Tactical boot
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Kick some serious ass with the toughest tactical boots on the market!
There are regular boots… and then there are tactical boots.
Tactical boots combine durability, breathability, comfort, flexibility, good traction, and maneuverability, all in one badass-looking package. No wonder they’re the choice of footwear for most law enforcement officers, military personnel, paramedics, EMTs, and outdoor lovers— basically, anyone whose job or passion requires them to stand, walk, run, and move on their feet all day.
In this Definitive Guide, we’re covering the best tactical boots available today, as well as:
- The most affordable tactical boots;
- The best lightweight tactical boots;
- The different types of tactical boots;
- Specific features to look for when choosing tactical boots;
- Top tips on handling tactical boots;
- And lots more…
If you want to know more…
Then let’s jump right in.
Introduction
When purchasing a new pair of tactical boots, you have to keep in mind for which purpose you’re going to use the boots for. Doing this will give you an idea of what features you will prioritize over others.
For example…
If you’re going to use it for your job as a patrol officer, you’d want comfort to be at the top of your priority list, as you’re going to wear them all day. Similarly, if you want a new addition to your hiking gear, then you better opt for boots that have flexible soles and are going to offer great traction even on rocky terrains.
Table Of Contents
Table of Contents
We’re sure you get the idea.
To further help you in choosing a new pair, we’ve tested some of the most popular tactical boots in the market today by using them in a variety of conditions to find out which is the best tactical boots for which situation.
Read on to know our findings.
1 - Best Comfortable Tactical Boots- Editor’s Choice Award
Bates Men's 8" Ultralite Tactical Sport
- Manufacturer: Bates
- Material: 70% leather, 30% nylon, rubber
- Weight: 3.2 pounds
- Height: 8 inches
Bottom Line: Bates Men’s 8-Inch Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boots are something you can’t go wrong about when it comes to tactical boots that are extremely comfortable, fairly lightweight, and great in quality.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Excellent cushioning inside the boots for maximum comfort
- Quite lightweight considering the thick soles
- Soft inner soles with ventilation pores for breathability
- Cushioned EVA midsoles
- Slip-resistant rubber outsoles with great grip and flexibility
- Padded tongue
- YKK side zipper for quick put on/take off
- Moisture-wicking mesh lining
- Great for warm weather
- True to size
- Fairly affordable
Cons
- Not completely waterproof
- Toe box is a bit too big
Sizes Available
- 3
- 5.5
- 6
- 6.5
- 7
- 7 X-Wide
- 7.5
- 7.5 X-Wide
- 8
- 8 X-Wide
- 8.5
- 8.5 X-Wide
- 9
- 9 X-Wide
- 9.5 X-Wide
- 10
- 10 X-Wide
- 10.5
- 10.5 X-Wide
- 11
- 11 Wide
- 11.5
- 11.5 X-Wide
- 12
- 12 X-Wide
- 13
- 13 X-Wide
- 14
- 14 X-Wide
- 15
- 15 X-Wide
- 16
SUMMARY:
Comfort is one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing your next pair of tactical boots. After all, you wouldn’t be able to do your task properly when your feet are hurting due to a bad pair of boots.
One of the brands that we trust the most when it comes to comfortable and high-quality boots is the Bates brand, which is one of the most popular choice of brands amongst the military and law enforcement officers— and for good reason.
After owning a pair for seven years now— and counting— we can definitely say that the Bates Men’s 8-Inch Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot is the real deal when it comes to comfortability.
These boots are constructed from 70% leather and 30% nylon, which most of us know, are materials that are both recognized for their incredible durability. The inner soles are vented for breathability, and anyone working in hot weather knows how important breathability is. They also have a distinctly shaped heel bed and have a good amount of cushioning for support and comfort.
Under the inner soles are the EVA cushioned midsoles; they have this nice cushiony and jelly-like feeling, which prevents foot pain and fatigue when running. The outer soles are made from rubber that is slip-resistant; this is especially great if you’re working somewhere with marble or tile flooring, and we love how flexible yet strong they are, not to mention the excellent grip even in wet or slick surfaces.
In addition to that…
The inside of the boots also has outstanding cushioning for maximum comfort. The tongue is padded to avoid heel slippage and debris from entering the boots through the lace eyelets. Another notable feature is the YKK zippers on the sides of the boots, which enable you to put on and take off the boots quickly when the need arises, especially in a life-threatening situation where you need to act rapidly.
The only minor complaint we have is that these boots are not 100% waterproof, so we wouldn’t recommend using them in heavy snow. With that said, these boots feature moisture-wicking mesh lining that did keep our feet dry when we used them in light rains.
Overall…
If you’re looking for a fairly affordable pair of tactical boots that are made by a trusted brand and will serve you well in your job with their high comfort level and great quality, we highly recommend our Editor’s Choice for the best tactical work boots.
