my subscription.

[@jasoncalaz1476]

Nice video. I have a set of haix and I love them. I wear them all the time for work and bushcraft. I have had them a year now and there still going strong.

[@greencraft4783]

I think they are popular with a lot of people and definitely a firm following.

[@jamescherry2082]

Han wags are bomb proof, but must admit a bit heavy, but ankle support and comfort 2nd to non. But as you said pricey also. Good video 👍

[@imusiccollection]

Can get cheap ex army Hanwags too tho

[@derekstynes9631]

Niel You should do this on Telly and Make a Packet !

[@JoshArchers]

Muck boots or insulated/neoprene wellies shouldn't be overlooked either. Waterproof, comfortable, tough, pretty cheap if you shop about and incredibly warm. Pretty popular in the states I think for bushcraft, especially in snow. Agree about the Haix. Very very tough boot. Hard to break in and unforgiving if you don't have very normal average feet. Haix actually make a proper winter version. I think they're called Haix Cold Weather or something. Bit comfier but too warm for most of the year. And a bit harder to find/pricier. Agree about the defenders too, but they break in quick enough that even supergrade can be 'fitted' to someone else's foot by the time they get to you. And once the creases are in the toes they stay so worth going new if you can. Great video. And it reminded me to get some arctic socks ready for the winter! Shrank my last lot 🤦‍♂️

[@pepperana]

Josh Archer I agree . I use muck boots on the farm every day (non summer). Great footwear in the bush.

[@greencraft4783]

Great feedback and information Josh. Thanks for commenting

[@robertkirk4387]

I just bought the Alt-berg defender £70 new and the Haix high liability boots, same price and new, the Alt-bergs are way more comfortable but the Haix feel more secure though I would not like to hike too far in the Haix as they are stiff and heavy. P.S I just checked my Haix and mine are leather all over with a smaller rand, hooks and not eyes so I think mine are the civilian version of the same boot.

[@imusiccollection]

Sounds like you got the HAIX cold weather boot. Which is all leather and heavy duty. Be great on the rocky mountains when need sure footing and winter too of course.

[@MichaelR58]

Neil, thanks for sharing, God bless !

[@greencraft4783]

Thanks for the kind comment.

[@inglesconalan5360]

Very interesting. Thanks.

[@lenordchristopher6447]

Nice upload mate, I’m an Altberg man all the way.only issue is grip on the ice

[@greencraft4783]

That and wet supermarket floors!

[@lenordchristopher6447]

Greencraft lol, aye 😂

[@martinlatham5581]

Hi I'm very interested in bushcraft but never done it. Do you do nights and days out in small groups or anything like that many thank

[@robertkirk4387]

I never buy Gortex anything, it does not last, A good leather boot that is well cared for will do the job just fine, I never had Gortex boots in the Army and I'm still here and so are my feet☺☺🤣🤗

[@1celloheaven]

Excellent video and advice...thank you Neil. I'm off to your Etsy :)

[@soggz4246]

Hi. If it’s any help, those socks are £7.99 from Strikeforce Uk, brand new. Can’t beat the Altburg. I have 2 pairs.👍🏾

[@weisswurstfruhstuck8523]

What models of the Haix‘s are These ? And which other models are good for the winter and walking through snow and snow mud wet in cold conditions?

[@Andy-1968]

Great video once again Neil, thank you for sharing (any chance you can come shopping with me?) I actually do need the help, anyway, take care, stay safe & ATB my friend 🙂🥃👍 Andy

[@scrum5atk1]

If you don't destroy the leather on the Altberg boot,altberg will resole them,its about £70squid,or it was,yr have to look on their site

[@nocode1603]

Hi just watched your vid on winter boots I have a pair of Haix absolutely brilliant for walks in wet and mud etc a quick question what should I use to keep them dry dubbin or polish or a water proof spray any ideas of help would be a great help thanks

[@greencraft4783]

They recommend just polish. As long as the #goretex is good they will keep your feet dry.

[@Mike-yq6jg]

are the Haix a wide fit

[@bobhope5773]

Thanks

[@stetomlinson3146]

I have a pair of the Hair High Liability Boots. In late Spring 2019 I walked the Wainwright Coast to Coast in them Along with either a pair of the Sealskinz, or Desert socks, (weather depending). I completed 195 miles, carrying a 20Kg bag and didn't have a single blister of foot issue. Just brilliant boots. What idiot pays hundreds of pounds for boots when these, and the others you demo, are available to anyone?

[@armouredcockroach]

Ex Mill if ever I seen one ( HaHa!! ) Brilliant advice / review Atb. Roach

[@greencraft4783]

No, civvy through & through Roach. Perhaps I have been working round squaddies for too long?

[@armouredcockroach]

@@BingoBongoBingerz Don't tell the MOD they've just given me my military pension Atb Brother. Roach

[@Oske.images]

Hi I'm looking at buying Haix / Altberg boots. Is there much of a difference regarding sizing? Just wondered if one was slightly more of a generous fit than the other?

