The Top Ten Best Police Boots: 2023 Update

Right off the bat, we have to let you know that the Valsetz is GovX’s all-time bestselling boot. So when Under Armour dropped their updated edition a little over a year ago, we couldn’t wait to get it in front of uniformed pros everywhere. Continuing a legacy of excellence, this incarnation clocks in with upgraded Micro G midsole cushioning, oil-and-slip resistant rubber lug outsoles for second-to-none traction, as well as anti-fatigue and anti-microbial molded footbeds with shock-absorbing foam. All in all, this lightweight standout leads the way for everything from foot pursuits to wall jumps without skipping a beat.

While we’re on the topic of new and improved versions, VIKTOS comes strong with the next generation of Johnny Combat Waterproof Boots. If you’re familiar with the originals, this revised entry builds off the previous design with the addition of a waterproof, breathable liner. Ideal for the wet season or muddy conditions, the bottom unit is forged with a patented STRIFE™ outsole for improved traction and impressive durability. Designed by vets for those who put their lives on the line daily, you’d be hard-pressed to find a boot more up to your daily tasks.

Police work ain’t easy. And neither are the schedules. Maybe you’ve got a series of 12-hour shifts ahead, or you’re in the midst of another 10-days on, 5-days off rotation. Either way, you’re going to be spending a lot of time on your feet. That’s where Under Armour’s second entry on this list becomes essential. Designed to military standards, these smooth operators specialize in lightweight, agile movements that won’t leave your feet like they’ve been put through the wringer at the end of the day. Got desk work to get done? The anti-microbial, stench-suppressing sockliner ensures that your close confidants will remain that way, both by choice and circumstance.

You can’t stop the heat and you can’t control the humidity, but you can absolutely counteract both with the right pair of duty boots. Take for example this officer-approved offering from Oakley. Constructed to stay cool and dry by maxing out the airflow through strategically-placed medial eyelets, these standard-issue stalwarts keep your feet feeling fresh by releasing excess heat all day long. A durable addition to any collection, the combination of canvas, leather, and suede construction doesn’t skimp on the support.

As tactically tough as the men who wear ’em, this imposing submission to the list comes chock-full of all the features the pros care about. Waterproof, abrasive-resistant, blood-borne pathogen-resistant, and leathered up from the toe-up. finding a weakness here is easier said than done. Delivering advanced breathability, durability, comfort, protection, and lateral support, this 9” powerhouse checks off the boxes so you can focus on the assignment. Why settle for anything less?

Look at all that glorious tread. While traction might be front and center here, you’d be pleased to know that these pairs earn major marks in the speed department from officers versed in chasing perps. Lightweight, and ready for action right out of the box, you set your expectations for solid support in the field and a comfortable fit that holds through all of the twists and turns. The YKK side-zipper provides an uncomplicated on-and-off and the carbon rubber outsole exceeds the professional standards for slip resistance.

For the enforcer that finds themself constantly on the move, this pair was made with you in mind.

USA-made and berry-compliant, these Coyote Brown pavement crushers are just as revered on the beat as they are on the battlefield. Engineered for lightning-fast maneuvers and quick pivots, this pair features 1,000-Denier CORDURA®technology in the sides and panels with a PTFE coating that serves as a flame retardant. On the other side of the coin, they’re proven to hold it down in harsh weather conditions thanks to the water-resistant leather construction and drainage vents made to push water out of the boots before it reaches your socks.

Good guys don’t always wear black boots. Ideal for the type of police work that takes you everywhere, the all-terrain operators provide instant support and comfort the second they’re pressed into duty. Composed of a stain-resistant and Cordura® 1000 denier breathable and tear-resistant upper, the Foxhounds will take a beating without skipping a beat. Light on the feet and ready for fast, lateral maneuvers, lacing up in these is a sign that you’re prepared to take on whatever the day throws at you.

Built for the trails, but ready for the pursuit. This Altama addition has taken quite the trip to find a place on this list, but with cops across the country deciding to switch their look up, they’ve shot up the top seller lists the last few months. Infused with Altama’s patented Panama Soul tech, each pair is molded with rubber toe assists for maximum protection when you just have no other option than to kick a door down. The aptly-named Rock ‘n Roll plate on the bottom side prevents any foot injury or bruising when the chase leads you through rough alleys and ever rougher terrain, and the breathable nylon mesh keeps airflow right where you want it.

All in all, not bad for a relative rookie.

If your boots don’t have a hidden knife pocket, then we can help you. 5.11 Tactical takes what they do seriously, and these boots are no exception. A top choice amongst public safety icons, the latest edition to the A.T.A.C line comes lighter, more comfortable, and more durable than ever before. Complete with Ortholite® X25 foam, superior cushioning and greater rebound serve as a difference-maker in the line of duty. Constructed to keep the airflow circulating strong, the addition of the Achilles heel flex zone provides more range of motion without sacrificing any of the support.