Are you looking to prepare yourself against all threats? A good pair of boots is an essential piece of kit for any prepper, protecting your feet in various environmental conditions. From survival to law enforcement, there are plenty of uses for tactical boots.
When you’re on foot to your bug out location, you’re going to encounter various terrain. A good pair of tactical boots prevent you from injuring your feet or ankles in stumbles while safeguarding your feet from sharp objects and snakebites.
Law enforcement officers and security personnel need the best protection they can get for their feet. Tactical boots provide a functional and rugged fit, giving your feet the protection they need against sharp objects and ligament injuries.
They have design and construction to give your feet and ankle joints a full range of motion. The result is easy movement in combat scenarios and emergencies. Tactical boots are becoming a popular addition to everyone’s wardrobe in 2020.
With America’s problems continuing to escalate, many people turn to a prepper lifestyle to prepare for an uncertain future. It would help if you had the best gear and protection for you and your family, and tactical boots are a must-have item in your wardrobe.
There are dozens of models available at online retailers. We spent hours combing through listings to find the best tactical boots available. This review gives you ten models that are worthy of protecting your feet in any survival or law enforcement emergency.
Our Top Picks
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 Tactical Boots Reviews
- 2.1 Merrell Moab 2 8″ Tactical
- 2.2 Under Armour Tactical Boots
- 2.3 Bates 8″ Tan Ultralite Tactical Military-Style Boot
- 2.4 5.11 Tactical Men’s ATAC 2.0 8″ Tactical Boots
- 2.5 5.11 Men’s Speed 3.0 Jungle Tactical Boot
- 2.6 Under Armor Valsetz Military Tactical Boot
- 2.7 Bates 8″ Ultralite Tactical Military Boot
- 2.8 Fila Stormer Military Tactical Boot
- 2.9 NORTIV 8″ Tactical Boots
- 2.10 CQR Tactical Boots
- 3 Other Best Selling Options
- 4 Tactical Boots Buyer’s Guide
- 5 What are the Types of Tactical Boots?
- 6 Tactical Boot FAQs
- 7 Tactical Boots – The Verdict
If you want the best protection, you can find as fast as possible, skip the rest of the review and focus on this section. After reviewing dozens of tactical boots, we settled on these three models for the best options.
There’s a tactical boot to suit any application or budget, and we focused on boots with a functional and comfortable design. Choose the tactical boot matching your requirements, and you can cross it off your preparedness list.
- Best Pick: Merrell Moab 2 8″ Tactical
Merrel makes some of the best outdoor footwear available. Featuring rugged styling with a modern edge, this set of Merrel Moabs comes with an 8″ ankle height for protection against ankle injuries. You get the option of tactical black or desert tan colors to suit your environment and operator needs. These tactical boots come with a design featuring leather, fabric, and “RipStop” materials for durability. Merrel’s patented “Virbac TC5+” outsole on the boot delivers you excellent levels of traction on any terrain, with an “M-Select DRY” waterproof membrane protecting your feet from moisture. - Premium Pick: Bufferzone 9″ Tan Military-Style Tactical Boot
If you’re looking for the best option on a budget, these Bufferzone 9″ tactical boots are a great choice. You get a classic leather and desert tan military look, with 9″ ankle protection and a speed lacing design. These rugged and tough boots feature a suede finish and construction with slip and oil-resistant lug rubber. The padded collar provides additional ankle support, with a moisture-wicking liner to keep your feet dry. These boots come with a gusseted tongue and side-zipper to keep out debris. These tactical boots are an affordable and effective option and the winner of the best budget tactical boots in this review. - Budget Pick: Under Armor Tactical Boots
Law enforcement officers and military personnel looking for the best premium tactical boots will enjoy this model from Under Armor. These tactical boots feature an ergonomic, cross-theme design, providing a comfortable fit with a full range of motion for your ankles. The Gore-Tex material is breathable and water-resistant, making them the ideal choice for wet or humid conditions. You get a genuine leather upper for protection and durability, along with high-abrasion-resistant textiles featuring an “Anafoam” overlay. These boots come with an anatomically molded sole for excellent support and a precise fit.
Tactical Boots Reviews
Now that you have an idea of our top options let’s unpack them in detail. We’ll also walk you through a few other models we think are top choices for tactical boots. There are options to suit any tactical needs in any environment and various price points to suit your budget.
