Best Tactical Boots Reviews [Updated 2019]

Special agents, law enforcement officers, and even physical workers make the world safer and all around better.

But, they can’t do their job well without the proper gears!

They need to have the best equipment and clothing, including the best tactical boots…and so do you!

Looking for the BEST Tactical Boots?

We have listed the 8 BEST Tactical Boots you can buy in 2018

Let’s take a quick look at what we recommend before we go into details:

These are the BEST tactical boots we looked at:

PLAN

Number

minutes

Price

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Mike's Top Choice

(The one we like the best)

5.11 A.T.A.C 8 Inches Men's Boot

Shock-absorbent with Shock Mitigation System

Flexible and Lightweight

Super Comfortable

Breathable, great for warm weather

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Cheapest Option

(Check current price down below)

Rhino Gear Tactical Combat Boots with Coolmax Lining(Beige)

Inexpensive and Durable

Comfortable

Lightweight and Flexible

Has Great Traction

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1. Smith & Wesson Footwear Men’s Breach 2.0
2. Ryno Gear Tactical Combat Boots with CoolMax Lining
3. Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS
4. Maelstrom Men’s LANDSHIP
5. Maelstrom Women’s TAC Force
6. Danner Men’s Tachyon
7. 5.11 ATAC 8 Inches Men’s Boot
8. 5.11 Tactical Women’s A.T.A.C. 8″ Boot

Here are the FULL reviews:

8 BEST Tactical Boots 2019

Mike’s Gear Reviews have come up with eight of the best tactical boots in the market, two of them are specifically made for women. Read on for their pros and cons, and maybe you can find the right pair for you. The specs and prices below are taken from Amazon unless stated otherwise.

Smith & Wesson Footwear Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Side Zip Boots – 8″

From the popular American manufacturer of firearms, the Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Side Zip Boots are the perfect companion for when you are brandishing your trusty Smith & Wesson rifle. These Vietnam-made law enforcement boots with lace-up design with zipper is as comfortable as it can get.

Pros and cons:

Specs:

• Smith & Wesson® Footwear – Known for outstanding quality and attention to fine detail. We’re proud to introduce a boot that sets a new standard for construction, durability and price. The Breach 2.0 is built upon years of top caliber manufacturing and industry experience.
• Tough – The leather and nylon construction is made to provide full protection without compromising on comfort. A gusseted tongue keeps dirt and debris out.
• Comfortable All Day – An EVA midsole gives lightweight comfort and cradled support, and for added support we used a steel shank. Board-lasted construction creates a torsional rigidity that reduces foot fatigue during long work shifts.
• Slip Resistance – The rubber outsole is engineered to minimize traction loss with an innovative pattern that grips dirt, waxed surfaces, fences and ladders, and anything the urban jungle can throw at you.
• Affordable – Breach 2.0 provides high quality construction at a budget-friendly price, giving you the best bang for your buck. No matter your trade, if you require footwear you can count on, the Breach 2.0 works hard like you do to outperform and outlast. Direct Premium Buys donate a portion of the proceeds to Operation First Response, a wounded-warrior charity.

There’s no question about the durability of these police shoes. If you need something sturdy while at the same time comfortable, these are what you are looking for. It is also waterproof and have great traction. You can chase the bad guys without any problem wearing this.

Keep in mind, though, that these have a steel shank so you would be able to pass through a metal detector unnoticed. The steel shank makes this inflexible but it’s for added support.

Ryno Gear Tactical Combat Boots with CoolMax Lining

Although this is the least popular brand on this list, the Ryno Gear Tactical Combat Boots could be in the running for the best tactical boots that we have. This China-made police boots have high quality construction, making them the perfect boots for everyone in the law enforcement or just for about everyone.

Pros and cons:

Specs:

• Free returns and 100% satisfaction guaranteed
• Features a combination of leather and ballistic nylon for comfort and durability, padded collar
• Contrast stitching detail
• Breathable mesh lining, slip-resistant rubber outsole for added grip, water-resistant inner lining
• Removable shock absorbent insoles for your comfort

These lightweight and comfortable police duty boots are all you need, if you don’t mind a lighter-colored footwear. These are flexible and has great traction, which are what you need if you are constantly out and about.

