Let’s Talk About LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s
The LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s boot is a classic, a no-frills rubber boot that has been a staple for outdoorsmen for generations. LaCrosse Footwear designed it to be a waterproof, all-terrain workhorse, and it has more than lived up to that reputation.
I needed a reliable pair of boots for navigating muddy fields and flooded areas on my property. Something that could handle the muck without complaint, and keep my feet dry and comfortable.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression is one of rugged simplicity. These aren’t fancy boots with a lot of bells and whistles, instead, they are a straightforward design with robust construction that screams “get the job done”. They are hefty, but not overly heavy, and the rubber feels thick and durable.
Compared to my Muck Boot Edgewater, which prioritizes comfort, or my Bogs Classic High, which offers insulation, the LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s boots seemed to focus solely on reliable waterproof protection and all-terrain traction. The Muck Boot is great for quick trips but lacks the ankle support. The Bogs are warm, but overkill for warmer weather and not as durable.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s boots seemed like they could be the perfect blend of durability and functionality that I was seeking, although I wondered if the lack of insulation would be a problem during colder months.
Real-World Testing: Putting LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test for the LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s was a weekend clearing brush and repairing fences on my property after a heavy rain. The terrain was a mix of mud, standing water, and uneven ground.
The LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s performed admirably. The aggressive tread provided excellent traction in the slick mud. The 18-inch height kept my feet and lower legs completely dry, even when wading through ankle-deep water. The Ankle Fit design truly locked my heel in place, preventing slippage and blisters, even after hours of walking.
There were no issues, no surprises, just reliable performance. These boots did exactly what they promised to do, which was a welcome change from some of the over-hyped gear I’ve tested in the past.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s boots have held up remarkably well. There are some scuffs and scratches on the rubber, but no signs of cracking or degradation.
The soles show minimal wear, and the waterproof seal remains intact. Cleaning is simple: a quick rinse with a hose and they’re good to go.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper rubber boots that cracked and leaked after a single season, the LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s boots are a clear winner. They’ve outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s
Specifications
- Manufacturer: LaCrosse Footwear. A brand with a long-standing reputation for quality outdoor footwear.
- Gender: Male. Specifically designed for a man’s foot.
- Age Group: Adults. Sized to fit adult feet.
- Boot Style: Hunting Boot. Designed for hunting, but suitable for a variety of outdoor activities.
- Color: OD Green. Classic, understated color that blends well in natural environments.
- Fabric/Material: Rubber. Provides 100% waterproof protection.
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof. Keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
- Weight: 4.5 lbs per pair. Provides durability without being overly heavy.
- Height: 18″. Offers excellent protection for the lower leg.
- Insulation: Non-Insulated. Versatile for use in warmer weather.
- Traction: Best for All-Terrain Slip Resistant. Delivers solid grip on various surfaces.
- Footbed: Removable EVA Footbed. Offers cushioning and support.
- Shank: Fiberglass Shank. Provides stability and support.
- Protection: Plain Toe. Offers basic toe protection.
These specifications are critical to the boots’ overall performance because they highlight the boot’s core purpose: to offer durable, waterproof, all-terrain protection. The non-insulated design makes them versatile for a wide range of temperatures, while the 18-inch height ensures that even deep puddles and mud won’t be a problem. The ZXT Rubber provides excellent ozone, abrasion, and tear resistance, greatly extending the life of the boot.
Performance & Functionality
The LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s boot performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary function is to keep your feet dry and provide traction, and it excels at both.
The strengths lie in its simplicity and durability. The all-rubber construction means there are no seams to leak, and the aggressive tread provides excellent grip on slippery surfaces. One area for improvement would be the addition of a more substantial insole for increased comfort during extended wear.
These boots have definitely met and exceeded my expectations. I was looking for a reliable pair of waterproof boots, and the LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s have delivered on that promise and more.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The all-rubber construction is easy to clean and maintain, and the adjustable top strap allows for a customized fit.
The boots are heavier than some of the newer, more lightweight options on the market, but the weight is a trade-off for the increased durability. There is a slight learning curve to getting them on and off, especially when wearing thick socks.
Durability & Maintenance
The LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s boots are built to last. With proper care, they should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick rinse with water after each use is usually sufficient to keep them clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s boots don’t come with a lot of accessories.
The key customization option is the ability to replace the insole with a more comfortable or supportive option. These boots are compatible with most aftermarket insoles designed for rubber boots.
Pros and Cons of LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’sPros
- 100% Waterproof Protection: Keeps feet dry in even the wettest conditions.
- Durable ZXT Rubber Construction: Provides long-lasting resistance to abrasion, tearing, and ozone.
- Excellent All-Terrain Traction: Aggressive tread pattern offers superior grip on various surfaces.
- Adjustable Top Strap: Allows for a secure and customized fit.
- Ankle Fit Design: Locks the heel in place to prevent slippage and blisters.
Cons
- Lack of Insulation: Not suitable for extremely cold temperatures without additional socks.
- Basic Insole: Could benefit from a more cushioned or supportive insole.
Who Should Buy LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s?
Pros
- 100% Waterproof Protection: Keeps feet dry in even the wettest conditions.
- Durable ZXT Rubber Construction: Provides long-lasting resistance to abrasion, tearing, and ozone.
- Excellent All-Terrain Traction: Aggressive tread pattern offers superior grip on various surfaces.
- Adjustable Top Strap: Allows for a secure and customized fit.
- Ankle Fit Design: Locks the heel in place to prevent slippage and blisters.
Cons
- Lack of Insulation: Not suitable for extremely cold temperatures without additional socks.
- Basic Insole: Could benefit from a more cushioned or supportive insole.
The LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s boots are perfect for hunters, farmers, ranchers, anglers, and anyone who needs reliable waterproof protection in muddy or wet conditions.
People who prioritize lightweight comfort over durability might want to skip this product. Also, those who require significant insulation for extremely cold environments may need to look at insulated alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a good pair of moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable, particularly during extended use. Replacing the factory insole with a more supportive option can also enhance comfort.
Conclusion on LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s
The LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s is a classic for a reason. It is a simple, durable, and reliable rubber boot that delivers on its promise of waterproof protection and all-terrain traction.
At a price of $99.95, the value proposition is excellent. These boots are built to last, and they will likely outlast cheaper alternatives many times over.
I would highly recommend the LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s to anyone who needs a no-nonsense, reliable pair of waterproof boots for outdoor work or recreation. If you are looking for a solid pair of boots to get the job done, look no further. Buy a pair of the LaCrosse Footwear Grange 18 inch – Men’s today and experience the difference.