What really separates one pair of rubber boots from another? The Farm4Profit crew sits down with Brad Hahn of Dryshod to trace the evolution of rubber-neoprene footwear and the story behind a company created by people who had already spent years in the boot business. From traction and waterproofing to lightweight materials, breathability and comfort, this episode digs into the technology behind a piece of equipment farmers put on their feet every day. USE Code F4P25 for 25% off your order through the end of 2026!
USE Code F4P25 for 25% off your order through the end of 2026!
The Dryshod story starts well before the Dryshod name. Brad Hahn explains that he and his business partners had previously worked with the Muck Boot product line, while their partner Jim Donahue was the original creator behind Muck Boots. After their relationship with the brand ended in 2017, they called Jim about designing a new product. His response? He had been waiting years for the opportunity and already knew what he wanted to do differently. Dryshod launched with roughly 20–25 products and has since expanded to around 100 SKUs.
The conversation explores how rubber-neoprene boots evolved and what Dryshod says it changed in its designs. Brad walks through features including aggressive outsole designs intended to shed mud, heel kicks for easier removal, larger toe bumpers, EVA midsoles for shock absorption, internal shanks for support, four-way-stretch neoprene and Hydracoat, a treatment designed to keep the neoprene exterior from absorbing water and contaminants.
They also get into one of the biggest challenges with waterproof footwear: keeping feet comfortable. Brad explains how Dryshod uses air-mesh and moisture-management liners to create air movement inside a boot even though neoprene itself doesn't breathe. The newer Dereva outsole takes inspiration from athletic footwear and, according to Brad, removes roughly a pound of weight from a pair compared with older sole technology while maintaining durability.
From cattle lots and muddy fields to hunting, construction, oil fields and commercial fishing, the crew talks through how different jobs require different footwear—and why fit, support and traction matter when you're on your feet all day. Brad estimates roughly 55% of Dryshod's business is farm/ag-related and discusses specialized safety-toe and commercial products as well. The episode wraps with a simple piece of advice for anyone shopping for boots: take them out of the box, try them on and pay attention to fit, arch support and cushioning rather than choosing on price alone.