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Boundary Waters / Quetico Discussion Forums >> Strictly Gear - Gear specific reviews and ideas. >> Military Surplus N-1B Extreme Cold Weather Mukluk https://quietjourney.com/community/YABB.cgi?num=1421086159 Message started by solotripper on Jan 12^th, 2015 at 6:09pm

Title: Military Surplus N-1B Extreme Cold Weather Mukluk
Post by solotripper on Jan 12^th, 2015 at 6:09pm

I just picked up a pair of these on Amazon.
Made in USA by Rothco a well known defense gear contractor.
These are the ones they issue to people going to the coldest places we have troops.

Quality is outstanding. Doesn't come with a felt bootie, but I used spares from a pair of Sorels.
Their made for extreme cold/deep snow like you, guys get in MN/Wis. They're rubber and canvas and are 20" tall. I'll use spray silicone on canvas part and buy a felt liner especially for them.

Sorel makes one 14" tall, which would be perfect. Comes with 2 felt insoles, so you have about 1/2" of insulation, NOT counting the bootie.
For the money I think they're a awesome deal.

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Title: Re: Military Surplus N-1B Extreme Cold Weather Mukluk
Post by Nanda on Jan 21^st, 2015 at 3:41am

Solotripper,

Those are nice and highly functional. The pair I used on several overseas stints in colder climes were white and I loved them for their comfort. When temps dropped beyond their range, I wore (You need to Login or Register but your feet will sweat more in those boots and you will need a spare change of socks (eventually). Still, the dual system of two boots worked extremely well. You will enjoy your mukluks! They're great! :thumbup

Title: Re: Military Surplus N-1B Extreme Cold Weather Mukluk
Post by solotripper on Jan 21^st, 2015 at 2:18pm

I have the "bunny boots" and a nice pair of Sorrels.
For stationary activities like ice fishing/ stand hunting or snowmobile/atv, they can't be beat.
Problem is they don't vent moisture well and are heavy for physical type activities.

I wanted something I could wear in a off-trail type cross-country ski or snowshoeing or a winters hike.
I've done a lot of research about the traditional winter wear the Inuit's wear or modern equivalents.
A good tightly woven Anorak and Mukluks seem to be the best choice in below freezing temps for all but prolonged stationary activities in extreme cold.

A pair of real Mukluks are very expensive and don't work well if you get into wet slushy conditions. I thought the N-1B with its rubber bottom and canvas upper was a good modern alternative to the classic one, at a price that's hard to beat.

So far I am very happy and walking in them, is like wearing a pair of hiking boots, a real pleasure.