Which boots will protect me from snakes in Nicaragua?
I need a boot to wear in the Nicaraguan backcountry, where the terrain is mainly small hills and marsh. There are many snakes, so I would like a boot that is comfortable but will protect against snake bites. Any recommendations? Shawn Cabot, Arkansas
It is impossible for me to resist any question that suggests the possibility of poisonous reptiles. And Nicaragua has them. Coral snakes! Rattlesnakes! Even the lovely fer-de-lance!
Cabela’s Kangaroo Featherlight boots
Kangaroo Featherlight boots
Of course, theres no reason to be alarmist. Snakes, even venomous ones, are like most other creatures on this earth: They hear (or in the snakes case, feelthey dont have ears) you coming, and want to get out of the way. Which is all to the good.
Anyway, basic snake safety starts with leather or other thick-skinned boots that go as high as possible, as the area around your ankle is most vulnerable. Id give serious consideration to tall hunting-style boots, such as Cabelas Kangaroo Featherlight boots ($144; www.cabelas.com). Theyre not insulated and do not have a waterproof liner, which makes them a little cooler. And they put leather protection well over your ankles.
In a more traditional hiking boot, Asolos TPS 535 V ($180; www.asolo.com) would be fine, as would the Vasque Wasatch GTX boots ($160; www.vasque.com).
You also can reinforce any pair of boots with several snake-resistant add-ons. Rattlers Knee-Hi Snakeproof Gaiters ($48; www.rattlersbrand.com), for instance, strap onto any good boot and give you bite-proof protection up to your knees. You also can buy full chaps, which extend above the knee. TurtleSkin Snake Armor Chaps ($225; www.turtleskin.com) are a good example.
Good luck!
Get more advice from the Gear Guy as he picks this seasons top gifts in Away.coms Holiday Gift Guide. Youll probably find a few things to put on your own wish list, too.
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