I always used LaCrosse rubber insulated boots for hunting and ice fishing here in Northern Vermont. I have 5 pair in different weights for different uses. I decided to buy a pair of Muck Woody Max because they had a good reputation and I already have a light weight pair of gardening muck boots and like them. I can safely say I won't be buying another pair of LaCrosse. The Muck Woody Max are very comfortable, real warm and come off way easier than the LaCrosse. I bought mine at a Cabelas on a recent cross country elk trip and got to used them this year in Vermont for our deer season. I liked them so much I started to use them ice fishing and they are very warm. The only difference between them and the elite is scent protection and about $10. price difference. Either one will be the best rubber boots you could own. I would go with the moody max but that is because I have them and haven't tried the elites.