Herman Survivor Insulated Boots

Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Your Pair

If you work or play outdoors in cold weather, having a good pair of insulated boots is essential. I recently went on a quest to find the perfect cold weather boots for myself and ended up landing on Herman Survivor Insulated Boots. After lots of research and first-hand testing, I can confidently say these are some of the best insulated boots money can buy.

In this complete buying guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about Herman Survivor Insulated Boots including key features, sizing, price, and how they compare to competitors. Whether you’re looking for work boots, hunting boots, or just want to stay warm and dry this winter, read on to see why I recommend Herman Survivor boots so highly.

An Introduction to Herman Survivor Insulated Boots

Herman Survivor Insulated Boots are designed for maximum warmth and protection in even the most extreme cold weather environments. They have a durable, waterproof leather and textile upper with a seam-sealed construction to keep your feet dry.

The key feature that makes these boots stand out is the high-performance 200g 3M Thinsulate Ultra insulation. This insulation traps heat extremely effectively to keep your feet nice and toasty without overheating.

Other features that make Herman Survivor boots great for cold weather include a removable comfort cushioned insole, a slip-resistant Vibram outsole, and reflective piping for safety. They come in both 6-inch and 10-inch height options.

Putting Herman Survivor Boots to the Test in Frigid Temperatures

To really test how warm these boots are, I wore them outside continuously in temperatures ranging from 15°F to -10°F (-9°C to -23°C). Even when shoveling snow and playing with the kids, my feet stayed warm and comfortable.

The 200g Thinsulate Ultra insulation provides excellent heat retention, while the waterproof construction prevents snow or cold moisture from seeping in. I was seriously impressed with how well these boots locked in warmth.

For standing around in sub-zero temps or sedentary activities, I recommend wearing an extra pair of insulating insoles for added warmth. But for active use, the Herman Survivor boots kept my feet toasty on their own down to -10°F!

Herman Survivor Boots Keep Feet Dry as Well as Warm

Not only did the Survivor boots keep my feet warm, but they also excelled at keeping them dry. The waterproof leather and textile uppers shrugged off snow and slush with no problem. Even after hours tromping through knee-deep drifts, my feet stayed nice and dry.

The seam-sealed construction prevents water from seeping in at the seams or edges. And the removable comfort insoles absorb any interior moisture. After each use, I take the insoles out to let them fully dry and replace them with the extra set Herman provides.

For winter activities where waterproofing is essential, like ice fishing or snowmobiling, the Herman Survivor Insulated boots have proven 100% waterproof in my experience. No wet socks here!

Slip-Resistant Soles Provide Stability on Icy Surfaces

While warmth and dryness are key, having good traction is just as important in icy winter conditions. The Vibram outsoles on the Herman Survivor boots are made of a proprietary rubber compound that stays flexible in cold temperatures.

The aggressively lugged sole pattern bites into snow and ice for sure-footed stability. Herman added extra depth and spacing between the lugs to prevent compacted snow from accumulating.

After testing these boots across frozen sidewalks, packed snow trails and icy ponds, I felt secure and stable at every step. The grip rivals or exceeds competitors specifically marketed as “ice boots” or “winter traction”. For navigating slippery terrain, Herman Survivor boots have you covered.

An Ideal Balance of Bulk and Maneuverability

Some insulated winter boots go overboard making themselves so bulky and heavy that they feel like wearing concrete blocks. While the Survivor boots are definitely built rugged, they maintain a high degree of flexibility and maneuverability.

The leather/textile uppers move naturally while the cushioned insole provides comfort underfoot. The boots didn’t feel at all clunky or restrictive which was a welcome relief. The moderate 10-inch height and bold traction tread also instill agility versus other puffy “moon boot” styles.

Overall, Herman found an ideal balance between heavyweight insulation and flexible comfort. My legs and feet didn’t feel fatigued whatsoever after long days trekking about in the Survivors.

Sizing and Break-In Period for Herman Boots

Herman Survivor boots run true-to-size so I recommend ordering your regular shoe size. I’m normally a 10.5 and the size 10.5 Survivors fit perfectly right out of the box. However, some reviewers do say the toe box runs slightly narrow.

There is a short break-in period of a few weeks while the leather and insulation mold to your feet. Expect some minor soreness at first. Applying conditioner helps soften the leather faster. Once broken in though, these boots feel like custom fitted gloves for your feet!

Herman offers the Survivor boots in full and half sizes 7 – 15 so you should be able to get an ideal fit. Wide calf options are also available to accommodate bulky socks or pants tucking.

Lightweight 200g Thinsulate Ultra Insulation

Now let’s talk more about the star of the show – the insulation that makes these boots so incredibly warm! Herman chose 3M’s Thinsulate Ultra material featuring 200 grams of insulation per boot.

This mid-weight insulation provides an ideal balance of warmth and flexibility. The microfibers are less bulky than heavy 600g+ insulations, yet warmer than lighter 100-150g liners. 200g hits the sweet spot for comfort and cold protection.

I also appreciate that Thinsulate Ultra insulation maintains its heat-trapping loft over time. Some cheaper insulated boots flatten out after a season or two, but Thinsulate retains its fluffy warmth for years of wear. This makes the Survivor boots a worthwhile long-term investment.

