Danny Herbin

Tactical boots have long been used in the military to protect soldier’s feet in a wide variety of harsh conditions, they were quite expensive, and often supplied by your employer.

Well times have changed!

Today, anyone can buy a pair of tactical boots. This is great news if you serve in the military, or part of the police force and need extra protection for your feet.

You may think of buying hunting or hiking boots, but there are some notable differences that set the best tactical boots apart from regular hiking, hunting, and work boots.

Tactical boots are often made from synthetic materials, rather than genuine leather. These materials are not inferior to leather, though. Modern technology allows the production of materials that provide superior sweat wicking, comfort, and waterproofing.

Tactical boots can take you from wet and muddy terrain to rocky mountains, and anywhere in between. The lacing systems of the best tactical boots are often more involved than traditional lace-up boots, allowing a tighter, customized fit. Many styles have full length zippers on the side of the shaft, making it easier to take the boots off and put them on. Tactical boots offer superior slip resistance and foot and ankle support to easily adapt to the demands of any condition.

Whether you serve in the military and want to upgrade your pair of tactical boots, or you are looking for an alternative to boots you use for yard work, construction, hiking, hunting, on a motorcycle, or anything else, this article will help you choose the best tactical boots for your individual needs.

— Summary of the best tactical boots in 2020 —

To save you time, we compiled a list of all the best tactical boots in 2020!

Best overall Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Read here
“High quality, Durable yet comfortable and afforadbale – the ideal tactical boot”

Best LightWeight: Under Armour Men’s Valsetz Rts Read here
“These boots are so comfortable  and light and forget I’m even wearing them!”

Best for Women: Bates GX-8 Gore-Tex Waterproof Boots Read here
“Amzing good soles that absorb shock well. The treads are highly stable”

Best for Police Officers: Maelstrom Men’s Tac Force Read here
“I have flat feet. They fit perfectly! The arch is great in them. Very happy!”

Best for Active Duty: Danner Men’s Tachyon TXT Duty Tactical Boots Read here
“These boots are comnfortable and light you can almost use them as running shoes”

Best For Military: Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military Read here
“Superior comfort, amazing grip and great breathability – love it!”

Best for Outdoors: Lowa Mens Zephyr Gore-Tex Read here
“One of the most comfortable boots I have ever bought!”

— Top 20 Best Tactical & Military Boots Reviews in 2020 —

Check out below for a list of the top 20 best tactical boots out there that are worth investing on!

1. Best Overall: Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Side Zip Boots

The Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Boots is marketed as a construction boot. Therefore, it is designed to handle the toughest working conditions and can withstand the unique needs of laborers. It is a reasonably priced pair of tactical boots ranging from $89 to $100 in major online retailers. 

In terms of style, the overall aesthetic design of the Men’s Breach 2.0 is quite impressive. It has a rugged look but very aesthetically pleasing. It definitely looks like it is ready to face any tough terrains. The material is a combination of nylon and leather. It comes with a gusseted tongue and rubber outsoles along with an aggressive lug pattern.

The HydroGuard waterproof technology is one of the most compelling features of the Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Boots. It ensures that your feet will stay dry and comfortable at all times. It comes with an EVA midsole that delivers superior support for your feet. In terms of practicality, the side zip closure makes it easy to put on and take off. 

2. Best Lightweigt: Under Armour Men’s Valsetz Rts Military and Tactical Boot

he Under Armour Men’s Valsetz Rts Tactical Boots is another notable entry on the list of the best tactical boots in the market. With a starting price of $127, you can get a good value for your money because it will last twice as long as any other tactical boot models. 

Under Armour is a brand known for delivering superb quality footwear for sporting use. This tactical boot model is no different. It is equipped with a wide range of features designed to withstand the tough conditions for law enforcement or extreme activities.

The most distinctive feature of the Under Armour Men’s Valsetz Rts Tactical Boots is the UA ClutchFit technology. The sleeve is designed to wrap around your ankle such that it feels like “second skin”. And yet, it is lightweight so you can expect incredible feel and unmatched support. 

