5 of the best: Training aids
Sharpen your shooting skills at home with five innovative training aids that build muscle memory, improve consistency and deliver meaningful data.
Discover five of the best all-round boots for country sports, offering comfort, waterproof protection and reliable grip for shooting and stalking.
A good boot is the foundation of any shooting or stalking outfit and a staple for any countryman or woman. Whether you’re crossing boggy ground, climbing steep hillsides or standing on a peg all day, the right footwear provides comfort, protection and confidence underfoot. While wellies can be great, a proper pair of boots will keep your feet dry and warm, support your ankles and offer dependable grip no matter the terrain.
From classic leather builds to high-tech modern designs, these five boots deliver outstanding performance, durability and comfort – perfect for anyone who takes their country pursuits seriously.
Crafted from premium Trout Brook leather, the Irish Setter Elk Tracker XD boots are built for endurance and comfort across the toughest terrain. Featuring UltraDry waterproof lining and TempSens Swiss temperature control, they maintain comfort in all weathers. The CuShin tongue reduces pressure on the shin, while the EnerG midsole provides exceptional cushioning and rebound. A ScentBan odour inhibitor keeps boots fresh, and the Bulls-Eye Air Bob dual-density sole ensures excellent grip on wet or uneven ground. Part of Irish Setter’s XD (Extreme Duty) range, the boots are reinforced in high-wear areas and constructed using Flex Welt for outstanding durability. Designed for serious shooters and stalkers, they combine rugged strength with refined comfort.
RRP: £329.99

Lightweight, durable and purpose-built for the field, the Härkila Reidmar Mid 2.0 GTX weighs just 640g per boot despite its robust leather construction. The boots feature an 8in oiled nubuck leather shaft and a Gore-Tex Sierra membrane for complete waterproofing and breathability. The innovative U-Turn wire lacing system allows rapid adjustment and perfect fit, while the Vibram Campus sole provides reliable grip and stability on any terrain. Reinforced at the toe and heel for added protection, these boots are made to endure long days and tough conditions. A shock-absorbing midsole ensures lasting comfort over long distances, making them an ideal choice for both gamekeepers and active hunters.
RRP: £299.99

A favourite among professional stalkers, gamekeepers and tactical users alike, the Salomon QUEST 4D Forces 2 High Gore-Tex combines advanced performance with exceptional durability. Constructed from full-grain leather and anti-debris mesh, the boots are waterproof and breathable thanks to a Gore-Tex membrane that keeps feet dry without trapping moisture. The dual-density EVA midsole offers superior cushioning and shock absorption, while the Contagrip TD outsole delivers unmatched traction across mud, rock and grass. Lightweight yet supportive, the high-cut design provides crucial ankle stability during long days in the field. Built for demanding use, these boots excel in all environments – from the stalking woods to the Scottish hills.
RRP: £224.00

Designed for mountain hunting and extreme terrain, the Zamberlan Hunter Pro Evo GTX RR is built to perform where others fail. Crafted from premium waxed chestnut leather, the boots feature a Gore-Tex insulated lining to keep feet warm, dry and breathable in all conditions. A 360° rubber rand protects against abrasion, while the wide last ensures comfort even during long hours on foot. The grippy, cushioned sole provides stability and shock absorption over rocky or uneven ground, making these boots perfect for stalking or rough shooting. Finished with Hydrobloc treatment for lasting waterproof protection, the Hunter Pro Evo is a serious boot for serious country sportsmen.
RRP: £349.00

Built for all-day comfort and resilience, the Gateway1 Estate Beater 9in boots combine traditional materials with modern technology. Featuring 2mm full-grain nubuck leather uppers, a waterproof Sympatex membrane and 400g Thinsulate insulation, they keep feet warm down to -15°C. The innovative G1 Speed-Lacing system ensures a secure fit, while the ankle notch flex design allows the boot to move naturally with the foot. The self-clearing arrow grip outsole provides superb traction across mud and grass, and the G1 Forefoot Max Flex sub-sole adds both flexibility and support. Hardwearing, comfortable and weatherproof, these boots are ideal for beaters, keepers and active guns alike.
RRP: £239.99

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