Top 10 Best Combat Boots & Military Footwear in 2020

Combat boots are one of the most essential pieces of gear, whether you are military, fire service, industrial worker or just heading into the outdoors, you want a reliable pair of boots that will see you through all weather and all terrain. It can literally make the difference when you are out there in the field, for hours and hours.

But when it comes to choosing the right pair of combat boots, it can be tough to know where to start – you want comfort, durability, great features and ideal design.
And there are so many models out there, all claim to be the best – So what should you choose?

In order to help you find the perfect boot, we did a comprehensive and in-depth research, which took into account comfort, durability, safety features and construction.

Top 10 Best Combat Boots  (Updated March 2020)

So, we’ve rated the best combat boots and military footwear for 2020, to help you find the perfect pair. Without further ado, here are the top 10 for 2020

1. Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military

Although its name might not sound familiar, Garmont is one of the best known companies for making very high quality boots, so no wonder It tops our list!

Offering the highest quality of durable nylon webbing and Vibram technology, these military boots have been unbeaten for comfort and performance in some of the harshest terrains in in the world. With a PU Breathable Footbed and EVA insole, they will protect your feet in all conditions throughout the longest assignments.

With excellent ventilation and quick drying materials, the Men’s T8 Bifida’s will not disappoint. Designed with slip-proof rubber soles and high-quality tread, they are a popular choice for those visiting extreme wet climates.

Renowned for being one of the most classic brands of Military Footwear, Garmont are famous for their comfort, durability, safety and design.

2. Oakley Men’s Light Assault Boot 2

The Oakley Light Assault Boots are built with the mobility of the wearer in mind. Designed with plus shock absorption in the outsole and an EVA midsole that moves naturally with foot at each movement, these boots will provide comfort throughout the longest of days.

The synthetic upper of the assault boot is made from a lightweight Cordura, allowing breathability and ventilation for hot, damp climates. The nylon laces provide stability and security, with Lace-Lock system to keep the laces in place no matter what the conditions.

The Oakley Men’s Light Assault Boots are AR670-1 Compliant and designed to be long-lasting and durable.

With the Oakley name to them, these boots are a popular choice, boasting their hard-wearing construction and practical features.

3. RYNO GEAR Tactical Combat Boots with Coolmax Lining

Made from a quality blend of leather and ballistic nylon, these tactical combat boots are the perfect combination of comfort and resilience.

The breathable mesh lining ensures breathability and airflow in all weathers and conditions, and the slip-resistant outsole provides security and stability amongst the toughest of terrains.

These combat boots also sport removable shock-absorbent insoles, so you can tailor your boots to your needs and preferences. The water-resistant inner lining offers extra protection against the elements for those in in wetter climates.

For that extra slice of comfort, these boots feature a padded collar, and a high-quality finish with contract stitching detail. Side zippers matched with Velcro straps provide extra security and support for your feet to help prevent injury or discomfort.

A popular choice due to the extensive features and slick design, these combat boots are highly rated.

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

The Original S.W.A.T Tactical Boots are the perfect design for those long shifts on concrete pavements and asphalt. Popular amongst those working in law enforcement and security, these tactical boots are made with only non-metallic materials, with an x-ray friendly side zip to stay hassle-free and an airport friendly nylon shank to provide lightweight support and fatigue control.

The outer boot is made from a nylon and leather combination, and a double stitched upper using 3 ply bonded nylon thread to ensure durability and long-lasting wear. The sole is fully leather, providing comfort and support during those extended periods of standing.

The Original S.W.A.T Tactical boots also feature a visible heel air cell for impact absorption, offering additional cushioning and reducing the risk of injury to the feet, ankles and calves. The Custom-moulded phylon EVA midsole also ensures extra comfort for the wearer, and cradled support around the foot and ankle.

The top-quality and out-standing smart design makes these a popular choice for workers since they feature polishable leather toes – style and appearance need not be compromised.

These tactical boots provide style, substance, durability and comfort, and continue to be one of the best-selling tactical boots around.