The upper material is made with synthetic leather and textile. It is also protected with an abrasion-resistant film so your feet are protected from the elements. The full length micro G foam so it is easy to have explosive takeoffs for your feet. The foam foot bed provides a nice cushion for your feet, too. The lightweight TPU shank ensures that there is enough rigidity for your feet. 

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

The Original S.W.A.T. Metro Air Tactical Boot is pricier, but the quality is hard to beat. The boots have been heavily tested over many years in the field by professionals, for excellent performance.

Ideal for urban jungle settings, such as airports and correctional facilities, the boot is lightweight and free of metal materials. You can pass through metal detectors without any problems in these boots.

The heel of the outsole has a cushioning air pocket to absorb shock, and a nylon shank adds even more support. The midsole is molded phylon EVA that cradles the foot for support and comfort. The outsole is made of slip resistant rubber.

The boot laces up above the ankle, but a side zipper allows the boot to be put on and taken off easily. The boot’s upper is composed of nylon and genuine leather. Available only in black, the leather toe and heel of this boot can be polished, making it the best tactical boot for professionals.

4. Magnum Men’s Response II 8-Inch Boot

When you need to respond quickly, the Magnum Response II 8.0 EMS Boots have all the features you need for confident action. The deep tread of the rubber slip and oil resistant outsoles provide excellent traction on a wide range of surfaces in all conditions.

The lightweight full-grain leather and nylon uppers offer great stability, because they are designed with a bluecher lacing system that you can adjust for the perfect fit. The collar and the tongue feature extra padding for superior comfort against the leg.

Nylon mesh inlays allow the feet to breath, while a contoured insole keeps them comfortable. The midsole contains a steel shank for rugged support. These boots come in desert tan or black, and are an affordable and durable option.

5. Bates Men’s 8-Inch Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot

If you need a boot that can withstand heavy use in any condition, the Bates Tactical Sport Military Boot is the best tactical boot for you. These boots are durable and weatherproof. They can be worn comfortably in the heat and in snow.

The treads of the oil and slip resistant rubber outsole provide superior traction, even on gravel. The upper is mostly leather, with some nylon areas for breathability. They lace up above the ankle to support you, while a side zipper allows you to easily put them on and remove them.

These lightweight boots can be worn comfortably all day long, thanks to an cushioned EVA midsole, mesh moisture wicking lining, and removable comfort footbed. These boots are reasonably priced, and look great in black or coyote. A great option for work, recreation, and every day wear.

6. Belleville TR960ZWP KHYBER Lightweight Waterproof Side Zip Tactical Boot

If you spend a lot of time outdoors on rough terrain, the Belleville TR960ZWP Khyber Tactical Boot has everything you need to perform under the most trying conditions.

They feature petroleum, oil, and lubricant resistant Vibram soles, originally used in mountaineering footwear to replace leather soles with steel cleats. With tread that extends over the toe of the boot, you will get unbeatable traction in even the slipperiest conditions.

Truly waterproof, a Gore-Tex bootie lines the inside of the boot, maintaining a comfortable temperature and allowing the foot to stay dry and breath at the same time.

The laces come down to the toes and go up above the ankle of the leather and nylon shaft, so you can control the fit. A side zipper lets you quickly take the boot off and helps you get it on.

Beyond the traction and lacing systems, further support comes from the field grade molded heel counter that locks the heel safely into position. On top of it all, unbeatable comfort is provided by the overlasted EVA midsole that absorbs and dissipates shock and stress on the foot, along with a TR-1 high performance insert that supports the arch all day long.

These boots come in black and are perfect for hiking, hunting, and serving in the mountains and other treacherous terrain. You can’t beat the mid-range price for the high quality you get, making these truly some of the best tactical boots.

7. Best for Police Officers: Maelstrom Men’s Tac Force Military Tactical Work Boots

The cheapest boot on this list still offers a full range of desirable features, and every purchase supports the Boot Campaign to help veterans and military families.

