The Best Tactical Boots for Men
Finding the right pair of tactical boots is the number one priority for those always on the go. Traditionally, tactical boots are synonymous with reinforced hiking boots, offering added arch and ankle support while being built with more durable materials. If you're a trail hiker, servicemember, or work in manual labor that's on the dirtier side, you're fully aware of the difference a sturdy pair of boots make on your general well-being. Below we've gathered a collection of our top five picks for the best tactical boots available today. Every pair is manufactured with the highest engineering standards and offers features that will keep everything from lower shin to the pinky toe in the game for the long haul.
FREE SOLDIER Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots
Step Aside Nancy Sinatra
What was once a market segment with relatively little variety, tactical boots now run the gamut of specialization, with models for every season, precipitation, or employment type. FREE SOLDIER’s Waterproof Hiking Boots are a jack of all trades and master of many. The toe cap, while not a full steel toe, is sufficient in protecting your toes from all but the heaviest of loads, while the main body of the shoe is made with thermoplastic polyurethane or TPU. TPU has the impact resistance of polycarbonate while retaining the flexibility of a more rubber-like material, giving your feet much needed support for all your outdoor activities.
Pros:
- The midsole is made of Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) for added spring.
- Four season design
- The Gusseted tongue prevents debris from entering the boot.
- The non-slip design is perfect for damp surfaces.
Cons:
- Will require a fair amount of time to break-in.
Bates Ultralite Tactical Boots
Keep Your Digits Dependably Dry
Tactical boots can be a top choice for various messy sports where you’re down and dirty more often than not. Bates’ Ultralite Tactical has the weight of a trail running shoe with the size and security of a pair of wading boots. We’re also a huge fan of the side-zip option for quick gearing up as well as the moisture-wicking inlay. The primary components of the boot are nylon and leather and are used to great effect. The leather edges are durable enough to withstand frequent scuffs and scratches, while the nylon center holds 2.5 pounds of the hard-working boot together in a package perfect for work or leisure.
Pros:
- Extra room in the toe for added comfort
- High ankle design is eight inches tall
- Full-Grain Leather
- A US-based company
Cons:
- Side-zip design is not fully waterproof
Rothco Military Jungle Boots
Welcome To The Jungle
If your day-to-day consists of long, scenic strolls through tropical or temperate rainforests, chances are all but the most expensive waterproofing protocols fail to deliver over a long enough period of time. Rothco’s Military Jungle Boots may appear to have surrendered to the elements initially, but after a second viewing, the design is actually ingenious. The top of the boot is made of a moisture-eliminating canvas nylon composite. This is designed to give your feet the air exchange needed to prevent that sore, water-clogged feel without rotting out the boot’s superstructure. And unless the temperature in your neck of the woods is just above freezing, an overnight stay in a tent should be plenty to dry this pair out and have them ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Pros:
- The sole is made of vulcanized rubber for the ultimate level of traction
- Sizing chart to accommodate multiple layers of socks
- Two venting holes per boot encourage evaporation
- High-quality stitching for increased longevity
Cons:
- The insoles are extremely rigid and will require a replacement or added layer for comfort
Under Armour’s Stellar Tac Side Zip Boots
Breathable Off The Beaten Path
A name revered in both the sports and hiking communities, Under Armour is the preeminent designer of all things athletic performance, and the Stellar Tac Side Zip Boots are proof of concept. The side zipper design is incredibly convenient, the durable rubber sole can take a beating on or off the paved path, and the water-resistant coating makes these a pleasure to put on in adverse conditions. The Stellar Tac Side Zip Boots are nothing fancy but focus on the essentials instead: reinforced EVA padding for your arches, a quick-drying exterior, and a thickly-woven nylon core that’s both lightweight and breathable.
Pros:
- Sizing runs true to standard sizes
- Top-class customer service
- Polish the toe for formal events
- Shoe shank is reinforced with a sturdy polymer
Cons:
- The boot may feel tight around the ankle
Salomon Xa Forces Mid GTX Tactical Boot
A Wonderous Weatherproof Work Boot
Salomon is the undisputed champion when you need four-season foot protection that doesn’t shy away from deep mud or drenched trails. The Xa Forces midsize tactical boots are proud to display the GORETEX logo on their products, the top-tier name in weatherproofing available today. The GORETEX is applied to the fully synthetic body of the shoe, which is feather-light and prepared for the worst conditions nature can supply. In keeping with the waterproof specialty, Salomon’s soles are also specifically designed for muggy excursions. Utilizing two rubber variations, the sole exudes to a vice-like grip ideal for everything from moss-covered rocks to piles of damp, dead leaves.
Pros:
- Uncompromising quality design for nearly 80 years
- These boots break in quickly.
- Foam cushioned for unmatched comfort.
- Eyelets are of high quality and won’t come loose.
Cons:
- Might not be the perfect fit for wider feet
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important factors to consider before purchasing tactical boots?
Tactical boots need to be purchased for your primary use case to be effective. To start, if your duties are primarily limited to the indoors or on paved surfaces, waterproofing and grip tend to take a backseat to lightweight builds and breathable fabrics. For outdoor tactical pairs, the dividing line should be drawn between heavy-duty moisture control or long-distance performance. The former typically boast higher ankle protection, heavier materials, and waterproofing, whereas the latter excels in being moisture friendly, fast-drying, and lightweight.
What types of socks should I pair with my tactical boots?
Socks are just as critical to your feet as boots and should never be discounted as a low budget purchase. Sizes vary from no-show to knee-high and generally correspond with changes in the seasons. As far as fabric is concerned, the primary materials used are wool, nylon, and polyester. Wool is the go-to choice for padding and temperature regulation and is frequently mixed with polyester for its moisture-wicking abilities. Nylon is slightly more durable yet lacks in more robust padding.
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