Best Tactical Boots For Everyday Use

Buying a pair of good everyday tactical boots can be a daunting task. There always seems to be a compromise between comfort, features and durability. So we’ve listed the 10 best tactical boots for everyday use.

Top Rated Tactical Boots - 2018

1. Salomon Men's Quest 4D 2 GTX

Most Comfortable Tactical Boot

Editor Rating

2. Danner Men's Acadia Uniform Tactical Boot

Most Durable Tactical Boot

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3. Bates GX-8 Tactical Boot

Best All-Round Tactical Boot

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1. Salomon Men's Quest 4D 2 GTX 

Comfort
100%
Durability
95%
Ankle Support
100%

The Salomon is one hundred percent waterproof thanks to it’s Gore Tex liner.

The Salomon’s are made of a bunch of different materials. From new buck leather, Gore Tex and a lot of EVA molding in the sole. It is not an insulated boot but all these materials keep the boot relatively relatively hot due to the lack of heat transfer.

This is not an extreme weather boot either way, but is a great choice for someone looking for a summer boot to walk and climb with.

The 4D sole on the Salomon’s are simply amazing. It is made of multiple layers of soft cushioning EVA material, mixed with harder compounds and an amazingly sticky rubber sole.

The first two loop holes are reinforced Newbuck pass through’s, right where the toe ends. As you move up you have beautiful thermal plastic grommets and locking side speed laces that pull the boot right down into your ankle making for a comfortable snug fit.

This is an easy on and off boot because of the way the boot laces and the extendable tongue section.

The rubberized toe also makes kneeling in this boot a lot easier.

There is padding all over this shoe. Around the tongue and collar, around the ankle bone and parts of your foot that protrude.

Who is the Salomon 4D 2 GTX for?

The Salomon 4d GTX has been successfully used by many veterans in the field.

This boot that can be worn both on and off the field of duty.

It is one of the best tactical hiking boots that can also be used by those of you in the service business that need to get in and out of houses a lot.

2. Danner Men's Acadia Uniform Tactical Boot

Comfort
95%
Durability
100%
Ankle Support
100%

The Danner Men’s Acadia is a boot that is relatively unique, it comes with Gore Tex and a Vibram sole. These two features alone make this boot extremely light weight and durable.

The Gore Tex as we already know, makes the boot waterproof and the Virbam sole is probably one of the most comfortable and durable soles on the market today.

The Acadia comes with that classic Danner look, laced up from toe to the top. This lace system give a nice secure fit.

The upper on this boot is a mixed of soft oil tan leather along with a thousand diner nylon on the ankle and the mid foot. This makes the Acadia an excellent warm weather boot.

This boot comes in both 6 and 8 inch versions. The leather on this boot is relatively versatile and can be used in both its original dull black form, or it can also be shined for more ceremonial type duties.

The bottom of the boot has a complete sew – down weld all around the sole making this boot reasonable. You can send the shoe back to Danner and they’ll put new soles on your boot.

Who is the Danner Acadia Tactical Boot for?

The Acadia’s are the lightest boot that Danner makes and is a comfortable durable shoes for any tactical situation. These boots are lightweight and extremely durable.

The also come in 200 and 400 gram insulated versions that are great for cold weather conditions.

3. Bates GX-8 GORE-TEX Side-Zip Insulated Waterproof Tactical Boot

Comfort
95%
Durability
95%
Ankle Support
100%

The Bates GX-8 is a very well engineered boot. It is a winter tactical boot in the truest sense.

The Bates GX-8 comes packed with a lot of features.

First of all it comes with 400 grams of 3M Thinsulate material. It also comes with Gore-Tex, a 100% guaranteed waterproof material.

Gore-Tex is an excellent waterproof material. It stops water from entering the shoe, while allowing moisture to evaporate out of it. This keeps your feet dry from both sides of the fence.

Speaking of fences, the Bates GX-8 comes with a narrow front profile, perfect for sticking them through fences in order to catch the bad guys.

The GX-8 comes with a Bates out-sole with lugs that offer excellent traction. It is a dual density sole, with a durable rubber protecting the treads on the outside and a soft EVA material on the inside.