Maelstrom’s Tac Force Military Tactical Work Boots come in black or tan nylon and leather uppers. The full-grain leather can be shined for a professional presentation, important in law enforcement, security, and military jobs. The rubber sole is durable and provides traction on all terrain, although it is not recommended for surfaces exposed to oils, such as the floors of restaurants.

The EVA midsole has a nylon shank that absorbs shock and returns energy back to the foot to help prevent foot fatigue. A removable padded insert provides further shock absorption and comfort. The boot is lined with moisture wicking fabric that helps the foot breath.

The boots lace up just above the ankle, with comforting tongue and collar padding, and have a very sturdy zipper for easy take off and put on. This is the best tactical boot for walking long distances.

8. 5.11 Tactical ATAC Men’s 8-Inch Leather Jungle Combat Military Coyote Boots, Style 12110

A true combat boot, the 5.11 Tactical ATAC Leather Jungle Combat Military Coyote Boots, Style 12110 are built to American military standards without imitation materials, for quality and safety.

Genuine leather lends durability to these rugged boots, for years of wear. The high cut of the shaft allow the laces to be tightened above and around the ankle for supportive protection, with an easy on/off zipper on the side. These boots provide ultimate breathability with a mesh tongue, in addition to other areas of mesh around the shaft, for maximum air flow.

The rubber outsole is slip and oil resistant, with deep treads for gripping a wide variety of surfaces. The full length dual density insole features Ortholite X25 foam on the bottom for cushioning rebound, and a top layer of Ortholite Lazy Recovery foam that conforms to your feet, for all-day comfort.

Both colors, black or coyote brown, have a hidden knife pocket, making these affordable boots your ally, whether you are battling the elements, or fighting a war.

9. Thorogood Men’s 8-Inch Side Zip Jump Boot Gen-Flex

Thorogood is a trusted brand in boots of every variety, and the same goes for their tactical boots, which are made in the USA. These are the most expensive boots on the list, but the quality is a match.

For starters, the boot’s upper is 100 percent genuine, oil-tanned leather, with a high shine toe cap and heel counter for a luxurious appearance. There is no nylon or other textiles on the exterior of the boot’s upper, providing you with unmatched durability, along with Goodyear storm welt construction.

The rubber outsole is non-marking and slip resistant. The compression molded EVA midsole has a gel heel insert and a nylon shank for shock absorption, coupled with an EVA cushion flex footbed for lasting comfort.

The spacer mesh lining provides excellent breathability. The shaft of the boot laces up ankle high and features a side entry zipper to get the boots on and off without having to fuss with the laces every time.

The Thorogood Gen-Flex Jump Boot is a hard working boot for hard workers, available in black.

10. Danner Men’s Lookout Side Zip 8-Inch Black Military and Tactical Boot

The Danner’s Lookout Military and Tactical Boot durability, comfort, and support that is considered best-in-class, thanks to the new Danner comfort system, at a mid-range price. Danner is another trusted brand that has been known for the durability and the support of their footwear, and now Danner raises the bar delivering superior comfort.

The upper is constructed from polishable, full-grain leather, and rip stop ballistic nylon, available only in black. The rubber outsole is slip resistant and delivers quality traction.

The boot is waterproof, and it is also lined with a waterproof Danner dry liner that wicks moisture away from the foot to keep it dry in any weather condition.

A patent-pending dual density footbed allows maximum ventilation underneath the foot, and comfortable cushioning, all in one. A molded “Airthotic” instep cups the heel and supports the arch, for outstanding stability. The shaft of the boot laces up to the ankle for extra support, with an easy access side zipper for quicker put on and take off.

A wider toe box aids in the alleviation of the break in process some styles of Danner are known for. The Danner Lookout Boot, however, is one of the best tactical boots, thanks to its’ thoughtful features and comfort right out of the box and beyond.

 

11. Danner Men’s Acadia 8″ Boot

The Danner Men’s Acadia Boots are not inexpensive; prices start at $290 and can go up to $350 in most online retail stores. However, for this price, you can get high quality tactical boots that deliver superb performance.