After reading through the reviews, check out our buyer’s guide. We’ll give you some useful tips on picking out the right set of tactical boots for your preparedness needs.
Merrell Moab 2 8″ Tactical
Named after the Moab Desert’s unforgiving territory, these tactical boots are the best overall choice in this review. Merrel makes some of the best outdoor footwear available, and we won’t go hiking without our Chameleon 2s.
- All-Day Comfort, All-Terrain Toughness: Experience the cherished out-of-the-box comfort of the original Moab hiking boot, meticulously re-imagined for enduring duty days. The Moab 2 8" Tactical boot is your reliable companion for the toughest environments, ensuring lasting comfort throughout prolonged wear.
- Effortless Entry, Secure Closure: Featuring a heavy-duty YKK medial zipper, this tactical boot offers easy entry and exit, streamlining your preparation for duty. The zipper is complemented by a bellows tongue to keep out debris, maintaining a clean and secure interior.
- Durable Protection: Crafted with a waterproof PU coated leather and ripstop textile upper, along with a rubberized mesh ankle upper, the boot delivers exceptional support and durability. A protective rubber toe cap and external lateral stability arms with spray rubber enhance security and safeguard against abrasions.
- Advanced Foot Support: Engineered for optimal support during long hours on duty, the boot incorporates a KINETIC FIT blended EVA contoured footbed with added zonal arch and heel support. The Merrell air cushion in the heel and molded nylon arch shank contribute to shock absorption, stability, and midfoot flexibility.
- Dependable Traction, Manageable Weight: The Vibram TC5+ outsole with a 5mm lug depth ensures a reliable grip on various surfaces, promoting stability in challenging environments. Despite its robust features, the Moab 2 8" Tactical boot maintains a manageable weight of 2lb 11oz per pair, allowing for agility without compromising durability.
This tactical boot features all the design elements you would expect in a Merrel shoe. The Waterproof PU coated leather upper provide your ankles with plenty of support, and the Virbac TC5+ outsole gives you superior traction in all weather environments and on all terrain.
These boots feature excellent range-of-motion in the ankle, with a side zipper for easy fitment and a Velcro strap to prevent the zipper from falling as you walk or run. These tactical boots come in an all-black color for a tactical look or a desert tan color for a military aesthetic.
The M-Select DRY waterproof membrane keeps your foot dry, with a comfortable fit and plenty of support in the midsole.
- Waterproof PU coated leather upper
- Virbac TC5+ outsole for superior traction
- M-Select DRY waterproof membrane
- Bellows tongue for secure fit and debris protection
- Durable side zip for a snug fit
- Comes in two colors
Under Armour Tactical Boots
Under Armor is a leading brand in the fitness industry. However, over recent years UA is expanding into other product ranges other than gym wear. These tactical boots are an excellent example of everything you need in a functional and comfortable design.
- Under Armour’s mission is to make all athletes better through passion, design and the relentless pursuit of innovation
- Where we started? It all started with an idea to build a superior T-shirt
- The technology behind Under Armour's diverse product assortment for men, women and youth is complex, but the program for reaping the benefits is simple: wear HeatGear when it's hot, ColdGear when it's cold, and AllSeasonGear between the extremes.
- Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including chromium (hexavalent compounds), which is known in the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
You get a 10-inch ankle height for superior protection from snake bites and ankle injuries. The exterior features design with GORE-TEX material for a lightweight and waterproof fabric that wicks moisture away from your feet.
These tactical boots come with a 100$ leather upper for extra support and a speed lacing system. The anatomical design of the sole provides excellent traction, with spurs for climbing fences.
These tactical boots are an excellent choice for law enforcement officers or military specs ops – and they will surely suit your prepping needs.
- Stylish design
- High abrasion-resistant textile upper
- Goretex material for breathability and water resistance
- 100% leather design and construction
- Anafoam overlay for comfort and moisture-wicking
- Anatomically molded sole
- Molded rubber toes cap for protection
Bates 8″ Tan Ultralite Tactical Military-Style Boot
For those preppers that want a military-style tactical boot they can trust, you can rely on this Bates model. These tactical boots feature a suede leather finish in desert tan for an authentic military look.