This EVA adds cushioning and comfort to the boot. The Heel on this sole is also reinforced, to help prevent friction and slippage while locking your leg in tight.

This 8 inch boot also comes with a zipper on the side for easy on and off. Technically, you could tie this boot once and not have to tie it again. But in a tactical situation, it is best to prepare your boot in a way that favors the environment.

One thing that is really important among tactical boots is the insole. Being on the move all day can be unforgiving on the feet and Bates does not skimp on their insoles.

The insole on this boot is shaped to provide ample support to your feet. The deep heel cup on the insole along with the heel cup on the upper coincide to really hold your foot in place. This helps reduce chaffing and blisters.

Who is the Bates GX-8 Insulated tactical boot for?

The Bates GX-8 is a great choice for those of you doing work in the winter time.

The 400 grams of Thinsulate combined with the Gore-Tex waterproofing will keep your feet warm and dry. The Bates insole makes all the difference on this boot and is great for those of you who are on your feet all day.

4. The 5.11 Men's Taclite 6" Coyote Tactical Boot

Comfort
95%
Durability
95%
Ankle Support
95%

The 5.11 Tactile is an extremely agile boot. Tactical boot technology has come a long way and manufacturers like 5.11 and Bates are doing an excellent job at keeping the weight of these shoes down.

The 5.11 Taclite 6 inch tactical boots come in a leather and textile upper with integrated side vents that excel in hot and humid climates.

On wearing the Taclite 6 inch’s, you immediately feel the difference in weight. It’s almost like wearing a a long distance running shoe with excellent traction and ankle support.

The removable Ortholite sock liner offers additional cushioning in order to mitigate shock upon impact with rough terrain. While, the EVA foam padding offers for a ride that is springy and comfortable

This is another boot with an oil and slip resistant non-squeak out-sole. This ensures traction and offers the stealth required in tactical situations.

The out-sole also provides treading and radius at the arch for fast roping maneuvers.

The 5.11 Tactile also comes with sausage laces and a lacing system that offers a custom fit.

Who is the 5.11 Taclite tactical boot for?

This is a comfortable, durable, lightweight tactical boot that offers stealth and agility in tactical situations. Great for hot and humid climates.

5. Under Armour Valsetz Men’s Tactical Boot

Comfort
100%
Durability
90%
Ankle Support
95%

Everybody who works outside in the elements knows that Under Armour makes some incredible weather protecting gear. And they have done the same with their entry into the boot market with the Under Armour Valsetz.

The Under Armour Valsetz is a tactical boot that you will see on all top tactical boot lists and this is for a reason. Under Armour put all of the latest materials into one boot.

The boot consists of nylon, a rubberized toe and the sole consists of multiple densities of rubber. This makes the boot extremely lightweight and comfortable.

The sole is oil and slip resistant sole that is as good as glue. It really gives you that confidence in your stride. Something that someone who walks all day really needs.

Now this is not a boot that you can take into the field with you for construction or combat.

Who is the Under Armour Valsetz tactical boot for?

The lightweight construction of the Valsetz makes this an excellent running boot.

This is a boot made for someone who has to put a lot of miles on his job, like security guards or patrol police, and wants to look good while doing it.

6. 5.11 Men's A.T.A.C. 6" Side Zip Tactical Boot

Comfort
95%
Durability
85%
Ankle Support
85%

A.T.A.C. stands for any terrain any condition. These boots by 5.11 stand up to their name.

This boot is all about taking on the terrain and the thought put into the design of the sole will tell you all about it.

The lugs up by the toes are designed to scale fences, while also assisting with traction while running.

The  lugs down the center of the sole are reverse lugs that help with gripping rocks and loose gravel. They are useful when climbing uphill or to slow down while scaling down.

The lugs on the side were designed to get rid of water, dirt or mud that could cause you to slip. Adding traction to slippery terrain.

The heel  continues this design offering excellent breaking and traction when required.

Like we said, a lot of thought put into the design of this sole.

The insole is made up of 4 different layers of materials. The top layer being moisture wicking and anti-bacterial. The second layer is made of an odor resistant material.

While the third and fourth layers is made of a foam and dual layer polyurethane that adds comfort to the ride.

