Irish Setter Vaprtrek Review From My Experience: Is It Worth It?

You should buy the Irish Setter VaprTrek if you are an early-season hunter who values a lightweight, sneaker-like feel for high-mileage days in dry conditions, but you should avoid these boots if you frequently navigate swamps or require long-term waterproofing reliability.

I have spent several weeks putting these through their paces on diverse terrains to see if the “RPM” technology truly delivers on its promise of durability without the weight.

My intent is to provide an analytical Irish Setter VaprTrek review that highlights why these boots often struggle to meet the expectations of serious late-season hunters.

You will find that while the initial comfort is world-class, the performance regressions in wet environments and long-term construction might leave you looking for a more robust alternative.

My personal experience with the Irish Setter VaprTrek

I remember the first time I pulled the VaprTrek boots out of the box; I was genuinely shocked by how light they felt for an 8-inch hunting boot. 

I am someone who usually dreads the “clunky” feel of traditional leather boots, so I was excited to see if these could actually perform like the athletic hikers they resemble. 

I started my testing on a crisp October morning in the high desert, and I found that the “RPM” composite sole lived up to the hype by reducing leg fatigue during a six-mile scout. 

I noticed that I could move much faster and more quietly than I ever could in my heavy-duty work boots, which I think is a massive advantage for spot-and-stalk hunting.

I noticed a major problem, however, once the weather turned and the morning dew became a permanent fixture on the grass. 

I am a hunter who doesn’t shy away from damp meadows, and I found that the “UltraDry” waterproofing was surprisingly short-lived. 

I started to feel a distinct dampness in the toe box after only an hour of walking through wet vegetation, and I noticed that the fabric portions of the upper seemed to act like a wick. 

I found that by the end of the day, my socks were saturated, which I think is a deal-breaker for any boot marketed as fully waterproof.

I think it is vital for you to know that the comfort comes with a trade-off in structural longevity. I found that after just one season of hard use, the rubberized “ArmaTec” toe cap began to peel away from the main body of the boot. 

I noticed that the tread on the RPM sole, while grippy on dry rock, wore down much faster than traditional Vibram outsoles I have used in the past. 

I began to feel like the VaprTrek is essentially a “disposable” high-performance boot—it feels amazing for the first hundred miles, but it starts to degrade rapidly under harsh conditions. 

I ended my testing realizing that while I loved the way they felt on my feet, I couldn’t trust them to keep me dry or hold up for a second year of heavy hunting.

Maintenance Tips for Irish Setter VaprTrek

• Clean Off Mud and Blood Immediately After Use: You should realize that organic matter contains acids that can eat away at the synthetic fibers and the adhesive bonds of the boot. Using a soft brush and cool water is the best maintenance tip for preventing the material from becoming brittle or delaminating prematurely, which is an analytical necessity for boots with complex multi-material uppers.
• Apply a High-Quality DWR Spray Regularly: You should notice that the factory “UltraDry” coating wears off quickly in abrasive brush. Using a silicone-based waterproofing spray every few trips is the best maintenance tip for assisting the internal membrane, which is the smartest choice for those who insist on taking these boots into damp environments.
• Air Dry Naturally Away from Direct Heat Sources: You should avoid placing your VaprTreks near a campfire, radiator, or heater. Intense heat can cause the lightweight RPM soles to warp and the adhesives to fail, and I found that slow air-drying is the best maintenance tip for preserving the structural integrity of the composite materials.
• Condition the Leather Accents with Silicone-Based Products: You should realize that even though the boot is largely synthetic, the leather parts still need nourishment. Applying a light conditioner is the best maintenance tip for preventing the leather from cracking at the flex points, which ensures the few durable parts of the boot actually last as long as possible.
• Remove the Insoles to Vent the Boot Overnight: You should realize that moisture trapped under the footbed can lead to mold and the breakdown of the ScentBan lining. Pulling the liners out is the best maintenance tip for allowing the boot to “breathe” properly between hunts, which is a vital rule for maintaining a hygienic interior.
• Check the Integrity of the ArmaTec Bumper Monthly: You should look for small gaps where the toe cap meets the fabric. Using a small amount of flexible shoe repair adhesive to seal early peels is the best maintenance tip for extending the life of the boot, which helps you fight back against the common manufacturing flaws found in this model.

Pros and Cons of the Irish Setter VaprTrek

Pros of the Irish Setter VaprTrek

• Extreme Lightweight Design: The RPM technology significantly reduces the weight compared to traditional hunting boots: it makes you feel agile and fast on your feet: I found this helps reduce overall fatigue on long rucks: this is an analytical win for mountain hunters.
• Sneaker-Like Comfort Out of the Box: There is virtually zero break-in period required: the interior cushioning and memory foam footbed provide instant relief: I noticed I didn’t get a single blister even on the first outing: this is their strongest selling point for casual users.
• ScentBan Antimicrobial Lining: The internal silver-ion treatment effectively kills odor-causing bacteria: it helps keep the boots from smelling like a locker room after a sweaty hike: I found this was quite effective even after several consecutive days of wear: this provides a level of stealth for scent-sensitive game.
• Excellent Ankle Support for a Synthetic Boot: The 8-inch height and lacing system provide a secure lock around the ankle: it prevents rolling on uneven terrain: I noticed the “Cushin” tongue helps alleviate pressure points on the shin: this results in a very stable platform for downhill trekking.
• Aesthetic and Modern Design: They look much more like modern tactical gear than old-school farm boots: they transition well from the field to a casual post-hunt meal: I found the camouflage patterns were well-integrated into the fabric: this appeals to the modern gear-focused hunter.