- Lightweight Cushioned EVA midsole
- Durable leather & performance nylon upper
- Moisture wicking mesh lining
- All day comfort with removable insert
- Ultimate traction with slip resistant & Oil Resistant outsole
You get a 8-inch ankle length for superior support and protection, as well as a gusseted tongue to keep water and debris out of your boots. The speed lacing design and side zip with Velcro fastener make putting on and taking off these boots a breeze.
If you’re looking for an affordable and effective pair of tactical boots, these offer you the best value in this review. The non-slip sole features deep tread grooves for traction and fence climbing. Every pair of these limitary-style tactical boots comes with a 6-month warranty.
- Classic military design
- Suede leather upper
- Desert tan military look
- Sise zipper with Velcro strap
- Gusseted tongue for ankle protection
- Nylon liner for moisture wicking
- Six-month warranty
5.11 Tactical Men’s ATAC 2.0 8″ Tactical Boots
5.11 is another premium tactical brand producing excellent military and tactical gear. These tactical boots are a great choice for preppers and law enforcement.
You get a lightweight design, featuring the patented Ortholite mid-sole system for extra comfort during use.
- COMFORTABLE AND FLEXIBLE New full-length dual durometer Ortholite footbed featuring a new Achilles heel flex zone and Ortholite achilles cuff for enhanced comfort and flexibility.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION - Built with a Shock mitigation system and Strobel construction, with lighter weight uppers and new air flow breather tongue construction
- HIGH ABRASION RESISTANT - 840D nylon upper-lighter weight with YKK side zipper
- FUNCTIONAL - Built in knife pocket with Slip and Oil-resistant outsole with full grain leather toe
- WHY 5.11 - Apparel that is built for your environment. 5.11 creates products for both professionals and consumers that embody our mission to create purpose-built tactical gear for the most demanding missions. Always Be Ready
The synthetic non-slip sole makes the boots a great choice for wet weather conditions, and you get a side zipper with speed lacing for fast and easy fitment. The sides of these boots feature a hidden knife pocket for added utility, and you get an 8-inch ankle height with a watertight cuff.
These 5.11 tactical boots are a great choice for law enforcement officers and preppers looking for urban combat boots with excellent durability and reliability.
- Hybrid leather and textile construction
- Synthetic non-slip sole
- 8″ ankle height with waterproof cuff
- Ortholite Lazy recovery foam for a comfortable fit
- Hidden knife pocket
- Side zipper with Velcro cuff
5.11 Men’s Speed 3.0 Jungle Tactical Boot
5.11 get another honorable mention in this review for its jungle tactical boot. The sole is the most impressive feature on this boot.
- Durable: The 5.11 Speed 3.0 Jungle Tactical Combat Boot is tough on all terrain, but not on your feet. Quick drying suede and nylon work with an OrthoLite Imperial footbed to curate a durable yet comfortable boot.
- Stand Up to The Competition: a 14mm heel provides comfort and durability through all conditions, alongside sports interior odor resistant fabric, and a shock mitigatng system included for enhanced support.
- Grip the Ground: heavy-duty forefoot lugs, an innovative fence-climbing toe, and intricate oil and slip-resistant multi-terrain tread all contribute to steady, reliable traction
- If The Boot Fits: The 5.11 Speed 3.0 Jungle Tactical Combat Boot comes in a variety of sizes. Find the one that best fits you, using the size guide!
This model features a moisture-wicking liner with added mid-sole support. However, the interesting aspect is the durable, non-slip outsole. It has side lugs to help you with climbing fences, and the excellent traction makes this our top choice for a wet-weather boot.
You get rapid-drying nylon vamp side panels, featuring a waterproof design. These boots feature a design with suede and nylon, giving you a lightweight, breathable tactical boot.
- Hybrid design with suede and nylon
- Available in two colors
- Rapid-dry nylon liner with moisture-wicking
- Sole features forefoot lugs for fence climbing
- Lightweight sole
- ATAC footbed for shock absorption and comfort
Under Armor Valsetz Military Tactical Boot
Under Armor get another mention in this review for this work boot-style tactical boot. The hybrid design is a great choice for preppers and law enforcement officers that find themselves doing plenty of running on the job.
