Steger Mukluks

[BPLwiia]

I’m trying to decide whether to get the Arctic model or the CamuksXtreme. I live in an area where temperature can vacillate a bit causing more potential access to moisture than there would be in the drier climate of northern Minnesota where they are made.

The CamuksXtreme have a moosehide boot that has been treated on top with a rubberized layer making them waterproof from the ankle down. The gaiter is made from a synthetic material. Contrast that with the Arctic which is made with an untreated moosehide boot and a canvas gaiter.

Will the rubberized top layer on the CamuksXtreme cause a moisture buildup inside the boot? If not, this seems to be the better choice. However, if it does build up moisture, then the Arctic model would be the best choice. I could always bring along a cheap paid of Tingley boots with a spare wool liner if I encounter any wet conditions.

Do you think the CamuksXtreme would work?

[David Thomas]

We got the traditional arctic model (we live in Kenai, Alaska) and then Al Gore went and invented climate change and we don’t get nearly so many -20F to -40F days as we used to.

As you seem to know, things are easy well below freezing.  As long as the outer surface of the footwear is below 32F, the snow brushes off and there is no liquid water to soak into the fabric.  Then you want maximum breathability so that sweat from your feet and any snow that falls in can leave as water vapor.

For cold but not arctic conditions, I’m usually in Bogs neoprene boots or one of the knock-offs of that type.  They work fine in liquid water, slush, or dry snow.  They aren’t as light and flexible in sub-zero conditions as the traditional Stegers are, but, again, those aren’t many days of the year like that anymore.

I do like how the Steger boots are light on my feet and flexible – I’m not working so hard to bend a stiffer boot back and forth.  There’s a multi-purpose aspect when snow camping, because the inner felt liner becomes tent/cabin booties while you hang the outer boot up to dry.

It’s actually been a number of years since I’ve used my canvas-upper / moose-hide-soled Stegers, so I’d entertain selling those off.  I’d need to check but they’re probably size 11.

Regardless of which way you go – arctic Stegers, the rubberized ones, Bogs, Sorels pac boots, etc – GET A PEET BOOT DRYER.  About $40 and it makes any of those options far more functional when around town.  And even if you only use them on long wilderness trips, they’ll last longer and smell better if you thoroughly dry them when you get back to town.

[BPLwiia]

Has anyone used the Steger Camuks? I’m curious if the rubberized moosehide causes moisture in the boot.

[tom lakner]

Hi,

Google Steger Camuks. It looks like there’s a bunch of reading for your pleasure.

[BPLwiia]

I have and there was some excellent material. Thank you.

I trust people here on BPL and was hoping to have the opportunity for a conversation with the ability for follow up questions.

[Author]

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