I've been a fan of bean boots for years and have a pair that I've taken great care of. I'm going to try my stab at elk in 2014, probably idaho or colorado, and I'm playing with the idea of wearing these instead of hiking boots.

I know that these boots are not designed for hiking, but is there anyone who prefers to chase elk in the mountains with Beans instead of hiking boots? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Thanks,
Matthew

I have a pair of Beans rubber soled insulated boots, and they might be okay in a low elevation, wet environment, but they would be slick on steep hills, and not provide any support for the feet, toes, and ankles in typical elk country; (including Mule and whitetail in the mountain west).
I prefer a heavier constructed boot that can take the punishment your feet will take in the rocky, steep terrain.

I wore mine on a  Colorado Elk hunt a number of years ago. For the most part I liked them a bit better than the hiking/full leather boots. However, for the really steep and rocky areas they were not as good, even a bit painful for the feet. They are very flexible and because of that, it feels more natural to walk in them, just didn't like the steep angles and sharp rocks...

Steep slopes after an afternoon storm would be trouble.

Good for flat and soft terrain, but not for the mountains

I've worn them in the mountains.  I like Bean boots a lot, but there are better alternatives for the mountains.  Really slip and slide with them on steep terrain and there's virtually no ankle support.  I still take a pair when I go out west, but I use them as camp boots/shoes.

They are good on some rocky terrain but I found them dangerous on wet surfaces and late season. They are been my choice on early season when the ground is dry and the hills aren't very steep

I used to wear Bean boots regularly for hunting whitetails here in Wisconsin, so I thought I'd try them on a pack-in bowhunt in Utah.  As others have stated, they're not real good on uneven ground.  By the end of the first day, I was nearly crippled with sore feet.  It's possible installing a good footbed insole would help. but I've never tried them in the mountains again.

Thanks for all the replies. What boots do you all wear instead?

Matthew

Steep Slopes Are Not Good W Bean Boots.
chuckc

Try the Irish Setter Elk Trackers or Danner's.

Personally, I have used Danner. But there are a number of highly recommended leather boots. Fit is essential, and break in period of 2+ weeks. I like the Goodyear welt, lug sole in an 8 - 10in. Early season uninsulated boots are fine. After it freezes and there is snows, I like the insulated boot with 400 grams of insulation.  Some are rated much more, but the weight starts to add up and your looking at 4 lbs. You will find a selection at larger retailers and online. But always try them on, and allow time for an exchange and breakin.

Also, I wear a light poly, merino wool sock the wicks moisture, and a med. wt. wool sock. Socks are another subject, but very important.

Kenetrek.  Best boot I have ever put on my feet.   Pricey, but can't get any better in my opinion.

I have a pair of LL Bean "Maine Hunting Shoes".  I love the way they feel on my feet.  I don't know that I'd trust them with a load on my back.  They are way too slippery for me to be comfortable wearing them to hunt elk. YMMV.
homebru

I got some boots at Cabelas that are 'stalkers', or something like that. Lightweight but have decent grip on steeper terrain. For warmer weather, they work pretty well. I think they were about a hundred bucks when I got them.

I heard of a guy who glued strips of rubber on his Beans for wet hill traction.  I do not wear them for elk or mulies, but rabbits are in trouble.  They are quiet, dry, and very flexible.
Others as above got it about right.
Just finished antelope and wore pronghorns by Danner.  They work in the mountains

It isn't just the lack of traction (Bean boots) but because of the way they are constructed, they do not do well in containing your (at least. . MY) feet on the side hills and slopes.  

I like Bean's and have had a pair for almost ever, but like using a 1/4" ratchet on a 1/2" bolt, some things work well in their intended area and not as well elsewhere.

I have used them out west in the mountains and for me, there are better choices available.
ChuckC

Schnee's with the aggressive lug/knobby soles would be great out west...insulated or un-insulated would be the only decision.Good luck

Meindels fit me well. You need a stiffer sole plate and some real traction in the hills.