The 10 Best Tactical Boots - 2020 Reviews

The 10 Best Tactical Boots - Quick List

The 10 Best Tactical Boots

Pros

• Customer after customer said that these Research tactical boots are some of the most comfortable they have ever worn!
• Several women also commented that they love the Khyber Research Tactical Boots because they are so comfortable and just fit well.
• Excellent build quality

Cons

• One customer stated that the Khyber Tactical Research boots were very stiff coming out of the box

Pros

• Customers love that these boots come out of the box and feel like they are already broken in!
• Lightweight, comfortable and durable
• The boots have a high level of breathability

Cons

• One customer complained that the color of the boot received didn't match what he saw in the photo.

Pros

• Very comfortable, even for someone who may be standing on concrete all day.  
• The boots run true to size.
• Very lightweight and gives you the ability to really move around and maintain support and agility.  Chasing bad guys?  These boots are going to give you an athletic shoe feel with the support and protection you need.
• Fantastic value for the price. Don't waste your money on cheaper "tactical boots", get these instead!

Cons

• One customer stated that they were disappointed that the boots were not pre-worn in.

Pros

• Excellent grip - these Garmont Tactical Boots have insane grip perfect for slippery surfaces or even in un even terrain out in the field.  One customer said "these are the grippiest pair of boots I have ever owned!"
• Fantastic quality and build. In other words, these boots are going to last you a while.  Don't make the mistake of spending your money on a less expensive pair, only to have them last a few weeks or months.  Get it right the first time and buy the Garmont tactical boots.
• Very comfortable and resilient in harsh weather conditions.

Cons

• One customer stated that they got blisters while trying to break in the boots.

Pros

• Many customers purchasing these bootsar return customers.
• Customers love the zippers for easy on and off while still maintaining proper support and protection.
• Very comfortable and lightweight
• Great value

Cons

• One customer stated that the boot laces were not the same length

Pros

• Serious COMFORT - It should be no surprise that an athletic shoe company also selling tactical boots would make them very comfortable. Comfort isn't everything but in any tactical boot, it is still very important.
• Lightweight
• Quality that Under Armor stands behind.
• Great for all weather conditions and it is also water resistant too!

Cons

• One customer stated that the shoes look great but they get dirty easily.

Pros

• 511 Tactical boots are known for durability, quality and value
• Zipper foot access - makes it easy to put on and take off. This is a favorite feature for many customers
• Quality materials - You know you are getting good value for your money when they are using good quality materials.
• Easy to break in - nice that you don't have to wait too long for 511 tactical boots to feel like your own.
• Accommodates heavy socks
• Excellent ankle support - good for anyone moving or working on uneven terrain.
  
  

Cons

• One customer stated that the 511 tactical boots that he ordered were not the same as what he received. 

Pros

• Very comfortable and customers often report that there is almost no break in period to the new tactical boots
• AR 670-1 compliant
• Lightweight - helps you to be more agile in changing conditions and will also help reduce fatigue from heavier boots.

Cons

• One customer reported that the sizing was not exactly what they expected.

Pros

• Zippers - The zippers are really handy for taking the boots off without having to deal with the laces after a long day.  Quick and easy to put on and also to take off!
• Good quality and value for the price - It IS possible to find a good quality boot for under $100 and this is an excellent option that fits the bill.
• Comfortable - most of our tactical boots recommendations include boots that are comfortable and the Smith & Wesson tactical boots are no exception.  One customer reported they had NO Break-In period with these boots. Your mileage may vary but you will be comfortable regardless.

Cons

• One customer reported "they don't look comfortable, but they are!" 🙂
• One customer had an issue with one of the boot zippers failing

Pros

• Very good value for the money. Some customers report solid use and limited wear and tear even after heavy use 1.5 years later.
• Zipper closure - you will really like the combination of the zipper closure and laces to secure the boot to your feet and leg. Provides good support too.
• Well built boots with with a great fit.
• Light weight - using a lighter boot will help to reduce fatigue.
• Strong, wide pull strap on the back
• Removable, shock absorbent cushion insert for all day comfort. Padded collar and tongue for extra comfort and protection. Semi rigid heel and toe reinforcement to retain the shape of the boot.

Cons

• One customer said that for them the tread depth was too shallow. This may or may not be a concern to you, depending on what type or aork or activity you are engaged in.
• Boots are not waterproof.

What makes tactical boots, tactical?

The best tactical boots are heavy duty boots made designed to perform and protect in a wide variety of changing environments and weather conditions.  The main difference between a pair of work boots and a pair of the best tactical boots is that tactical boots are designed to provide protection and support while keeping the wearer agile and comfortable.

While looking at different types of boots, you may notice similar features between a pair of work boots and a pair of tactical boots but once you try them on, you will notice that the work boots are generally heavier.  You will also notice that you are not able to move around as much in the work boot. 

The best tactical boots are designed to give you the ultimate combination of function, and protection while allowing you to be nimble and agile, no matter what circumstances you find yourself in. 

Components of the best tactical boots

Toe Protection

Another critical component of the best tactical boots includes toe protection. Today there are two different kinds of toe protection, steel toe protection and composite toe protection.

Steel Toe Protection

Steel toe protection is pretty straightforward and has been used as a standard for many years.  It is just what it sounds like.  The toe box (or front of the boot where your toes go) has a layer of reinforced steel that will protect your toe.

Drop a rock on your foot while out in the field?  No problem.  Running full speed and kick something that won't budge, no big deal.  If you are wearing tactical boots with steel toe protection you won't need to worry.  Those toes will be safe!

Composite Toe Protection

Another type of toe protection you may want to consider when buying the best tactical boots is a composite toe protection.  Composite toe protection is a combination of different types of materials intended to withstand some of the same dangers you would need steel toe protection for.  

One major difference in this material is that it is lighter. Steel is steel and will add some weight to your tactical boots.  

A composite material will also provide a lot of protection  and should be more comfortable in varying climates and weather conditions.  The steel in steel toe boots will be colder in winter and warmer in summer compared to the composite toe protected boots.

If you are looking to be a little more agile and comfortable and don't expect to need the most extreme toe protection (steel), you may want to consider going with a composite material.

What jobs are the best tactical boots used for?

When you think of tactical boots, you may immediately think about combat boots or boots used for soldiers in the military.  You are correct that soldiers use tactical boots but there are also other people in other professions who also benefit from using tactical boots. This best tactical boots buying guide will help anyone in these professions. 

Law enforcement

Another group of people who use tactical boots are law enforcement officers.  Whether they are motorcycle patrolmen, SWAT team members or police officers, many law enforcement professionals use tactical boots to provide support and protection day in and day out on the job.

Firefighters

Another group that can also benefit from using the best tactical boots are firefighters.  Firefighters could include both the men and women that put out burning structures and homes but also those who fight wildfires in the forest or mountains.  Think about the crazy terrain and conditions these heroes face every day and you can see why tactical boots are an excellent choice for them as well.

Security Professionals

Tactical boots were designed for people who are working in varying environments or weather conditions, who need footwear that is durable and provides protection.  Similar to law enforcement officers, security professionals also require the same amount of protection and durability in many cases.  This is why many security professionals choose tactical boots.

Hiking

Some hard core hikers prefer to use a tactical boot as their main hiking boots.  Of course their are other boots designed for the more casual hiker but there are plenty of people who prefer a more robust and durable option for their adventures.  The best tactical boots will in general be heavier than regular hiking boots so you will want to consider that as well when selecting your boots.

Conclusion