Crispi Guide GTX Review: The Ultimate Guide for Cold Weather Hunting Boots

In this Crispi Guide Gtx review, we delve deep into one of Crispi’s standout insulated boots. The Crispi Guide GTX boots are specifically engineered for those late-season hunts where unpredictable weather, plummeting temperatures, and the need to stay dry and warm are paramount. These boots are designed to keep you focused on the hunt, not on heading back to the truck due to discomfort.

Over the course of a year, I rigorously tested the Crispi Guide GTX boots across diverse terrains, temperatures, and hunting scenarios. This extensive testing period provided a well-rounded understanding of their performance, highlighting their strengths and areas where they might not excel as much. It’s important to note that the Crispi Guide GTX series offers both uninsulated and 200 gram insulated versions. This review focuses on the 200-gram insulated model, which I personally tested.

The Testing Grounds: Crispi Guide GTX Boot Review

My testing of the Crispi Guide GTX boots began in early February, a time characterized by persistent snow cover and consistently sub-freezing temperatures, conditions that demand a robust cold-weather boot. I continued to wear and evaluate these boots multiple times each week on various hikes, until temperatures climbed too high for insulated footwear. At that point, I transitioned to testing the Crispi Thor II GTX boots throughout the summer and into the early fall archery season. As October arrived and temperatures again plummeted, I returned to the Guide GTX boots for the remainder of the hunting season.

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It’s crucial to acknowledge upfront that boot reviews are inherently subjective. Boot fit is incredibly personal; what feels perfect for one person might be uncomfortable for another. Therefore, this review aims to provide insights into the performance of the Crispi Guide GTX assuming a good fit. For me, these boots were exceptionally comfortable and fit well, which is the foundational element of any successful boot experience. If the fit is off, no other features will compensate, and it’s essential to find boots that properly fit your feet.

Don’t forget to explore our other gear reviews and the Backwoods Pursuit YouTube Channel. These resources can significantly aid you in choosing the gear that will keep you in the field longer and more comfortably!

Crispi Guide GTX Specs: An Overview

Crispi boots have steadily gained popularity in recent years, becoming a recognized name among outdoor enthusiasts. As with any boot brand, opinions are varied; some users are devoted fans, while others are less enthusiastic. Recognizing this, I approach each boot review with an unbiased perspective, allowing the boots to demonstrate their performance without preconceived notions. One of the most objective aspects of a boot review is examining its specifications.

The model under review is the Guide GTX Insulated boot, a 10-inch tall boot available in both insulated and non-insulated versions.

Gore-Tex Waterproof Bootie
Weight: 2.15 lbs per boot (size 10)
A.B.S.S. (Ankle Bone Support System)
Sole: Vibram Supergrip
Shock-Absorbing Midsole
Water-Repellent Nubuk Leather Upper
Vibram Megagrip Outsole
Crispi Crossbow Frame Midsole
Heavy-Duty Rubber Rand
Flex Rating: 3 (Moderate)
Insulation Options: Insulated (200g) or Non-Insulated

Build Quality and Durability: Crispi Guide GTX Review

Close-up showcasing the high-quality Nubuk leather and robust construction of the Crispi Guide GTX boot.

The Crispi Guide GTX boots are constructed using premium nubuk leather, which offers a luxurious feel and exceptional durability. I was particularly impressed with the overall build quality and robustness of these boots, especially noting how well they have endured a full year of rigorous use. From the precise stitching and top-grade nubuk leather to the waterproof Gore-Tex boot liner and the Vibram Superagrip outsole, the Crispi Guide GTX boots exude quality in every aspect.

Let’s delve deeper into the specific features and performance aspects of these boots.

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Out-of-the-Box Comfort and Break-in: Crispi Guide GTX Review

In recent years, I’ve tested boots from various reputable brands, including Kenetrek, Hoffman, Meindl, Danner, Crispi, and Salomon. Some of these boots offered immediate comfort right out of the box, while others required a significant break-in period. The Crispi Guide GTX Insulated boots fell into the category of boots that were comfortable initially but still benefited from a break-in period to reach their optimal feel. During the first few weeks of regular hikes (a few hikes per week), they felt somewhat stiff and slightly restricted movement. However, with continued use, their comfort level improved dramatically.

After this initial break-in phase, I truly began to appreciate the natural roll of my foot with each step. Considering they are a 10-inch full leather boot, their weight of 2.15 pounds is surprisingly manageable. While still heavier than ultralight options like the 1.25-pound Crispi Thor II GTX (which I tested in warmer conditions), the Guide GTX boots are designed for a different purpose. This comparison naturally raises the question: why choose taller, heavier boots like the Crispi Guide GTX?

The Advantage of Taller, Heavier Boots: Crispi Guide GTX

A side-by-side comparison of the Crispi Guide GTX and Crispi Thor II GTX boots, highlighting the difference in height and profile.

Switching between lightweight hiker-style boots such as the Salomon Quest 4 GTX and the Crispi Thor II GTX, and then transitioning to a significantly heavier and stiffer 10-inch boot like the Crispi Guide GTX was an insightful experience. The Thor II GTX has a flex rating of 4, making it technically stiffer than the Crispi Guide GTX with a flex rating of 3. However, in practice, the Thor II GTX felt less restrictive overall due to its lower cut.