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2 - Best Budget Tactical Boots- Best Value Award
LA Police Gear Men's Tactical Core 8-Inch Leather Side-Zip Duty/Uniform Boots
- Manufacturer: LA Police Gear
- Material: Leather, nylon, rubber. mesh
- Weight: 1.57 pounds
- Height: 8 inches
Bottom Line: The LA Police Gear Men’s Tactical Core 8-Inch Leather Side-Zip Duty/Uniform Boots is the way to go for anyone who wants a pair of tactical boots that are on the level of more expensive boots quality-wise, but for a fraction of the cost.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Great value for money
- Durable and tough
- Side zipper
- Breathable mesh tongue
- Enduropro insoles and EVA cushioned insoles for extreme comfort
- Slanted outsoles for easy walking/running
- Oil and slip-resistant
- Quick break-in period
Cons
- Velcro strap on the side zipper is made of cheap material
- Tongue squeaks with every step (goes away after about a week, in our experience)
Sizes Available
- 7-Standard
- 7.5-Standard
- 8-Standard
- 8.5
- 9-Standard
- 9.5-Standard
- 10-Standard
- 10.5-Standard
- 11-Standard
- 11.5-Standard
- 12
- 13-Standard
- 14-Standard
SUMMARY:
On the hunt for a pair of affordable tactical boots that don’t skimp on quality? You’ll love the LA Police Gear Men’s Tactical Core 8-Inch Leather Side-Zip Duty/Uniform Boots. LA Police Gear is a brand that’s dedicated to delivering quality boots at great prices to police, security, and military officers, and it shows.
These boots are made from polishable film action leather with a rubber sole that is slip- and oil-resistant. The mesh tongue provides breathability, while the removable Enduropro insoles offer comfort all day long. It has EVA cushioned midsoles that help protect your feet from feeling pain, especially when stepping on hard or sharp objects.
Moreover…
The outsoles are quite lightweight despite their thickness, and have a nice slanted shape, making the boots easier to walk or run in; they also give excellent ankle support, good for jobs that require you to stand 24/7. These boots feature side zippers too, which make throwing them on and taking them off a breeze.
As for durability, you have nothing to worry about; these boots are tough as nails. We’ve even used them in the winter, thinking that they would give in because of the inexpensive price, but they held up well. As we’ve already tried and tested countless tactical boots in the past, we can definitely say that these can easily compete with most tactical boots that are in the $100-$200 range.
All in all…
Our Best Value awardee is definitely worth getting if you want good tactical boots without breaking the bank. We’re just not fans of the velcro strap for the side zipper, which seems to be made of cheap material and kind of unnecessary, in our opinion. Still, with the quality you’re getting at an unbelievably good price, we’re certainly not complaining.
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3 - Best Quality Tactical Boots- Top Pick Award
5.11 Men's Union 6" Waterproof Tactical Boot
- Manufacturer: PROOK
- Material: 50% Suede, 50% nylon, Vibram soles
- Weight: 3.35 pounds
- Height: 6 inches
Bottom Line: Durable, strong, and robust, with top-grade materials, the 5.11 Men’s Union 6-Inch Waterproof Tactical Boot is ideal for military and safety officers, cable technicians, construction workers, and anyone whose job requires heavy-duty boots, as well as for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros
- Incredibly durable and rugged
- Ideal for anyone who needs heavy-duty tactical boots, such as military and law enforcement officers and outdoor enthusiasts
- Very comfortable
- High-quality materials
- Vibram soles
- OrthoLite X-25 insoles
- Insulated lining inside keeps feet warm and dry during rainy days, winter, and cold weather
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
- No break-in period (in our experience)
- Aesthetically pleasing
Cons
- On the pricey side
- No side zippers
Size Available
- 7
- 7.5 Wide
- 8
- 8.5 Wide
- 9
- 10
- 10 Wide
- 10.5
- 10.5 Wide
- 11
- 11.5
- 12
- 14 Wide
- 15
SUMMARY:
If you don’t mind paying extra for a pair of premium-quality boots, then the 5.11 Men’s Union 6-Inch Waterproof Tactical Boot is absolutely worth investing in.
It was love at first wear for us with these boots as they are so comfortable the first time we tried them out— they felt as if they had been broken in already. They are also so lightweight that we sometimes forget that we’re wearing a pair of heavy-duty boots.
With a top-quality construction of 50% suede and 50% nylon, these bad boys are one of the most durable tactical boots we’ve come across, for sure.
Furthermore…
These boots boast high-performance OrthoLite X-25 insoles that increase breathability and comfort while keeping the shoes dry, and Vibram soles, which have always been considered the gold standard when it comes to the best soles in the market. The outsoles have forefoot lugs that allow you to traverse difficult terrains with excellent grip and balance— especially great when hiking or climbing.
Another thing that we love about these boots is their versatility and that they can be used in different weathers. They have a thin lining inside that offers insulation during cold weather, all the while absorbing sweat during warm weather. These are also waterproof boots, so you can be really sure that your feet will stay dry whatever weather you’re using them in.
