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Tactical boots traditionally are worn by law enforcement, but even regular folks have been known to wear these boots, especially in the 90s. The chances are that you would have seen a couple of models sporting these sturdy boots in recent times, you can say the boots are making a comeback in fashion. However, combat boots are more than a fashion statement. If you have a job that involves you standing for an extended period, or you will find yourself facing a lot of arduous terrains, sloshing through mud, or you’re hiking through a wilderness, then these boots will come in handy.
Needless to say, if you’re in law enforcement, you need a reliable pair of tactical boots to carry out your duty to protect and serve expertly. These boots are usually weatherproof and water-resistant, ensuring they can be worn all through the various seasons of the year. Tactical boots are designed to provide maximum support and stability you’ll need on the job.
Due to people having different types of feet, some tactical boots are made to cater to the peculiarities. As such, if you have wide feet or maybe plantar fasciitis, you will find a perfect pair.
The 10 Best Tactical Boots in 2020
1
Smith & Wesson Men's Breach 2.0 Tactical Side Zip Boots
The Men’s Breach 2.0 is a tactical boot from Smith and Wesson, who have built a reputation for making exceptional firearms. The Men’s Breach 2.0 is an excellent and high-quality tactical boot popular amongst the law enforcement; the Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Side Zip Boots one of the best tactical boots for military. The boots are known for their sturdiness and reliability without neglecting comfort and flexibility.
The Men’s Breach 2.0 has a nylon and leather upper, which protects you and ensures maximum comfort. The boots are easy to clean because of the PU collar, the collar is padded with foam and to increase breathability, it has a tongue which also gives additional protection. The men’s Breach 2.0 comes with a gusseted tongue that keeps out dirt.
The midsole is made from lightweight EVA, which provides support, makes the boots very comfortable. The boot also has a steel shaft, which gives the tactical boot superior support and also gives it excellent ankle support. To ensure torsional rigidity the Breach 2.0 uses the board lasting shoe construction, and this is important to reduce foot fatigue. The outsole is a non-marking, slip-resistant rubber which makes movement on the wet pavement easy. The laces are made from polyester.
The boots weigh just 21 ounces, have a side zipper, which makes it easy to wear and remove. They also come in various sizes and have an option for those with wide feet, which makes the Men’s Breach 2.0 one of the best tactical boots for wide feet.
Key Features:
- Side zipper
- Slip-resistant non-marking outsole
- Gusseted tongue
- 100% Polyester laces
- EVA midsole
Specification:
- Brand: Smith and Wesson
- Model: Men’s Breach 2.0 8″ Tactical Side Zip Boots
- Colour: Black, Coyote
- Gender: Male
Pros
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- Ankle support
- Slip-resistant outsole
Cons
- Doesn’t have a safety toe
2
Belleville TR960ZWP
The Tactical Research Belleville TR960ZWP is a lightweight and waterproof tactical boot built by Belleville and the Special Forces community to create the superior boot that’s sturdy. The uppers are made from full-grain cattle hide and nylon. The boots come with a side zipper for easy on and off with a molded security overlay. It features a breathable combat lunar lining. The outer membranes of the Belleville TR960ZWP resist pathogens, particularly those that are blood and waterborne, protecting you from infections.
It features a shock-absorbent and cushioning EVA midsole. The insole is an orthotic TR-1 load-bearing insole that keeps your foot comfortable regardless of the terrain. The dig-in low profile Vibram Ibex outsole is built especially for rugged terrains. The outsole has rappelling bars that extend its life and a heel kicker. The heel is serrated to help you get a feel of the terrain underfoot and helps you maneuver precisely. The lugs are angled with a defined heel for superior traction.
Key Features:
- Orthotic insole
- Side zipper and security overlay
- Vibram Ibex outsole
- EVA midsole
- Pathogen resisting membrane
Specification:
- Brand: Belleville
- Model: Tactical Research Khyber TR960ZWP
- Color: Black
- Gender: Male and Female
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Protection from pathogen
- Premium orthotic insoles
- Excellent traction
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not waterproof
3
Maelstrom Men’s Tac Force 8
The Maelstrom Men’s Tac Force is a choice tactical boot for the law enforcement offering the classic design of tactical boots, which is guaranteed to deliver comfort and durability.
The Maelstrom Men’s Tac Force uses the proprietary iH20-Tex waterproof membrane, which gives the boot incredible water-resistant properties. Regardless of the weather, your feet are guaranteed to be dry; Tac Force 8″ is recognized as of one the best waterproof tactical boots.