What these lack is waterproofing, though. They are everything that you need and expect from police boots, but they can soak in water. If you aren’t going to use them on wet environments, then you are getting a steal from these inexpensive shoes.

Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS

The Under Armour Men’s Valsetlz RTS is one of the pricier items here, but boy is it so comfortable! It’s a unanimous feedback, these are the best tactical boots in terms of comfortability. On that front, this Under Armour footwear has got it down pat.

Pros and cons:

Specs:

• Man-made/synthetic
• Imported
• Rubber sole
• Shaft measures approximately ankle-high from arch
• UA ClutchFit technology wraps your ankle with a lightweight “second skin” for powerful support & incredible feel
• Synthetic leather & textile upper with welded, abrasion-resistant film around the perimeter of the foot
• Full-length Micro G foam turns cushioned landings into explosive takeoffs
• Lightweight TPU shank for mid-foot support and the right amount of rigidity
• Molded Ortholite sockliner is designed with a memory foam top & PU base

One of the most comfortable shoes you would ever own, the Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS will give you fill ankle support with its ClutchFit technology that will wrap on your ankle snugly. These lace-up, made-in-China boots are warm enough for winter as well. For those in more humid climate, you may find that these can make your feet sweat a little because they are warm. Nevertheless, they have breathability in them so they aren’t suffocating. They are also lightweight, which means you will be truly comfortable for hours.

There are a few things that prevent these from being one of the best law enforcement boots, though. The first is the price. These are on the expensive side. Also, they aren’t waterproof. But again, if you don’t anticipate wearing them on wet scenarios, then they are good to go.

Maelstrom Men’s LANDSHIP 8-Inch Military Tactical Duty Work Boot with Zipper

We have two Maelstrom tactical boots on our list, the first one is designed for men. The LANDSHIP 8-Inch Military Tactical Work Duty Boot is another steal. It’s one of the cheaper-priced footwear here, and one of thebest law enforcement boot that you can own within the price range.

Pros and cons:

Specs:

• Leather and fabric
• Imported
• Rubber sole
• Polish-able leather and highly breathable air mesh upper. Breathable moisture-wicking lining. Slip, oil-resistant rubber outsole.
• Removable high performance shock-absorbent cushion insert for all day comfort. Padded collar and tongue for extra comfort.
• Lightweight, shock-absorbing molded midsole. Athletic cemented construction
• YKK heavy duty side zipper with closure for fast on and off. Composite shank for stability and support
• One year manufacturer warranty. Available in multiple colors

If you need police duty boots that have shock absorption, the Malestrom Men’s LANDSHIP is it. These China-made boots have removable cushioned insole with a shock-absorbing midsole, decreasing fatigue from your every step. They are also moisture-wicking, which means, as opposed to moisture-absorbing, your sweat will dry faster when the anti-bacterial lining fabric is exposed to air. Also, these shoes are breathable, which is a good combination with moisture-wicking. These are also lightweight shoes, which is always a plus.

Order one size larger than your normal one, though, because these run small. They aren’t waterproof as well, but as it is moisture-wicking, it’s near impossible for these to be waterproof as well.

Maelstrom Women’s TAC Force 8-Inch Military Tactical Duty Work Boot with Zipper

The second Maelstrom product that we are reviewing is the women’s version of the TAC Force. These lightweight law enforcement shoes are comfortable and breathable. Like the men’s LANDSHIP, they also have moisture-wicking and antibacterial lining.

Pros and cons:

Specs:

• Leather and fabric
• Imported
• Rubber sole
• Shaft measures approximately 7″ from arch
• Women’s-specific shoes last for optimal fit and comfort. Polish-able leather and nylon upper. Slip, oil-resistant rubber outsole
• Breathable moisture-wicking lining. Removable high performance cushion insert for all day comfort. Padded collar and tongue for extra comfort.
• Lightweight, shock-absorbing molded midsole. Athletic cemented construction with toe stitched
• YKK side zipper with closure for fast on and off. Composite shank for stability and support
• One year manufacturer warranty. Available in multiple colors.

It is worth noting that, like the Maelstrom men’s LANDSHIP, the women’s TAC doesn’t have steel toes as well. Steel toes protect the feet from falling objects or compression. Some of the best tactical boots have them, but they are considered extra features and not basic necessity.

