Tactical shoes have become increasingly popular among law enforcement officers, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts. They are designed to provide superior support, durability, and traction in demanding environments. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best tactical shoes that meet your specific needs. In this article, we will provide an in-depth review of the top tactical shoes on the market and a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
When it comes to tactical shoes, there are several factors to consider such as the level of protection, breathability, waterproofing, and slip-resistance. It is also essential to choose a shoe that fits comfortably and provides adequate arch support to prevent foot fatigue and injury. Tactical shoes are designed to withstand harsh conditions, and they are an investment in your safety and comfort.
In this article, we will review the best tactical shoes based on their durability, comfort, support, and traction. We will also provide a buying guide that covers the essential factors to consider when purchasing tactical shoes. Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, military personnel, or an outdoor enthusiast, this guide will help you find the best tactical shoes for your needs.
Our Top 3 Recommendations

Durable Materials
Convenient Side Zipper
Slip-Resistant Outsole

Made from high-quality materials
UA Storm technology
Minimalist Design

Ankle-high protection
YKK side zipper
High abrasion-resistant leather
Best Tactical Boots [Buying Guide & Reviews 2023] Summary
Image | Model | Price |
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Bates Men's 8" Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot | See on Amazon |
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Under Armour Men's Stellar Military and Tactical Boot | See on Amazon |
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NORTIV 8 Men's Military Tactical Work Boots | See on Amazon |
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5.11 Men's ATAC 2.0 6" Tactical Side Zip Military Boots, Black, Style 12394 | See on Amazon |
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Under Armour Women's Stellar Military and Tactical Boot | See on Amazon |
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Propper Men's Series 100 8" Boot | See on Amazon |
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Rocky Men's S2v Predator Military and Tactical Boot | See on Amazon |
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Salomon Forces Quest 4D GTX 2 EN Tactical Shoes | See on Amazon |
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Lowa Men's Zephyr Mid TF Hiking Boot | See on Amazon |
Best Tactical Boots [Buying Guide & Reviews 2023] At a Glance:
- Bates Men's 8" Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot
- Under Armour Men's Stellar Military and Tactical Boot
- NORTIV 8 Men's Military Tactical Work Boots
- 5.11 Men's ATAC 2.0 6" Tactical Side Zip Military Boots, Black, Style 12394
- Under Armour Women's Stellar Military and Tactical Boot
- Propper Men's Series 100 8" Boot
- Rocky Men's S2v Predator Military and Tactical Boot
- Salomon Forces Quest 4D GTX 2 EN Tactical Shoes
- Lowa Men's Zephyr Mid TF Hiking Boot
Best Tactical Boots [Buying Guide & Reviews 2023] Reviews
Bates Men's 8" Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Durable Materials
✓ Convenient Side Zipper
✓ Slip-Resistant Outsole
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Limited Breathability
The Bates Men’s 8" Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot is a versatile and durable footwear option for those in law enforcement, military, or other demanding professions. The boots are constructed with a combination of 70% leather and 30% nylon, providing a perfect blend of toughness, durability, and breathability.
These boots come with a YKK side zipper that makes it easy to put them on and take them off quickly, especially when time is critical. The zipper also ensures a secure fit, so you can focus on the task at hand without worrying about your boots coming loose or slipping off.
The slip-resistant rubber outsole provides excellent traction and grip, making these boots ideal for slippery or uneven surfaces. The moisture-wicking, breathable lining ensures your feet stay dry and comfortable, even in hot and humid conditions.
The removable cushioned insert provides added comfort and support, making these boots ideal for long periods of standing or walking. The lightweight cushioned EVA midsole also provides additional comfort and helps to reduce foot fatigue.
The Bates Men’s 8" Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot is a top-quality footwear option for individuals in law enforcement, military, or other demanding professions.
The combination of durable leather and nylon provides excellent toughness and breathability, while the slip-resistant rubber outsole offers superior traction on various surfaces. The side zipper adds convenience and ensures a secure fit, making it easy to put on and take off quickly.
Under Armour Men's Stellar Military and Tactical Boot
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Made from high-quality materials
✓ UA Storm technology
✓ Minimalist Design
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Sizing Issue
The Under Armour Men’s Stellar Military and Tactical Boot is a high-performance footwear option designed for individuals in law enforcement, military, or other demanding professions. These boots are made from 100% leather and textile materials and have a rubber sole that provides excellent traction on various surfaces.
