THE ULTIMATE TACTICAL BOOTS BUYERS’ GUIDE
Running the gamut from wet water ops to wildland firefighting, finding the best boots for your branch is a primary task for all uniformed pros. You ready? Lock in.
By Devin Pangaro – June 7, 2022
Staying in complete control of your environment is humanly impossible without the right boots on your feet. That's just a fact. Thus, it's highly advisable that you recruit the proper pair and do your part to protect yourself against the more unforgiving aspects of your daily duties.
To keep you on track and performing up to your standards, we’ve gone ahead and located the top selections to better serve your country, your community, and your purpose.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST ARMY BOOTS: OAKLEY - LIGHT ASSAULT 2 BOOTS
In the field, mobility is crucial. As such you need a boot that can allow for fast and effective maneuverability when situations are dire. The newest evolution of Oakley’s lightweight line clocks in at just 14 ounces per boot, possessing the comfort and feel of a training sneaker and the vital durability that your duty calls for. AR670-1 compliant and broken-in right out of the box, they’re built to allow the free flow of air in and out of the boots, making them an easy choice for warm-weather operations. Add in an advanced Lace Lock System for a secure and snug fit, and you have yourself a pair of boots capable of carrying out the mission.
BEST MARINE CORPS BOOTS:
BELLEVILLE - MINIMIL ULTRA LIGHT TRAINING BOOTS
Devil Dogs demand a boot as adaptable as the brave warriors who wear them. Enter the MiniMil Ultra Light Training Boots from Belleville Boots. Featuring a 2mm drop between the heel and toe, this lightweight standout creates an incomparable “ground feel” allowing the wearer to feel the surface they’re walking on and make quick and calculated movements. A true no-frills favorite, each pair provides essential protection from harsh elements and includes padded Achilles heel support as well as oil and slip-resistant capabilities. As a word of advice, don’t be fooled by the training designation. They're also perfectly suited for garrison and light duty.
BEST NAVY BOOTS: UNDER ARMOUR - UA TAC LOADOUT BOOTS
Clear the decks for a champion. The UA Tac Loadout Shoes come equipped with everything needed to comfortably tackle your orders on the boat or behind the desk. Engineered to AR 670-1 and AFI 36-2903 compliance, these boots proudly take their place as the lightest contender in the UA catalog, paving the way for quick, agile actions and unrelenting comfort when you’re stuck on your feet all day. Built to last, each pair pulls double duty by enlisting an anti-microbial sockliner to prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria from taking up a permanent residence inside your boots.
BEST AIR FORCE BOOTS:
VIKTOS - ARMORY AR670 SAFETY TOE BOOTS
It’s a simple truth that highly skilled operators don’t condone anything that doesn't do its job. Period. With that in mind, Viktos comes correct with the Armory AR670 Safety Toe Boots, supplying these uniform-compliant, certifiable tall boys for your consideration. Designed and developed by US vets, these combat boots are the base leader in both comfort and traction. Constructed to be water-and slip-resistant, each pair provides maximum foot protection and comes ready with a high-rebound foam midsole and internal Akore padded ankle inserts for heavy activities.
BEST COAST GUARD BOOTS:
VIKTOS - JOHNNY COMBAT WATERPROOF BOOTS
The name about says it all don’t it? Viktos does those who keep our nation’s waterways a solid with these rubber-heeled dynamos. The waterproof version of the original military boots, this design operates as a decisive upgrade in traction, durability, and support. Packed with a breathable liner to keep your feet dry during maritime duties and a high-volume forefoot for maximum stability when you’re hauling heavy, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better boot suited for all the action.
BEST FIREFIGHTER BOOTS: HAIX - AIRPOWER XRI PRO
In your line of work, you’ve got a lot on your hands. Whether it’s battling a brush fire, resuscitating a person in need, or doing routine equipment checks. You need a pair of boots that isn’t going to let you down when the pressure boils over. Pending your approval, the Airpower XRI Pro arrives ready to do-it-all and provides just a little more security where you stand. Tri-certified for EMS, Wildland, and USAR usage, this boot comes laced with a CROSSTECH® inner liner and checks off all the necessary boxes by being waterproof as well as bacteria, chemical, bloodborne pathogen, and puncture-resistant. The laced-in zipper system makes for easy in-and-out access, and the built-in arch support keeps foot problems from sparking up out of nowhere.
BEST POLICE BOOTS: UNDER ARMOUR - MICRO G VALSETZ ZIP BOOTS
A tried-and-true patrol specialist that’s only getting better with every turn, the recent edition of the Valsetz continues the proud tradition of outfitting public protectors with the ultimate in tactical performance. Chock full of improvements such as the patented Micro G midsole cushioning and oil-and-slip-resistant outsoles for unmatched traction, Under Armour has simply outdone themselves this time around. Composed of durable and breathable material, the Valsetz sets a new standard for comfort with anti-fatigue and anti-microbial footbeds complete with shock absorbing foam. In other words, if you’re going to be chasing down perps, you’re going to want to be wearing these.
BEST EMS BOOTS: ALTAMA - VENGEANCE SR 8’’ SIDE-ZIP BOOTS
In an occupation where speed and readiness reign supreme, you don’t rock just anything on your feet. With that said, Altama stands alone as the premier boot choice for all those who make an ambulance their office. Arriving front and center are the Men’s Vengeance SR 8’’ Side-Zip Boots, a worthy contender for the field, and the lightweight legend when emergencies arise. Rigged with a gusseted tongue for keeping dirt and debris out, a side-zipper and secure hook and loop tab-stay closure for easy on-and-off, and a moisture-wicking air mesh lining with AEGIS antimicrobial protection, this boot is committed to saving the day, every day. Just like you.
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