The A.T.A.C. also comes with a leather and nylon upper with a Drylex lining.

These boots come in a variety of versions from the 6 inch to the 8 inch side zip and lace versions.

Who is the 5.11 A.T.A.C. side zip tactical boot for?

This is a great everyday boot for those of you who need to patrol through a variety of terrain. The out sole on the A.T.A.C. will keep you planted to the ground.

7. Smith and Wesson Breach 2.0 Waterproof Tactical Boots

Comfort
90%
Durability
85%
Ankle Support
100%

The Smith and Wesson is a side zip waterproof tactical boot. These boots come in two versions that are six and eight inches high.

It is a soft toe boot that is built with a lot of quality and attention to detail.

The upper of the Breach 2.0 is made of a gusseted leather and nylon combination that prevents water and debris from entering the boot.

The sole on this boot does a phenomenal job at providing grip on a variety of surfaces. It is specifically designed to provide traction on pretty much anything the urban jungle can throw at it.

The boot does well on dirt, tarmac, waxed surfaces as well as fences and ladders. While the steel shank adds stability to the ride.

The foam padded collar and tongue provide added comfort and protection around the ankles. The insole on this boot is removable and can be replaced with your custom orthotic.

The EVA mid-sole adds a lot of comfort to this boot and after a brief break-in period, the boot molds to your foot.

The only downside to this boot is the leather can be a bit soft, showing signs of scuffing with daily use.

Who is the Smith and Wesson waterproof side zip tactical boot for?

The Smith and Wesson Breach 2.0 is a great budget friendly waterproof boot this is both durable and comfortable.

It is a boot that can take on most urban environments with ease.

8. Bates Men's Code 6, 4 Inch Lightweight Tactical Boot

Comfort
95%
Durability
80%
Ankle Support
100%

What Bates has done with the Code 6, is they’ve taken the latest running shoe technology and merged it with a tactical boot.

The upper is built of a breathable mesh material mixed it with a soft beautiful leather. This combination itself, offers a lot of stability to the upper of the boot, offering stability while making it extremely lightweight.

This boot is extremely versatile and can be used by officers to EMT’s to delivery guys.

What the Bates essentially offers is a high performance tactical boot with running shoe technology. Running shoes don’t provide for much ankle support and the Bates Code 6 makes up for that with it’s thermoplastic shank.

Running and chasing bad guys usually involves a fence and the profile of the Code – 6 is built for just that. It is sleek and can be used to easily scale a chain linked fence.

The leather on these Bates can be polished and shined in order to pass inspection. While sole is slip and oil resistant, as expected on any tactical boot.

Who is ‘Bates Code-6’ tactical boot for?

The Bates Code 6’s are on of the lightest tactical boots on this list. This is a great tactical boot for those of you who do a lot of patrolling in urban environments.

9. Adidas Performance Men's GSG-9.2 Tactical Training Boot

Comfort
90%
Durability
85%
Ankle Support
90%

The Adidas GSG 9.2 is an excellent tactical boot made specially for policing roles. This  boot has been used by S.W.A.T. teams in the USA and the Elite GSG9 team in Germany.

This lightweight, fast moving, all weather assault boot is both waterproof, as well as oil and petrol resistant.

The Adidas GSG 9.2 comes with a full grain leather upper with Core-Drua panels throughout.

Addidas have used their Adiprene technology in the heel that provides excellent shock absorption on impact. While the lugs on the out-sole provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces.

The GSG 9.2 hosts a large radius medial arch area for safe and secure rappelling maneuvers.

One thing that really stands out about this boot is the ample padding provided around the collar that will give you a snug and comfortable ride. The collar is perforated as well offering excellent breathability.

The Adidas GSG 9.2 is an excellent all round tactical boot.

Who is the Adidas GSG 9.2 tactical training boot for?

If you’re looking for a water resistant, supportive and comfortable all season tactical boot, look no further than the Adidas GSG 9.2.

10. Reebok Work Duty Men's Rapid Response 8" Tactical Boot

Comfort
80%
Durability
80%
Ankle Support
100%

The Reebok Work Rapid Response is one of Reebok’s top selling tactical boots.

