Finding the right boot for hunting can be somewhat of a maddening process. I’ve been everything from extremely disappointed and in pain with a boot sole that came off to feeling like nothing could stop me from traversing through the mountains. There’s a wide range of possibilities and a wide range of boots to choose from. The Crispi Briksdal GTX is one of many, but one that deserves a closer look.
Being an avid backcountry hunter who hunts everything from low desert to the steep alpine, I need a boot that provides not only comfort for long hikes but also support and durability. These needs are what caught my eye about the Crispi Briksdal GTX. It seemed like a winner on all fronts.
You know the drill, though. Time tells all. And after a few years of use and abuse, I’ve got some thoughts.
In short: Hunters looking for a boot that is stiff enough for steep terrain but doesn’t sacrifice comfort will be happy with the Crispi Briksdal GTX Non-Insulated hunting boot. Just be prepared to size up because these puppies might shrink.
-
Durable -
Very comfortable for a stiff boot -
Asymmetrical lacing system to achieve the right feel
-
Might shrink over time with moisture
Crispi Briksdal GTX Boot Review
Overview
The Crispi Briksdal GTX was built to handle everything from steep craggy mountains to blistering desert floors. This is a 9-inch non-insulated boot that comes in at a level 4 on the Crispi Flex Rating, meaning it’s on the stiffer side. All boots are lined with GORE-TEX Performance Comfort Lining and have a durable Vibram sole on the bottom.
The upper of the boot is made from a water-repellent Nubuck and is fully wrapped in a full rubber rand. In terms of weight, the Briksdal comes in at 1 pound, 13 ounces (size 9). These are also compatible with the new Crispi Strapless Gaiter Attachment System.
Crispi Briksdal GTX Features
Asymmetrical Lacing System
Boots are not a one-size-fits-all piece of gear. So, the more customization one can make to the boot, the better chance there is to get the exact feel you need for you and your hunts. With the Asymmetrical Lacing System, hunters can tailor their lacing patterns and lacing tension to match their needs.
A great example here, aside from the lacing pattern, is if you needed a tighter toebox area, loose on the ankle but then tighter above the ankle. Lacing does make a big difference in performance and feel.
Dual-Density Midsole
A standout feature of this boot is the dual-density midsole. In general, the stiffer a boot gets, the more comfort one gives up. It’s a give-and-take situation.
However, with the Briksdals, that isn’t the case. The dual-density midsole provides just enough give on the bottom of the boot to not make you feel like you’re standing on a 2×4. This will help keep foot fatigue at bay.
ABSS (Ankle Bone Support System)
There’s no way we can go anywhere without covering the Ankle Bone Support System. In a nutshell, the ABSS is a system that allows the inside of the boot to gently contour around your ankle evenly. This is huge in terms of comfort, especially when hiking long distances in technical terrain. It does all of this without giving up support, which aids in avoiding injury.
My Experience
I have used a handful of Crispi boots at this point, and the Briksdals have been in my regular rotation for the past few years. Whether it’s hiking deep into the backcountry for black bears or spot and stalk hunting in the desert for coues deer, the Crispi Briksdal GTX boots have become one of my most trusted hunting partners.
Initially, I was very skeptical of how comfortable these boots would be. After all, they are stiffer boots, so my assumption is that comfort would sit on the lean side. I also assumed there would be a healthy break-in period due to the stiffness. My assumptions were entirely wrong.
All boots get broken in, but some feel like they need to be broken in. The Briksdals didn’t hold me back at all. On several occasions, with brand-new Briksdal GTX boots, I have hiked deep into the backcountry on hunts right out of the box. Like a fine wine, they get even better with time.
Elk, mule deer, black bear, and coues deer have all taken a ride on my back with the Briksdals beneath me. I’ve also done countless week-long backpack hunts with them. Not once have I ever felt like my foot fatigue from such events was out of whack. In fact, it’s been quite pleasant, which provides the ability to go, go, go.
In terms of overall performance, I haven’t had any major issues. I do tape up my feet, no matter what boot I’m using if hunting in steeper terrain or doing long backcountry hikes. So, take that for what it’s worth. In wet conditions, they’ve been great. I’ve had them in knee-deep snow, torrential downpours, and many creek crossings. No leaks at all.
What’s Wrong With the Crispi Briksdal GTX?
An area where these boots come in short is that they shrink. In my experience, this has happened to me after wet hunts. I’ve spoken to Crispi about this, and they informed me that I needed to treat the boots with a certain cream they sell, which would prevent this from happening.
If I’m being honest, I haven’t done that, and I should. I do love this boot. Since learning this, I have just bought my boots a half size larger, knowing they will eventually shrink a bit.
This is something you should definitely keep in mind when buying yours. If you’re someone who keeps up with boot maintenance, go ahead and go true-to-size. If you don’t, size up.
Closing Thoughts
I’m someone who has a hard time letting go of a piece of gear once I find something that works well for me. Boots are a biggie in that regard, and the Crispi Briksdal GTX is one of my personal favorites.
I’ve found them to be extremely versatile and comfortable. Not to mention, they’re also smoking in the looks department. Whether it’s hunting the rugged backcountry or a family turkey camp, the Crispi Briksdals are a winner for me night and day.
