Arts & Culture

How to Find the Perfect Boot

For two decades, these reliable boots have been favorites of gardeners, hunters, and other outdoor-loving Southerners

Photo: Courtesy of Muck boot

The turkey hunter waiting in the thick of an Alabama wood. The tireless rancher on the Texas plains. The meticulous Carolina gardener, patiently coaxing a vision to life. Across the South and well beyond, we are living and working outdoors, and whether trudging through the forest after a late summer storm or hopping down from stirrup to dirt, the presence of muck feels constant. From the farm to the duck blind, the muck seems to follow, and when you find yourself ankle-deep in the grime, a reliable shoe can be your best friend. This simple fact was the driving force behind the Original Muck Boot Company, now a sworn-by outfitter among sportsmen and other outdoor enthusiasts. The boots made their debut twenty years ago in 1999, created as an answer to the simple need for a solid shoe—something tough enough to be truly lived in, day after day, year after year. 

Courtesy of Muck Boot

After two decades of honing its craftsmanship, the operation covers more than just work boots. Muck Boot now offers a range of long-lasting footwear for folks of all ages and vocations, and this year, the brand is going back to its roots. In honor of the twentieth anniversary, a new generation of products takes a cue from Muck Boot’s original collection, reviving beloved classics with upgrades in comfort, performance, and style. 

On September 20, Muck Boot is celebrating with a site-wide 20 percent-off sale, and to help you find your perfect pair, we’ve rounded up a few essentials—four products fit for everyone from the front-yard gardener to the seasoned quail hunter, all built to fearlessly brave the muck. Even better, Garden & Gun readers can shop the sale a day early on September 19; use code EARLYGG20 for access. 


Courtesy of Muck Boot

Lifestyle: On the Farm
Boot Style: Chore Classic 

The most iconic style in the Muck boot lineup, there isn’t much the Chore can’t handle. One of the best farming boots on the market, the Chore for both men and women has been rereleased this year, with design updates and new colors. Airmesh lining and waterproof construction keep things cool and dry, as durable rubber soles tackle any terrain with ease. The boots, long favored by the farming community, are made for days on the land, delivering maximum comfort and unmatched resistance to grit and grime.

SHOP CHORE BOOTS


 

Courtesy of Muck Boot

Lifestyle: In the Garden
Boot Style: Muckster II Mid

For those with their hands in countless projects and their knees ever in the dirt, the hyper-versatile Muckster is ready for anything. The company’s best-selling all-purpose boot for women now comes in a mid-height, convertible to an ankle bootie with one simple roll. Despite its durability, the Muckster doesn’t skimp on style—with a variety of bold prints and colors to choose from, this comfy waterproof shoe brings a dose of personality to a home and garden essential.

SHOP MUCKSTER BOOTS


Lifestyle: In the Field
Boot Style: Fieldblazer Classic
 

When it comes to sporting gear, the original Fieldblazer is widely known as the best men’s shoe in its class. Waterproof and lightweight, the calf-high camouflage boot rolls down to reveal a blaze-orange lining, offering concealment in the woods and high visibility when needed. The result of field-tested technology, the boots keep hunters whisper quiet, completely dry, and prepared for the unexpected. 

SHOP FIELDBLAZER BOOTS


Courtesy of Muck Boot

Lifestyle: In the Saddle
Boot Style: Derby Riding

A sleek Chelsea boot made for equestrian life, the Derby is chic enough to wear into town. With a mix of sturdy and feminine features, the original design has been refined to pull on and off smoothly, marrying practical utility and polished appeal. Thoughtfully crafted as a perfect fit for both Western-style and English-style riders, the Derby boot is poised to become a staple around the barn. 

SHOP DERBY RIDING BOOT


REMEMBER: Garden & Gun readers can shop the sale a day early on September 19; use code EARLYGG20 for access.