Despite the numerical flex ratings, the Guide GTX feels stiffer, primarily due to its taller height and robust Nubuck leather construction. The Thor II GTX does exhibit more sole stiffness and less flex underfoot, but its shorter height compensates for this, resulting in a different overall feel.

So, when is a 10-inch leather boot preferable? Personally, I lean towards lightweight, hiker-style boots whenever conditions permit. I appreciate the reduced weight and the enhanced agility they offer when navigating mountainous terrain. However, the superior protection afforded by boots like the Crispi Guide GTX becomes invaluable during the cold weather of October and November in regions like Idaho.

A perfect illustration of this occurred during a late October hunt. I attempted to extend the usable temperature range of the Thor II GTX boots and wore them in snowy conditions. The shallower tread pattern of the Thor II (shown below) proved less effective in snow, and the shorter boot height certainly didn’t help in keeping my feet dry.

A detailed view of the Crispi Thor II boot tread pattern, showcasing its shallower design compared to more aggressive treads.

Ultimately, while I value shorter, lightweight hiker-style boots, I definitively switch to taller 10-inch leather boots for mid-to-late season hunts. The added weight is a worthwhile trade-off for the warmth and dryness they provide, and the enhanced tread depth of the Guide GTX boots offers a significant advantage in challenging terrains.

Factory Insole Considerations and Replacements

Initially, I decided to give the factory insoles included with the Crispi Guide GTX boots a fair assessment and was pleasantly surprised by their initial comfort. My expectations weren’t high, but they performed better than anticipated. However, after a few outings, the factory Crispi Air Mesh insoles began to lose their cushioning, and the soles of my feet started to feel the impact.

In my experience, replacing factory insoles is almost a standard practice with virtually every pair of boots I’ve owned. Typically, I’ve relied on trusted standbys, with my long-time favorites being the SuperFeet Trailblazer Insoles. This year, however, I tested the Sheep Feet custom orthotics, and the difference was remarkable. While SuperFeet are excellent and more budget-friendly, the Sheep Feet custom orthotics offered an unmatched level of personalized support. They represent a more significant investment and a slightly more involved process to acquire, but the benefit of fully customized orthotics tailored to your unique foot imprint is undeniably worth it.

Sheep Feet provides an impression box for you to create your foot imprint, which you then mail back using prepaid shipping. Several weeks later, your custom orthotics arrive. It’s important to note, and I learned this the hard way, to gradually acclimate your feet to these orthotics. Given that your feet are likely not accustomed to this level of support, start with shorter walks or hikes and gradually increase the duration and intensity of use.

I somewhat disregarded this advice before embarking on a weekend-long hunting and backpacking trip, and I returned with sore arches. This was a direct result of my impatience, as the instructions explicitly recommend a gradual break-in period. Take heed: allow your feet time to adjust to custom orthotics!

Stiffness and Support Analysis: Crispi Boots Review

Image highlighting the ankle support and overall structure of the Crispi Guide GTX boot, demonstrating its robust design.

Crispi employs a flex rating system to assist customers in selecting the most appropriate Crispi Boots based on their preferences. Some individuals prefer extremely stiff boots, while others favor more flexible options. Crispi’s rating system simplifies the process of understanding the flexibility of each boot model.

The Guide GTX boots I tested have a flex rating of 3 (indicating moderate flexibility), which aligned well with my personal preference. I generally avoid overly stiff boots, particularly for early season archery hunting, so these boots struck a good balance. They seemed to fall between the more flexible Salomon Quest 4D GTX boots I’ve used for years and the stiffer Hoffman Explorer boots I tested last season.

There is a trade-off between flexibility and durability. More flexible boots, while often more comfortable and lighter, tend to wear out more quickly. I typically went through a pair of the Solomon Quest 4D GTX almost every year, whereas the Crispi Guide GTX boots appear to have significantly more longevity. While the initial investment is higher, the long-term value is compelling.

Lacing System and Eyelets: Crispi Guide GTX Review

The lacing system on the Crispi Guide GTX Boots starts with standard enclosed eyelets for the first five positions near the toe, transitioning to an open hook design for the upper five eyelets. I significantly prefer this lacing configuration over the nylon loop ankle lock system featured on the Crispi Valdres and Thor II models. This is admittedly a personal preference, but I find the open hook design much more convenient and user-friendly for daily lacing compared to the nylon loop.

Close-up image detailing the lacing system of the Crispi Guide GTX boot, showcasing the combination of enclosed eyelets and open hooks.

Traction Performance: Crispi Guide GTX Review

The Vibram Supergrip outsole on the Crispi Guide GTX boots provided exceptional traction across all terrains I encountered. From dry, rocky slopes to snow-covered inclines, the aggressive and deep tread pattern effectively gripped the surface, minimizing slippage. Through testing various tread patterns, even within the Vibram range, I’ve observed that some patterns offer superior traction compared to others. The tread design on the Guide GTX is deep enough to perform well in snow, yet not so deep that it accumulates excessive mud on softer trails.

