I have a more peace of mind wearing 17" high waterproof, snake proof boots.Though the waterproof membrane may last only one year. I can easily ford low-level streams or rivers, briar proof; and I also tuck the bottom of my pants inside the boots, to help prevent ticks or field mice from crawling up under my pants. And it helps prevent me from getting spurred by toms or jakes in the turkey woods, after I step on the head an neck of a downed bird.