It is built out of a suede leather and ballistic nylon upper that comes with a traditional lace up system with a zipper system on the side.

The collar provides ample padding that is made out of a soft and breathable material, offering plush comfort and padding.

This boot comes with a shock absorbing EVA mid-sole with a composite toe in the front from extra protection.

This boot is known to be used as a work boot as well due to the fact that it comes with a composite toe.

The one gripe people have with the Rapid Response is the insole. It is hard and uncomfortable to use in the beginning, but as you break into the boot it breaks-in to mold around your feet.

Although, the out-sole on these boots is slip and oil resistant and is extremely durable due to its rubber construction.

One thing we noticed about these boots is the fact that they didn’t make a noise when walking on tiled surfaces. 

Who is the ‘Reebok Work Duty Rapid Response’ tactical boot for?

The Reebok Rapid Response is a durable, security friendly boot with a non metallic zip and composite toe.

It also treads quietly on hard floored surfaces, making it ideal for armed law enforcement officials.

Things to consider when choosing best tactical boots for everyday use

Fitment – How does the boot fit?

When choosing the best tactical boot, you should always consider fitment.

Toe space is probably the most important part when it comes to the fitment of a boot, you should have enough space to wiggle you toes.

While your boots must fit snug, your toes should also have enough place to The reason of this is that if your do not have room to wiggle, they could get constricted and could creat hot spots. In colder environments this could also restrict optimal blood circulation, putting your feet at a higher risk of cold injury.

The heel of any tactical boot is extremely important as well as the heel of your foot should not slip out. All the boots listed here have deep and narrow heel cups, ensuring that your heel is held firmly in place.

For winter boots, consider getting a size larger in order to wear thicker socks.

For socks, make sure that you’re wearing the right type of sock for the season. Wool is a great material for winter socks. If you have sweaty feet, get a thinner woolen sock.

Also make sure you buy socks that are higher than the level of your boots or you will more than likely experience chaffing around ypour leg.

Break-in period, the not so fun part about new tactical boots

Break in periods need to be taken seriously.

Tactical boots are made with extremely durable materials and take time to ply and mold to your feet. You can seriously damage your feet is you do to break – in your boots properly.

A simple way to break – in your boots is to wear your boots around the house for sometime.

Then proceed to wearing them outside on various chores. After which you can start to wear them all day before you take them out to do some hard work.

Optimal break -in periods could take anywhere between 1 to 2 weeks. Just remember, 1 to 2 weeks of light use so the materials can conform to your feet.

Material – Leather Vs. Synthetic

Synthetic boots are better than leather boots for hot or dry weather. Although, a lot of synthetic boots can also withstand cold temperatures very well. A lot of them have a durable, breathable, waterproof material built into them.

However, after a lot of exposure to heat and wet weather, these synthetic boots don’t tend to fare as well when compared to leather boots.

Whereas, leather boots on the other hand can be treated much more effectively for such weather conditions.

When it comes to hot, dry weather the Soloman Quest 4D 2 are the go to boots. A lot of professionals have used these boots in extremely hostile environments with great success.

Its also a good idea to look for high ankle boots, in case you hit a curb or miss a step. If you’re carrying a lot of weight on your back, ankle stability is important.

If you’re travelling lightweight, then the the Under Armour Valsetz is a great boot option for you.

It is a very lightweight tactical boot with running shoe materials on it. This is a great shoe for urban or short mission type scenarios. Typically these types of boots are good for missions that last about a day or two with not more than 30 pounds on your back.

Weather – Cold Or Warm

When the weather falls below 50 degrees and you start to get a lot of wet weather conditions, leather boots can be a life saver.

Full grain leather boots for these wet conditions.

Leather boots can be treated. As the leather wears, it loses its ability to protect your feet against wet conditions.

Of course, you will have to take care of your leather boots, just like any other shoe in such conditions. Taking care of these boots will ensure that they last you a long time

You will have to use some type of wax to help the weather retain its water resistance.

If you are going below 20 degrees Fahrenheit then you will have to move towards an insulated leather boot.

These boots are usually a little taller which ensure that snow doesn’t get into your boots.

Pairing these boots with gators is a good idea. It is a waterproof material that prevents water from getting into your socks

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