Wellco N-1B Air Force Snow/Extreme Cold Weather Mukluks Boots Review
The Wellco N-1B Air Force Mukluk Boots are purpose-built for extreme cold weather conditions, making them an excellent choice for both military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Constructed in the USA, these boots are designed with a focus on keeping your feet warm and dry while providing robust protection against harsh winter elements.
With a height of 20 inches, these mukluks offer ample coverage, ensuring that your legs remain insulated from snow and cold winds. The use of water-repellent and fire-resistant materials enhances their versatility, allowing you to traverse various terrains without fear of damage or discomfort.
Features
- Worn by USAF in Extreme Cold and Snow
- Water Repellent and Fire Resistant
- Cotton Duck Uppers & Rubber Soles
- 20 Inch Height with Laces & YKK Zipper
- SIZING: 6.5-7.5 (Small), 8-9 (Medium), 9.5-10.5 (Large), 11-12 (XL)
Pros
- Exceptional heat retention in extreme cold conditions
- Durable construction from high-quality materials
- Made in the USA, supporting local manufacturing
- Versatile design allows for wearing one or two pairs of thick wool socks
- Easy-to-use YKK zipper for quick access
Cons
- Wool liners are not included, adding an additional expense
- May feel bulky for those unaccustomed to thick, insulated footwear
- Limited color options available
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Boot Model | Height | Material | Waterproof | Made in USA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wellco N-1B Mukluks | 20 inches | Cotton Duck, Rubber | Yes | Yes |
| Muck Boot Arctic Pro | 15 inches | Neoprene, Rubber | Yes | No |
| Baffin Impact | 13 inches | Synthetic, Rubber | Yes | No |
Detailed Review
When it comes to winter footwear, the Wellco N-1B Air Force Mukluks stand out for their practicality and robust build quality. These boots are specifically crafted for extreme cold weather, making them ideal for anyone who needs reliable protection against icy conditions. One of the standout features is their impressive insulation capabilities; the design facilitates warmth retention, which is crucial when battling freezing temperatures.
The combination of cotton duck uppers and rubber soles means that not only are they warm, but they're also durable and resistant to wear and tear. Whether you're trekking through deep snow or standing still in frigid air, these boots deliver a level of comfort that few others can match.
The inclusion of a YKK zipper adds convenience, allowing you to slip them on or off easily. However, potential buyers should note that while these mukluks are designed for warmth, wool liners must be purchased separately, which may add to the overall cost. Furthermore, the bulkiness of the boots might take some getting used to, especially if you’re accustomed to lighter footwear.
In summary, if you are searching for a reliable, warm, and durable boot for extreme cold conditions, the Wellco N-1B Air Force Mukluks are definitely worth considering. They provide exceptional performance while ensuring that you stay comfortable and protected in the harshest of environments.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5/5 | Excellent insulation and warmth, though may feel bulky. |
| Durability | 5/5 | High-quality materials ensure longevity even in extreme conditions. |
| Water Resistance | 4/5 | Effective water repellency, great for snowy conditions. |
| Value for Money | 4/5 | While pricier due to needing separate wool liners, they are built to last. |
User Reviews
I fell in love with these years ago while stationed in Alaska. We did alot of hunting out in the brush and the high canvas helped keep your pants free of snow. It is another layer to help keep your legs warm as well. This boot did come with a pair of felt pads for the inside bottom of the boot. What you will need to still acquire is the "bootie" that you actually put your foot in. I simply took a pair out of some heavy Sorrel boots that aren't comfortable to wear. I wear either a ten and a half or 11 size shoe. I bought the size large of these boots and they fit perfect. If your feet don't stay warm in these, it's your "bootie" that is failing you. A quality one is worth the cost and these boots will serve you well. I have worn these all day with thin socks, in and out of equipment all day and my feet were toasty in temps 0 to +20. From experience I know they will keep your feet warm in much colder temps by wearing quality socks and ensuring they're dry inside. If you start sweating, you need to take out the booties and both felt pads in each mukluk and let them air dry. If the inside of this boot is wet, your feet will get cold. Without sweating much, I will leave them standing up and fold the high canvas tops down to the booties so air gets in over night. If you have weak ankles and need a tight laced boot because of it, these are not for you. They are very light weight and feel like you have on a pair of tennis shoes.
I wore this type of extreme cold weather footwear when I was stationed at Loring AFB in the late 70's. Other than my issued Parka, nothing was more valuable to me than my pair of Mukluks. They made my duty there much easier. I spent a lot of time on the cold, cold flightline. One of the things I liked about them was how different they were. It was like a highly specialized sneaker. Unlike more ordinary footwear, such as a boot, movement was less stiff. My comparison to a sneaker is accurate. I was a Security Policeman and even in deep snow and cold weather agile movement was a requirement. I would recommend these to anyone.
Same as military issue boot when I was active duty. True to size. Boot only, has wool insoles but no liner.
They seem to be warm for winter but way too big! I ordered a small according to the site but I will have to wear a couple of socks to get it tighter. Other than that I’m hoping they will keep the feet warm!
I regularly backpack and camp on snow in winter. Even if I wear my LA Sportiva mountaineering boots, my toes get cold quickly once I stop moving at camp. I did quite a bit of research before buying these boots. I plan to wear these boots over my boot liners / inserts and down booties with or without thick wool socks depending on my needs. I tried to wear them as shown in the photos and they fit perfectly. I'm sure I won't have cold toes in the future. These boots weigh about 33/4 lbs as a pair. I'm willing to carry the extra weight for the expected warm toes at camp.
These mukluks are surprisingly warm and comfortable. I wear a pair of heavy cotton socks and wool socks coupled with the wool liner. I was able to work outside at 0° for several hours before I noticed any chill in my toes. I think had I been moving around more, I would not have even had that. I like the high gaiters for snow blowing as it helps keep my pants dry and adds an extra layer against the cold. These mukluks are very comfortable for walking or standing with good arch support. I think if laced up properly, they will offer decent ankle support as well.
i have yet to try these out for an extended time with little activity in cold temps but will update, but i think these are the cheapest way you're going to get into a more inuit style of mukluk (which is a concept that works well in extreme cold). the idea getting these is that i'll always have a capable ultra cold weather footwear that is lightweight and can be taken with me or packed. these are clearly not for wet or moderately cold temps... they are durable non water proof canvas shells with a thick sole attached so understand that when you buy them. i went to fleet farm and got some lacrosse all wool boot liners. then i'm going to sew some wool material i have onto the top of the liners to make them taller and to cover the v gap in the front of the liners. they are super light for what they are and what they will most likely be good at doing what they're meant for (hiking a mile or two through snow and brush and then hours of still hunting in below zero weather). i ordered size large which is supposed to be for 11-12 mens size... my feet are 10.5 which is fine this way i have room for a big sock or two inside the size 12 all wool liners i bought. my feet don't slide around all that much with thin socks on maybe i have a cm or two of extra space. so after all is said and done i'll be into some excellent lightweight extreme duty winter footwear for less than $75 . I don't think you have to do the extra stuff that i mentioned to make them warm just get the wool boot liners and put some tall socks on... i'm just a customizer.
The boot fits good. The canvas upper is in new, perfect condition. The double sole inserts are great. The only issue I have and hopefully it's not a big one, is that the side of the rubber sole on the left boot has cracks in them. The cracks are where the canvas meets the rubber. I'm not sending them back, instead I'll be repairing them with Plummer's Goop. I tore a pair of Baffin boots about 3 years ago with the goop and it's still holding.