Have a product question?

Whether you're choosing your first pair of hunting boots, investing in premium optics, or building a lightweight backcountry kit, we're here to help. Below are answers to the questions we hear most often about the brands we carry.

Can't find what you're looking for? Contact the Gear Fool team, we use this gear ourselves and are happy to help.

CRISPI

Generally:

  • Early season & warm weather: Lightweight, flexible boots like the Lapponia series.
  • Mountain hunts & heavy packs: More supportive boots like the Briksdal MTN GTX or Colorado II.
  • Cold weather & late season: Insulated models like the Nevada GTX Insulated or Guide GTX.

Helpful Resources

The right amount depends more on how active you'll be than the temperature.

0g - Early season, backpack hunts, active spot-and-stalk hunting

200g - Most fall hunting, colder mornings, mixed conditions

400g - Late-season rifle hunts, tree stands, glassing for long periods

600g+ - Extreme cold and limited movement

Many hunters are surprised that they don't need heavily insulated boots. If you're hiking hard all day, a non-insulated boot with quality merino socks is often the better choice.

For most hunters, yes.

Most Crispi models fit true to your normal athletic shoe size, but fit can vary slightly depending on the model and the last it's built on. Crispi also offers select models in Wide (EE) sizing.

If you're between sizes or planning to wear heavy winter socks, sizing may differ slightly.

Helpful Resources

  • View our Crispi Size Guide (available on most Crispi model product pages)

Most Crispi boots require very little break-in compared to traditional leather hunting boots.

We still recommend wearing them on several hikes before taking them on a hunt, especially if you'll be carrying a heavy pack.

Yes.

Keeping the leather conditioned helps preserve waterproof performance and extends the life of the boot. Follow the care instructions for your specific boot and avoid products that can clog breathable membranes.

Quality merino wool socks, like Darn Tough, are the best choice.

Avoid cotton. Merino regulates temperature, manages moisture, and helps reduce blisters.

Stone Glacier

Stone Glacier packs are designed for backcountry hunters who need to carry heavy loads comfortably while keeping pack weight to a minimum.

Their modular frame system allows you to swap bags depending on your hunt.

General recommendations:

  • Under 3000 cu in — Day hunts
  • 3000–5000 cu in — Weekend hunts
  • 5000–7000+ cu in — Extended backpack hunts

Some pieces are waterproof (like rain gear), while others are designed for insulation or breathability.

Always check the product description to understand the intended use of each layer.

Visit our Stone Glacier Brand Page and Stone Glacier video page for product overviews, reviews, and field-tested recommendations.

TRICER

Tricer designs lightweight carbon fiber tripod systems specifically for hunters who spend hours glassing but don't want unnecessary weight in their pack.

Yes.

Most Tricer tripods accept standard mounting systems and can easily switch between binocular adapters, spotting scopes, and other optics.

Consider:

  • Your height
  • How much weight you're willing to carry
  • Whether you'll primarily glass while sitting or standing
  • The size of your binoculars or spotting scope

PEAX Equipment

PEAX builds lightweight, purpose-driven hunting gear designed specifically for western and backcountry hunters. Their products focus on simplicity, durability, and reducing unnecessary weight.

Not at all.

While PEAX is especially popular among western hunters, much of their gear works equally well for whitetail, turkey, predator, and general outdoor use.

Some of the most popular categories include:

  • Trekking poles
  • Backcountry accessories
  • Shelter systems
  • Hunting tools and organization gear

Shop all PEAX Equipment products

Swarovski

Swarovski builds premium optics with industry-leading glass, coatings, mechanical precision, and durability.

The result is exceptional edge-to-edge clarity, color fidelity, and low-light performance that many hunters appreciate during long glassing sessions.

A quick guide:

  • 8x42 – Best all-around binocular
  • 10x42 – Most popular hunting choice
  • 12x42 – More detail with slightly less field of view
  • 15x56 – Long-range glassing from a tripod

If you're unsure, our team can help match a binocular to your hunting style. Feel free to contact us.

For prolonged glassing—especially with 10x or higher magnification—a tripod greatly reduces fatigue and helps you spot more game.

We recommend Tricer or Aziak tripods.

Yes. Swarovski offers an excellent warranty and service program for manufacturing defects and workmanship. Normal wear, accidental damage, and misuse are handled differently, so review the manufacturer's warranty for complete details.