The upper is made from full-grain leather and nylon with high breathability and a lining that wicks moisture, you can still use shoe deodorizer as needed though! It features a heavy-duty side zipper, padded collar, and tongue, which gives you extra comfort and protection.
The Tac Force has a unique Anti-Fatigue Technology, which makes comprise of a dynamic three sole system. The system consists of a removable insole, a midsole, and a high durability rubber outsole that absorbs shock and impact over surfaces of variable hardness. The outsole is designed to give you maximum grip. The insole is removable shock absorbent, cushioning insert, and can be replaced if it reaches the end of its life or swapped out for insoles of your choice; the midsole is EVA giving it flexibility and ensuring the boot’s not too heavy. When combined, the boot returns energy to the foot, thereby reducing foot fatigue. The heel is semi-rigid with a reinforcement in the toe.
Key Features:
- Advanced water and weather resistance
- All-terrain sole
- Anti-fatigue technology
- EVA midsole
Specification:
- Brand: Maelstrom Footwear
- Model: Tac Force 8″
- Colour: Black, Tan
- Gender: Male
Pros
- Waterproof membrane
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- Moisture-wicking lining
- Very breathable
Cons
- No arch support
4
Adidas Men’s GSG-9.2 Tactical Boots
The Adidas men’s GSG-9.2 is designed for combat in urban areas and is used by the German GSG 9 Special Forces. They are designed for an all-season use; the GSG-9.2 is a lightweight tactical boot and is considered as one of the best tactical boots for running. The upper is made from full-grain leather, which gives excellent protection and durability.
The GSG-9.2 is lined with the waterproof Climaproof leather, which keeps your foot dry and is odor-resisting, which keeps your foot free of odor, and a seam-sealed membrane. The collar is perforated, which gives the boots extra breathability.
The boots use EVA foam midsole for cushioning; the arch has an abrasion-resistant warp inserted in it, which gives you very safe and exceptional braking and a wide radius medial arch area, which makes rappelling maneuvers very safe and precise. It features the 3 Stripes saddle construction using the adiTUFF material, which provides midfoot support and protection and is also abrasion-resistant.
The Adidas men’s GSG-9.2 uses a TRAXION outsole, which gives superior comfort and support needed. The insole is ortholite and has an adi-PRENE heel insert
Key Features:
- Climaproof leather
- Ortholite inlay
- adi-PRENE heel insert
- TRAXION outsole
Specification:
- Brand: Adidas
- Model: GSG-9.2
- Colour: Black
- Gender: Male
Pros
- Waterproof lining
- Sturdy outsole with great traction
- Ortholite inlay
- adi-PRENE heel insert
Cons
- Sizes are not exact
5
Original SWAT Classic 9" Side-Zip Tactical Boots
Just as the name implies, this is one of the very first tactical boots worn by the police force. The Classic 9″ is a rugged and comfortable tactical boot constructed with full-grain leather and 1000 denier nylon uppers, which makes the boots comfortable. It has a YKK side zip with a hook and loop closure, and a padded collar and tongue.
The boots have an Aegis anti-microbial lining, which helps keep your boots fresh. The classic 9″ uses an airport-friendly nylon shaft for support. For cushioning, the boots make use of a molded EVA pylon midsole and a heel air cell. The classic 9″ outsole is made from non-marking rubber and is slip and oil resistant. The boots exceed the ASTM F2913-11 test standards and weigh just 45 ounces, so they are light enough to run in.
Key Features:
- AEGIS anti-microbial protection
- Rust resisting brass hardware
Specification:
- Brand: Original SWAT
- Model: Classic 9″ Side Zip
- Colour: Black, Tan
- Gender: Male
Pros
- Anti-microbial treatment
- Molded EVA midsole
- Heel air cell cushioning
Cons
- No toe protection
6
5.11 Women’s ATAC 2.0 Tactical Side Zip Military Combat Boots
The 5.11 ATAC 2.0 is an 8″ tactical boot made for women in law enforcement, although there’s a male version. The boots have an extended footbed and a large area to support the Achilles heel, which gives the boot superior flexibility and makes them wonderfully comfortable. The expanded area for the Achilles heel also gives your foot range for movement while still providing support
The boots use a Strobel construction, which gives it a weight weigh and sturdy upper. The upper is made from 840D nylon with YKK zipper for easy on and off and lace-up closure. It has a cuff and an airflow breathable tongue, which makes the ATAC 2.0 a very breathable tactical boot.
