9 Best Tactical Boots 2022

While manufacturers are doing all they can, finding the best tactical boots is not an easy task. A boot can have several admirable features but fail on one important aspect that stands between life and death.

Even what appear to be the best-rated tactical shoes in the market today, have drawbacks. How will you ensure you find good tactical boots? What are some of the important features you need to look at when purchasing the best military boots? Most importantly, what are some of the best tactical boots for law enforcement officers?

Top Rated Tactical Boots

Under Armour Men's Valsetz RTS 1.5 with Zipper Military and TacticalBates Men's 8breathable tactical work boots
Under Armour Men's Valsetz RTS Side Zip Military and Tactical BootBates Men's 8" Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military BootsUnder Armour mens Valsetz Rts 1.5 Military and Tactical Boots
MADE OF: SyntheticMADE OF: 70% Leather, 30% Nylon.MADE OF: Textile and Synthetic.
FEATURES: TPU toe cap.
*Low-profile rubber lug sole.
*Molded Ortholite sockliner is designed with a memory foam top and PU base.
FEATURES: Lightweight cushioned EVA midsole.
*Moisture wicking, breathable lining.
FEATURES: UA ClutchFit ankle support system contours & supports.

This article will address those questions and provide you with the best guideline on what to look for when you are shopping for the best duty boots.

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Before that, here are 10 most comfortable tactical boots you can be sure of:

The Best Tactical Boots 2021

1. Under Armour Men’s Valsetz with Zipper Military and Tactical Boots

Best Tactical Boots

One of the most comfortable and lightweight boots you will find are the Men’s Under Armour Valsetz with zipper. The boots feel like athletic shoes. Their durability and updated upper textile makes them many people’s go to boots. Click here to see today’s price on Amazon.

They are known to be the best side zip tactical boots. The zip is a great addition especially when wearing them in a hurry. It makes them easy to wear.

To make them more comfortable, these boots have a lightweight shank to give the required amount of rigidity needed and to provide mid-foot support. These make them best work boots for working on concrete floors and other hard floors.

Not only do they have an added toe cap but also an anti-microbial molded sockliner to protect your foot. Their ultralight EVA midsole comforts your feet as you walk through your day. They are the best duty boots you could find.

For abrasive resistance, they are welded with a film that surrounds the boot. They are also designed to have an outsole rubber lug to increase its grip and make it suitable for use under different conditions.

The men’s under Armour Valsetz weighs 13.9 pounds, has a shaft that is approximately 7 inches high from the arch and are only available in black color.

Pros

  • They are made of durable synthetic leather.
  • Are lightweight.
  • They are easy to put on and take off.
  • Super comfortable you can wear them outside work too.
  • Have a good grip on dry ground.
  • The ankle support system it provides is amazing.
  • Abrasion resistant.
  • They come with a return policy of up to 60 days.
  • Are breathable tactical boots.

Cons

  • Not waterproof.
  • Are a bit pricey.

2. Bates Men’s Ulta-lites 8” Tactical Sport Comp Toe Work Boot

best tactical work boots

Imported leather/fabric upper and a rubber sole mark the list of quality features you will find on these light tactical boots. The sides of these best tactical hiking boots have a brogue trim and are enhanced with contrast welt stitching. Click here to see today’s price on Amazon.

The upper shaft has a D-ring lacing, which complements the lace-ups that close the boots. Because of these two features, the boots are a perfect fit for military men, hikers, and those whose feet are constantly on the move such as tennis players.

A mesh lining covers the better part of the boot, enabling the feet to breathe. The mesh is made from high-quality recycled PET material.

Civilian and military policemen do not have any reason to say no to Bates Ulta-lites for men because the boot weighs only 5 pounds. In addition, it measures 12 inches by 8 inches by 4 inches.

As long as you know the size of your feet, Bates Men’s Ulta-lites 8-inch tactical boot will not disappoint you. Honest users argue that hitherto, these breathable tactical boots have a fitting expectancy of over 82%.

Pros

  • Perfect fit.
  • Lightweight, weighing 5 lbs.
  • 100 percent breathable.
  • Nice side stitching that enhance durability.
  • Highly slip-resistant.
  • Easy to tighten.
  • No squeaks.
  • No binding on zipper.
  • Shines pretty well.

Cons

  • Water may seep through the material.
  • The upper material gouges.
  • The inside of the boots is smelly.

