Your feet are farther away from your heart compared to other parts of your body. When the mercury plummets, your body keeping your extremities warm becomes an uphill battle. If you’re unprepared with the ideal footwear, you leave your feet susceptible to be Jack Frost nibbling on them.
Fortunately, you don’t have to resign yourself to this fate because Pac boots can be lifesaving. However, if you’re wondering, ‘what are Pac boots?’ and whether you need a pair, this guide delves into that and more. Read on!
What Are Pac Boots?
Pac boots are usually a winter boot that has a thick lower shell solely made of rubber. The upper part of this type of footwear is crafted from durable materials such as heavy-duty nylon or leather. While the rubber shell is always water-resistant, the same isn’t always true about the upper part as it depends on the construction.
Most Pac boots have a thick, insulated liner that might be a non-removable or removable liner. When the harsh winters roll around, this footwear has the uncanny ability to keep your feet warm and dry, making them perfect for activities such as ice fishing and shoveling the driveways. Pac boots that have a removable liner usher in unmatched convenience as the liners can be dried out quicker.
Features to Look for in Pac Boots
Although Pac boot liners are a crucial feature, we’ll explore other essential features to consider that will ensure you get the best bang for your buck.
Height
Pac boots vary in height from 9 to 13 inches. Therefore, the greater the height, the warmer they are and the more protection they provide for your legs and ankles. However, it’s worth noting that taller height means increased weight.
If you’ll be going on short walks rather than strenuous activities, then taller Pac boots are right up your alley. Contrarily, if you’ll constantly be on the move, embarking on long walks or hikes, then boots with a height of 9 to 10 inches are ideal.
Temperature Ratings
If you’ll be in extreme cold, Pac boots are a worthy investment. They’re assigned a comfort range from 10°F to -120°F, to steer you in the right direction. Nonetheless, bear in mind that additional clothing, health, and activity levels can impact the overall warmth.
Water Resistance
Depending on your situation, you might want to keep your eyes peeled for waterproof or water-resistant Pac boots. After all, ice-cold water seeping into your footwear makes it impossible to stay warm and comfortable.
Safety Elements
Many Pac boots come with plates and safety toes on the soles, with some being puncture-resistant. If you might be in dangerous environments where there’s the likelihood of stumbling upon sharp objects, opt for puncture-resistant plates and steel or composite toes.
Durable Water Repellent (DWR)
To know if your Pac boots have a DWR finish on the upper part, splash a bit of water. If your footwear has this waterproof membrane or finish, you’ll see the water beading up and rolling off the surface. However, if water doesn’t bead up, we recommend treating your boots with a DWR spray before wearing them in extreme cold. Furthermore, consider replenishing the finish on your boots when autumn rolls around to protect them during the harsh winter.
Pac Boots and Socks
While you have free rein to wear Pac boots without socks due to the liner, most people prefer wearing socks to avoid the hassle of cleaning the liner nearly every day or frequently replacing it. If you choose to wear socks, steer clear of the cotton counterparts as they absorb and retain moisture. Instead, opt for a material such as polyester, a wool socks blend, or acrylic socks with enhanced moisture-wicking properties. After all, socks are a crucial factor in keeping feet dry.
Pac Boots vs Snow Boots
Snow boots refer to any type of insulated winter boors that deliver a level of protection from cold and snow. Contrary to Pac boots, most snow boots lack full rubber bottoms or a lower shell, making them lighter and less bulky.
Nonetheless, a snow boot isn’t as durable as Pac boots and usually don’t provide the same level of weather protection for cold feet. Some snow boots usually come with fashionable accessories such as shearling lining and faux fur cuffs.
Pac Boots vs Winter Hunting Boots
Winter hunting boots are usually less bulky and more lightweight compared to snow boots and Pac boots, making them perfect for hiking on rugged terrain. Additionally, they typically offer waterproof protection courtesy of a water-resistant or waterproof membrane.
Nevertheless, winter boots have less insulation compared to Pac boots, which means they’re not as warm for cold feet. If you’ll be standing still for long periods in the cold or deep snow, for instance, in a hunting blind, you’ll need a pair of heavy-duty Pac boots for extra warmth.
How to Choose the Best Liner for Your Pac Boots
As you know, the inner lining of Pac boots serves to add warmth in extreme cold. Therefore, liners with more layering mean warmer boots. Nevertheless, there are a few major elements that top-grade liners should have to ensure your feet remain comfortable and warm the entire time you wear the boots rather than in the first few minutes. With that being said, we’ve rounded up five main factors to consider.
Insulation
While the liners can be crafted from polytech foam, the thickness and quality of the material should double as a cushion and insulator for your feet.
Thermal Properties
Top-notch liners have a thermal membrane that mirrors heat, which means it absorbs and uses your body’s heat to make your feet warmer.
Wicking Layer
Moisture is one of the worst enemies of warmth. As such, the liner of your Pac boots must have moisture-wicking abilities to absorb the sweat from your feet and retain warmth.
Moisture Funnel Layer
Moisture that’s been wicked away must be directed somewhere. Liners have a hollow fiber layer that funnels the water vapor and moisture away from your foot for optimum comfort and warmth.
Cushion Layer
Having insulation doesn’t always imply that there’s adequate cushioning for optimum comfort. Instead, choose a layered liner that can guarantee soft cushioning for diminished foot strain and fatigue.
The Bottom Line
As they say, knowledge is power. Now that you’re aware of Pac boots and the liners they come with, you understand how important they are in preventing frostbite by keeping your feet warm and comfortable in cold weather, making them a great investment.