The UA Storm technology used in the boots repels water without sacrificing breathability, keeping your feet dry and comfortable even in wet conditions. The leather and 900D nylon textile combine to create a soft and light upper that is both durable and flexible. The minimalist design of the boot is quick-drying and has a polishable toe that keeps you looking professional.
The molded EVA midsole provides excellent cushioning, while the reinforced TPU shank adds extra protection and support to the boot. This combination of materials makes these boots comfortable and supportive, even during long periods of wear.
NORTIV 8 Men's Military Tactical Work Boots
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Ankle-high protection
✓ YKK side zipper
✓ High abrasion-resistant leather
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Average Quality Material is used
The NORTIV 8 Men’s Military Tactical Work Boots Side Zipper Leather Motorcycle Combat Boots are a versatile and durable option for those in law enforcement, military, or other demanding professions. These boots are imported and have a rubber sole that provides excellent traction on various surfaces.
Ankle-high protection wraps around and supports the ankles, providing extra safety and comfort while working. The YKK side zipper with hook-loop strap closure is easy to take on and off, making these boots both convenient and practical.
The breathable fabric used in the boots keeps your feet cool and dry, while the high abrasion-resistant leather provides full protection. This combination structure offers maximum comfort and ensures breathable and long-term protection at the same time.
Overall these boots offer ankle-high protection and support, along with a YKK side zipper with hook-loop strap closure for convenience. The combination of breathable fabric and high abrasion-resistant leather offers both comfort and long-term protection.
5.11 Men's ATAC 2.0 6" Tactical Side Zip Military Boots, Black, Style 12394
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Ortholite foot bed
✓ Ortholite Achilles cuff
✓ Shock mitigation system
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Relatively heavy
The 5.11 Men’s ATAC 2.0 6" Tactical Side Zip Military Boots are designed to meet the demands of military, and other professionals. These black boots are made with a full-length dual durometer Ortholite foot bed that provides enhanced comfort and flexibility, with an Achilles heel flex zone and Ortholite Achilles cuff for extra comfort.
The shock mitigation system and strobal construction with lighter weight upper construction make these boots ideal for use on patrols, missions, or law enforcement duties. The Slip and Oil Resistant Outsole with an 840D nylon upper keep your feet ready for all missions, patrols, or hiking.
Featuring a side YKK zipper and rugged suede toe, these tactical boots are built for protection. The 6-inch military and tactical boots are available in regular and wide sizes, ranging from 4 to 15. They are perfect for law enforcement, security, hiking, outdoor enthusiasts, patrol, deployment, missions, or work boots.
The 5.11 Men’s ATAC 2.0 6" Tactical Side Zip Military Boots are a reliable and comfortable choice for professionals who demand the best. With their full-length dual durometer Ortholite foot bed, Achilles heel flex zone, and Ortholite Achilles cuff, these boots offer superior comfort and flexibility.
Under Armour Women's Stellar Military and Tactical Boot
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Excellent Traction
✓ Water-Repellent Technology
✓ Durable and Comfortable
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Limited Color Options
The Under Armour Women’s Stellar Military and Tactical Boot is a top-quality footwear option that offers both style and functionality. Made from 100% leather and textile, this boot features a rubber sole that ensures optimal traction on any surface. The shaft measures approximately ankle-high from the arch, providing excellent support and protection to your feet.
One of the key features of the Under Armour Women’s Stellar Military and Tactical Boot is the UA Storm technology that repels water without compromising breathability.
This means that your feet will stay dry and comfortable even in wet conditions. The leather and 900D nylon textile combine to create a soft and light upper that feels great on your feet.
The quick-dry minimalist design of these boot makes it easy to maintain, while the polishable toe adds a touch of sophistication. The molded EVA midsole provides excellent support and protection, while the reinforced TPU shank ensures optimal stability. The low-profile rubber lug sole offers maximum traction on all surfaces, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities.
This boot is made from 100% leather and textile and features a rubber sole that provides optimal traction on any surface. The UA Storm technology repels water without compromising breathability, ensuring that your feet stay dry and comfortable.