- UA ClutchFit technology wraps your ankle with a lightweight second skin for powerful support & incredible feel
- Synthetic leather & textile upper with welded, abrasion-resistant film around the perimeter of the foot
- Full-length Micro G foam turns cushioned landings into explosive takeoffs
- Lightweight TPU shank for mid-foot support & the right amount of rigidity
- Molded Ortholite sockliner is designed with a memory foam top & PU base
These UA tactical boots feature a 100% synthetic design, with superior water protection. The low-ankle design gives you plenty of movement and a full range-of-motion in your ankles. The gusseted tongue keeps moisture and debris out of your boots, while the form-fitting sole provides explosive support when running.
We like the non-slip sole, offering traction on wet surfaces, with a speed lacing system on the ankle for added stability when running and turning. The “ClutchFit” technology on the ankle provides a lightweight, second-skin for excellent support.
- 100% synthetic material design
- Rubber sole with excellent traction
- Cross-design with work boot features
- A welded abrasion-resistant film around the ankle collar
- Suitable for urban tactical requirements
- Micro-G foam for shock absorption
- Available in two colors
Bates 8″ Ultralite Tactical Military Boot
This Bates UltraLite military work boot is a top choice for security guards and law enforcement officers looking for a tough, durable work boot. The tactical design of these boots features an 8-inch ankle height for added support.
- YKK side zipper for quick on/off
- Slip resistant rubber outsole
- Durable leather and performance nylon upper
- Moisture wicking, breathable lining
- Removable cushioned insert
The ankle collar gives you a watertight seal with a speed lacing design and side zippers for easy fitment. The Bates DRYGuard membrane wicks away moisture from your feet while preventing rain from penetrating the boot.
You get a lightweight sole, with a hybrid leather and nylon upper. These boots come in a choice of two colors, with black for tactical, and desert tan for military-spec.
- 8″ protective height
- Hybrid leather and nylon design
- Side zipper for easy fitment
- Proprietary design with Bates DRYGuard membrane
- Lightweight sole
- Moisture-wicking lining
- Available in two colors
Fila Stormer Military Tactical Boot
These Fila Stormer tactical boots are a rugged and reliable choice. You get an 8.25-inch ankle length, with hybrid nylon and leather upper. The ankle seals prevent debris and water from entering the boot, and you get excellent support for your ankles when traversing any terrain.
- side zipper functionality
- leather / mesh upper
- high ankle support
These boots feature an EVO mid-sole for comfort and support, as well as a moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet dry. These boots feature a high-traction treaded sole for excellent grip in wet weather. The speed lacing system and the side zipper makes it easy to put on these boots in seconds, with the Fila footbed providing a comfortable fit.
You get a tactical design suitable for law enforcement, general survivalist use, and urban combat. The mesh tongue provides optimal airflow through the boot, reducing sweating to prevent blistering and discomfort.
- Fila footbed for comfort
- Specially developed EVA sole for shock absorption
- 8.25″ ankle length with waterproof cuff
- Speed lacing
- Lightweight rubber sole
NORTIV 8″ Tactical Boots
These Nortiv work boot-style tactical boots are a great choice for security officers and law enforcement.
You get superior protection for your feet and top-quality design with leather and nylon materials. The ankle collar on this model comes with a watertight seal and an 8-inch height.
- PROTECTION & CONVENIENCE: Ankle-high protection wraps & supports the ankles.YKK side zipper with hook-loop strap closure is easy to take on/off.
- Durable & breathable：Breathable fabric keeps your feet cool and dry. And high abrasion-resistant leather provides full protection. This combination structure offers maximum comfort and ensures breathable and long-term protection at the same time.
- Dynamic 3-sole system: (1) Removable, shock-absorbent cushion in-sole offers supportive all-day comfort. (2) Flexible EVA mid-sole reduces foot fatigue and absorbs shock; (3) Slip, oil, and abrasion-resistant rubber out-sole is a flexible response to various outdoor terrain.
- Perfect for outdoor & indoor: Designed for both daily work and outdoor sports like camping, climbing, cycling, fishing, jungle, running, mountaineering, traveling, and so on.
- What you get: our worry-free warranty and friendly customer service, NORTIV 8 is an American brand that aims at providing high-quality outdoor shoes.
You get a breathable mesh tongue to increase airflow in the boot, and the moisture-wicking liner keeps your feet dry. These tactical boots come with a non-slip sole and protective toe cap to prevent injury to your toes if you drop anything on your feet.
These tactical boots feature a side zipper and speed lacing system for convenient fitment, and you get a choice of colors and leather/nylon finishes, including suede options.