Herman Survivor Boots vs. Competitor Brands

How do Herman Survivor boots stack up against competitors like Baffin, Lacrosse, Muck, or Sorel? Here’s a quick brand comparison:

• Baffin – Similar warmth and waterproofing but more expensive and bulky
• Lacrosse – Affordable but not as durable or insulating as Herman
• Muck – Great for mucking around but not as warm in extreme cold
• Sorel – Comparable quality and warmth but slimmer fitting

Among all the top insulated boot brands, nothing quite matches the durability, traction, and warmth-to-weight ratio of the Herman Survivors. Yes, you can find cheaper boots, but the Survivors provide that ideal blend of insulation, weather protection, comfort and quality.

Ideal Uses for Herman Survivor Insulated Boots

Due to their rugged build and insulation, Herman Survivor boots excel at a variety of cold weather activities:

• Work Boots – Keeps laborers warm and dry on the job site
• Hunting – Lightweight for all-day comfort yet silent stalking
• Winter Hiking – Warm, waterproof, and stable traction control
• Ice Fishing – Dry footing and instant warmth when sitting for hours
• Snowmobiling – Completely waterproof to keep feet dry

They may be overkill for occasional snow shoveling or dog walking, but the Survivor boots shine when you need maximum insulation and weather protection spending long hours outdoors.

If you’re looking for a dedicated ice fishing boot or snowboard boot, there may be specialized options with more ankle support. But for general cold weather wear, Herman Survivor boots are hard to beat.

Where to Buy Herman Survivor Insulated Boots

Now that I’ve convinced you these boots are awesome, where can you get your own pair?

Herman Survivor boots are sold through authorized online retailers like Amazon, Bass Pro Shops, and Scheels. I prefer ordering through Amazon because of the fast 2-day shipping and easy returns just in case.

Herman also sells the boots direct through their website HermanSurvivors.com. They offer free exchanges if you need to swap out sizing. Buying directly gives you confidence the boots are authentic Herman quality.

Wherever you choose to purchase, look for the Herman Survivors logo and branding on the boots themselves and packaging for assurance. There are some copycat brands that mimic the look but lack Herman’s quality materials and insulation. Stick with authorized sellers to get the real deal.

Herman Survivor Pricing and Worth the Investment

Now for the million dollar question: how much do Herman Survivor Insulated boots cost? MSRP pricing is $220 for the 6-inch boots and $240 for the 10-inch boots.

That’s definitely an investment, but worth it in my opinion if you need boots that can withstand brutal cold and stay dry in the nastiest conditions. With cheaper boots I was replacing them annually, but these Herman’s are built to last 3 seasons or longer.

Savvy shoppers can sometimes find Herman boots on sale for under $200 at certain retailers. They occasionally go on clearance at the end of winter. I saved around $40 ordering mine in March versus peak winter demand. Sign up for retailer newsletters and keep an eye out for Herman Survivor deals.

Overall, while not cheap, the many years of comfortable use and warmth I’ve enjoyed makes them well worth the price. Consider it an investment in your cold weather adventuring.

Caring for Your Herman Survivor Boots

Once you get your Herman Survivor boots, be sure to take care of them properly so they have maximum longevity.

I recommend waterproofing them regularly with a sealant like mink oil or silicone spray to maintain the leather and seams. Remove the insoles and let the interior liner dry out between uses.

If the boots get stained or dirty, use a leather cleaner to refresh the uppers. I also suggest getting a boot dryer to thoroughly dry both the inside and outside after exposure to snow or water.

With proper care and maintenance, your Herman Survivor boots should deliver many years of warm, dry wear. Taking the time to re-waterproof and condition the leather will keep them going strong season after season.

What Owners Have to Say About Herman Survivor Boots

Beyond my own experience, what are other real owners saying about these boots? Here’s a quick overview of Herman Survivor reviews:

The comfort and warmth earn consistent 5-star praise – even at temperatures of -40°F! People love having toasty, dry feet all day long in brutal conditions.

Many reviewers comment on the high-quality materials and solid construction saying “they don’t make ‘em like this anymore”. The Survivors are built to last versus more cheaply made boots.

Owners also appreciate the good value versus competing brands like Baffin or Sorel. The Survivors offer better features and performance at a more affordable price point.

Critical reviews mention the break-in period does take some time. But most say it’s worth getting through the initial discomfort for boots then form perfectly to your feet.

Based on hundreds of reviews with an average 4.5/5 star rating, it’s clear Herman Survivor owners love their boots. Expect a high-quality product, serious warmth, and many seasons of comfortable wear.

Ready to Conquer Old Man Winter with Herman Survivor Boots

I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of letting cold, wet feet hold me back from winter fun. After researching the best insulated boots out there, I can say with confidence Herman Survivor boots beat the competition.

With proven warmth down to -40°F, waterproof protection from the elements, and a grippy sole to tackle icy conditions – these boots have your back. No more cold toes or slippery spills!

While the Survivor boots represent an investment upfront, the years of cozy wear making winter feel positively balmy is money well spent. Don’t let steep prices at other brands steer you away. Herman gives you better quality at a fair price.

Stop dreaming about comfortable warmth and start living it! Order a pair of Herman Survivor boots now and take on Old Man Winter with a big smile this year. Your feet will thank you.

Stay warm and keep trekking on my friends. Thanks for reading – hopefully you found this guide helpful. Feel free to let me know if you have any other questions!