Cons of the Irish Setter VaprTrek: Why you should be cautious:

• Unreliable Waterproofing Performance: many users report the UltraDry membrane failing after minimal exposure to moisture: I found that wet grass was enough to breach the seal: this results in cold: wet feet that can ruin a hunt: this is a significant analytical failure for a “waterproof” boot.
• Poor Long-Term Sole Durability: the lightweight RPM material is softer than traditional rubber: I noticed the lugs began to round off and lose traction after just a few months: this means you may have to replace the boots much sooner than expected: this results in a high cost-per-mile.
• Delamination of Protective Overlays: the ArmaTec toe and heel guards are prone to peeling away from the upper: I found that the adhesive used in construction doesn’t hold up well to frequent flexing: this creates gaps where water and debris can enter: this is a common quality control complaint on e-commerce sites.
• Thin Insoles Lack Arch Support: while the memory foam feels good initially: it flattens out very quickly: I noticed that after a few weeks: the support was non-existent: this results in foot fatigue during the second half of the season: this often requires the purchase of aftermarket orthotics.
• Inconsistent Sizing and Narrow Fit: they tend to run smaller and narrower than other Irish Setter models: I found that even the “Wide” version felt restrictive with thick wool socks: this can lead to restricted blood flow and colder feet in winter: this makes online ordering a risky proposition.

Also Read: Comparison Of Brooks Revel Vs. Ghost

Irish Setter VaprTrek Vs. Other Brands

• Irish Setter VaprTrek Vs. Rocky Lynx

The Rocky Lynx is a classic alternative that leans much more into the traditional “overbuilt” hunting boot aesthetic. 

I have found that the Rocky Lynx offers a much more reliable waterproofing system than the VaprTrek, though it comes at the cost of a significantly heavier footprint. 

Analytically, the Rocky Lynx features a much more aggressive and durable rubber outsole that can handle sharp rocks and scree better than the RPM sole. 

I noticed that the Lynx has a wider toe box, which I think is much more comfortable for those with broader feet. 

Choose the Rocky Lynx if you want a boot that prioritizes “staying dry” over “staying fast,” as the VaprTrek feels like a toy in comparison when it comes to durability.

• Irish Setter VaprTrek Vs. Danner Vital

The Danner Vital is perhaps the closest direct competitor to the VaprTrek in terms of weight and purpose. 

I have found that the Danner Vital has a much more consistent fit and better quality control regarding the “Danner Dry” waterproofing membrane. 

Analytically, the Vital uses a more traditional TPU shank that provides better torsional stability for side-hilling than the very flexible VaprTrek. 

I noticed that the Danner Vital looks a bit more refined and has better lace hardware that doesn’t feel like it’s going to snap under tension. 

You should buy the Danner Vital if you want the “athletic” feel of the VaprTrek but want a brand that typically has fewer reports of delamination.

• Irish Setter VaprTrek Vs. LaCrosse Windrose

The LaCrosse Windrose is a versatile hunting boot that strikes a balance between a heavy-duty lug and a lightweight trainer. 

I have found that the Windrose provides much better traction in mud and loose soil than the VaprTrek’s relatively shallow lug pattern. 

Analytically, the Windrose uses a more substantial rubber heel cup that offers better protection against bruising when navigating rocky creek beds. 

I noticed that the Windrose feels slightly more “stiff,” which actually provides better support when you are carrying a heavy pack during a pack-out. 

Choose the LaCrosse Windrose if you are a multi-season hunter who needs a bit more “backbone” in your footwear than the hyper-flexible Irish Setter provides.

• Irish Setter VaprTrek Vs. Muck Woody Sport

The Muck Woody Sport is a rubber/neoprene hybrid that represents a completely different approach to the hunting boot. 

I have found that the Muck boot is 100% waterproof for its entire life, which is something the VaprTrek simply cannot claim. 

Analytically, the Muck boot is much warmer and better suited for sitting in a tree stand, whereas the VaprTrek is designed strictly for active movement. 

I noticed that the VaprTrek offers significantly better ankle support and “feel” for the ground, making the Muck boot feel sloppy in comparison on steep terrain. 

You should go with the Muck Woody Sport for swampy, muddy hunts where staying dry is the only priority, but stick with a lace-up for the mountains.

• Irish Setter VaprTrek Vs. Under Armour Brow Tine

The Under Armour Brow Tine is a high-performance boot that utilizes a lot of the same athletic technology found in their running shoes. 

I have found that the Brow Tine offers a more “locked-in” feel and has a better lacing system that provides superior heel lock than the VaprTrek. 

Analytically, the Under Armour boot uses a more durable Primaloft insulation in their cold-weather models that keeps its loft better than the Irish Setter equivalents. 

I noticed that the Brow Tine has a very narrow profile, which I think makes it feel even more like a sneaker than the VaprTrek does. 

Choose the Under Armour Brow Tine if you are a fan of high-tech synthetic gear, but be prepared for a very snug fit that may require sizing up.

Also Read: My Experience With Why Are Big 5 Shoes So Cheap

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

You should buy the Irish Setter VaprTrek if you are an “ounce-counter” who prioritizes speed and initial comfort over everything else and you have the budget to replace your boots every season.

I have found that the sneaker-like agility is a game-changer for short, dry hunts, but the analytical evidence of poor waterproofing and sole wear is too great to ignore for serious backcountry work.

However, you should avoid these boots if you are looking for a “one-and-done” investment that will keep your feet dry in the snow or mud for multiple years.

I believe that while Irish Setter is a legendary brand, the VaprTrek model in its current form regresses in quality too quickly to earn a full recommendation from a professional perspective.

You are making a gamble with your comfort when you step into a boot with such high rates of leaking, so ensure you have a backup pair of socks and a very dry trail ahead of you.