Patrik Orcutt 11.18.25
As someone who’s spent more than a decade running around in the woods on Hunts, Adventures, and for the Military, I’ve learned that the right pair of boots can make or break a trip. This past spring, while gearing up for a multi-day canoe expedition down the West Branch of the Penobscot in Northern Maine, I stumbled upon the LaCrosse Alpha Evolution Boots and requested a pair to use during my trip. Living in Maine it’s also always a good idea to have a good pair of tall boots around for when you have to shovel the snow in the winter months. After logging multiple outings in them over the past 6 months, I’m here to share why the Alpha Evolutions have earned a permanent spot in my gear rotation.
Boot Coverage on AllOutdoor
The LaCrosse Alpha Evolution Boots were provided by LaCrosse for this review, and while I am allowed to keep them after the conclusion of this review, this will not change my opinion on any of their current or future products. LaCrosse has not been allowed to preview this article prior to its publication. I
The Review
Let’s start with the basics. These 17-inch knee-high rubber boots are built for hunters and extreme users, blending hand-laid premium natural rubber over insulating neoprene for flexibility and 100% waterproof protection. At 5.3 pounds per pair, they’re substantial, but they won’t weigh you down. I believe they strike a perfect balance that’s ideal for mild to cool weather without the bulk of heavier insulated models. I wore them during a few days of Bear Hunting this September, and while I was also wearing heavier socks, my feet never got chilly while sitting in 40-degree weather.
The Vibram XS TREK outsole grips very well on rocks and muddy trails, while the rubberized EVA midsole delivers cushioned shock absorption that keeps my feet fresh after long hauls. And that neoprene gusset? It’s a lovely feature for a quick on-and-off of the boots and something I wish my old pair of Muck boots had while i was growing up. I honestly find myself wearing these once or twice a day when I need to let the Dog out for his bathroom breaks.
One thing that I definitely appreciate about the Alpha Evolutions is knowing they’re made in the USA—specifically in LaCrosse’s Portland, Oregon factory, where uppers are handcrafted and rigorously waterproof-tested. With this being said, I must talk about the fact that I have not heard very good things about many of the overseas-produced LaCrosse boots for the past year. A good friend of mine goes through about a pair a year at his ecology job, so keep that in mind. With that being said, I’m still happy to report that these boots are still being made in the USA and I love that.
Testing on the River
My first real test came this past July on a three-day Canoe trip on the West Branch of the Penobscot River in Northern Maine We launched at dawn, paddling almost 20 miles the first day. The Alpha Evolutions shone here in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Mornings often meant wading into shallow rivers to purify water, and the boots’ seamless waterproof construction kept my feet bone-dry even after knee-deep splashes. No leaks, no soggy blisters—just reliable protection that let me focus on the rhythm of the paddle.
Thankfully, we planned this trip to have no portages, but the morning of our last day was a wet one with the sky opening up on us multiple times. I sure was glad to have a pair of taller boots that morning. Where the ground turned to slick granite slabs and ankle-twisting undergrowth, the Vibram lugs bit in confidently, preventing slips that could have turned a fun trek into a twisted ankle.
Comfort
Comfort has been great; there has not been a point where I have felt uncomfortable in these boots. The quick-drying, moisture-wicking jersey knit liner pulled sweat away during humid afternoons, and the fiberglass shank provided just enough rigidity to support my arches without feeling like I was clomping around in clunky clodhoppers, and yes, I really did just write clodhoppers.
Fast-forward to September, and the Alpha Evolutions proved to be a great bear hunting boot. These boots were whisper-quiet, their rubber soles muffling footfalls better than I anticipated, and I can sneak up on my girlfriend in our apartment and scare her whenever with these on.
Durability
Durability impressed me after brushing against some old barbed wire fences and rocky outcrops; there wasn’t a scuff or tear on the boot. The reinforced toe and heel, built with multilayer rubber, took the abuse like champs. Hunters often gripe about boots that loosen up or crack after a season, but these felt broken-in from day one and stayed that way. The adjustable fit accommodated thicker hunting socks as temps dipped, and I never dealt with hotspots or pressure points.
Daily Use
Beyond the Rivers and woods, these boots have carved out a role in my daily grind, proving their general utility in ways that surprise me. Around the home, they’re my go-to for quick outdoor tasks, and I find myself often bringing them with me in my SUV as a backup in case I need to go near water. They’re versatile enough for light yard work or even casual walks on the local trails, where the cushioning absorbs the impact of gravel paths. True to size, they fit my 9.5 feet perfectly without socks. Of course, no boot is flawless, so here’s a balanced rundown of pros and cons based on my mileage.
Pros
- Waterproofing – Bone-dry feet through creeks, rain, and mud—zero failures.
- Superior Traction – Vibram XS TREK outsoles conquer wet rocks, leaves, and slime with ease.
- All-Day Comfort – EVA midsole and wicking liner keep fatigue at bay on long days.
- Durable Build – Hand-laid rubber and reinforcements shrug off thorns, rocks, and abuse.
- Made in America – Proudly crafted in Oregon, supporting domestic quality.
- Versatile Utility – From canoe portages to home chores, they adapt seamlessly.
Cons
- Weight –At 5.3 lbs per pair, they’re hefty.
- Non-Insulated – Great for mild weather, but you’ll need to layer up for sub-freezing hunts.
- Price Point – $310 stings upfront, but the longevity justifies the price in my opinion.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping up, the LaCrosse Alpha Evolution 17″ are a damn good pair of boots. They’ve carried me across wild waters, into whispering woods, and my dog’s backyard cowpies. If you’re a canoeist dodging rapids, a hunter, or just someone who hates wet feet on a rainy errand, invest in these. They’re worth every penny and every step.
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