5. Bates Men’s Cobra Jungle Coyote Tactical Jungle Boot

Bates Men’s Cobra Tactical jungle boots are made with high quality abrasion-resistant, flesh-out cattle hide leather and nylon combination, guaranteeing a hard-wearing and durable pair of footwear. The medial and lateral leather comes perforated for comfort and breathability in those hot climates, whilst protecting you from the elements.

The full rubber sole provides the extra cushion and support needed for long-lasting adventures and features multi-terrain rubber lug outsole – these tactical boots really do have you covered.

The shaft measure approximately 8.5 inches from the arch, combined with nylon ankle reinforcement for added support and reducing the chance of injury.

The Bates Men’s Cobra Jungle Coyote Tactical Boot is a fine piece of craftmanship, and with an anti-fatigue endurance performance system built within the design, is certainly a popular and reliable choice amongst those looking for a reliable, hardy piece of gear.

6. TACTICAL RESEARCH TR Men’s Khyber TR550 8″ Lightweight Mountain Hybrid Boot

Whether you are looking for boots to scale mountainous terrain or along asphalt roads, the Tactical Research TR Men’s Khyber TR550 Lightweight Mountain Hybrid Boot will certainly have you covered.

Made with 100% cattle-hide leather and nylon fabric, this boot is the definition of durable, with an 8-inch standard military height sole to ankle upper.

These boots feature a highly cushioned, shock absorbent midsole and 100% exclusive Vibram Ibex outsole, designed specifically for tough to handle rugged terrain, designed to enhance and improve performance every step of the way.

The low-profile is created to reduce weight and improve mobility, and features deeply serrated vertical toe bumper aids, for the ease of the wearer when climbing and crawling. Sharp angled lugs are also in the design to help maximise traction. Also included is a TR-1 loadbearing orthotic insole to increase comfort and prevent injury.

With the extensive features and outstanding attention to detail, the design of these mountain tactical research boots really is one to beat.

7. Reebok Work Duty Men’s Rapid Response RB RB8874 8″ Tactical Boot

The Reebok Work Duty Men’s Rapid Response Tactical Boot are athletically inspired and provide a superior, high performance boot for those working in military personnel, law enforcement and tactical units.

Made with 100% leather and synthetic sole, these tactical boots meet ASTM F2413-11 safety standards and are fully airport friendly and offer electrical hazard protection.

The athletic design offers wearers a foot force footbed, providing complete comfort and support, whilst also featuring an XTR Branch Extra Wide Composite Safety Toe Cap. The design of these boots has everything covered to meet your safety and performance needs.

The shaft measures approximately 8-inches from the arch, offering full ankle support, shock eliminator heel cushion for complete comfort and 8-inch side zipper for easy wear.

The extensive features and attention to detail in the design of these tactical boots ensures enhanced performance and long-last wear for those seeking an all-round ideal design piece of gear.

8. Magnum Men’s Elite Spider 8.0 Boot

Perfect for those working in the hot, dry, climates, the Magnum Men’s Elite Spider 8.0 Boots are made with durable suede and denier nylon uppers and built with a lightweight vertical build waterproof system.

Mesh inlays provide ventilation and breathability, alongside a full moisture-wicking lining, allowing the regulation of temperatures to be consistent throughout wear. A well-cushioned tongue and roomy toe box ensure complete comfort and support during any long-lasting trek, a design well thought out with the wearers needs in mind.

A compression-molded EVA midsole provides support along the arch of the foot, whilst a Vibram outsole ensures that no matter what the terrain you come across, you have the capacity to face it.

This high-performing boot has been designed with a full rubber sole, providing excellent traction in all conditions.

The Magnum Men’s Elite Spider 8.0 boot is a fantastic design for all wearers, no matter the terrain or destination, and has a long list of features that offer competition against any other tactical boot.

9. Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boot

This classic uniform boot is a reliable, durable piece of footwear, designed with practicality and quality in mind.

A traditional boot made with 100% full grain leather and Vibram sole, the Danner Men’s Recon Uniform Boot is designed with a 100% waterproof, GORE-TEX lining, and steady grip on all wet and dry surfaces.

This top-quality boot also features 200 grams of Thinsulate Ultra, for warmth in all climates and under all circumstances, whilst the Vibram Kletterlift outsole provides complete shock absorption and outstanding comfort is guaranteed with an Airthotic footbed and padded collar.