The use of high-quality materials for these boots ensures extreme durability and sturdiness, even after being subjected to extreme weather conditions. Designed for heavy-duty use, our Top Pick is ideal for military, safety, and law enforcement officers, as well as for outdoor enthusiasts.
Yes, these boots may be more expensive than most of the boots featured in this list, but we guarantee that they are money well spent; the ones we own have been through muddy and rough terrains and long-distance hiking, and they still look and feel new to this day. It doesn’t hurt that these boots look so good, as well.
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4 - Best Tactical Boots For Flat Feet
Danner Men's Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boot
- Manufacturer: Danner
- Material: 100% Full grain leather, Vibram soles
- Weight: 66 ounces
- Height: 8 inches
Bottom Line: Designed with superb comfort, support, and stability in mind, The Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boots is ideal for people with flat feet and for anyone who needs a pair of boots that can protect your feet from all kinds of weather and elements.
Pros
- Great for people with flat feet
- Durable full grain leather material
- Comes with an Airthotic footbed for superb arch support
- GORE-TEX® lining for waterproofing
- 200 Gram Thinsulate™ Insulation for warmth
- Shock-absorbent Vibram® Kletterlift soles
- Fiberglass shank for structural support
- 100% waterproof
- Weather-proof
- Good winter boots
- Lace-to-toe design for a more secure fit
- Berry-compliant
- Recraftable
Cons
- Very expensive
- Not the most lightweight tactical boots
Sizes Available
- 6 Wide
- 6.5 Wide
- 7
- 7 Wide
- 7.5
- 7.5 Wide
- 8
- 8 Wide
- 8.5
- 8.5 Wide
- 9
- 9 Wide
- 9.5
- 9.5 Wide
- 10
- 10 Wide
- 10.5
- 10.5 Wide
- 11
- 11 Wide
- 11.5
- 11.5 Wide
- 12
- 12 Wide
- 13
- 13 Wide
- 14
- 14 Wide
- 15
SUMMARY:
Working in the law enforcement industry or doing manual labor are tough enough as is, but they’re even more difficult when you have foot issues such as flat feet.
Well, the Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boots got your back.
Specifically designed to aid people with flat feet in their day-to-day work and activities, these boots are manufactured from 100% full-grain leather, which is an incredibly durable and resilient material, as well as very easy to clean and polish. The inside of the boots has GORE-TEX® lining, which makes these boots 100% waterproof even in extreme weather conditions and wet grounds while retaining breathability.
These boots utilize 200 Gram Thinsulate™ Insulation technology to keep your feet warm while hiking or working in cold weather. The Vibram® Kletterlift outsole is shock-absorbent and provides fantastic comfortability and stability.
The really awesome thing about these boots, aside from their great quality, is that they come with an Airthotic footbed which offers outstanding arch support for flat-footed people and helps prevent heel pain. The fiberglass shank for added structure and support in the arch area, especially for jobs that entail lots of climbing and running, is a plus too.
Even better…
These tactical boots are Berry-compliant and weather-proof. The lace-to-toe design ensures a more secured and tight fit as well.
The catch is…
This is not a lightweight tactical boot by any means, as it’s a full-leather boot, so skip this if you’re looking for something lighter. However, we can say that this pair is indeed one of the most comfortable tactical boots we’ve ever used as far as leather boots are concerned.
5 - Best Tactical Boots For Ankle Support
Salomon Quest 4D Forces
- Manufacturer: Salomon
- Material: Suede, nylon, mesh, rubber
- Weight: 2.2 pounds
- Height: 7.5 inches
Bottom Line: The Salomon Quest 4D Forces boots are your best bet if you need a pair of tactical boots that provide superb ankle support and protection, are comfortable enough for everyday wear and can handle rough and slippery terrains.
Pros
- Superb ankle support
- Very comfortable to wear all day long
- Heavy-duty
- Good amount of padding, especially around the ankle area
- GORE-TEX lining to keep feet dry
- Dual-density EVA midsoles providing cushioning and stability
- Contagrip® soles for maximum traction
- 4D chassis for further motion control and ankle protection
- Gusseted tongue for protection from water and debris
- Abrasion pads and rubber toe caps
- Closed lace loops
- Lace garage
- Great as hiking or mountain boot
Cons
- Runs a bit narrow
- Takes a week to break-in
Sizes Available
- 12.5
SUMMARY:
Whether you’re looking for new tactical boots or a pair of hiking boots, you want something that will give your feet great ankle support.
The Salomon Quest 4D Forces boots are built to meet the needs of law enforcement officers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone with a physically demanding job. The suede leather and nylon uppers make these boots breathable and flexible while keeping them quite lightweight and comfortable for daily use.
These boots are equipped with Contagrip® outsoles that were created with the goal of maximizing traction on a range of terrains. The dual-density EVA midsoles provide good cushioning and stability, which is good when you have to walk on rocky surfaces or balance a heavy load. The inside of the boots are lined with GORE-TEX material for optimum protection from elements and to keep your feet dry in wet environments.