Like the first Maelstrom boots above, these are also inexpensive but with good quality and good traction. These are shock-absorbent as well.

But again, these aren’t waterproof. They are breathable and moisture-wicking, which means they aren’t likely to be waterproof as well. And they’re not. They don’t even repel water. Remember to order a size larger than your normal because these run small.

Danner Men’s Tachyon 8-inch Coyote Military and Tactical Boot

For those who are in law enforcement or military, the name Danner isn’t new. It’s one of the trusted brands of footwear especially made for outdoor adventures. Its Tachyon Coyote Military and Tactical Boot is another heavy duty footwear that lives up to the company’s standard.

Pros and cons:

Specs:

• Leather/Textile
• Imported
• Rubber sole
• Shaft measures approximately 6.5″ from arch
• Footbed; Open Cell Polyurethane
• Removable insole

You might be confused whether the Tachyon 8″ is waterproof or not because there are reviews that said it is. It’s not, at least this one with the Coyote in its name doesn’t. There’s another Danner Men’s Tachyon 8″ but it’s the GTX Duty Boot, and that one is waterproof. This one that we have on this list is a different variety.

Nevertheless, this Coyote version is still one of the best police boots that you can own. Setting aside the fact that this isn’t waterproof, these shoes, which are made in Vietnam, are still a good buy. They are lightweight, breathable and durable. They are very comfortable even though you probably need to add cushion, not because they don’t fit well and snugly, but to add a bit of shock-absorbent factor.

5.11 ATAC 8 Inches Men’s Boot

Another item that we have here that’s on the pricey side is the 5.11 ATAC 8 Inches Men’s Boot. It might be a tad expensive, but it’s also very comfortable, just like the Under Armour Valsetz above. The 5.11 ATAC boots are a contender for the best tactical boots when it comes to comfortability.

Pros and cons:

Specs:

• Leather and Textile
• Imported
• Synthetic sole
• Shaft measures approximately 8″ from arch
• Side zip functionality with YKK zipper hardware, stay tied sausage laces
• Full grain leather and rugged nylon construction and antibacterial and moisture-wicking lining
• 5.11 shock mitigation system. Covert tactical pocket
• Semi rigid heel and toe reinforcement, polished leather toe
• Hypertext lasting board, cushioned insole
• Generous open cell foam cushioning

Apart from being very comfortable, the ATAC boots is also shock-absorbent. 5.11 Tactical calls this the Shock Mitigation System, which is its cushioned insole. Its injection-molded Phylon midsole and non-metallic shank also make these police shoes super comfortable and flexible.

They are water-resistant, not waterproof, but they are great for warm weather because they are breathable. And so if you don’t mind the price tag, you can consider these as one of the best tactical boots that you can find.

5.11 Tactical Women’s A.T.A.C. 8″ Boot

The women’s version of the 5.11 ATAC, these police boots are just as flexible and lightweight as the men’s version above. They are also extremely comfortable, some of the most comfortable pair of police shoes that you would ever wear.

Pros and cons:

Specs:

• Leather and Textile
• Imported
• Synthetic sole
• Shaft measures approximately 8″ from arch
• Side zip functionality with YKK Zipper hardware, stay tied sausage laces
• Full grain leather and rugged nylon construction and antibacterial and moisture-wicking lining
• Shock Mitigation System
• Semi-rigid heel and toe reinforcement; Polished leather toe
• Hypertext lasting board; cushioned insole
• Generous open cell foam cushioning

Both the men’s and women’s versions of the 5.11 Tactical ATAC are more water-resistant than waterproof. So don’t expect them to keep your feet dry if you submerge them in water. They can repel water to an extent, though, and that should be good enough if you aren’t going to wear them on wet environments. Also, the 5.11 Tactical Women’s ATAC boots are guaranteed durable. Like the men’s version, these are also lightweight and flexible and have great traction.

These are also a bit over $100, which is on the expensive side when it comes to law enforcement boots. But if you put a premium on being comfortable, these are the answer to your prayers.

Mike’s Top Choice

Based on the pros and cons of each item above, Mike’s Gear Reviews has determined that the Ryno Gear Tactical Combat Boots are not only the cheapest footwear on this list, they are also the best tactical boots among them. And it’s not because these least popular boots are inexpensive, it’s because they give the best value of all. They are durable, flexible, lightweight and have great traction. The only con is they aren’t waterproof, but so are most of the items on this list anyway.