I tested these boots in mud, snow, and dry conditions, and they consistently performed exceptionally well in every environment. Deep snow? Not a problem. Muddy hillsides? While mud presents traction challenges for any footwear, these boots performed admirably.

Nubuk Leather Upper and Rubber Rand: Crispi Guide GTX Review

Detailed shot of the Crispi Guide GTX boot’s Nubuk leather upper and full rubber rand, emphasizing the materials and construction.

The Crispi Guide GTX boots feature a Nubuk leather upper for enhanced comfort and a full rubber rand around the lower portion of the boot for added durability. Both of these features performed precisely as intended. The Nubuk upper is remarkably supple, preventing potential friction and hot spots, particularly crucial in a taller boot like this.

The rubber rand proved to be highly durable, showing no signs of separation or wear after a full season of use. I have experienced other boots where the rubber rand began to peel away after just a year of use, but the Crispi Guide GTX boots showed absolutely no such issues after a year of consistent wear.

Waterproof Performance: Crispi Guide GTX Review

The Crispi Guide GTX boots are equipped with a Gore-Tex waterproof bootie, designed to keep your feet dry while maintaining breathability. Gore-Tex is a proven leader in waterproof membrane technology, and it performed flawlessly in these boots, consistently keeping my feet dry regardless of external conditions.

I hunted in exceptionally wet weather while wearing the Crispi Guide GTX insulated boots, as well as during numerous days in cold, wet snow. On one particular trip, the boots were continuously exposed to snow for several days, yet my feet remained completely dry and warm. As the snow melted later in the week, transitioning to wet terrain, my feet stayed dry throughout the entire week. I can confidently attest that the Crispi Guide GTX boots effectively kept me warm, dry, and focused on the trail, even in harsh cold and wet conditions.

What We Loved: Crispi Guide GTX Boot Review

Image highlighting the comfort and versatility of the Crispi Guide GTX boots in a natural outdoor setting.

Relatively Lightweight for a boot of this type
Fully Waterproof
Highly Durable Construction
Exceptional Comfort
Premium Quality Materials
Vibram Supergrip Outsole for Superior Traction
Easy to Put On and Take Off
User-Friendly Lacing System (No Nylon Ankle Loop)
Excellent Traction in Snow and Varied Terrain

There is a lot to appreciate about these boots. They presented no issues in terms of comfort, durability, or waterproofness. They effectively kept my feet warm even in single-digit temperatures during hunts. Furthermore, they appear robust enough to provide many more years of reliable, hard use.

Drawbacks and Considerations: Crispi Guide GTX Review

While there wasn’t much to dislike about the Crispi Guide GTX boots, being critically objective, there seemed to be slightly excessive leather around the ankle area. Once fully broken in, I noticed a slight bunching of leather in this region. This observation may be specific to the fit on my foot, but it’s worth noting. Also, these boots are positioned at a higher price point, reflecting their status as Crispi’s premium insulated boot offering.

Image focusing on the ankle area of the Crispi Guide GTX boot, illustrating a potential point of consideration regarding fit and leather bunching.

I also found them somewhat restrictive during the initial couple of weeks of break-in. However, after this period, they became excellent and allowed a natural stride. This break-in period isn’t necessarily a dislike, but rather an observation during initial use. Importantly, they didn’t cause blisters or significant discomfort even when new!

Higher Price Point
Factory Insoles May Need Immediate Replacement for Optimal Support
Initial Break-in Period Required

Long-Term Durability After a Season of Use: Crispi Guide GTX Test

Image showcasing the Crispi Guide GTX boots after a full season of use, highlighting their maintained condition and durability.

After a full season of testing and use for this Crispi Guide GTX review, the boots still look, feel, and perform remarkably well. They require a thorough cleaning and leather treatment to maintain their condition, but they have held up exceptionally well. Considering the amount of use they’ve endured, they show surprisingly little wear. From winter hikes to rifle deer and elk seasons in Idaho during October and November, these boots remain in excellent condition!

Essential Annual Care for Crispi Guide GTX Boots

Every year, I typically clean my boots with a wet, soapy brush to remove dirt and debris. Following cleaning, I apply a treatment of Crispi Waterproofing boot cream. In some instances, particularly after heavy exposure to wet or harsh conditions, I may apply a mid-season treatment to prevent the leather from drying out. However, usually, an end-of-season treatment is sufficient.

Crispi Guide GTX Review: Final Verdict

After enduring frozen feet on recent late-season hunts while wearing uninsulated boots, the need for insulated hunting boots became clear. The Crispi Guide GTX boots proved to be the perfect solution. I covered extensive miles in these boots across challenging terrain, packed out game, and consistently remained dry, comfortable, warm, and sure-footed. They are constructed with top-quality materials and craftsmanship, and they have performed flawlessly.

Time will ultimately reveal their long-term durability over many years of use, but based on their performance this past year, my expectations are high. If you are seeking leather boots that minimize weight while providing full ankle support and insulation for cold weather hunts, the Crispi Guide GTX boots are definitely worth serious consideration.

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