Beyond that…
Another key feature of these boots is the gusseted tongue that protects your feet from debris while also alleviating pressure from the lace. Providing stellar ankle support and protection, as well as added stability and control, is the 4D chassis that are built into the soles. Abrasion pads and rubber toe caps are added to the boots’ insteps in order to reduce wear and tear even with prolonged use.
Because of their subdued color, these boots are also great for hunting or stealth camping as they merge well with the environment. The closed eyelets and lace garage also ensure that the knot is out of the way and won’t interfere with your activity.
The only two things we didn’t like are that these boots run a bit narrow, so we recommend ordering a size or two larger, so they can fit your feet perfectly. These also take about a week to break in, but they’re very comfortable once they do.
6 - Best Waterproof Tactical Boots
Carhartt Men's 8" Rugged Flex Insulated Waterproof Breathable Soft Toe Work Boots
- Manufacturer: Black Diamond Group
- Material: Wheat oil-tanned leather, rubber
- Weight: 1.7 pounds
- Height: 8 inches
Bottom Line: Completely waterproof with great insulation, the Carhartt Men's 8-Inch Rugged Flex Insulated Waterproof Breathable Soft Toe Work Boots are what you need for a pair of comfortable work boots, especially when working in cold temperatures.
Pros
- 100% waterproof
- Storm Defender® waterproof membrane protects feet from outside elements
- Very comfortable to use for all-day work
- Great insulation in cold weather
- Prevents your feet from overheating in warm weather
- Shock-resistant EVA midsoles with PU Strobel pads
- PU with OrthoLite™ technology insoles with heel beds for comfort
- Flexible yet firm rubber outsoles
- Composite toe caps for safety
Cons
- Outsoles are a bit thick and bulky
- Not flexible enough for running
Sizes Available
- 8
- 8.5
- 8.5 Wide
- 9
- 9 Wide
- 9.5
- 9.5 Wide
- 10
- 10 Wide
- 10.5
- 10.5 Wide
- 11
- 11 Wide
- 11.5
- 11.5 Wide
- 12
- 12 Wide
- 13
- 13 Wide
- 14
- 14 Wide
- 15 Wide
SUMMARY:
The Carhartt Men’s 8-Inch Rugged Flex Insulated Waterproof Breathable Soft Toe Work Boots are a good option for anyone looking for waterproof work boots.
Made of very sturdy wheat oil-tanned leather uppers, these boots are armed with Storm Defender® waterproof membrane, which keeps your feet nice and dry while working all day and protects them from outside elements.
The EVA midsoles with PU Strobel pads absorb shock and impact while also providing comfort. For the insoles, the PU with OrthoLite™ technology insoles offer cushioning and excellent temperature regulation. They also have heel beds that keep your feet firmly in place so that they won’t be sliding back and forth while you’re doing your tasks. We love how the rubber outsoles are flexible enough for walking yet firm enough to give mid-foot support and to prevent punctures, as well.
What’s more…
These boots feature composite toe safety caps, which are more lightweight than steel-toe boots and don’t conduct heat or cold, thus ensuring that your feet will neither overheat in warm weather nor get cold even in sub-freezing temperatures. You also get a lot of padding with these boots, especially around the collar area, making these boots very comfortable to wear while working all day.
The thick rubber outsole is a bit bulky and thick, which adds a bit more weight to the boots, but you get a lot of protection in exchange.
7 - Best Tactical Boots For Standing All Day
Danner Men’s Lookout Side-Zip 8-Inch Black Tactical Boots
- Manufacturer: Danner
- Material: Leather, rip-stop ballistic nylon, rubber
- Weight: 4.3 pounds
- Height: 8 inches
Bottom Line: The Danner Men’s Lookout Side-Zip 8-Inch Black Tactical Boots offer superior comfort, traction, and mobility for anyone whose job requires standing all day.
Pros
- Ideal for paramedics, EMTs, EMS providers, correctional officers, patrol officers, and anyone who’s on their feet all day
- Top-notch durability
- Waterproof
- Tear-resistant
- Bloodborne pathogen-resistant
- Full-grain leather and ballistic nylon construction
- Dual-density DCS footbed with air vents for cushiony comfort, arch support, and shock absorption
- Slip-resistant Danner Lookout outsoles with lug pattern for stability and traction
- Moisture-wicking lining
- Broad toe box
- Side zippers
Cons
- Makes slight squeaking noises
- On the heavy side
Sizes Available
- 6
- 6 Wide
- 6.5
- 6.5 Wide
- 7
- 7 Wide
- 7.5
- 7.5 Wide
- 8
- 8.5
- 8.5 Wide
- 9
- 9 Wide
- 9.5
- 9.5 Wide
- 10
- 10 Wide
- 10.5
- 10.5 Wide
- 11
- 11 Wide
- 11.5
- 11.5 Wide
- 12
- 12 Wide
- 13
- 13 Wide
- 14
- 14 Wide
- 15
- 15 Wide
- 16
- 16 Wide
SUMMARY:
For anyone with a job that requires standing all day, such as correctional officers, patrol officers, emergency medical service providers, the Danner Men’s Lookout Side-Zip 8-Inch Black Tactical Boots got you covered.