3. Original S.W.A.T. 9-Inch Men’s Metro Air Tactical Boots

the Best Military Boots

This men’s leather boot has a fitting expectancy of up to 85%. The upper and the sole are made of high-quality leather. To guard military men against impacts, the boot has an air cell, which is placed at the heel. The visible cell makes it possible to control impacts. Click here to see today’s price Amazon.

Besides, this tactical boot is made in such a way that controls foot fatigue. The original military boot is friendly to the airport thanks to the leather sole and a nylon shank. These two important features do not put additional weight to these breathable military boots.

The toe box is polishable. When you take your time to ensure the boot shines, it will give you exactly that. Thanks to the quality of leather, when polished and shined properly, water runs on the leather.

For extended durability, the upper of this light tactical boot is made from a three-ply nylon that is bonded. The material is brought together ingeniously using a double stitch that goes through most of the parts of the upper.

The phylon EVA midsole is another feature of reckon. The custom-molded midsole plays an important role in ensuring your comfort, stability, and flexibility.

Pros

  • Waterproof.
  • Nicely polishable.
  • Shines well after polishing.
  • Comfortable thanks to the phylon EVA midsole.
  • Guards your feet against fatigue, impacts, and shocks.
  • Friendly to the airport.
  • Non-resistant outsole.

Cons

  • The leather is laminated thus may peel off.

4. Smith & Wesson Breach Men’s Side Zip Boots 

Smith & Wesson Breach Men’s Side Zip Boots 

If you are looking for quality and affordable boots then Smith & Wesson breach 2.0 men’s zip boots are a best fit for you. They are designed on years of industry and manufacturing experience. Click here to see today’s price on Amazon.

They are lightweight and super comfortable thanks to its EVA midsole and steel shank that also provide additional support for your feet. These boots are board-last constructed to reduce fatigue by creating rigidity especially when working for longer hours.

Although they are made of tough leather, they do not compromise on comfort. The boots are designed to provide full protection for your feet and keep debris and dirt out. They also protect your feet from blistering.

You might be interested in best pull on Work boots

Not only are the Smith & Wesson men’s zip boots known to be the best tactical boots but also inexpensive. They come at a budget friendly price and are durable.

The rubber sole is a factor people love so much about the boots. It allows you to walk comfortably on waxed surfaces, climb ladders and any other hard surfaces as it is built to minimize the loss of traction making them slip resistant.

Also read: How to make shoes non slip for work

A portion of the proceeds acquired from the sale of these good tactical boots through Direct Premium goes to a charity called Operation First Response. It is a wounded-warrior charity program.

The boots have a side zip that makes them easy to wear.

Pros

  • High quality.
  • Are budget-friendly.
  • Their break in is great.
  • You cannot easily fall off since it is slip resistant.
  • They have a side zip which makes them easy to wear..
  • Are comfortable with great feet support.
  • They are lightweight.
  • Fully protect your feet from blisters too.

Cons

  • The finish on the toes of the boots wears away after some time.

5. Under Armour Men’s Stellar Military and Tactical Boot

Under Armour Men's Stellar Military and Tactical Boot

Designed with treated leather, be lightweight and to quickly dry up, these boots are known to be the best military boots. The combination of DWR leather and upper nylon textile 900D has made them a preference for many since they are tough and made with high quality. Click here to see today’s price on Amazon.

They are constructed with a rubber sole to increase the boots’ grip when walking or even running. They are slip resistant and breathable. These military boots are considered the best tactical footwear.

The Stellar military boots are made with an anti-odor in built technology. By including an ortholite sockliner into the boots design, the growth of microbes is prevented. These microbes are responsible for developing odor from your shoes.

Their inner and midsole provide comfort and the required support for your feet. The midsole is not only molded with EVA but also reinforced with a TPU shank to support and protect your feet.

The military boots weigh 16.6 pounds with a shaft that is approximately 8 inches. Not only are these boots suitable for police officers but also security guards and even hikers. They are super quiet in the hallways making them suitable for hospital use too.

They are designed to have a polishable toe and with a measurement of 14 inches by 5 inches by 11 inches.

Pros

  • They have a great shine.
  • Are super comfortable.
  • Lightweight and tough.
  • They have a great traction and do not slip even on ice.
  • Have an anti-odor built-in technology.
  • They dry up quickly.
  • The boots are durable.
  • Quiet when walking in them.

Cons

  • The boots are not breathable.
  • Takes time to break in.