The Danner Men’s Acadia Boots are made with 100% leather and cordura. Because of the use of high quality materials, it is expected to be durable enough to last for a long time. The choice of materials also gives it a snug fit. And while they are marketed as police boots, they are suitable for a wide range of purposes and various conditions. 

The sophisticated GORE-TEX lining ensures that it is 100% waterproof. Thus, it is the perfect choice of tactical boots under wet conditions. It achieves waterproof performance without compromising on breathability. The material is chosen specifically to let sweat and any kind of moisture to escape easily. 

The rubber compound on the Danner Men’s Acadia boots is also one of its best features. It provides great stability whether you are walking on dry or wet surfaces. It is also certified with a non-metallic safety toe so your feet are protected from any impact.

12. Best For Women: BATES GX-8 SIDE ZIP GORE-TEX

If you are looking for mid-priced tactical boots that do not compromise quality, make sure to consider Bates GX-8 Side Zip GORE-TEX Tactical Boots. With a starting price of $139, you can get side zip boots that are made of 70% leather and 30% nylon.

The GORE-TEX membrane is the primary feature of the Bates GX-8 Boots. This is a breathable yet waterproof material that can withstand any weather. It also comes with a moisture-wicking lining that delivers all-day comfort for your feet. 

The side zipper closure makes it easy to put on and off. Meanwhile, it is integrated with a removable cushioned insert to absorb the impact of every step and to cushion the blow of hard surfaces. The outsole is also designed for tactical use. It is not just durable but is slip-resistant, too. 

This pair of tactical boots is made with a non-metallic composite toe for added protection. The EVA midsole provides an extra dose of comfort while keeping your boots lightweight. 

13. Best For active duty: Danner Men’s Tachyon 8” GTX Duty Boot

The Tachyon GTX Duty Boot for men is another entry from Danner in this list of the best tactical boots in the market. Made with leather and nylon, this is a lightweight tactical boot that is designed for warm weather use. 

The upper material is made with nylon and large fabric panels. This is to ensure that the boots remain highly breathable. The high stress points for the boots are also integrated with leather reinforcements to ensure durability. The lack of any bulky installations keeps this pair of boots tight-fitting and lightweight.

The minimalist construction comes with a Gore-Tex lining that gives it a waterproof quality. It also comes with a speed lace fastening system to ensure a snug fit. To complete the list of features that you can enjoy with this boot, it is also integrated with a slip-resistant rubber outsole. This provides superior contact on any surfaces – wet or dry.

14. Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military

Built for law enforcement and other extreme applications, the Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Boots belong on this list. This tactical boot is synonymous to outstanding quality. It is also lauded in the market for its fine attention to detail that gives it high functionality. 

The Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Boots comes with a PU breathable foot bed and EVA insole. These two features ensure that you can expect unsurpassed comfort. You can also expect it to withstand any environment with its use of zero optical hardware on its instep. 

The well-constructed rubber outsole increases the slip resistance of this pair of boots. It has a good tread capacity so that you won’t have to worry about any kind of surface. If speed is necessary, these lightweight and high-tactical boots are not going to slow you down. Thus, you can rely on it for any job – whether you are standing all day or moving at a fast pace. 

The upper construction of the T8 Bifida Tactical Boots is also well done. It offers breathability with its use of quick-drying materials.

15. TACTICAL RESEARCH TR Men’s Mini-Mil TR105 Minimalist Combat Boot

The Mini-Mil TR105 Combat Boots from Tactical Research is one of the best tactical boots in the market. With prices of up to $150 in most online retailers, you can get extreme reliability for a duty boot with this one. 

The Tactical Research TR Men’s Mini-Mil TR105 Boots delivers in terms of comfort and quality. It is made with unlined cattlehide leather and Cordura nylon. This ensures that you can enjoy a barely-there fit. And yet, it does not compromise protection and support such that it can prevent injury.

In terms of design, the Mini-Mil TR105 Boots feature a minimalist yet athletic design. It is recommended for a high-mobility job made possible by the 2mm difference between the heels and forefoot. The midsole cushions help to absorb impact to reduce foot pain and to ensure equal weight distribution.

