Danner Sharptail 17ft Side-Zip Waterproof Snake Boots - Rugged

Our review of the Danner Sharptail 17' Side-Zip Waterproof Snake Boots finds them best suited for hunters, ranchers and outdoorsmen who need dependable snake protection and all-day comfort. The single biggest reason to buy is the 360 snake guard combined with a Gore-Tex waterproof liner, which means these boots block venomous strikes while keeping feet dry through marshy terrain. Built from full-grain leather and abrasion-resistant nylon with a side zipper for quick on and off, they balance protective features with a comfortable fit for long field days.

Key Features

• 360 Snake Guard: Provides flexible, wraparound protection from rattlers and other venomous snakes without severely restricting mobility.
• Gore-Tex Waterproof Liner: Keeps feet dry and breathable on wet trails and marshy ground while maintaining internal comfort.
• Full-Grain Leather and 900D Nylon: A durable upper that stands up to thick brush and abrasion in rugged outdoor work and hunting.
• Side-Zip Entry: Semi-locking side zipper lets you get in and out quickly when boots are muddy or vegetation is dense.
• OrthoLite Footbed: Removable three-layer footbed offers cushioning and support for extended wear during long days on the move.
• Sharptail Outsole: Slip-resistant outsole delivers solid traction over uneven and slippery terrain.

Who It's For

The Sharptail 17' is aimed at men who spend time in snake country: dove hunters, game stalkers, ranch hands repairing fences and anyone who regularly negotiates thick brush or swampy ground. They especially fit buyers who value a protective boot that also manages moisture with a breathable membrane.

Those seeking a lightweight trail runner or a fashion boot should look elsewhere, as these are a purpose-built hunting and work boot with a firmer build and focused protective features rather than a minimalist or casual profile.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable construction from full-grain leather and 900 Denier nylon stands up to rough brush and heavy use.
• Reliable waterproofing with a breathable Gore-Tex liner keeps feet dry without trapping heat.
• Removable OrthoLite footbed and supportive 851 last deliver long-wear comfort and a locked-in heel.
• Side-zip entry speeds boot-on and boot-off when conditions are messy.

Cons

• Purpose-built protective design makes the boot heavier and firmer than dedicated lightweight hikers.
• The semi-locking zipper is convenient but introduces one more component that may need care in extremely muddy conditions.

Specifications

Brand	Danner
Height	17 in
Upper	Full-grain leather with 900 Denier nylon
Waterproofing	Gore-Tex breathable liner
Footbed	Removable OrthoLite three-layer footbed
Outsole	Sharptail slip-resistant traction outsole
Entry	Semi-locking side zipper

Our Verdict

Overall, the Sharptail 17' Side-Zip is a strong choice for anyone who needs reliable snake protection without sacrificing waterproofing or long-term comfort. The combination of the 360 guard, Gore-Tex liner and OrthoLite footbed makes it a practical, good-value option for hunters and outdoor workers who face wet, brushy and snake-prone conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots fully waterproof?
Yes. They use a breathable Gore-Tex liner to provide full waterproof protection while allowing moisture to escape.

Do they run true to size?
The updated 851 last fits true to size with an athletic, supportive shape and ample toe room for most users.

Is the snake protection rigid?
The 360 snake guard is flexible yet protective, designed to stop venomous strikes while allowing reasonable ankle movement.