6. Garmont T8 NFS Lightweight Tactical Military Work Boot

Garmont T8 NFS Lightweight Tactical Military Work Boot

The Garmont NFS tactical work boot is a breathable sued leather boot. It is highly ventilated and dries up quickly. They are therefore suitable for extremely wet climates. Click here to see today’s price on Amazon.

These are the best tactical boots since they can be worn in any terrain from arid deserts to muddy trails, rocky hills and even steep slopes. You are sure to be comfortable in them anywhere you go.

To make them durable, these work boots are reinforced with canvas and Texon. In addition, they are lightweight and reliable for assignments that require speed, excessive walking or long periods of standing.

The vibram sole it comes in gives it maximum stability and traction. This helps it perform flawlessly in nearly all surfaces. You can run in them and be sure that you will not slip and fall.

The garment NFS tactical work boots are the best combat boots available. They are well cushioned inside, have many lace eyelets that help protect your feet from getting pinched, are flexible and at the same time support your ankle. They would give great service to any military soldier looking for durable boots to work with.

Pros

  • They are comfortable on your feet.
  • They fit just right.
  • Super lightweight making movement easy for you.
  • Extremely durable.
  • They are easy to break in.
  • Have a great grip preventing you from falling.

Cons

  • Laces are a bit thicker.
  • The boots are half a size smaller than your normal shoe size.

7. Danner Men’s Lookout 8-Inch Military Boots with Side Zip

Danner Men’s Lookout 8-Inch Military Boots with Side Zip

In all the tactical boot reviews you will find, you will not miss Danner Men’s Lookout boot. One of the reasons why you won’t miss this best duty boot on the list is that it has proper arch support. Besides, from the heel up, the shaft measures 8 inches that is the ideal height for tactical shoes. Click here to see today’s price on Amazon.

The top of these Danner comfortable tactical boots are made from a mixture of leather and nylon. The ballistic material used for the upper offers unmatched water-resistant ability and is the reason why the boot shines after polishing.

Inside the boot, there is a dry line. The work of this feature is to pull away excessive moisture that would otherwise ruin the military boot and your foot. The result is having a dry foot all the time you are wearing the boot.

To have a more responsive fit, Danner Men’s Lookout side zip boots have a broader toe box. Thanks to this, you are able to feel comfortable even if you use the boots for many hours. It is an advantage too to a wearer with wide feet and long toes.

A dual-density material covers the entire part of the footbed, which offers maximum support to the arch. In addition, the thick cushioning ensures your foot is well-guarded against stitches that may stray.

Support for the heel is also another thing that makes these light tactical boots stand out. The boots come with a heel clip, which is airthotic.

Underfoot venting is a plus for these boots. Thanks to the feature, your feet will never have a bad odor due to suffocation.

Pros

  • Extremely comfortable.
  • Nice arch support.
  • Excellent heel support.
  • Durable rubber sole.
  • Shines when properly polished.
  • Wider toe box guards long toes.

Cons

  • The insole squeaks a lot.
  • Side zip unzips regularly.
  • The laces are undone.

8. Maelstrom Men’s Military Tactical Duty Work Boot with Zipper

men's tactical boots

The Gen 2.0 Tan colored tactical boots are many peoples’ favorite. With a blend of leather and fabric upper, the boots stand out as the best combat boots today. The type of fabric used is rigid and hard to tear.

At a time when there is a fierce debate on whether or not use tac boots for military services, Maelstrom LANDSHIP display their agility and ability. Just below the leather/fabric upper, is a lining that whisks moisture away. Click here to see today’s price on Amazon.

To add comfort to these light tactical boots, the manufacturer has included sufficient padding to the collar and tongue. In addition, the boots have a molded midsole, which acts as a shock a shock absorber.

Overall, Maelstrom Men’s 8-Inch LANDSHIP have an athletic cemented construction, which explains why most military men prefer the boot. Thanks to the high-quality construction, the boots are durable.

The outsole is made of rubber, making the boots oil or slip-resistant. You do not need to worry about the weight. These lightweight tactical boots will not cause any pain or fatigue to your feet because of the quality of materials used to make them.

For enhanced stability, Maelstrom LANDSHIP has a composite shank. Besides, the boots have a YKK side zipper that allows you to loosen and fasten the boots with ease.

The manufacturer gives you a 12-month warranty, during which you will return the boot incase there is a manufacturer malfunction.

Pros

  • Very stable boots.
  • Comfort thanks to padded tongue and collar.
  • Slip resistant.
  • Breathable lining makes it possible for your feet to breathe.
  • Locks well with no loose ends.
  • Available in many colors.
  • Plenty room for toes.
  • Nice and cemented design for tactical work.