Utilizing the Danner Comfort System, or DCS, these boots are created with people who have to be on their feet all day in mind. These are produced using polishable full-grain leather with a rip-stop ballistic nylon upper, a material that was used by airmen in World War II because of its incredible durability and resistance to tearing.
The dual-density DCS footbed with air vents provides fantastic cushioning for maximum comfort, shock absorption, and arch support. Moreover, the slip-resistant Danner Lookout outsoles have a dynamic pentagonal lug design that guarantees great stability, traction, and maneuverability. Adding extra support even in rugged terrains and rocky surfaces are the included Airthotic heel clips.
If your job involves a lot of contact with mud and water, there’s no need to worry about your feet getting wet, as these boots are built with Danner Dry Liner, which wicks water and moisture from your feet without compromising breathability, especially in warm temperatures.
But that’s not all…
These boots have a broad toe box for a more comfortable fit and prevent footsore when standing or walking all day. They also have semi-locking side zippers that ensure more security and for you to be able to put them on and take them off.
Another big plus for us is that these boots are body fluid-borne pathogen-resistant— a feature that’s great to have, especially for EMS providers or anyone working in the medical field.
Here’s the kicker…
These boots, while totally awesome, make slight squeaking noises in the insoles. No need to panic, though. To remedy that, all you have to do is take out the insoles of the boots, sprinkle some talcum powder in the boots and shake them, place the insoles back, and voila, the embarrassing squeaking should be gone.
8 - Best Military Tactical Boots
Garmont Men's T8 Bifida Tactical Military Boots
- Manufacturer: Garmont
- Material: Suede leather, 600D nylon, Vibram soles
- Weight: 3.09 pounds
- Height: 8 inches
Bottom Line: The Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military boots perfectly balance support and comfort and provide top-level durability, ruggedness, and versatility, making them the ideal military or combat boots.
Pros
- Great military boots
- Very comfortable to walk, run, and stand in all day
- Sturdy construction
- Vibram slip-resistant rubber outsole with thick heels and tread pattern
- Double-stitched for added durability
- Outstanding grip
- Superb stability
- Water-resistant
- Keeps feet dry even in wet environments
- Fairly lightweight
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Don’t dry quickly
- Not the best tongue design
Sizes Available
- 4
- 4 Wide
- 4.5
- 4.5 Wide
- 5
- 5.5
- 6
- 6.5
- 6.5 Wide
- 7
- 7.5
- 7.5 Wide
- 8
- 8 Wide
- 8.5
- 8.5 Wide
- 9
- 9.5
- 9.5 Wide
- 10
- 10 Wide
- 10.5
- 10.5 Wide
- 11
- 11 Wide
- 11.5
- 11.5 Wide
- 12
- 12 Wide
- 12.5
- 12.5 Wide
- 13
- 13 Wide
- 13.5
- 14
- 14 Wide
- 15
- 15 Wide
SUMMARY:
If you’re on the lookout for the best combat boots in the market, why not go for Garmont, the brand that has set the standard for quality tactical footwear? Specifically, the Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military Boots.
Their robust and durable upper construction consists of suede leather and 600D nylon. These boots have slip-resistant rubber Vibram outsoles with very thick heels that absorb impact, at the same time providing great support to your heel area, and a tread pattern that offers exceptional grip, especially in very rough, uneven, and rugged terrains. The double stitching increases sturdiness too.
These high-performance tactical boots are fairly lightweight for a tactical boot, so you can be assured that they won’t slow you down when accomplishing tough tasks and missions, particularly ones where speed is crucial.
Additionally…
Despite being heavy-duty, these boots still maintain comfortability, which is important for military tasks that entail all-day standing, walking, and running to accomplish. Another thing we love about these boots is their versatility; they are designed to make it easier for you to move between land and water. They are also very stable to use on a wide variety of terrains, from steep hills to rocky mountains.
The only thing we dislike is that these take quite some time to dry out after being submerged in water but considering the top-grade quality of these boots and the reasonable price, it’s not a deal-breaker for us.
9 - Best Tactical Boots For Plantar Fasciitis
TACTICAL RESEARCH Mini-Mil TR105 8-Inch Combat Boots for Men, Coyote Brown
- Manufacturer: Belleville Shoe Mfg. Company
- Material: 100% cattlehide leather, 1000 Denier Cordura nylon
- Weight: 2.43 pounds
- Height: 8 inches
Bottom Line: The TACTICAL RESEARCH Mini-Mil TR105 8-Inch Combat Boots for Men, Coyote Brown are uniquely designed boots that blend well the durability of tactical boots and the barefoot feel of minimalist footwear.
