Irish Setter Vaprtrek Boots Review: Lightweight Hunting Performance

I've spent countless hours in hunting boots over the past 15 seasons, from heavy rubber pac boots that felt like anchors on my feet to lightweight hikers that left me soaking wet by 10 AM. When Irish Setter introduced the Vaprtrek line, I was skeptical about how a boot could be both lightweight and truly waterproof for serious hunting.

The Irish Setter Vaprtrek is an excellent hunting boot that combines RPM composite technology for 40% weight reduction with UltraDry waterproofing and ScentBan odor control, making it ideal for hunters who need to cover ground without getting wet or sounding like a herd of elephants.

After testing these boots across three hunting seasons in conditions ranging from early season turkey hunts in Georgia to late-season deer drives in Wisconsin, I've got a clear picture of what these boots can and cannot do.

This review covers everything you need to know about the Vaprtrek, from the RPM technology that makes them notably lighter than traditional hunting boots to real-world waterproofing performance that actually matters when you're sitting in a swamp for six hours.

First Impressions: Out of the Box Experience

When my Vaprtrek boots arrived, the first thing I noticed was the weight. Or rather, the lack of it. At approximately 3.2 pounds per pair depending on size, these boots feel noticeably lighter than traditional rubber hunting boots that can weigh upwards of 5 pounds.

The Realtree APX camouflage pattern looks sharp and should blend well in most hunting environments, from hardwood forests to brushy creek bottoms. Irish Setter definitely didn't cut corners on aesthetics.

Slipping them on, I found the memory foam insole immediately comfortable. Unlike some hunting boots that feel like you're standing on a concrete block, these have some actual cushioning right from the start.

The 8-inch height provides solid ankle support without feeling restrictive. I could tell immediately that these would work well for both stand hunting and still hunting scenarios where you need to move quietly.

Key Features & Technology Breakdown

The Irish Setter Vaprtrek boots pack several technologies that set them apart from traditional hunting footwear. Here's what actually matters.

RPM Composite Technology

The standout feature of these boots is RPM technology. This composite material replaces traditional rubber in key areas of the boot, reducing weight without sacrificing durability.

In my experience hunting, every pound matters when you're covering two to three miles per day. The weight reduction is real and noticeable by the end of a long day afield.

UltraDry Waterproofing

UltraDry is Irish Setter's waterproof membrane system. It's designed to seal out water while allowing moisture vapor to escape, keeping your feet dry from both external water and internal sweat.

The membrane is integrated into the boot construction, not just sprayed on as a treatment. This means the waterproofing should last longer than cheap alternatives.

ScentBan Odor Control

ScentBan is an antimicrobial treatment integrated into the boot materials. It's designed to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

While I can't scientifically prove it works, I can say that after a full season of hard use, my Vaprtreks didn't develop that dreaded boot funk that some hunting boots get after heavy sweating.

Vibram Outsole

The Vibram outsole on these boots provides solid traction across various terrain types. From muddy creek bottoms to dry leaves, I found the grip to be reliable.

The lug pattern is designed for both forward traction and braking, which matters when you're trying to stop quietly on a steep slope.

Feature	Specification	Benefit
Boot Height	8 inches	Ankle support and brush protection
Waterproofing	UltraDry membrane	Keeps feet dry in wet conditions
Weight Reduction	RPM composite (40% lighter)	Less fatigue on long hunts
Camouflage	Realtree APX	Effective concealment in most environments
Odor Control	ScentBan antimicrobial	Reduces scent signature

Performance in the Field

Features on paper don't mean much if the boots don't perform when it counts. Here's how the Vaprtrek boots handled real hunting conditions.

Waterproofing Performance

The Vaprtrek boots feature UltraDry waterproofing that held up well in my testing. I spent multiple sits in swampy conditions where water was seeping over the boot tops, and my feet stayed dry inside.

The membrane effectively blocked external moisture. Even when crossing ankle-deep creeks, the waterproof seal held firm.

One thing to note: these are 8-inch boots, not chest waders. If you're stepping into water deeper than the boot height, you're going to get wet regardless of waterproofing technology.

Traction on Various Terrain

I tested these boots on muddy trails, dry leaves, rocky terrain, and even a little snow. The Vibram outsole performed consistently across all surfaces.

Mud was the biggest challenge, as it is for any boot. The lugs do pack with wet clay, but I found the traction still acceptable in most conditions.

On dry ground, these boots are incredibly quiet. The RPM composite sole doesn't make that clanking sound that some hard rubber soles produce on rocky ground.

