Top 10 Best Correctional Officer Boots for 2020

Working in the law enforcement industry, such as a correctional officer, entails a unique set of challenges. The general notion is that protective equipment is a must. While this is important, protection is often focused solely on the upper body – arms and torso. It is equally important to protect your feet as part of your job in the correctional department facility. Not only do you spend most of your time on your feet, but you must also protect your feet from injury. It goes without saying that choosing quality footwear that can withstand the challenges of your job is something that must be given attention to. 

How to Choose Correctional Officer Boots

When shopping around for shoes to wear as a correctional officer, there are a few considerations to make to ensure you have the right pair. To put it simply, you need a pair that is both durable and practical given the challenges of this work environment. At the same time, it should be comfortable to wear, especially if you work on longer shifts.

The first thing you need to look for is a boot with a steel toe on the forefront. This feature is vital because you want to protect your toes from injuries at the workplace. In addition to the steel toe feature, you must also look at the outsole area of the boots. It needs to have a good grip so you can get good traction on slippery surfaces.

Another important consideration when buying boots as a correctional officer is the heel and foot curve area. Make sure you get adequate protection in these parts of your foot. Since you will be standing for several hours or walking down the correctional isles throughout the day, the right pair of shoes can keep your feet comfortable and protected.

Finally, select a pair of shoes that is suited for your unique arch type. Whether you have arched or flat soles, the right pair will ensure you are comfortable and have the right amount of cushion as support. On top of that, durability should not be compromised. Just like any other work boots, a durable pair can give you more longevity with its use and more value out of your money.

Top 10 Best Correctional Officer Boots of 2020

To help you find the right pair of boots to wear as a correctional officer, check out this list of the top 10 models that are available in the market for you to choose from. Take note of the features, as well as the pros and cons, for your consideration before making a decision.

1. Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS Side Zip Military and Tactical Boot

The Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS Boot is one of the best options in the market for correctional officers. Made from synthetic leather and textile upper, this boot is constructed with abrasion-resistant film that is attached to the entire perimeter of the foot. Therefore, you can expect that the boot is not only durable but that it can keep your feet protected from outdoor elements.

One of the most distinctive features of this Under Armour boot is the use of UA ClutchFit technology. This particular technology is designed so that the boots will wrap around the ankle and you will feel comfortable wearing the shoes like a “second skin”. It will feel incredible and you can get an adequate amount of support. This also allows you to focus on your job and let the shoes do its job.

Also an interesting feature that is worth mentioning is the full-length Micro Gfoam cushion that is integrated into this boot. This cushion provides a tremendous amount of support so that it can absorb even the most explosive takeoffs. As a bonus, you can get the right amount of rigidity, thanks to the lightweight TPU shank. The memory foam top and the PU base provide the right balance of sturdy construction and comfort for your feet. Meanwhile, the TPU toe cap ensures that your toes are protected from injuries.

2. Bates Men’s GX-8 Gore-Tex Waterproof Side Zip Boot

Bates Men’s GX-8 Gore-Tex Waterproof Boots make the cut for the best boots in the market for correctional officers. This boot is made from 70% leather and 30% nylon along with a rubber sole. This combination of materials was designed so that the boot is built for durability and performance – exactly what you need in a boot used for this type of workplace.

Aside from being waterproof, the Bates GX-8 Boot is also breathable, thanks to the GORE-TEX membrane. This material guarantees that your feet stay dry and warm at the same time. It can stand up to any weather so you can use it all throughout the year. It is complemented with a moisture wicking lining that ensures no moisture can accumulate on your feet for all-day comfort.

The side zip on/off closure type is another interesting feature for this boot. It makes it easy to put on and take off at the end of the day. This is a signature style that is available on all GX-8 models. Meanwhile, the outsole is durable, tactical, and slip-resistant. It also comes with deep lugs so you can use it on any surface or environment without compromising protection on your feet. The cement construction is just a bonus that gives it added durability and longevity, giving more bang for your buck.

