The Best Combat Boots For Men
You don't need to be a survivalist or a soldier to rock a pair of combat boots. These stout shoes are made to support your stride in virtually any terrain. Unsurprisingly, this comfortable and supportive design is also loved by those who work on their feet, where thick cushioning and powerful traction can make all the difference during the daily grind. And to help you get the sturdy support you need, we've rounded up the best battle boots on the market today.
What to Look For
Before slipping your feet into a new pair of combat boots, there are a few features to consider: cushioning, traction, and waterproofing. If you’re just starting out in your combat boot journey, then we can’t help but recommend the classic 1460 service boots from Dr. Martens. The durable industrial leather upper on this resilient pair will see you through thick and thin, while the enhanced tread on the sole will help you grip rockier terrain. But if it’s uncompromised waterproofing that you’re after, then the tactical boots from Free Soldier are our first choice. Read on below to discover the rest of our favorites.
Dr. Martens 1460 Slip Resistant Service Boots
Back in the day
The venerable British bootmaker Dr. Martens is known worldwide for its efficient, enduring footwear and classic leather aesthetic. And the 1460s are a case in point when it comes to lasting comfort and durability across all manner of applications. Crafted from the best industrial leather, these tough service boots will see you striding with confidence, whether you’re gripping concrete or venturing into the wild.
Pros:
- With the iconic Air Cushion sole on the inside and an enhanced GripTrax tread on the outside, these babies will snuggle your feet while also keeping them steady on any terrain.
- These particular boots are designed to keep you comfortable during long journeys or workdays thanks to their extra flex and lightweight design.
Cons:
- The boots famously take a little time to break in, so you might experience a little discomfort during your first few wears.
Rocky RY008 Military And Tactical Boot
Swift action
While it’s important for combat boots to provide reliable protection against the elements, some of the heftiest boots could slow your pace as you march forth. Fortunately, this boot from Rocky weighs just 15 ounces, so it’s sure to keep you feeling nimble on your feet. And due to its ingenious blend of smart and lightweight materials, there’s no need to compromise on resilience as a result.
Pros:
- The dual-performance upper is water-resistant and quick-drying, so you can say goodbye to soggy socks after an unexpected shower.
- Oils, spills, and scratches stand no chance against the rubber EVA outsole, making these boots a natural choice for industrial workplaces.
Cons:
- Some might be put off by the bare and rather clinical styling of these workboots.
Dr. Martens Vegan 1460 Boot
Plant-based armor
Gone are the days when owning a pair of Dr. Martens was an impossibility for the plant-based consumer. Due to increased consumer demand, the company now offers many of its classic boots, such as the 1460 model, in a range of synthetic leather alternatives. The resilient PU-coated synthetic leather on these bad boys is crafted from a microfiber base that is certainly equal to its all-leather cousin when it comes to durability and protection.
Pros:
- If you have sensitive soles, you’ll be happy to know that this faux leather is less painful to break in compared to its authentic leather counterpart.
- The eight-eyed lace gives you room to play with the tightness of your knots for when you want an airier feel underfoot.
Cons:
- The narrow toebox can be uncomfortable for some.
Free Soldier Tactical Boots
Whatever the weather
Though you’ll be hard-pressed to find a pair of combat boots without some resistance to spills, this amphibious offering from Free Soldier stands out when wet terrain is the order of the day. The hybrid upper combines suede leather with durable 1000D Cordura fabric, resulting in unparalleled waterproof performance. Plus, with an additional waterproof lining on the inside to catch any drops that might slip between the cracks, these boots can keep your socks dry during momentary submersions.
Pros:
- The deep geometric patterning on these non-slip rubber outsoles is designed to hold you firm on even the most slippery terrain.
- The strengthened toe and heel caps provide tough resistance against impacts as you move.
- We love the range of classic tactical color styles on offer.
Cons:
- These insoles aren’t as cushioning, so you might be tempted to add your own.
Nortiv 8 Lightweight Tactical Combat Boots
Less height, more flight
While it’s true that high boots provide extra ankle support, if you’re looking for a more compact combat boot, then this mid-ankle shoe by Nortiv 8 is a noble compromise. Built with a lightweight and breathable upper, these downscaled boots can still keep you dry thanks to their waterproof coating and protective inner membrane. Best of all, with a chunky rubber outsole underneath, they’re designed to make every journey feel like a smooth one, no matter how rocky it may be.
Pros:
- The memory foam insoles provide exceptional cushioning, but they’re also removable if you want to replace them with your own.
- Your toes will be shielded from harm’s way by the thick rubber front caps.
Cons:
- The extra-wide toe box on these boots is comfortable but might not be secure enough to support your feet during long hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my combat boots are really waterproof?
While most combat boots use water-resistant materials, these designs won’t necessarily keep you dry in the event of submersion or a torrential downpour. That’s why we recommend checking the specs of each boot and selecting an option that lists its materials as explicitly waterproof rather than water-resistant.
What’s the best way to clean a dirty pair of combat boots?
When you lace these bad boys up, you’re likely expecting a little mess underfoot. Despite this, you shouldn’t get any ideas about tossing these boots in the washing machine. This may inadvertently lead to the shrinking of fabrics and leather, damaging any heat-sealed protection in the process. Instead, our best advice is to get down and dirty with a little elbow grease and soapy water.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.