Cons

  • The boot is so roomy.
  • Small side zip.

9. Reebok Work Duty Rapid Response Tactical Boots

Reebok Work Duty Rapid Response Tactical Boots

This tan-colored tactical boot for military men is uniquely built. The upper of the boots is made of 100% textile and leather, while the sole is made of rubber. Thanks to the side zipper, it is very easy to tighten and loosen the boots. Click here to see today’s price on Amazon.

From the arch upwards, the boot’s shaft measures 5 inches while the heel and platform measure 2 inches and 1.25 inches respectively.

The toecap is big. The manufacturer made it this way because Reebok Work Duty tactical boot features an electrical hazard protector. For comfort all day, which is necessary for military and civilian police officers, the boot has two main features:

Number one is Foot Force F2A, a polyurethane cushion insert. Number 2 is a shock eliminator that is placed at the heel, one of the most sensitive parts of the human foot. These two features play an important role in eliminating shocks, guarding the foot against fatigue, and provide full feet relaxation.

The good thing about Foot Force F2A is that it is removable, making it easy to clean or even change it in case you need to put on additional inserts.

Fitting is not an issue because Reebok Men’s tactical boot measures 12 inches by 8 inches by 4 inches and weighs 4.5 lbs.

Pros

  • Protects feet against electric faults.
  • A wide toe box for toe comfort.
  • Highly slip-resistant.
  • Very comfortable interior thanks to padding.
  • Protects feet against fatigue and shocks.

Cons

  • Fits small and medium feet.
  • Takes time to break in.

Features To Consider When Choosing Your Tactical Boots

Here are the top features you should look at when purchasing the best tactical boots:

  • Upper Material

Throughout this write-up, the emphasis has been on at least four main areas on a boot namely, the upper, midsole, toe box, and the sole. Although stress is on these parts, it does not mean the other parts are of less value. Hardly!

The upper of any combat boot should be a product of high-quality fabric, leather, especially cowhide, or a mixture of both.

It is not bad for the tactical boots to have polyurethane nylon any other material. The important thing is if the material is durable, hard to tear and puncture. It doesn’t matter whether you are looking for men’s boots, which dominate this list or you are after the best women’s tactical boots.

  • Midsole Cushioning

Midsole cushioning is key especially on combat boots. Men and women whose main duty is to do whatever it takes to bring law and order, wear most of these tactical boots. Because of the nature of their work, chances are these military and civilian officers will stand, walk, or even run for many hours.

You cannot expect to wake up the following morning for work if you wore tac boots that almost made you faint the previous day. With proper midsole cushioning, your feet are less likely to suffer from shocks, fatigue and even arch injuries.

For the boot to be referred as the best tactical boot, it should have a thick cushioning the entire footbed. With this feature, no one will complain of discomfort.

  • Breathability

Another key thing is breathability. Two things determine the breathability of a tactical boot. The first thing is the overall material but most importantly, the upper. The second thing is an additional feature, which usually depends on the manufacturer’s discretion.

If the upper is made from a material that does not have pores, heat and humidity will accumulate inside the boots and the result will be feet suffocation. Then your feet will emit a bad odor every time you unzip the boot.

The other thing is a mesh lining. With a mesh lining on a shoe, your feet will breathe whether you are working in the rain or it is dusty.

PS.If a boot does not let air in and out, your feet are bound to swell, making it difficult to wear the boot.

  • Waterproof/Water Resistant

Best duty boots must not allow water to pass through to reach the feet. While we need water to survive, even clean our feet, when it hits your feet at the wrong time it causes damage. Tactical boots that let water pass make socks and feet wet. See our reviews on waterproof work boots.

The interior of the boots gets moist and finally wet. Besides, when leather is not dried properly, it emits a bad smell that nobody would want to have. Squeaking is another embarrassment that you wouldn’t want come your way.

best tactical boots law enforcement

When the interior of the boot is wet, it tends to produce that terrible noise. You can avoid this by putting your money on the best waterproof tactical boots.

  • Boot’s Weight

You are not going to walk for long if the weight of the tactical boot is overwhelming. The truth is tactical boots are known to be among the weightiest footwear around. However, you do not need to go with that plainly.

While some boots on this list hit up to 7.5 pounds, you can get lightweight tactical boots that do not go beyond 4 lbs.

Weight of tactical boots is also subjective. The best choice of the weight of the boot is dependent on your body weight.

