Still-hunters are, by nature quiet, but taking it to a different level requires good effective footwear.
Vibram-soled shoes are far too hard for effective still hunting. In South Carolina, where the weather during deer season is generally mild, lightweight, soft shoes are perfect. Some manufacturers have seen the need for this and have produced “stalking” shoes.
Darker-colored tennis shoes are perhaps the best; the thin soles allow the hunter to feel the ground and adjust his position as it relates to the ground.
Some still-hunters slip heavy, wool socks over their shoes to quiet the impact of the soles of their shoes on the ground. Felt-bottom wading shoes are a good alternative for still-hunters.
When conditions permit, I often still hunt in socks. Forgoing boots all together, a few layers of socks will provide plenty of protection for most occasions, and this alone will cause you to hunt slowly. If hunting in the rain, soft, thin rubber boots like Muck or Lacrosse all provide good choices.
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