Schnee's Pac Boots: The Unexpected Solution for Southern Turkey Hunters

When I moved from Montana to Alabama last year, I brought a secret weapon from the Rocky Mountains to the swampy Southeast: my Schnee’s Pac boots. While most southern turkey hunters reach for rubber boots, I've discovered that these Montana-made leather and rubber pack boots might just be the perfect alternative for chasing spring gobblers in the South.

I recently sat down with Michael Edwards from Schnee’s Boots to discuss why these versatile boots deserve a place in every Southern hunter's gear closet.

A Family Legacy Built on Quality

Schnee’s (pronounced "shnays," not "shneeze" as I often hear) has been crafting premium hunting footwear since the 1980s in Bozeman, Montana. What started with their iconic Pac boots has evolved into a complete line of mountain hunting boots and technical footwear.

"About 20 years ago is when my family took over ownership," Michael explained. "I guess some people like to say I'm the second generation, but I think the old man's a ways off from handing over the baton."

Their flagship store in downtown Bozeman merged with the legacy sporting goods company Powder Horn (founded by WWII veterans in 1946) and has become a destination for hunters visiting Montana. They're even adding food and beverage service this June, making it "a cool place to hang out," as Michael puts it.

Why Pack Boots for Turkey Hunting?

The typical southern turkey hunter's footwear of choice is rubber boots. It makes sense on paper—they're waterproof, protective against snakes and bugs, and handle the swampy conditions well. But anyone who's worn them for long in 70-80+ degree weather knows the misery of sweaty, uncomfortable feet.

This is where Schnee’s Pac boots offer a compelling alternative:

1. Temperature Regulation

"The cool thing about our boots is, it's insulated, but if you think about almost like how a cooler works... your feet aren't sweating because you're wearing a 400 gram boot. Your feet are sweating because it's 80 degrees outside," Michael explained.

The removable wool liner is the magic component. With a wool face for insulation and a synthetic inner fabric for moisture-wicking, these boots keep you comfortable whether you're hunting in 25-below Montana elk country or 80-degree southern turkey woods.

2. Superior Fit and Comfort

Unlike rubber boots where your feet "slop around," the lace-up design of Schnee’s Pac boots provides excellent ankle support and a custom fit. This translates to less noise when moving—a critical factor when hunting ultra-wary turkeys.

"I have the same gripe with rubber boots. Especially once my feet start sweating, my heel just starts popping and they end up being loud," Michael noted.

3. Built to Last

These aren't disposable footwear—they're heirloom quality that can be rebuilt when the soles wear out.

"As long as you take care of the leather, then we can put new rubber bottoms on them several times over. If you take care of the product, for just about everyone, it's a lifetime boot," said Michael.

He still has his first pair from 20 years ago, now being worn by his girlfriend and younger family members. At $300-400, they're an investment, but potentially the last hunting boots you'll ever need to buy.

4. Versatility

This might be their greatest advantage. While specialized rubber boots excel in limited settings, pack boots can take you from a frosty Montana elk hunt to a humid Alabama turkey season without missing a beat.

"Whether you're traveling out of state, getting a property in Kansas or somewhere with a little more real winter, it's a perfect boot for a tree stand," Michael explained.

Think of it like a multi-tool—not perfectly specialized for one single job, but remarkably capable across diverse hunting scenarios.

What About Water Protection?

While not designed for standing in water for extended periods (that's where rubber boots still shine), the Pac boots handle creek crossings and wet conditions just fine.

"You can cross a river or creek in them, walk through a swamp or marsh," Michael explained. "If you're standing in water, your feet might get a little damp, but again, if it's warm, it's mildly annoying. But it is a wool liner, so if the boots do get wet, especially if you're moving, you're not going to get cold."

Try Them for Yourself

For southern hunters who've never considered anything but rubber boots for turkey season, these Montana-made Pac boots deserve a look. They're available in various heights (I recommend the 16" lace-ups for maximum protection) and are true to size (round up if you're a half-size).

LandTrust+ members get 20% off at schnees.com, and if you're ever in Bozeman, stop by their store on Main Street to see the full lineup and meet the Edwards family.

"We're all real people here," Michael emphasized. "If you have any questions at all, just call us, email us. There's a good chance I’ll be the one responding to your email or phone call."

As turkey season approaches across the Southeast, consider bringing a bit of Montana innovation to your hunt this spring. Your feet will thank you.

-Nic DeCastro, LandTrust CEO

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