  • Inner Lining

The work of an inner lining is to offer comfort to your feet. Some tactical shoes have double stitches while others come with additional sews that may bring discomfort to your feet. However, a tac boot with a nice inner lining will go a long way to offering you comfort.

In fact, if the best tactical boots for running have proper inner lining, chances are you may not need socks. In additional, a proper inner lining will guard your feet against any bruises that may be caused by the boot’s rigid material.

  • Foot Width

It is important to know the size of your foot before you order for a shoe online. While you may know the size of your foot from the heel to the end of the toe, chances are you have never given a thought on your foot’s width.

Manufactures have given you the boots’ measurement to help you make wise decisions on the right tactical boots. Some people may know the size of the foot but failure to measure the width may cause your money.

Some boots are either wide or narrow but have the same size such as size 42 or 43 while the width may be wide or narrow.

How To Clean & Condition Tactical Boots

Cleaning tactical boots should not give you a challenge. Like ordinary shoes, comfortable tactical boots need to be clean so that they can serve you for a long time. For you to conduct a thorough cleaning and conditioning of the tac boots, you need to know where to clean.

Shoes have three main parts, namely the upper, the sole, and the interior of the shoe. When doing your regular cleaning, you must not forget any of these parts. However, often times, you will focus on the interior of the boot and the upper. We’ll give the two parts our utmost emphasis.

Cleaning Tactical Boots – Interior

However best your tactical boots would be, the interior must get dirty at some point. A dirty insole, footbed, lining, and the toe box will not only litter your socks but also make you uncomfortable.

The smell itself will scare people away. The first thing you need to do is to clean the insole. You are lucky if your lightweight tactical boots have a removable insole. It makes cleaning super simple.

Remove the insole; wipe off any dust and debris. Using a damp piece of cloth, wipe off all the dirty embedded on the insole, rinse using another damp cloth before you put it to dry.

You will need to clean the interior of the boot using the same piece of cloth. Try as much as you can to reach all the inner parts of your best tactical footwear.

Another viable way to clean insoles is to actually hand or machine wash them. If they are made from a material that you can wash in water, then be it. After which, you will clean them on the sun.

You can also add a softer detergent or use a shampoo with low pH to kill microorganisms that might invade your boot.

Before you let the boot to dry, you need to clean the outer part.

Cleaning Tactical Boots – Outer Part

The entire outer part of duty boots is essential. Cleaning it is equally important and means a lot whether you work from the office or are in the field. A clean boot will always be admired and in the end, it is you people will admire, which is a healthy thing.

Again, you need a damp cloth to remove whatever dirt may have accrued on the leather, fabric or upper nylon. Since most tactical shoes are waterproof, you shouldn’t worry that water will penetrate. Because of this, you can even use water.

If the boots have embedded dirt, you may need an old toothbrush to remove the mess. Of course, a toothbrush or any other hard tool can be used to clean some parts of the outsole such as remove debris hidden inside the outsole’s traction.

Fiebings Saddle Soap

A mild soap such as saddle soap, whose work is to moisturize, rehydrate, and nourish leather will be of help if used in moderation. In the end, after allowing your tactical boots to dry under the shade, you will not complain of the footwear hardening. Rather it will maintain a softer state.

  1. PS. Do not overexpose the boots in the sun. Scorching sunrays will create cracks on the fabric and the result is your best tactical shoes warping.

Upon your best military boots drying up, you can use a leather conditioner to apply on the outer part. After applying the leather conditioner, you are free to wear your boots or let them wait the next time you are leaving for duty.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most comfortable tactical boot?

Here is a list of the most comfortable tactical boots:

1) FREE SOLDIER Men’s Boots Lightweight Military Tactical Boot.
2) Under Armour Men’s Stellar Military and Tactical Boots.
3) Bates Men’s 8″ Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot.
4) 5.11 Men’s ATAC 2.0 8″ Tactical Side Zip Military Boots.
5) NORTIV 8 Men’s Military Tactical  Combat Boots.
6) Thorogood Men’s Gen-flex2 Series 8″ Tactical Side Zip Jump Boot.
7) Danner Men’s Tachyon 8″ Military and Tactical Boot
.

Conclusion

Men and women in the military or civilian duty need to take care of their feet because they walk a lot. Using the best tactical boots in their day-to-day duties may make them uncomfortable. But with good choices of the right size, quality material, and they are sure to end their combat and gain victory.

You too can do exactly that. If you are hiking, want to play outdoor games that require proper footwear consider the best tactical boots your only way to emerge successful.