Pros
- Great option for people with foot issues like Plantar Fasciitis
- Ideal for minimalist running
- Keeps feet cool and dry in warm weather
- Lightweight with a barely-there feel
- Double - and triple-stitched seams
- Flexible and soft cattlehide leather material
- Abrasion-resistant 1000 Denier Cordura nylon upper
- 2 mm foot-to-toe drop for nice ground feel
- 2-millimeter Die-Cut shock-dispersing midsoles
- 100% EXCLUSIVE VIBRAM® Tarsus outsoles with micro-lug
- Extra-wide toe box
- Quick-drying
- Includes single-density removable molded inserts
- AR 670-1 Compliant
- AFI 36-2903 Compliant
Cons
- Not much arch support
- Not waterproof
Sizes Available
- 4
- 4 Wide
- 4.5
- 4.5 Wide
- 5
- 5 Wide
- 5.5
- 5.5 Wide
- 6
- 6 Wide
- 6.5
- 6.5 Wide
- 7
- 7 Wide
- 7.5
- 7.5 Wide
- 8
- 8 Wide
- 8.5
- 8.5 Wide
- 9
- 9 Wide
- 9.5
- 9.5 Wide
- 10
- 10 Wide
- 10.5
- 10.5 Wide
- 11
- 11 Wide
- 11.5
- 11.5 Wide
- 12
- 12 Wide
- 13
- 13 Wide
- 14
SUMMARY:
The TACTICAL RESEARCH Mini-Mil TR105 8-Inch Combat Boots for Men, Coyote Brown is an excellent choice for those who suffer from foot issues such as Plantar Fasciitis.
Designed for superior comfort and support, these boots are made of very flexible and rugged cattlehide leather upper with abrasion-resistant 1000 Denier Cordura nylon fabric materials.
For people who are into minimalist running, these boots are ideal as well: The 2-millimeter Die-Cut midsoles disperse impact evenly across the soles, preventing foot pain.
If you’re a fan of minimalist shoes or “barefoot shoes,” you’ll love how thin the outsoles of these boots are. The EXCLUSIVE VIBRAM® Tarsus outsoles with micro-lugs are oil- and slip-resistant, providing tactical grip and a good deal of ground feel while still keeping your feet protected from hazards on the ground.
Also…
These boots have a 2-mm heel-to-toe drop, enabling you to further feel the ground under your feet. Furthermore, the wide toe box is roomy and allows your toes to splay comfortably, which is essential for maintaining good foot health and preventing foot issues in the first place. Removable single-density molded inserts for extra comfort are included with each pair of boots.
They are also suitable to be used as desert boots or in any warmer situations as the materials used have the ability to keep your feet cool and comfortable; these are great for long-distance running in hot weather, as they keep your feet from overheating.
But there’s one small catch…
These boots offer very minimal arch support, which will be a bummer for people with high arches. What you can do is simply replace the insoles with something that provides more arch and heel support, and you’re good to go. But if you’re looking for minimal footwear with basically no arch support and are as close to barefoot as possible, these are your boots.
10 - Best Tactical Boots For Hiking
Propper Men's Series 100 8" Waterproof Boot
- Manufacturer: Propper
- Material: Suede leather and 1000 Denier Cordura nylon, 550 Paracord laces
- Weight: 4.51 pounds
- Height: 8 inches
Bottom Line: The Propper Men’s Series 100 8-Inch Waterproof Boots are designed to provide military, law enforcement officers, and outdoor enthusiasts with comfortable and durable tactical footwear.
Pros
- Durable suede leather and 1000 Denier Cordura upper construction
- Water-resistant
- Great grip and traction
- Triple stitching for increased durability
- Open-cell air mesh foam inside the boots for breathability and good airflow
- Oil and slip-resistant triple-density rubber outsoles
- Comes with washable open-cell foam inserts for added comfort and arch/ankle support
- Anti-moisture lining that prevents odor
- NATO speed lace system
- 550 Paracord laces
- Smooth eyelets that prevent shoelaces from fraying
- AR 670-1 compliant
Cons
- The foam inserts are a bit narrow
- Water-resistant instead of waterproof
Sizes Available
- 5
- 5 Wide
- 5.5
- 5.5 Wide
- 6
- 6 Wide
- 6.5
- 6.5 Wide
- 7
- 7 Wide
- 7.5
- 7.5 Wide
- 8
- 8.5
- 8.5 Wide
- 9 Wide
- 9.5
- 9.5 Wide
- 10
- 10 Wide
- 10.5
- 10.5 Wide
- 11
- 11 Wide
- 11.5
- 11.5 Wide
- 12 Wide
- 12.5
- 12.5 Wide
- 13
- 13 Wide
- 14
- 14 Wide
- 15
- 16
- 17
SUMMARY:
And to take care of your outdoor needs, we highly recommend the Propper Men’s Series 100 8-Inch Waterproof Boots.