The ATAC is built with a shock mitigation system that absorbs shock and provides top-notch cushioning. The outsole is slip and oil resistant, which keeps your feet sturdy across rough terrains, making the 5.11 Women’s ATAC 2.0 one of the best tactical boots for hiking. The 5.11 ATAC 2.0 is lined with the SlipStream waterproof BBP membrane, which makes the boots are great for use in wet conditions without damage and still keeping you comfortable. It also features a knife pocket that comes in handy.
Key Features:
- Full-length dual durometer ortholite footbed
- Achilles heel flex zone
- Slip and oil-resistant outsole
- Knife pocket
- Waterproof Slip Steam Membrane
Specification:
- Brand: 5.11
- Model: ATAC 2.0 8″ Tactical Side-Zip Storm Military Boots
- Colour: Black
- Gender: Female
Pros
- Waterproof
- Dual durometer ortholite footbed
- Provides support
- Oil and slip-resistant outsoles
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Doesn’t have a steel toe protection
7
Danner Acadia
The Danner Acadia is an 8″ men’s tactical boot made from full-grain leather and 1000D nylon upper and handcrafted with the stitch down construction. The 1000D nylon improves breathability, which can resist abrasion, tears, and scuffing. It sports a lace to toe design which gives you a comfortable and secure and snug fit.
The Danner Acadia is lined with GORE-TEX, which is 100% waterproof and highly breathable, ensuring maximum comfort. The GORE-TEX is also engineered to ensure dryness at all times as it dries fast.
The outsole is Vibram Kletterlift, which can resist oils and chemicals. It’s designed to give superior comfort and durability and great traction even on wet surfaces, provide stability, protection from sharp objects, and excellent shock absorption; the Danner Acadia 8″ Men’s uses an Airthotic footbed which is and provides arch support.
Key Features:
- Full-grain leather and 1000D nylon upper
- GORE-TEX liner
- Vibram Klettrlift outsole
Specification:
- Brand: Danner
- Model: Men’s Acadia 8″
- Colour: Black
- Gender: Male
Pros
- Waterproof
- Fiberglass shaft for stability and support
- Vibram outsole
Cons
- No toe protection
8
Magnum Men’s Response III
The Magnum response III is a tactical boot that stands out. The upper is abrasion-resistant and is made of leather and nylon. The boots are very breathable, have a padded collar, which makes them very comfortable, and a YKK side zipper, which makes it easy to wear and remove.
The midsole is made from EVA foam, which gives it superior comfort. There’s a fiberglass shaft that provides support for the midfoot. The removable insole is contoured to give you superior comfort.
The outsole is made from carbon rubber and is very durable, also oil and slip-resistant, which is an essential feature for tactical boots. The boots are very durable and comfortable.
Key Features:
- Carbon rubber outsole
Specification:
- Brand: Magnum
- Model: Response III
- Colour: Black, Desert Tan
- Gender: Male
Pros
- EVA midsole cushioning
- Midfoot support
Cons
- No hardened toe protection
- A bit heavy
9
Maelstrom MIL Lite Combat Boots
The Maelstrom MIL Lite Combat boots are very lightweight tactical boots made in compliance with AR-670-1 regulation. The boots give great value and provide comfort without compromising quality and durability.
The upper of the Maelstrom MIL Lite coyote brown suede and 1000D nylon, which is very durable and offers superior protection. The footbed of the MIL Lite combat asides providing shock absorption has an open cell construction, which improves circulation. The boot uses a molded midsole to absorb shock. The MIL Lite uses the Athletic cemented construction padded collar for comfort. It has double metallic vents that enhance airflow.
The Maelstrom MIL has a composite shaft that gives you extra support and stability and makes use of the Maelstrom Anti-Fatigue Technology, which comprise of a removable insole, a flexible EVA midsole, and a sturdy rubber outsole. The sturdy rubber outsole of the MIL provides traction and grip over all terrains, making the boots ideal for quick transition between different terrains. However, the boots are not made for slippery surfaces.
Key Features:
- Coyote brown suede and 1000D Nylon uppers
- Anti-Fatigue Technology
- EVA midsole
- Metallic vents
Specification:
- Brand: Maelstrom Footwear
- Model: MIL Lite Combat Boots
- Colour: Coyote brown
- Gender: Male
Pros
- It is Lightweight
- Traction for all-terrain
- EVA midsole
Cons
- It isn’t good for slippery surfaces.