[@danielfinch362]

Hello Fellow Islander, as someone that's been in the army and worn different design boots the sizes are standardised. You must though get the correct width fitting S,M and W. I personally need wide fit. Also they are lovely and snug with a thin pair of cotton socks and thick pair of merino wool socks over the top, this helps prevent blisters, never once had a blister on my feet.

[@Oske.images]

@@danielfinch362 Thanks.. Got some cheap new Haix desert 13 w They're fine with normal sport socks. I also got a grade 1 pair of Altberg Defender (14 wide) and they're lovely with a thick pair of socks, and have room for a thin pair underneath. Keeping them for rough ( even though they're hardly worn) ,, and about to buy a new pair for best..

[@jonathanblackmore8973]

What sizing would you recommend if you were purchasing from eBay?? Slightly larger? Wide fit??

[@greencraft4783]

A size larger (particularly the altbergs) and a wide fit. You need to be able to move your toes, to keep your circulation going when it is cold.

[@manfredgroebel8257]

Helpful video. Tks!! Which type of Haix is it? There are many above 200 €.

[@greencraft4783]

Manfred, search eBay for "haix high liability combat boot " they are cheap

[@manfredgroebel8257]

Greencraft Tks, but no longer produced. They propose a Nepal at 209 Pound. ☹️

[@lappeldelanature5634]

I personnally use Quechua or Solognac boots from Decathlon to hike in the woods, I've never had any issues with them. Some models are available in leather and they are not critically expansive. Truth be told, I am definitly not spending an awful lot of time outdoors, so I don't have enough experience to recommand them over any of your recommandations. Still, they're not bad right ?

[@Legionnaire7777]

Altberg defender boots were excellent issued boots but the heel space was too big and you ended up with heel slippage. I think Altberg have now addressed this with an updated version that now hugs the heel much better a bit like the Aku pilgrim GTX fg boots.

[@RambloManiacs]

I found that. You mean the ops boot?

[@georgemorley1029]

The Aku pilgrim doesn’t have enough insulation for my liking, temperate and warm weather only for that boot, plus my waterproof lining has rubbed through fast and now they’re water traps. I solve the heel slip in defenders with a surgeon knot after the locking lug. Works a treat. Transforms the boot.

[@Legionnaire7777]

@@georgemorley1029 My feet run very hot so no problems with the Akus for me.Even with a surgeons knot I still had problems with the Altberg. I think it's always finding a boot that is best for your feet, Lowas we're always spot on for me but you had to size up for them. And the current ECW Iturri boots are OK too.

[@Legionnaire7777]

@@RambloManiacs Yes the ops boots, the fit is so much better, not having to wear ultra thick socks to fill the excess in the boot, you can get away with liner socks if your feet start getting hot and swelling up.

[@RambloManiacs]

@@Legionnaire7777 sounds good. Theyre very expensive at the mo though

[@frederickmerle6412]

I never really get obsession with waterproof/goretex type liners. They are useless once the book soaks through, take forever to dry and breath horribly. It is far better to use a good quality leather boot and look after it properly with wax. Easily just as waterproof as anything else even for full on winter conditions.

[@katrose5572]

Not all of us are in the UK though. So what would you recommend for someone in the USA?

[@Liam1991]

Most US boots are shit! Go and buy European boots.... Alt-Berg, Meindl, Haix, Lowa, Iturri, to name a few brands..

[@BingoBongoBingerz]

Thoragoods, mcrae, or wellco panama for desert/jungle/hot weather. If you want cold winter boots in the US come away from army boots and get a pair of Nick's boots.

[@LeeJCander]

Lucky I can get these for free being in the forces.

[@greencraft4783]

The new issue AKU's are supposed to be good kit too

[@LeeJCander]

@@greencraft4783 My friend works in stores he didn't have any in sadly! I got my pick of Haix or Altbergs. I prefer the flexibility and breathability tbh! Serves you better in the warmer months and still plenty good enough in the winter.

[@nathanmassey9680]

£50-£60 pound new where from 😭😂

[@johnrevill1087]

Where you getting your prices mate your way off the mark with the haix prices brand they are £159 second hand super grade £50 to £60 I wear the haix all year round and have been wearing them for over six years for hillwalking bush craft and airsoft never had a problem with them

[@greencraft4783]

You were ripped off , www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Genuine-British-Issue-Brown-High-Liability-Haix-Boots-size-10-Medium-New/223706090289?hash=item3415ec0b31:g:oWEAAOSwpBddnM9h

[@greencraft4783]

Talking to mates who are squaddies, the Altbergs are more popular, not saying Haix don't have their fans.

[@jasoncalaz1476]

John I got my hoax a year ago for 45 from eBay no box unused.

[@saemushailstorm3135]

- how about that hat of yours , eh ? strikes me as interesting ; so what about it , pls ? & yes , if theres one thing that soldiers in field ALWAYS take care about is SOX = NEVER HAVE ENUFF , ha !

[@greencraft4783]

Look out for the next video if you want to know about the hat. Thanks for commenting.

[@DanielSLumsden]

If you’re boots only last a few years then they are worthless. Good boots should last 10 years of heavy use at least.