The uppers of these water-resistant boots are constructed from suede leather and 1000 Denier Cordura, which makes these tough enough for harsh environments. The triple stitching also does a great job of increasing the boots’ durability.
Inside the boots, you will find open-cell air mesh foam that allows breathability and good air circulation throughout the boots. On top of the foam insoles, you get washable open-cell foam inserts that provide arch and ankle support, as well as manage weight distribution. The outer soles are made from triple-density rubber, are oil and slip-resistant, and offer great traction, especially when climbing ladders or hiking in rocky mountains.
Because these boots are 8 inches long and have lots of padding, it’s unavoidable that your feet will sweat a little while wearing these; that’s just how it is. That’s why we are glad that these boots have an anti-moisture lining that suppresses nasty odor from occurring even after a long hike; this prolongs the boots’ life as well.
One of our favorite things about these boots is the lacing system. The shoelaces on these boots are 550 paracord laces, which are heavy-duty, extremely durable, and have great longevity. While these boots don’t have side zippers, they do feature the NATO speed lace system that enables you to put on the boots quickly and easily.
To top it off…
These boots are AR 670-1 compliant as well.
The inserts that come with these boots could’ve been a bit wider, but then again, we barely notice its narrowness once they’re inside the boots, and all we could feel is the cushiony comfort.
Buyer's Guide:
How To Choose The Best Military Boots
What are the different types of tactical boots?
Military Boots
Military boots, or combat boots, are tactical boots that are specifically designed to be worn by soldiers and military officers. They are created to be as durable as possible to be able to withstand harsh weather conditions and the roughest terrains. For that reason, they are more expensive compared to other tactical boots.
Work Boots
This type of tactical boots is usually insulated, waterproof, and slip-resistant. They have added features that make working all day in them comfortable and safe, such as a padded collar, steel toe box, and soles that protect your feet from hazards at work.
Hiking Boots
These boots are footwear that is created for hiking, mountain-climbing, long walks, and other outdoor activities. They are relatively lightweight, very comfortable, and provide the wearer with excellent heel and ankle support.
Features to look out for
Comfort and Breathability
Whether you’re buying tactical boots for work or outdoor recreational activities, comfort and breathability are paramount. For this reason, we recommend choosing tactical boots with lots of cushioning and padding, especially in the midsoles and tongue, and with mesh material or vented insoles for breathability.
Shock-Resistance
To avoid foot pain even after running and walking all day, it’s best to choose tactical boots with shock-absorbent outsoles. A great example is the Vibram® Kletterlift soles that are featured in the Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boots.
Great Traction and Grip
When hiking, rucking, or just doing tasks at work such as carrying heavy loads and crossing rough, rocky terrains, you definitely want a pair of boots that provides superb traction and grip. In this aspect, we recommend opting for tactical boots with rubber outsoles.
Top Tips
- To clean and polish your tactical boots, use a brush with soft bristles, then a damp cloth. When there’s no more dirt or debris left, you can now apply a coat of boot polish, then let it dry for about fifteen minutes. Apply more coats until you’re satisfied with the amount of shine.
- Always keep your tactical boots dry to prevent odor.
- Do get the right size for your feet for maximum comfort. However, some tactical boots run smaller or bigger than expected, so it’s best to read reviews about the product you’re eyeing so that you’ll know if you have to size up or size down when buying online.
- Flat shoelaces are better for running and walking, while round shoelaces are better for hiking and other activities that require a bit more durability.
- During the break-in period, it’s a good idea to wear a pair of thick socks under the boots to alleviate or prevent any pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: What's the difference between tactical and combat boots?
A - Although tactical boots and combat boots may seem similar at first glance, they are actually different from each other. Tactical boots are more lightweight, flexible, and are made of thinner materials. They are usually used for work by law enforcement officers and emergency medical service providers. Tactical boots are a popular choice for outdoor activities as well. On the other hand, combat boots are thicker, sturdier, more rugged, and characteristically last longer than tactical boots. They’re not as comfortable as tactical boots, but in exchange for comfortability and lightweightness, they are some of the most durable boots out there. They are built to be used for actual combat and combat training.
Question 2: What do tactical boots do?
A -Tactical boots are designed to be durable enough to handle a lot of conditions and different surfaces and terrains while still providing comfort, breathability, and maneuverability. Because of this, they are commonly used by safety and law enforcement officers, military personnel, EMS providers and EMTs, and people in other professions that require standing, walking, and running all day.
Question 3: What are the best tactical boots?
A - The best tactical boots balance durability and comfort perfectly. They are also breathable, waterproof, or at least water-resistant, have great traction and grip, and protect your feet from environmental elements, hazards, and extreme weather conditions.
Question 4: Can you run in tactical boots?
A -Yes, but you have to choose a pair of tactical boots that are fairly lightweight, have cushioned midsoles, and soft, flexible outsoles to be able to run comfortably.