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

The Original S.W.A.T. Men’s Metro Air Boot is another option available for those in search of the best correctional officer boots in the market. The brand takes pride in its ability to deliver shoes that can meet the level of performance required in your line of work. You do not have to compromise because this boot understands the level of excellence that you require and so they have chosen the best materials for this. At the same time, the shoe model has undergone years of testing from professionals to ensure that it is the best pair for the job.

As part of the Metro series, this boots is designed for the urban jungle and can survive the toughest work surfaces. It features the series’ unique ‘air’ technology that serves as a cushioning support system for your feet. The Original SWAT is a family of uniform boots that are recommended for use by correctional officers, as well as airport and security personnel. For this reason, the shoes are built with non-metallic components so you can focus on the task at hand with much ease.

The boot is made with full grain leather and nylon construction. It has also received the ASTM F2913-11 Slip Resistance Certification; thus, you can ensure that this boot has the right amount of traction and grip to keep you safe. At the same time, the YKK side zipper closure makes it easy to put on and take off at the end of your shift.

Whether you are looking for a boot that delivers performance on the job or one that can keep your feet comfortable and well-supported, you got all bases covered with this one.

4. Danner Men’s Acadia 8″ Boot

When shopping for the best correctional officer boots, add this to your list: Danner Men’s Acadia boot. This boot is made with 100% leather and cordura materials so you can get durability and a textural detail on them. This is a tall boot so you can also get adequate protection on your ankles. As for the platform itself, it measures at about ¾ of an inch so you can get enough cushion from the surface.

Speaking of cushion, this boot comes with a Vibram sole that is noted for its support and quality. You can lessen the impact on every step with this type of sole material, allowing you to wear this without feeling any pain whatsoever even if you spend hours on your feet. The boot also comes with a breathable and waterproof Gore-Tex lining. This is an industry standard for those looking for a pair of boots that are comfortable and that will keep your feet dry.

On top of the great features that make it a high performance boot, Danner Men’s Acadia boots is also stylish. It boasts of a sleek and slender profile and comes with a narrow fit. This is by design so that the boot offers a snug fit so you won’t have to worry about it coming off loose when doing intense activities. Since the boots are constructed by a trusted name in Danner, you can guarantee that it has been tested for quality.

5. 5.11 Tactical ATAC Men’s 8″ Leather Jungle Combat Military Coyote Boots

The 5.11 Tactical men’s boots is one of the most affordable boots in the market that are recommended for correctional officers. The boots’ exterior material is a combination of leather and fabric. Therefore, you can expect the durability of leather and the resiliency of fabric. It comes with a synthetic sole and a tall boot design that measures 8 inches from the shaft.

This boot is engineered specifically to meet the demands of a law enforcement job. Hence, it is not just suited for correctional officers but can also be relied on by tactical operators and military personnel. This boot comes with a side zip closure for easy wearability. It also features a military look with its design that boasts of a full leather grain toe, nylon upper, and a high-shine polish.

This boot is engineered with the 5.11 shock mitigation system and a cushioned insole. These features combine to ensure that there is less pressure and impact on your feet when wearing these boots on any surface. It also comes with toe reinforcement for additional protection from injuries on the job. Indeed, you cannot find a better pair of boots within this price range that combines reliability, comfort, and ruggedness in one package.

6. Thorogood Men’s Gen-flex2 Series 8″ Tactical Side Zip Jump Boot

The Thorogood Men’s Gen-flex2 Series Boots is a 100% leather boot with a rubber outsole. It is recommended by experts as one of the best correctional officer boots because it is designed with tactical operators and law enforcers in mind. This pair is sold at a mid-range budget so it gives more value for your money, especially when you are looking for quality and performance.

Available in black, the Gen-flex2 Series Tactical Boots is integrated with high-shine polished toe cap for protection from injuries. It is also equipped with a heel counter for added support and protection. The removable single-density polyurethane footbed delivers comfort all day. Hence, you won’t have to worry about hurting your feet even when you have to stand for long hours during your shift. The composite shank and GEN-flex2 outsole are bonus features that deliver better traction and slip-resistant capabilities. If you want more value for your money, this boot is made with a Goodyear welt construction so it is extremely durable.

The brand has been around since 1892 when it was known as Weinbrenner Shoe Company. Since then, the brand has evolved and yet one thing remains: it is a pioneering force in the industry and is noted as one of the top shoe manufacturers in the world.

7. Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Size Zip Boots

The Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach Tactical Boots is another budget-friendly option for those shopping for a correctional officer boot. Available at less than $100, this tactical boot is made with a leather material and rubber outsole. It is no surprise why this pair has made this list as the Smith & Wesson Footwear Company is noted for delivering outstanding quality and attention to detail when it comes to shoes manufacturing. They have set the standard when it comes to integrating price, quality, and durability in one.

The leather and nylon construction on the Breach 2.0 Tactical Boots ensure that it is tough enough to handle any type of work environment. The choice of materials guarantees that your feet are protected while also bringing comfort as you do your job. Speaking of comfort, there are more features available on this pair that can deliver that. An example of that is the EVA midsole that act as a cradle for your feet. It is complemented with the steel shank that provides added support so you won’t suffer from foot fatigue due to the rigidity of the shoes.

Another excellent feature of this boots that makes it ideal for use by a correctional officer is the slip resistant outsole. Made from rubber materials, it is designed to minimize traction loss so you can expect a good grip no matter what surface you are treading on. And finally, and as already pointed out above, it is affordable. The budget-friendly price belies the fact that it is made with premium materials and a solid construction that you can depend on.

8. Rocky Men’s Rkc050 Military and Tactical Boot

In your search for the best correctional officer boots, make sure to include the Rocky Men’s Rkc050 boot among your list of options. While this one is a bit on the higher end of the price range, it has plenty to offer to make it a worthwhile choice. These boots are made in the US and uses 100% leather materials. It is available in coyote brown color.

This tall boot is built for tough work environments so you can expect it to get the job done when you wear it on site as a correctional officer. Even when it is engineered for tough conditions, it is comfortable to wear all day long. This is one of few boots in the market that are uniform-compliant; this means that it has been approved for use in tactical and military environments.

The construction of Rocky Men’s Rkc050 boots is made with water-resistant leather and 1,000-denier CORDURA. It is also constructed with nylon so you can expect it to be flame-resistant, as well. There are drainage vents integrated into the design so that it allows adequate air circulation making your feet dry and comfortable at all times. These boots are triple-stitched so you can be confident that it is durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of your job. As it comes with a Vibram sole and the patented Rocky Air-Port footbed cushion, you can expect superior support and comfort.

9. Bates Men’s 8″ Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot

Are you looking for a correctional officer boot that combines affordability with reliable performance? Look no further than Bates Men’s Ultralite Boots. Available in black and coyote, this is one of the best options available for those who want to squeeze more value out of their money.

The boots’ upper and exterior materials are a blend of 70% leather and 30% nylon. The leather gives it superior performance so that it can stand even the toughest work conditions. On the other hand, the nylon makes it extra resilient so that it can withstand wear and tear of your work environment. One of the most notable features of the Bates Men’s Ultralite Boot is the DRYGUARD waterproof technology. This proprietary technology provides your boots with a waterproof membrane that is breathable at the same time. For this reason, you can be confident that your feet will stay dry and at the same time comfortable enough as it allows adequate air circulation.

For practical purposes, the side zip is an intuitive feature that makes it easy to put on and take off at the end of the day. And as the name implies, the boots are lightweight so that you can expect all-day comfort. It also comes with a rubber outsole that is slip-resistant. This gives you better traction on any kind of surface. The addition of a non-metallic composite toe delivers added protection and safety.

10. Corcoran Men’s 10 Inch PR Marauder Work Boot

Be confident to face what’s ahead when you have the Corcoran Men’s PR Marauder Work Boot. It is recognized as one of the top correctional officer boots in the market since it is packed with features that can keep up with the demand of your job.

Made with 100% leather, this pair of work boots features a 3 ribbed shank and synthetic sole. It is also lined with moisture-wicking materials so your feet can stay comfortable and well-ventilated. The stainless steel bottom plate ensures that your feet are protected against any form of punctures, which is a risk entailed with the job of correctional officers. At the same time, it comes with a leather toe cap so your toes are protected from injuries due to impact.

It also comes with a superior fit and a lace system for ease when putting them on or taking them off.