- Breathable mesh tongue fabric with moisture wicking
- Genuine leather upper
- Affordable
- Removable, flexible foam
- EVA midsole
- Toe protection included
- Rugged rubber outsole for traction
- Available in different colors and finishes
CQR Tactical Boots
If you’re looking for boots that feel like shoes, this tactical CQR model is a great choice for EDC use and prep gear. If you’re a security officer or law enforcement agent, these boots are a top choice for maneuverability and range-of-motion in your ankle.
You get a lightweight rubber sole with tread for traction, and extra smooth padding on the sides of the boot, with mesh for breathability. The side zip with Velcro strap and speed lacing system makes for a convenient and fast fitment.
You get a choice for several color and material combinations to suit your environmental requirements and pull handles on the rear for easy fitment.
- Hybrid design between athletics and work boot
- Excellent shock absorption
- Speed lace system
- Padded insoles for comfort
- Rubber sole with good traction
- Multiple colors available
Other Best Selling Options
- Lightweight synthetic leather & textile upper is durable & breathable
- Welded forefoot overlay & molded TPU toe cap for added protection
- Medial side zip & pull loops on heel & tongue for easy on/off
- Full-length Micro G foam midsole for the ultimate in long-lasting, responsive cushioning
- Oil- & slip-resistant high traction rubber lug outsole for enhanced grip on a variety of surfaces
- Protection & convenience: Ankle-high protection wraps & supports the ankles.YKK side zipper with hook-loop strap closure is easy to take on/off.
- Durable & breathable：Breathable fabric keeps your feet cool and dry. And high abrasion-resistant leather provides full protection. This combination structure offers maximum comfort and ensures breathable and long-term protection at the same time.
- Dynamic 3-sole system: (1) Removable, shock-absorbent cushion in-sole offers supportive all-day comfort. (2) Flexible EVA mid-sole reduces foot fatigue and absorbs shock; (3) Slip, oil, and abrasion-resistant rubber out-sole is the flexible response to various outdoor terrain
- Perfect for outdoor & indoor: Designed for both daily work and outdoor sports like camping, climbing, cycling, fishing, jungle, running, mountaineering, traveling, and so on
- What you get: our worry-free warranty and friendly customer service, NORTIV 8 is an American brand that aims at providing high-quality outdoor shoes.
- Protection & convenience: Ankle-high protection wraps & supports the ankles.YKK side zipper with hook-loop strap closure is easy to take on/off.
- Durable & breathable：Breathable fabric keeps your feet cool and dry. And high abrasion-resistant leather provides full protection. This combination structure offers maximum comfort and ensures breathable and long-term protection at the same time.
- Dynamic 2-sole system: (1) Removable, shock-absorbent cushion in-sole offers supportive all-day comfort. (2) Slip, oil, and abrasion-resistant rubber out-sole is a flexible response to various outdoor terrain.
- Perfect for outdoor & indoor: Designed for both daily work and outdoor sports like camping, climbing, cycling, fishing, jungle, running, mountaineering, traveling, and so on.
- What you get: our worry-free warranty and friendly customer service, NORTIV 8 is an American brand that aims at providing high-quality outdoor shoes.
- Advanced Cushioning: Move confidently with enhanced shock absorption and stand comfortably, thanks to the responsive EVA midsole. Additionally, experience continuous dryness, ensured by the breathable mesh lining and footbed.
- Comprehensive Support: The unique heel design offers excellent support for your feet. Additionally, the contoured insole cradles your arch and the padded collar enhances ankle security.
- Sturdy & Lightweight: The seamless construction enhances durability while the lightweight design reduces the burden on your feet. The high-quality zipper and the pull loop on the heel allow for easy on/off, further enhancing practicality.
- Traction & Durability: The rubber outsole, coupled with a specially designed tread pattern, ensures grip on various surfaces. The flexible Oxford cloth on the upper offers remarkable durability against wear and tear.
- Elevate Your Performance: These boots deliver outstanding breathability, comfort, durability, and slip resistance, making them tailored for security personnel and individuals who spend extended hours on their feet.