10
Maelstrom Men's PATROL 6" Tactical Duty Work Boot with Zipper
The Maelstrom Men’s Patrol 6″ is designed for law enforcement and provide optimum protection and is very easy to wear. The upper of the Patrol 6″ is made of leather and nylon, with a curved instep zipper. It is lined with a material that wicks away moisture, which does wonders for breathability.
The outsoles are oil and slip-resistant rubber, which ensures traction and are suitable for all terrains. The impact cushioning insoles are removable, although they are high performance and reliability. The Maelstrom Men’s Patrol 6″ makes use of the Shock Absorbing System engineered by Maelstrom footwear, which maximizes compression and rebound, which increases your speed, which makes the boots one of the best tactical boots for running on duty. The Shock Absorbing System also helps reduce foot fatigue and keeps you comfortable. The Maelstrom Men’s Patrol 6″ is very particular about comfort; it features a padded collar and a tongue. The design and comfort make the Patrol 6″ one of the best tactical boots for plantar fasciitis you’ll find.
Key Features:
- Slip-resistant rubber that is high quality
- Insoles are actually removable
Specification:
- Brand: Maelstrom Footwear
- Model: Men’s Patrol 6″
- Colour: Black
- Gender: Male
Pros
- It’s lightweight
- It’s suitable for plantar fasciitis
- Removable inserts
- Steel shaft for added support and stability
Cons
- The zipper isn’t durable
Buying Guide Questions
What are the combat boots? Tactical boots?
Combat boots can also be referred to as tactical boots, and they are designed especially for the military and the law enforcement, to be worn during combat and combat training. Although combat boots look similar to regular boots, they are designed to provide soldiers with grip, stability, and the protection they would need, especially in rugged terrains. They are specially engineered to be very durable, provide the soldier with comfort, not hinder movement, and, as such, are lightweight and very flexible. Combat boots are usually designed to suit specific terrains, weather conditions, and surfaces such as rocky terrains, cold, and wet surfaces. However, they are not as effective as wading boots for rivers or shallow lakes, those ultra wet conditions require specialized boots.
A typical tactical boot is made from hard grain waterproof leather and complies with the specifications for military uniforms. It’s designed to ensure ventilation due to long duration of wear, and provide support for the foot of the wearer. The combat boot has a removable insole, midsole, and outsole. The insole makes the boots very comfortable by dealing with sweat and ensuring grip even when the foot is soaked, and aids ventilation. It’s designed to mold to the feet of the wearer to provide support. The midsole absorbs shock, and the outsole is made from a rigid and very durable material that protects the foot from impact and sharp objects that may be on the terrain. The outsole also ensures grip and traction for the ground.
An excellent tactical boot is a reliable piece of hardware that will provide you with a lot of flexibility, breathability to ensure proper airflow. It will have slip resistance to prevent your foot slipping even when it’s moist and give you an excellent grip on various terrains. It should have very sturdy uppers to protect you from and gives you more stability and is lightweight so as not to hamper your movement.
Asides the military and law enforcement, tactical boots are worn by public safety workers.
How can I clean my tactical boots?
Although tactical boots are made to be rugged and very sturdy, they still require care and to be cleaned. Proper maintenance ensures that your boots will last long. Most tactical boots are made from either suede or leather. Depending on the material, there are ways to clean your tactical boots and care for them.
If your tactical boots are suede, and you want to clean them, you need to, first of all, remove all dirt and mud from the boots by brushing gently with a soft bristle brush or with a towel. After removing the mud, brush the boots with a soft-bristled brush, brushing in a single direction. If there are stains, remove them with a damp cloth dipped in a mix of detergent and warm water, or vinegar. Rub gently in a circular motion. Apply a suede spray or silicone spray and buff the boots.
If your boots are leather, there’s a different way to clean your boots. First off, remove all dirt then wipe it with a damp cloth. Afterward, apply polish and let it sit for about 15 minutes, then brush it with a soft bristle brush, apply more polish after five minutes and buff it. You can apply up to five coats to give your leather that extra sheen. Ensure you store your boots properly if you’re not using them, and regularly clean if they become dirty. Lastly, if the sole is damaged from overuse or from being out in the field, you can easily patch repair it yourself with shoe goo or other types of firm shoe glues.
What boots do Navy Seals wear?
