Some hunting boots are built for versatility.
Others are built specifically for hunters who spend their seasons climbing steep ridges, side-hilling loose shale, crossing alpine basins, and packing heavy loads back to the trailhead.
That's where the Crispi Briksdal GTX comes in.
Positioned near the top of Crispi's mountain boot lineup, the Briksdal combines premium materials, exceptional ankle support, and a stiff platform designed for technical terrain. Despite that support, many hunters report surprisingly little break-in and excellent comfort from the first hike.
If you're looking for a boot built for serious western hunting, here's everything you need to know.
Quick Verdict
Overall Rating: 9.8/10
Best For
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Elk hunting
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Sheep hunting
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Mountain goat hunting
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High-country mule deer
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Backpack hunting
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Heavy pack-outs
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Technical alpine terrain
Pros
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Exceptional mountain support
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Outstanding ankle stability
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Minimal break-in for a stiff boot
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Gore-Tex waterproof protection
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Premium Vibram outsole
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Built for steep, technical terrain
Cons
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More boot than many hunters need
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Higher price point
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Stiffer than all-around hunting boots
What Makes the Briksdal Different?
The Briksdal is designed for hunters who routinely push into the roughest country.
Unlike all-around boots such as the Nevada GTX, the Briksdal places a greater emphasis on:
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Support
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Stability
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Technical mountain performance
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Heavy-load capability
The current Briksdal MTN GTX uses a lightweight synthetic upper reinforced with abrasion-resistant PUtek fabric, Crispi's ABSS ankle support system, an asymmetrical lacing system, and a Vibram Megagrip outsole to deliver mountain-level performance without excessive weight.
Comfort & Break-In
Perhaps the biggest surprise about the Briksdal is how comfortable it feels.
Historically, boots this supportive required weeks of painful break-in.
That isn't the case here.
Numerous long-term reviewers report hiking immediately out of the box with little or no blistering. One tester logged more than 500 miles in a season and described it as one of the most comfortable mountain boots he'd ever worn.
We still recommend:
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15–20 miles of hiking
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Several workouts carrying your hunting pack
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Time spent on both climbs and descents
You'll appreciate the difference once hunting season arrives.
Support
Support is where the Briksdal truly shines.
Features like:
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Crispi ABSS
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Stiff mountain platform
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Dual-density midsole
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Board-lasting construction
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9-inch upper
Combine to create a boot that's built for steep terrain and heavy loads.
Whether you're carrying camp or packing out an elk quarter, the Briksdal provides confidence that lighter boots simply can't match.
Performance in Technical Terrain
This boot was made for:
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Loose shale
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Scree fields
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Knife-edge ridges
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Rocky descents
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Heavy side-hilling
Hunters consistently praise how planted the Briksdal feels on uneven terrain while still allowing a natural stride on flatter approaches.
If your hunting season regularly takes you into sheep or goat country, you'll immediately appreciate the extra support.
Waterproof Performance
The Gore-Tex Performance Comfort lining delivers dependable waterproof protection during:
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Creek crossings
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Wet grass
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Rain
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Snow
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Alpine storms
Several long-term users reported the waterproofing remained reliable through multiple seasons of hard hunting when the boots were properly maintained.
Traction
The Vibram outsole offers outstanding grip across:
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Loose dirt
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Rock
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Mud
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Timber
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Wet roots
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Snow
The Megagrip compound provides confidence during steep descents while maintaining durability for extended backcountry use.
Fit & Sizing
The Briksdal generally fits true to size.
Hunters commonly report:
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Secure heel lock
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Comfortable forefoot
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Excellent ankle wrap
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Minimal foot movement
The asymmetrical lacing system makes it easy to fine-tune tension between the forefoot and upper boot, helping reduce pressure points during long hikes.
As always:
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Wear your hunting socks.
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Try them on late in the day.
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Test them on an incline before heading into the mountains.
Durability
The Briksdal is built to survive years of demanding hunts.
Features include:
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Reinforced PUtek fabric
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Full rubber rand
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Premium stitching
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Abrasion-resistant construction
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Heavy-duty hardware
Hunters who have logged several seasons report excellent durability with only normal cosmetic wear.
Who Should Buy the Briksdal GTX?
The Briksdal is an excellent choice if you:
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Hunt sheep or mountain goats
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Backpack hunt every season
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Carry heavy packs
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Spend most of your time in steep country
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Want one of Crispi's most supportive mountain boots
Who Should Choose Another Crispi Boot?
The Briksdal may not be your best option if:
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You primarily hunt flat or rolling terrain.
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Most of your hunts are day trips.
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You prioritize lightweight flexibility over maximum support.
If that's the case, you'll likely be happier with:
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Idaho GTX
Those models are better suited for hunters covering lots of miles without consistently carrying heavy loads.
Briksdal GTX vs Nevada GTX
This is one of the most common comparisons.
Choose the Briksdal GTX if:
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You hunt technical mountain terrain.
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You routinely backpack hunt.
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You carry heavy loads.
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You want maximum support.
Choose the Nevada GTX if:
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You want one versatile hunting boot.
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Comfort is your top priority.
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You hunt a variety of western terrain.
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You spend as much time scouting as hunting.
The Nevada remains Crispi's best all-around boot.
The Briksdal is purpose-built for hunters who regularly push into more demanding country.
Is the Crispi Briksdal GTX Worth It?
Absolutely—if your hunting style justifies it.
The Briksdal isn't designed to be an everyday hiking boot.
It's designed for hunters who spend their seasons climbing steep mountains, living out of backpacks, and packing heavy loads through unforgiving terrain.
For that purpose, it's one of the finest mountain hunting boots Crispi has ever produced.
Final Rating
|
Category |
Rating |
|
Comfort |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Support |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Durability |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Waterproofing |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Traction |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
|
Weight |
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
|
Overall |
9.8/10 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Crispi Briksdal GTX good for elk hunting?
Yes. The Briksdal GTX is an excellent choice for elk hunters who spend time in steep terrain and regularly carry heavy packs or meat.
Does the Briksdal require a long break-in?
No. Despite being a supportive mountain boot, many hunters report little to no break-in period and excellent comfort right out of the box.
Is the Briksdal waterproof?
Yes. It features a Gore-Tex Performance Comfort lining that provides reliable waterproof protection during wet hunting conditions.
Who should buy the Briksdal instead of the Nevada GTX?
Hunters who spend most of their season in steep, technical mountain terrain or routinely carry heavy loads will benefit from the Briksdal's additional support. Hunters wanting a more versatile, everyday western hunting boot will usually be better served by the Nevada GTX.