- Light, breathable synthetic upper with PU overlays in high abrasion areas for added protection & durability
- Medial side zip & pull loops on heel & tongue for easy on/off
- Anti-fatigue, molded Contoura Support footbeds with shock-absorbing foam
- Full-length Charged Cushioning midsole for the ultimate in lightweight, shock-absorbing comfort
- Durable Vibram XS Trek outsole is responsive on unpredictable terrain with great flexibility & wet traction
Tactical Boots Buyer’s Guide
After reading through the best tactical boots’ reviews, you probably have a few options in mind. In this section, we’ll unpack the features and function of tactical boots to help you settle on a pair.
Choosing a pair of boots is an important decision. They’ll be with you in all types of conditions in the coming years. Make sure you select a pair that’s functional, comfortable, and within your budget.
What are the Top Features to Look for In Tactical Boots?
When purchasing a pair of tactical boots, you’ll need to keep three important points in mind. Make sure your boots adhere to the following criteria.
- Modern Tactical Boots are Lightweight and form-Fitting – Modern tactical boots have design and construction with modern tactical conditions in mind. Therefore, they feature an ergonomic, form-fitting design with lightweight materials. Choose a set of tactical boots that feel comfortable, acting as an extension of your feet.
- Tactical Boots Give You Superior Traction – Modern tactical boots come with specially designed soles for use in all weather condit0ons. You don’t have to worry about slipping, and some models come with lugs and spurs to assist with tasks like climbing fences.
- Tactical Boots are Protective and Comfortable – Tactical boots feature design and construction with durable, supportive, and comfortable materials. The high ankle collars and durable leather uppers make them the best choice for protecting your feet in the field.
When searching for the best tactical boots., look for the following features in your footwear.
- Uppers – Look for materials like nylon and leather in the construction of your uppers. These materials provide protection and water resistance.
- Materials – Materials like GORE-TEX and other moisture-wicking fabrics are essential to keep your feet dry on operations.
- Sole – The sole of your tactical boots needs to feature a tough, durable rubber material. This material provides a harder finish than military combat boots. However, it gives a good middle ground between functionality and durability.
- Outsole – The outsole of your tactical boots is important. If you need to kick in self-defense, you need a durable outsole. Harder outsoles wear slowly, giving you more service life out of your tactical boots. Some outsoles feature spurs and lugs to assist you with climbing fences when chasing suspects or fleeing mobs.
- Lacing Systems – Most tactical boots come with a dual lacing system. The lower part of the boot features the traditional eyelet loop for secure lacing. However, the ankle collar might feature a speed lacing system combining with a side zipper for easy removal and fitment of your boots.
- Side Zippers – As mentioned, side zippers help you when taking your boots off or putting them on. Look for models that include a Velcro collar to secure the zip and prevent it from falling when you.
- Tongues – Look for tactical boots with gusseted tongues. This design helps to create airflow through the boot while creating a watertight seal around the ankle collar. The gusset also prevents gravel and other debris from getting into your boot.
- Ankle Collar Length – Choose the right ankle collar length to meet your needs. Most tactical boots come with collar lengths between 8-inches to 10-inches. The longer the collar, the more support and protection for your ankles.
- Ankle Collar Seals – An ankle collar seal gives a watertight fit to your boots, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions.
- Extra Features – Some models come with side pockets for small knives – a handy accessory for law enforcement officers and security personnel.
How Do I Check if My Tactical Boots Fit Properly?
Follow these tips to get the perfect fir from your new tactical boots.
- Try your tactical boots later in the day. During the day, our feet swell. If you try the boots on in the morning, they fit not fit in the afternoon.
- When trying on your boots, make sure you use the socks you intend to use when wearing the boots. Thick wool socks are best, so make sure you accommodate for this space.
- Put your feet into the boots, and make sure that nothing feels too tight before lacing up.
- After lacing up, makes sure you don’t feel any grommets digging into your feet.
- Take your first walk in your new boots. Check to see if your feet rub on the sides or if the heel feels loose.
What are the Common Fitment Issues with Tactical Boots?
- You might notice a slight pressure on the sides of your feet.
- If your toes touch the front, you’ll start to feel cramped when walking, leading to a condition known as “hammertoes.”
- Make sure your heel doesn’t slip in the back. If it does, you’re going to wind up with tendonitis in the ligament.
- Feel for pressure on your instep that feels uncomfortable.
You can fix problems with light pressure on your feet by breaking in your boots. If your heel feels slightly loose, tighten down the laces, and the problem should go away.
What are the Types of Tactical Boots?
