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Keeping up with your bird dog and getting into position for a shot calls for nimble footwork. Proper boots provide comfort, support, and mobility, allowing for a quick and effortless step. The wrong boots will simply torture your feet and throw off your shots. All the boots listed here were field-tested in the uplands and rate very well for durability. Get a pair and go ruffle some feathers. 1. Nick's 25VLTT Hotshot
Built for serious bushwhacking, riding, and hiking, Nick's high-toppers are American boot art. Nick's custom-fits and builds these boots from premium select domestic leather and other materials that are too expensive for mass-production manufacturers to use. The sole, with a custom arch, supports your foot in the most extreme conditions. The 16-inch lace-to-toe upper keeps your foot locked in place while protecting your ankles and calves (think cacti, rocks, and snakes). Completely rebuildable, they're finished with traditional oil-and-wax waterproofing. They'll take a bit of breaking in before you go afield. $425; 800-824-2685; www.nicksboots.com

2. Wolverine Stealth Max
Featherlight but with surprising support, they're comfortable as soon as you slip them on. While not designed for a grouse hunt in the mountains, these are perfect for a walk in quail country. The exterior is a combination of 1,000-denier Cordura and nubuck leather with a Gore-Tex liner. The molded sole reaches around the foot bed for good lateral stability. $150; 800-545-2425; www.wolverinebootsandshoes.com

3. Filson Uplander Field Boot
The light, noninsulated Uplander has one of the most comfortable interior leather liners of any boot. The midsole is sewn with two layers of leather, rubber, and steel. A low-profile Vibram Gumlite outsole won't slip on rocks. Inside is a removable cork insole. The upper is a combination of waterproof cotton twill and premium leather with a pull loop that you can actually slip two fingers into. If you tear them up, they're rebuildable. $315; 800-297-1897; www.filson.com

4. Irish Setter Wingshooter 855
These boots are light enough to wear all day, and you can tighten the adjustable buckle so that your foot won't slip, giving a proper walking fit. A full-length side zipper lets you kick them off easily (which I found helpful during airport security checks). The stout lug sole gives excellent support. $200; 800-261-0326; www.irishsetterboots.com

5. Avery Pit Bag
Many upland bags are just too small for a long day in the field. When I switched to this new Avery pit bag, I could carry everything I needed comfortably. Nine separate pockets give quick and easy access to choke tubes, shells, collars, and gloves. The central compartment will hold a pair of boots, a change of clothes, rain gear, cameras, and lunch. The bag is water resistant, with waterproof pockets inside, and measures 20x11x11 inches. $40; 800-333-5119; www.averyoutdoors.com -P.B.M.