The outsole is made of Vibram Tarsus material so it offers maximum protection from slips so you can conquer any surface. Finally, it is a lightweight boot so nothing can hold you back.

16. Adidas Men’s GSG-9.3 Tactical Boot

The Adidas Men’s GSG-9.3 Tactical Boot is another one worthy of your consideration when shopping for the best tactical boots. Designed to be combat-boot tough and a fast-paced tactical operation, it has all the features you need.

It is made with textile and leather upper for extreme durability. It comes with suede overlays to give additional protection to your feet from any type of weather conditions or environments. The step-in cushioning not only provides comfort and shock-absorption for your feet, it also ensures breathability. 

The Ortholite sockliner that is integrated into the Adidas Men’s GSG-9.3 Tactical Boot is designed to limit odor. You won’t have to worry about sweat or excess moisture being trapped inside the shoe. For additional protection, it features the high-abrasion resistant ADITUFF insert so your arch area is free from pain or injury. 

17. RYNO GEAR 4.5″ Coolmax Tactical Combat Boots

Featuring a blend of leather and ballistic nylon, the RYNO Gear Coolmax Tactical Boots is one of the best out there. It is a good option for those in a budget as each pair costs approximately $55. It is available in two color options: beige and coyote.

The choice of materials for this tactical boot offers comfort and durability. Thus, it is designed to last a long time with proper care and maintenance. The padded collar delivers additional protection for your feet, especially when dealing with extreme conditions.

The contrast stitching details provide a unique touch to these boots. Aside from a stylish design, the breathable mesh lining brings all-day comfort for your feet. It helps to dry out excess moisture effectively so your feet can stay comfortable. The removable insoles are shock-absorbent so it does a great job of relieving pressure off of your feet. 

18. 5.11 Tactical Men’s Union Waterproof 6-Inch Work Boots

The 5.11 Tactical Men’s Union Waterproof Boots lands on this list of the best tactical boots in the market. The design of the boots makes them look like a pair of well-built hiking boots. There are four color options to suit your preference: burnt, flint, dark coyote, and black.

The price range for the 5.11 Tactical Men’s Union Boots is anywhere from $105 to $166. For this price, you can get a pair of boots that are made with a premium leather construction. It combines suede and nylon as materials. The durable construction ensures that they can handle the wear and tear of heavy use.

The addition of a side zipper makes it easy to put them on and take off, as needed. The multi-terrain treads on the 5.11 Tactical Men’s Union Boots offer slip and oil resistance. The round toe and high cut design are integrated to give it a classic look and style. 

If you are looking for a pair of tactical boots suited for multi-purpose wear, then look no further than this.

19. Carhartt Men’s 8″ Rugged Flex Insulated Waterproof Breathable Soft Toe Work Boot

Carhartt is a name that is one of the most reliable manufacturers of high quality work boots. Thus, it comes as no surprise that the Rugged Flex Waterproof Boots from the brand made it to this list. The price for these boots starts at $130 and can go up as high as $243.

Made from 100% leather materials, the Carhartt Men’s 8” Rugged Flex Boots is made for an all-weather performance. It is recommended for an active job site because of the maximum impact resistance. These rugged tactical boots are made for any condition – rain or shine.

The durability of the Rugged Flex boots starts with its insulated, waterproof design. This helps to keep your feet warm and dry even when trudging wet conditions or surfaces. It also comes with a flexible, rubber outsole so you can expect good grip on any terrain. 

The resilient EVA cushioning of the Carhartt Men’s 8” Rugged Flex Boots ensure your feet are protected. For additional protection, it also comes with a composite toe that meets ASTM 2413-18 standards. 

20. Best outdoors: Lowa Men’s Zephyr Mid TF Hiking Boot

To complete this list of the best tactical boots in the market, there is the Lowa Men’s Zephyr Mid TF Hiking Boot. It is a rugged, multi-functional duty boot with a starting price of $177. 