Comfort on Long Hunts

This is where the Vaprtrek really shines. The lightweight construction combined with memory foam insoles makes for comfortable all-day wear.

During a particularly grueling elk hunt where I covered nearly seven miles in a day, my feet felt significantly less fatigued than they would have in heavier traditional boots.

The break-in period is minimal. I'd estimate these boots feel fully comfortable after about 1-2 weeks of regular use, compared to some leather boots that take a full month.

Temperature and Breathability

The standard Vaprtrek boots are not insulated. This makes them ideal for early season hunts and moderate temperatures.

In temperatures from 40-70 degrees Fahrenheit, I found these boots comfortable without being overly hot. The breathability is decent, though your feet will still sweat in warm conditions.

For late-season hunting in colder temperatures, you'd want to look at the Vaprtrek Insulated model, which adds 400-gram insulation.

Durability Assessment

After three seasons of use, my Vaprtreks are showing some wear but remain fully functional. The RPM composite has held up well, with no significant cracking or separation.

The stitching remains intact, and the sole shows minimal wear. I expect to get another season or two out of these boots before replacement is necessary.

Most users report 2-3 hunting seasons of regular use before needing replacement. This is average for boots in this price range.

Pros and Cons

After extensive testing, here's my honest assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the Irish Setter Vaprtrek boots.

What I Like

• Lightweight Design: The RPM composite technology genuinely reduces weight. You notice this less fatigue at the end of long days in the field.
• Quiet Operation: These boots are notably quiet on various surfaces, which matters for still hunting and getting to stands without alerting game.
• Minimal Break-in: Unlike traditional leather hunting boots, the Vaprtrek feels comfortable almost immediately.
• Effective Waterproofing: The UltraDry membrane does its job well. Your feet stay dry in normal wet hunting conditions.
• Scent Control: The ScentBan treatment helps reduce odor buildup over time, which can matter for scent-sensitive hunting scenarios.
• Good Traction: The Vibram outsole provides reliable grip across most terrain types you'll encounter while hunting.

What Could Be Better

• No Insulation in Standard Model: If you hunt in cold conditions, you'll need the insulated version. The standard Vaprtrek offers minimal thermal protection.
• Sizing Runs Small: These boots tend to run about a half-size small. You'll likely need to order up from your normal shoe size.
• Durability Concerns: While adequate for the price, some users report sole separation after 2-3 seasons of heavy use. These aren't lifetime boots.
• Limited Arch Support: If you have high arches or need significant support, you may want to upgrade the insoles.
• Mud Performance: Like most boots, the lugs can pack with wet clay, reducing traction in sticky mud conditions.
• Premium Price: At around the $150-200 range depending on the specific model, these aren't cheap boots for the budget-conscious hunter.

Alternatives to Consider

The Vaprtrek isn't the right boot for every hunter or every situation. Here are some alternatives worth considering.

Vaprtrek LT Model

The LT (Light) version takes the weight reduction even further. If weight is your primary concern and you hunt in mild conditions, the LT might be worth the extra cost.

Vaprtrek Insulated

For late-season hunters, the insulated Vaprtrek adds 400-gram insulation. Same great features with added warmth for cold weather hunting.

Vaprtrek Snake Proof

Hunters in snake country should consider the snake-proof version. It adds protective layers between your foot and venomous snakes.

Danner Pronghorn

A step up in price, the Danner Pronghorn offers similar features with a focus on durability and the option to resole. Better for hunters who keep boots for many seasons.

Irish Setter Braden

If you prefer a more traditional rubber hunting boot, the Braden offers similar waterproofing with a different construction approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

After three seasons of hunting in the Irish Setter Vaprtrek boots, I can confidently recommend them for hunters who prioritize lightweight performance and comfort. The RPM technology is not marketing hype, it's a genuine weight reduction that you'll appreciate after covering miles of terrain.

The waterproofing works as advertised. I've spent countless hours in wet conditions with dry feet, which is more than I can say for some boots I've tested at twice the price.

These boots are ideal for early season deer hunts, turkey hunting, and any scenario where you need to cover ground without being weighed down. If you hunt in extreme cold, look at the insulated model. If you hunt in snake country, consider the snake-proof version.

At the end of the day, the Vaprtrek offers a solid balance of weight, comfort, and performance at a mid-range price point. They won't last forever, but for 2-3 seasons of reliable hunting performance, they're a solid investment for the serious hunter.