What to look for in Tactical Boots

If you are convinced that you need a pair, consider the following criteria first to ensure that you are getting the best tactical boots. Look for durability, traction, comfort and shock absorption. Consider the weight and other features, such if it’s waterproof. And see where it’s made as well.

Durability

It should be a given that anything that you buy should be durable and should last you a long time. But there are things that should have their durability emphasized because you are going to use them precisely to test their strength. These include police shoes.

The most important feature of the best law enforcement boots is its durability. Unfortunately, there is no real way of telling if they are durable without actually using them. You can, however, read on past users’ reviews and even consider where they are made. They should have the right materials, but even if they do, how they are made is another factor that can build up or mess up their sturdiness.

Traction

When you are constantly on the move, you need your law enforcement boots to give you traction on the ground. If you are chasing someone—or being chased by someone—you wouldn’t want to slip, would you? The traction of your police duty boots provides the necessary grip that keep your feet firmly on the ground.

Waterproof

There is a different between being waterproof and water-resistant. Waterproof prevents the item from being soaked when submerged in water. Water-resistant means the item’s outer surface can repel water but it can still get wet if submerged.

When you wear tactical shoes, chances are you anticipate heavy training or work. There is a high possibility that you will be stepping on mud, puddles, rain, river etc. You would need waterproof for that. You can get away with having just water-resistant police duty boots if you aren’t going to use them for heavy training.

Comfort

Because you will be doing a lot of work on your feet, you need your tactical boots to be as comfortable as possible. Even if you have the most durable and best law enforcement boot, if you aren’t comfortable using it, then you won’t be able to use it at all.

Shock absorption

Tied in with the comfort factor is its shock absorption. Look for police boots that have cushioned footbed that will reduce the impact on your every step. That will make it both comfortable and shock-absorbent. And both these factors are important if you are looking for the best tactical boots.

Weight

Some of the best police boots are lightweight. It may not be the first thing you would look for when buying a pair, but weight could matter a lot the longer your wear your shoes. A heavy pair of police boots can wear you down fast. So if it’s a luxury to choose, then choose a lightweight pair.

Country of manufacture

Whatever brand you end up choosing, make sure it is authentic. One way to know if you are getting the right stuff is knowing where it was manufactured. Where your shoes are made can be a telling factor if you are getting the real deal.

Choosing the best tactical boots

While some are comfortable sitting down behind the desk, there are others who do the chasing and running to maintain peace and order. The military guys, the law enforcement officers, and even the humble physical workers make the world safer and all around better. But they can’t do their job well without the proper gears. They need to have the best equipment and clothing, including the best tactical boots.

Tactical boots are also sometimes called military or combat boots because they were designed to be worn by soldiers during combat. There are very similar but have slight differences.

Tactical shoes are what members of the armed forces wear if they engage in activities that involve a lot of movement. These are made of thinner material, usually leather, that lace up past the ankles. Their outsoles are softer than combat boots’ outsoles so they are allowed more flexibility.  Combat boots are thicker and even sturdier.

But even if you’re not in the military, you can still wear tactical boots. You wouldn’t want to wear them on a casual day out, though. You probably need tactical boots while you are doing heavy physical labor that requires you to be on your feet. These shoes are sturdy enough to withstand abuse.

You might also hear the term police boots used in place of tactical boots. These are interchangeable these days. Both are law enforcement boots anyway, and civilians can use them. So in this article, we may refer to the models before as either.

Do you need hiking boots?

If you aren’t in the military or police force, you can still wear police boots as the commercially available ones are not usually standard issue. You probably want a pair or two in your footwear collection because one, they look really badass and cool, and two—the most important one—they function very well and protect your feet completely.

The best tactical boots can be your feet’s sole protection from rough elements. When you have a job or activity to do that requires you to be out there and do physically demanding work, you need footwear that won’t let you down. Sure, you can wear trainers if you just want something to get you by. You can run with them or do some type of sports wearing them. But would you want to wear them on muddy grounds or inclined terrains? Police shoes are made for such things. Imagine playing airsoft or paintball guns with trainers. Apart from you would look the part, you also wouldn’t have the necessary tool to chase and hide from opponents through uneven grounds.