The upper material is split grain leather. Meanwhile, it comes with a moisture-wicking polyester lining. The lacing system is made with fabric loops and open hooks for ease of use.

The rubber sole is a standard for heavy-duty boots such as this so that it can deliver maximum grip on any surface. The good thing about this pair of boots is that it stays comfortable and breathable even when it is designed for maximum performance. 

It has a soft stabilizer so you can get good alignment without compromising comfort. For additional support, the midsole is made with injected monowrap. Every pair is adequately lightweight so you can expect durability without it slowing you down. 

— 5 Points you must consider for selecting your next tactical boots! —

The best tactical boots will have all of the following features for protecting your feet in demanding conditions and response situations, and will hold up despite the heavy demands placed on them by service members, law enforcement officers, hunters, hikers, explorers, and every one in between. The best tactile boots provide comfort, support, durability, as well as weatherproofing and safety features.

 

1. Waterproofing

Tactical boots are worn in places that can have unpredictable weather, or weather that is predictably harsh. If you are trying to buy a pair of tactical boots, chances are you are planning to deal with sand, rain, snow, mud, or all of the above.

The best tactical boots will be completely waterproof. These boots often have waterproof uppers with additional waterproof liners inside, which keep water from getting in, and wick away sweat, so your feet stay completely dry, comfortable, and healthy. Further, waterproof boots can be easily cleaned without worrying about water getting inside and causing unpleasant odors to develop.

Gusseted tongues can help to keep water and other debris out. This is especially important if you are dealing with sandy terrain. The material that the boot is constructed from should further protect from the heat of sand and sun.

2. Comfort

Most people who wear tactical boots are on their feet all day, or all night, long. Walking great distances, either indoors or outdoors make comfort a top priority in the best tactical boots.

Anti-fatigue technology found in many tactical boots returns energy to the feet to keep them from feeling tired during lengthy treks. Look for EVA midsoles that contain a nylon or steel shank for shock absorption and comfort, with excellent rebound, great when running and jumping are required.

Insoles have a variety of features, including memory foam, arch support, and ventilation, to keep your feet feel physically comfortable and comfortably cool when on the move. Many have an orthotic design for lasting comfort, day after day.

Extra padding along a boot’s tongue and collar can give a better feeling against the leg of high cut boot shafts. Advanced lacing systems allow you to control how snug you want your boots, for a comfortable fit.

3. Support

When you need to respond quickly, you need great support, otherwise someone else will need to respond to you and your broken ankle. The best tactical boots will deliver the best possible support.

High cut boots that come up over the ankle can be tightened with laces to hug the ankle and foot for ultimate support. Many styles have a side zipper so you can get the boots on and off quickly without having to struggle with the laces after you’ve tied them to your perfect, supportive fit.

The heel counter of some boots acts to lock the heel into position for protection from the rolling and twisting that can cause injury. Arch support is also important so that the foot doesn’t fatigue, causing you to have poorer control of your foot muscles.

4. Durability

The best tactical boots should last through intense, repeated use in harsh conditions. When you’re stuck in the jungle, or up on a mountain, you can’t just run out a buy a new pair of boots when yours gets a hole or comes apart.

Genuine leather is known to be highly durable and can withstand subjection to harsh conditions over the years. Full leather uppers should last you, but many tactical boots are made of mixed materials, for breathability and lighter weight. If textiles are used in the boots you select, make sure that they are durable. Look for ballistic nylons that feature waterproofing.

The construction of the boot should be expertly crafted. Goodyear storm welt technology can help keep boots from coming apart. Some outsoles and other boot materials are treated to be abrasion resistant, for lasting durability.

5. Safety

Safety must be a component of the best tactical boots, no questions asked. One of the main safety features of tactical boots is built into the foundation.

Rubber soles not only provide electrical hazard protection, the are also slip resistant. Rubber soles can also be treated to be oil resistant. Soles that are petroleum, oil, and lubricant resistant will provide traction on the slipperiest surfaces. Thick treads with innovative patterns will grip, even on gravel.

If you need added protection, metal or composite toe caps can deliver it.