At first glance I considered the Versa Track sole on the Irish Setter No. 895 boot to be just another marketing gimmick. The Vibram soles each have six interchangeable cleats that can be switched out using a pocket-size golf shoe tool included with the boots. One set is for all-around use while a set of stainless-steel spikes give maximum traction on ice and snow.

I wore the boots on a winter hunting trip to the frigid Transylvania mountains of Romania. It was after taking a nasty fall while crossing a frozen stream that I decided it was time to install the steel spikes. In less than a minute they were in, and I was a sure-footed believer. Constructed of leather and nylon, the No. 895 boot is 11 inches tall, and a pair weighs in at 33⁄4 pounds.

The No. 895 boot is dry, thanks to a Gore-Tex liner, and warm, courtesy of 1,000 grams of Thinsulate insulation.

Red WingÂ’s Comfort Cork EVA ScentBan foot bed with steel shank provides foot-friendly support. Suggested retail: $229.

Irish Setter, 888/472-0087, www.irishsetterboots.com