Our Analysis, Comparisons & Test Results
Best Value for Money
Value for Money Rating
LA Police Gear Men’s Tactical Core 8-Inch Leather Side-Zip Duty/Uniform Boots
Bates Men’s 8-Inch Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boots
Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military Boots
5.11 Men’s Union 6-Inch Waterproof Tactical Boots
Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boots
Danner Men’s Lookout Side-Zip 8-Inch Tactical Boots
Salomon Quest 4D Forces Boots
Carhartt Men's 8-Inch Rugged Flex Insulated Waterproof Breathable Soft Toe Work Boots
TACTICAL RESEARCH Mini-Mil TR105 8-Inch Combat Boots For Men, Coyote Brown
Propper Men’s Series 100 8-Inch Waterproof Boots
Best Comfortability
Comfortability Rating
Bates Men’s 8-Inch Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boots
5.11 Men’s Union 6-Inch Waterproof Tactical Boots
Salomon Quest 4D Forces Boots
Carhartt Men's 8-Inch Rugged Flex Insulated Waterproof Breathable Soft Toe Work Boots
Danner Men’s Lookout Side-Zip 8-Inch Tactical Boots
LA Police Gear Men’s Tactical Core 8-Inch Leather Side-Zip Duty/Uniform Boots
Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boots
Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military Boots
TACTICAL RESEARCH Mini-Mil TR105 8-Inch Combat Boots For Men, Coyote Brown
Propper Men’s Series 100 8-Inch Waterproof Boots
Best Durability
Durability Rating
Bates Men’s 8-Inch Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boots
5.11 Men’s Union 6-Inch Waterproof Tactical Boots
Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boots
Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military Boots
LA Police Gear Men’s Tactical Core 8-Inch Leather Side-Zip Duty/Uniform Boots
Salomon Quest 4D Forces Boots
Danner Men’s Lookout Side-Zip 8-Inch Tactical Boots
Carhartt Men's 8-Inch Rugged Flex Insulated Waterproof Breathable Soft Toe Work Boots
TACTICAL RESEARCH Mini-Mil TR105 8-Inch Combat Boots For Men, Coyote Brown
Propper Men’s Series 100 8-Inch Waterproof Boots
Best Breathability
Breathability Rating
Bates Men’s 8-Inch Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boots
LA Police Gear Men’s Tactical Core 8-Inch Leather Side-Zip Duty/Uniform Boots
5.11 Men’s Union 6-Inch Waterproof Tactical Boots
Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boots
Salomon Quest 4D Forces Boots
TACTICAL RESEARCH Mini-Mil TR105 8-Inch Combat Boots For Men, Coyote Brown
Propper Men’s Series 100 8-Inch Waterproof Boots
Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military Boots
Carhartt Men's 8-Inch Rugged Flex Insulated Waterproof Breathable Soft Toe Work Boots
Danner Men’s Lookout Side-Zip 8-Inch Tactical Boots
Best Support
Support Rating
Bates Men’s 8-Inch Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boots
5.11 Men’s Union 6-Inch Waterproof Tactical Boots
Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boots
Salomon Quest 4D Forces Boots
Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military Boots
LA Police Gear Men’s Tactical Core 8-Inch Leather Side-Zip Duty/Uniform Boots
Carhartt Men's 8-Inch Rugged Flex Insulated Waterproof Breathable Soft Toe Work Boots
Danner Men’s Lookout Side-Zip 8-Inch Tactical Boots
Propper Men’s Series 100 8-Inch Waterproof Boots
TACTICAL RESEARCH Mini-Mil TR105 8-Inch Combat Boots For Men, Coyote Brown
Our Final Verdict: Best Tactical Boots
Best Tactical Boots Rating
Bates Men’s 8-Inch Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boots
5.11 Men’s Union 6-Inch Waterproof Tactical Boots
Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boots
Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military Boots
LA Police Gear Men’s Tactical Core 8-Inch Leather Side-Zip Duty/Uniform Boots
Salomon Quest 4D Forces Boots
Danner Men’s Lookout Side-Zip 8-Inch Tactical Boots
Carhartt Men's 8-Inch Rugged Flex Insulated Waterproof Breathable Soft Toe Work Boots
Propper Men’s Series 100 8-Inch Waterproof Boots
TACTICAL RESEARCH Mini-Mil TR105 8-Inch Combat Boots For Men, Coyote Brown
Conclusion: Best Tactical Boots
There you have it, folks, our top picks for the best tactical boots.
Our verdict? All of them are worth the hype.
Still, some stood out to us a bit more.
As far as comfort is concerned, you can’t go wrong with our Editor’s Choice, the Bates Men’s 8-Inch Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boots – Bates is such a popular brand after all, and we totally understand why.
Our Best Value awardee is definitely a winner when it comes to being affordable and high-quality.
If you need some heavy-duty boots that are actually worth the money, you’ll be satisfied with our Top Pick, the 5.11 Men’s Union 6-Inch Waterproof Tactical Boots.
We hope we’ve been helpful to you with this Guide.
Now go take a hike… literally, that is.
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