Easy clean leather and the stitch-down construction of these boots provide the opportunity for repairs and ongoing upkeep to extend the life of these fantastic quality boots, making them a firm favourite for those in the market for uniform boots.

10. Rocky Rkc050 Tactical Military Boot

The Rocky Rkc050 Tactical Military Boot is USA made footwear designed for the roughest conditions without compromising on comfort. It is not only an outstanding piece of footwear, made from 100% leather, hard-wearing rubber sole and 1,000-denier CORDURA nylon, but is also flame resistant, water resistant and designed with advance SV2 Sieve technology to feet stay cool and dry in all climates.

The Rocky S2V Military Boot is fully Uniform Compliant and approved for wear with applicable OCP Variations. With durable, triple stitching this boot will last through all weathers, and all terrains. Wicking Dri-Lex lining and Stretch Lycra ensures a snug fit that secures the feet and, whilst feeling breathable and light for the wearer. A Vibram sole and a fiberglass shank supports the arch of the foot and works to reduce potential ankle injuries too. The platform of the boot measures approximately 1 inch, and the shaft measures approximately 8.25 inches from the arch of the boot.

A pair of boots that will meet your performance needs, no matter the conditions, you will not be disappointed.

Combat Boots and Military Footwear: Buying Guide

There’s a lot to consider when buying military footwear or combat boots. Each brand has a different style, different features, and it can be tough to know where to start.

When it comes to buying military footwear or combat boots – whether it be your first time or your tenth – you want to make sure that the pair you choose meets your needs, and your requirements. Unlike trainers, chances are these will be the only pair of boots you buy, ideally, for a long time. So, you need to make sure you get it right.

We’re going to look at the different features that military footwear and combat boots can offer, what you need to look for, and what you want to avoid.

Comfort

Never underestimate the importance of comfort when buying a pair of military boots. They can have all the awesome features going, but if they aren’t comfortable you aren’t going to want to wear them.

Of course, there are numerous things to consider when deciding whether a boot will be comfortable to wear, such as, what are you going to be wearing them for? Somebody buying police uniform boots for example, may have a different requirement than somebody else buying boots for a military stint in the desert. Cushioning, ankle support, flexibility, ankle height, are all elements of comfort that will vary from brand to brand, and style to style. Take the time to consider the factors that would suit you and your needs before considering purchasing any military footwear or combat boots.

Safety features

Another important factor when purchasing military footwear or combat boots, is safety features. Again, this will depend on what you will be wearing them for. Certain safety features will be worth having but you will want to research the best pair with steel toe caps, electrical hazard protection and whether they are registered to meet certain standards of safety requirements depending on your line of work.

Construction

Certainly consider the way in which your boots have been constructed, as this will determine how long they will last, whether they will survive the demands of your usage, and hold up the demands under which you are going to require.

If you’re buying police uniform boots, and you work mainly in headquarters, your boots may not need to be as hard-wearing and durable as somebody who is buying boots for outdoor PT military training.

Consider the materials that the boots are made of, and always check if the boots you are buying come with warranty.

 

Additional features

Combat boots and military footwear will usually have additional features that may be worth looking into depending on what you will be using the boots for.

Anti-slip outsole is a fantastic feature that will generally benefit anybody that has the need for this type of footwear. A feature that is designed to minimise a common risk-factor of any worker is certainly one worth looking in to. Compare traction and grip on boots before purchasing and consider the terrain you will be frequenting most often.

Waterproofing and Water resistance is now a very common feature of military and combat style footwear. Of course, not many boots are 100% waterproof, as this often means compromising on other features such as flexibility and durability, however most people tend to buy a boot that offers at least some protection from the elements.

With this in mind, you might also want to consider boots that offer ventilation, breathability and fast-drying materials. It’s a fact universally known that damp feet is never pleasant, and so if you are using your boots in wet climates, you may choose to opt for something that you know will leave you at less risk of standing in wet boots.

Zipper or laces? Well, this is probably a personal preference, but how you secure yourself into your boots will certainly sway you on what style of boot you will go for. General advice is stick to your preference, if you will be removing your boots frequently, maybe consider side zippers, and if you go for laces – check the material, quality and eyelets on the boots too.