Welcome to 2020 folks and the first edition of Archery Wire. This is a special edition today – as well as another special edition tomorrow (Friday). Yep, we received SO MANY announcements from our members that I had to divide into two special editions. So kudos to you for not only working over the holiday (I see you), but also making it difficult for me to choose what to talk about in my editorials! However, I had to give it to Irish Setter for introducing a new rubber boot, which they are unveiling at the ATA show (Booth 3133). Have you noticed the boot industry keeps finding ways to make lighter and lighter boots? And waterproof, and regulating your foot temp? (see below). I can still remember (nightmares, really) using Baggies brand bags to slip over my feet before I put my boots on to head outside to take care of my calves and milk cows. I’m surprised I still have toes…anyway, onward to read Irish Setter’s mission to create amazing boots. -Michelle Scheuermann, editor, Archery Wire.
Photo credit: Irish Setter
Q1. Irish Setter is introducing some new rubber boots today at the ATA Show. What makes these MudTrek boots different?
A1. Well, these boots have several things going for them. First, they’re the lightest rubber boots in our brand’s history and they’re among the lightest available today. And they’re made to fit. We have a couple different fit options. One is a snug, athletic fit similar to the fit of our Rutmaster rubber boots and the other is a traditional, roomier, full fit. We’re using a unisex sizing system with whole sizes from 4-15 so we’ll accommodate men, women and young adults.
Another cool feature is TempSense technology which helps regulate the temperature inside the boot.
Photo credit: Irish Setter
Q2. Okay, that sounds cool and techy, but what exactly does it do?
A2. TempSense technology helps regulate the temperature within the boot to maintain constant comfort. In hot boot situations, the system reacts and moisture is hyper wicked away from the foot whereby evaporative cooling can take place leaving the wearer cooler, drier and more comfortable In colder situations, the linings pull moisture off the skin as well but traps it which helps create a thermal barrier which helps maintain a constant comfortable temperature inside the boot. And in the insulated styles with ThermalBoost, warmth is provided without additional bulk. 3D fleece linings also up the warmth factor while facilitating airflow through the lining. You’ll be more comfortable hunting all day long.
Photo credit: Irish Setter
Q3. How did you make the boots lighter?
A3. Good question. The specific design of sole platform and the use of our our proprietary RPM material from our Rutmaster along with a calculated upper design, helped to reduce the overall weight from the boot without sacrificing performance. It’s always a fine balance between the two to create a lightweight, comfortable yet durable boot. Our product development team tests materials and construction methods to determine the best combination of lightweight and performance. We also have a top-notch fit-and-wear program that uses guides and DNR people who are outdoors consistently who test our products before we launch them to ensure our new products meet our rigorous standards. Materials are also put to the test in labs to capture durability data.
Photo credit: Irish Setter
Q4. Anything else we should know about these MudTrek boots?
A4. The Rubber Mudder outsole has an aggressive lug pattern for stability and traction in rough terrain. You want waterproof rubber/neoprene boots that help keep you upright in muddy conditions. The self-cleaning lugs help remove mud and dirt with every step. Use your feet and the built-in heel kick to kick your boots off when they’re dirty at the end of the day. We also use ScentBan™ antimicrobial scent control to help eliminate odors within the boot – another thing people are looking for when buying rubber boots.
People attending the ATA Show can see them at booth #3133 or SHOT Show #11346. They’ll be available at retail in August. We have some other great products available now at http://irishsetterboots.com
Q5. Charley, what do you do for fun?
A5. I bow hunt for whitetail and do some pheasant hunting when I can. Other than that, my kids are involved in hockey, so you’ll often find me at a rink. (Ahh..Minnesota at your core – thank you Charley!!)