As a Navy Seal, you’ll need a pair of tactical boots that will make sure you’re quick on your feet. You need boots that are lightweight, comfortable, sturdy, and durable. Navy seals are known to wear various types of tactical boots, but they all similar in the features and functionality they provide. Navy tactical boots are very breathable and drain off water easily. A good pair of Navy tactical boots must be able to take abuse, protect your feet, and give you support and stability. The boots need to be waterproof and slip-resistant and provide excellent traction and very comfortable. The Bates Men’s 8″ Tropical Seals Durashocks Work Boots are the most recommended tactical boots for Navy seals. However, any boot that complies with the AR-670-1 regulation is fine, just make sure they are comfortable and provide enough support, stability, and protection.
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What are tactical boots good for?
Tactical boots are made to handle tough situations. They are mostly used in the military, the police force, other law enforcement, and security professionals. However, public workers and those who work in environments and circumstances that need very sturdy and durable boots also wear tactical boots.
Tactical boots are made for demanding terrains and environment, as such can be worn anywhere from during combat to hiking, tactical boots can handle the most arduous mountainside and difficult terrains. You can refer to tactical boots as the all-purpose, heavy-duty boots. Often, tactical boots are waterproofed so that they can be worn around water. Various technologies have been incorporated to improve the waterproof features of tactical boots, such as the Gore-Tex nylon, which is a breathable waterproof fabric. Due to the sturdy construction of tactical boots, they can be used as hiking boots and can even be worn in place of work boots.
What are the most comfortable tactical boots?
Tactical boots are made primarily to protect your feet, give you support and stability. They are designed to be very rugged and durable. Since these are working boots, and if you’re in law enforcement, the chances are that you are going to be standing a lot of time and running, which would demand a lot from your feet. Therefore, comfortability is a vital factor to contemplate when choosing tactical boots.
You’ll want to choose boots with sufficient cushioning and support. Consider the break-in period. If the boots would take a long time to break-in, you might want to reconsider, however, if your boots would give you superior support after breaking them in, you can go for them if you can bear with the break-in period. EVA insoles are lightweight and provide great cushioning, which makes the Smith and Wesson Men Breach 2.0 Tactical Side Zip boots a great choice. Also, check if your insoles are removable so you can swap them for premium orthotic inserts, especially if you have foot problems like plantar fasciitis, then you can put in inserts made for that.
What boots do cops and Special Forces wear?
The Special Forces wear tactical boots that comply with the AR-670-1 regulation. The AR-670-1 is the Wear and Appearance of Army Uniform and Insignia. It is a regulation that dictates how the armed force should appear, from uniform, hairstyle, down to the boots. For tactical boots, the AR-670-1 states that they should be within 8″ and 10″ in height. The acceptable material is tan cattle hide leather with the flesh out. It must have an ordinary toe, a sole with colors matching the uppers. The boots are authorized to use only rubber for the outsoles sand polyether polyurethane, and the soles must not be over 2″ from the bottom of the outsole. The material must not go above the rear of the heel, over the boot, or above the toe. The exterior upper of the boot is not allowed to have a mesh and must be made from either leather or leather combined with a fabric that doesn’t have a mesh. Cops wear boots per regulations in their various jurisdictions. As long as tactical boots comply with regulations and are comfortable and durable, they’ll serve cops and Special Forces. Members of the Special Forces consider the safety features of the boots, such as whether it’s built with cut-proof materials, has puncture-proof soles and toe protection. Boots that give you a lot of support and stability help prevent injury when you wear them. Law enforcement operates across different terrains; as such, the terrain of operations is usually a factor in choosing tactical boots. A wet terrain requires soles that can provide enough traction even on slippery surfaces.
Conclusion
Tactical boots are a must for those in law enforcement as they offer you protection and the exceptional performance you’ll need on the job. When choosing tactical boots, there are several things to consider, such as price, weight, colors, etc. but the most important factors are how comfortable they are and whether they comply with the uniform regulations of your unit.
Your tactical boots should support you and must not hinder your movement. Take note of how the boots are constructed and the materials used. Ensure the materials are durable and can be cleaned easily. If you’re stationed near water, most of the time or you frequent such areas, especially if you’re in the Navy, go for waterproof boots. If you are not stationed regularly, then you can actually use shoe stretchers to keep the boots exactly the shape you need them.
Functional tactical boots are lightweight to ensure that you’re quick on your feet and, at the same time, don’t compromise safety and protection. Cushioning and support are very important because you’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet, and you’ll also need to run sometimes flexibility is also an important consideration. Also, ensure the boots have enough traction and are made for the terrain you’ll be wearing them on.