There are four types of tactical boots. Choose the right boots to match your climate conditions and needs.
What are Standard Tactical Boots?
Standard tactical boots are the most common type. They feature ankle collars between eight to ten inches, and they hide your socks. They feature design with leather and nylon materials and typically come in black color options.
What are Desert Tactical Boots?
These boots feature design and construction for use in demanding environmental conditions in the Middle East. These boots are common in the US Armed Forces. They provide troops with protection for their feet while improving airflow inside thew boot.
The high-ankle collar and durable materials provide protection and support for the ankles. Typically, these boots feature design with breathable fabrics to optimize airflow around your foot. As a result, your feet sweat less, resulting in more comfortable user experience.
Desert boots come in a light tan color, also referred to as desert-tan or coyote brown.
What are Jungle Tactical Boots?
Jungle tactical boots feature design and construction for use in humid and wet environments. Jungle boots aren’t waterproof. Instead, they focus on wicking the moisture away from your feet to keep you comfortable.
It’s impossible to keep your feet dry in the jungle, and using waterproof boots results in the onset of bacteria or fungal conditions like foot rot. These boots feature design with nylon and GORE-TEX materials, ensuring you get optimal airflow to your feet.
What are Cold Weather Tactical Boots?
When the temperature drops and the mercury goes below freezing, you’re going to need tactical boots to meet the climate conditions. Cold weather tactical boots feature enhanced grip on the sole for better traction in wet weather, snow, and ice.
Cold weather boots come with a waterproof lining and moisture-wicking materials, keeping your feet dry in deep snow. Cold weather models typically have more insulation than the others, offering your feet more warmth in the cold.
Tactical Boot FAQs
Why do Green Berets wear high-top tactical boots?
Green Berets and Army Rangers prefer wearing tactical boots with long ankle collars. The additional collar length provides more support when moving quickly across the terrain.
The longer design also protects the ankles from objects and bites. The ankle is home to plenty of nerves and ligaments, and twisting an ankle will slow down the team.
Do US Marines wear black tactical boots?
Marines choose attire and gear with no branding or insignia on the exterior of the boot. Marines, Army, and Air force would issue black boots to recruits circa 2002.
However, from 2003 onwards, the US Armed Forces would move to a standardized desert tan color for all its gear. This type of camouflage, known as the “MARPAT,” is now the Army, Air force, and Marines benchmark standard.
What’s the difference between combat and tactical boots?
Tactical boots come with a leather upper and lace-up past your ankles for additional support. They typically feature thinner materials, allowing for better range-of-motion in the ankle when running and climbing.
Combat boots feature a mid-sole and outsole, with softer materials in the sole compared to tactical boots. The softer design limits noise in the field, preventing targets from hearing approaching operators.
Where do I buy the best tactical boots?
If you’re looking for the best place to buy your tactical boots online – we recommend going with Amazon. Amazon has the best range from all the top brands, with the best prices on all models.
If you’re a Prime member, you get access to fast, free shipping directly to your doorstep and buyer protection on your order. Amazon offers hassle-free returns and the best customer service.
Tactical Boots – The Verdict
By now, you should have your eye on a few pairs of tactical boots you think to suit your needs. Check the styling and design components of your prospective tactical boots, and match them to your requirements in the field.
Whether you’re a survivalist, military operator, or an average prepper – there’s a pair of tactical boots in this review to suit your needs and your budget. If you’re having an issue with settling on a pair, why no go with our top picks?
- The Merrell Moab 2 8″ Tactical boots are a top choice for any operating environment. Merrel is a premium men’s footwear brand, producing shoes and boots for hiking, climbing, EDC, and outdoor activities. These boots come with excellent design features and premium materials, making them the best overall option in this review.
- The Under Armor Men’s Infill Ops is the best premium choice for a pair of tactical boots. If you demand the best performance in demanding conditions, these boots are for you. Featuring a leather design with GORE-TEX, these boots stay dry and wick moisture away from your feet. You get an ergonomic sole with excellent traction and a 10-inch ankle collar for unmatched support.
- The Bufferzone 9″ Tan Military-Style Tactical Boot is our top choice for the best budget tactical boots in this review. You get an authentic desert tan color with a suede leather finish. The durable non-slip sole has deep grooves for climbing fences, and you get a moisture-wicking, padded midsole and liner for support and comfort.
