Review: Irish Setter VaprTrek Boots

I would wager that a large portion of fly anglers enjoy outdoor pursuits beyond the fly rod. Come September, I am torn between the last wet wades of the year and chasing whitetails with a bow. When dogwoods bloom in April, it’s another conundrum: largemouth bass in the greening shallows or gobbling eastern turkeys high on the hardwood ridges? If I lived farther west (among “real” mountains, as my Montana friends say) I imagine elk, mulies, and Merriam’s gobblers would be in competition with cutthroats and rainbows.

I can’t be the only one.

This constant juggling act between angling and hunting means I’m partial to multipurpose, comfortable, watertight, and rugged footwear. My search for such a boot led me to Irish Setter’s VaprTrek. With seven decades of boot making behind them, Irish Setter knows a few things about building quality footwear. Designed with versatility in mind, these particular boots seem to understand and address my seasonal dilemmas.

First Impressions and Fit

I selected the uninsulated version (seemed appropriate for the Southern climate) in size 11 D. Right off the bat, I can say they run true to size, or maybe a hair smaller. I’m a “tweener”—some shoes it’s 11, some it’s 10.5. The fit was almost perfect for me, which was a pleasant surprise given how finicky boot sizing can be.

Design and Durability

The VaprTrek comes in various styles, including Realtree APX Camo and Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camouflage options. Practical reasons for camouflaged multi-purpose boots aside (sharp-eyed turkeys top the list) I am hillbilly to the core and truly dig the camo aesthetic.

The boots also feature a full-grain leather and honeycomb ripstop fabric construction, ensuring durability whether you’re navigating a rocky hillside or trudging through dense underbrush.

Waterproofing

One standout feature is the UltraDry Waterproofing System. These boots aren’t designed for in-stream wading (they’re for getting to and from the creek, not for in-water use), and they’ve kept my feet 100-percent dry during a full day of trekking through dewy grass and necessary shallow-water fording. In a world where the designation of “waterproof” is often wishful thinking at best and marketing malarkey at the worst, the VaprTrek has delivered on that promise so far.

Comfort and Break-In

Comfort is where these boots truly shine. I put them to the test on a short combo trip—deer scouting, squirrel hunting, and hiking to a creek for some smallmouth on the fly—and they were supremely comfortable right out of the box. I’m crediting the boot’s components for this “broken-in” feel without having to endure any break-in miles. It’s a game-changer for those of us who don’t have the patience (or time) to slowly break in a new pair of boots.

I also felt supported. Internal and external pods cradle the ankle, enhancing stability and all-day comfort. It’s like a high-performance high-top basketball shoe tricked out for off-road use.

Technology and Performance

The VaprTrek’s enerG technology incorporates these high-rebound materials, providing noticeable cushioning and energy return. After a full day of varied activities, my feet felt fresher than expected. The boots are also pleasantly lightweight (21.9 oz per boot) which was much appreciated during my long day of mixed activities. The ArmaTec XT technology enhances abrasion resistance, which should help with longevity—a key factor for those of us who are tough on our gear.

Traction was never a concern, even across varied terrain. Honestly, I never once thought about lost footing. The Rubber Hex Lite outsole with multi-directional lugs offered solid grip across everything. I felt confident in my footing whether I was carefully navigating a steep, slick, stony bank down to the creek or slipping through the woods.

While I haven’t had the chance to truly put them through the grind yet, based on their performance on the abbreviated hunting/scouting/fishing trip, I’m confident they’ll serve well when spring turkey season rolls around with its ponderous demands. For those extending their pursuits into colder seasons and in colder climates, VaprTrek offers insulated models featuring Primaloft, though I can’t speak to their performance.

Sustainability: A Step in the Right Direction

What sets the VaprTrek apart, beyond its versatility and comfort, is Irish Setter’s commitment to sustainability. I consider myself an environmentally conscious outdoor enthusiast, which is a fine line to walk when buying new gear because it’s tough for manufacturers to make a buck while also being thoughtful about environmental impact. Finding a brand trying to do the right thing, even if it’s not the perfect thing, is important to me.

The midsole of the VaprTrek is made with high rebound renewable sugarcane. Yes, you read that right—the same plant that sweetens your tea (if you’re drinking tea the right way) is now cushioning your feet. This innovative use of a renewable resource not only provides excellent comfort but also reduces the boot’s environmental footprint. It’s a small step for your feet, but a sizable jump for sustainable manufacturing in the outdoor industry.

Irish Setter’s dedication to sustainability goes beyond just materials. The company has expressed a commitment to incorporating sustainable practices throughout their manufacturing process and supporting conservation efforts to protect public lands. As someone who relies almost exclusively on these lands for both angling and hunting, this commitment resonates deeply with me.

Bang for the Buck

Priced between $189.99 and $199.99, the VaprTrek  isn’t cheap, but it’s in line with other high-quality, versatile outdoor footwear. Given their performance across varied terrains and activities, they represent a solid value for the angler-hunter looking to minimize gear while also making a more environmentally conscious choice.