Propper Men's Series 100 8" Boot
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Durable
✓ Convenient
✓ Reliable
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ May be too heavy
The Propper Men’s Series 100 8" Boot is a high-quality tactical men’s boot designed for tough environments. These boots are durable and meet AR 670-1 standards, making them an excellent choice for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
These boots feature a rugged outsole, comfortable ankle support, and convenient NATO speed lace system, allowing for quick and easy adjustment. The friction-resistant lacing system includes speed lace hardware and 550 paracord lacing, providing added durability and reliability.
It also comes with a memory foam insole that adds a layer of comfort for a day in the field or on the trail. The triple row reinforced stitching adds to the durability of the boot, and FREE fit inserts come included for the best possible fit.
The washable open cell foam inserts contour to your foot for weight distribution and arch support, while the mesh foam allows air circulation and the breathable lining wicks moisture, regulates temperature, and is treated with Aegis to prevent odor.
The Propper Men’s Series 100 8" Boot is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable, reliable tactical boot. With its rugged outsole, comfortable ankle support, and convenient NATO speed lace system, this boot is designed to withstand tough environments. Its friction-resistant lacing system and 550 paracord lacing provide added durability and reliability.
Rocky Men's S2v Predator Military and Tactical Boot
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Flash- and water-resistant leather
✓ Sieve™ technology
✓ Lightweight S2V
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Fiberglass shank used
The Rocky Men’s S2v Predator Military and Tactical Boot is a high-performance boot designed for use in challenging environments. The boot is made in the USA or imported and features a rubber sole that provides excellent traction on any surface.
The shaft measures approximately calf-high from the arch, providing excellent support and protection to your feet and lower legs. One of the key features of this boot is the flash- and water-resistant leather used in its construction. This material ensures that your feet stay dry and protected even in the most challenging conditions.
Additionally, the boot is made with lightweight 1000 denier nylon that enhances its durability and resistance to wear and tear. The triple-stitched construction of the boot adds to its durability and longevity, making it an excellent investment for anyone who needs reliable footwear. The boot also features a fiberglass shank that provides excellent support and stability to your feet.
Salomon Forces Quest 4D GTX 2 EN Tactical Shoes
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Designed for heavy loads
✓ Lightweight
✓ Oil and slip-resistant
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ May not be suitable for non-mountainous environments
The Salomon Forces Quest 4D GTX 2 EN Tactical Shoes are specifically designed to provide support and protection in hostile mountain environments, making them ideal for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and other professionals who need the right equipment for rugged terrain.
These lightweight mountain tactical boots are anti-static and offer great support, traction, and weather protection, making them perfect for operations in challenging conditions. Salomon’s FORCES line of performance shoes offer stable, durable support for intense conditions, making them a reliable choice for those who need to focus on the mission at hand.
The Quest 4D GTX FORCES 2 EN boots feature the support and grip of a mountain boot with the flexibility to take a knee or sprint to the target in tough conditions. The oil and slip-resistant outsole and puncture-resistant sole provide additional safety features for those operating in rugged environments.
The Salomon Forces Quest 4D GTX 2 EN Tactical Shoes are a highly functional and reliable choice for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and other professionals who require sturdy footwear for challenging terrain. These boots provide excellent support, traction, and weather protection, making them a great option for operations in hostile mountain environments.
Lowa Men's Zephyr Mid TF Hiking Boot
REASONS TO BUY
✓ 100% leather
✓ Supportive and breathable
✓ Rubber sole
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Synthetic uppers
The Lowa Men’s Zephyr Mid TF Hiking Boot is a high-quality hiking boot designed to provide support and comfort on the toughest trails. The boot is made with 100% leather and textile materials and features a durable rubber sole that provides excellent traction on any surface.
One of the key features of this hiking boot is its supportive and breathable design. The boot features looped eyelets and a padded tongue and collar, providing a comfortable fit that will keep your feet secure and cushioned throughout your hike.
Additionally, the Lowa ‘Cross’ sole with a full-length support shank provides wet/dry traction, making it ideal for hiking in all weather conditions.
The injected Monowrap midsole surrounds the foot with lightweight support, ensuring that your feet stay comfortable and protected even on long hikes. This feature also provides additional stability and reduces the risk of injury while hiking on challenging terrain.
The Lowa Men’s Zephyr Mid TF Hiking Boot is a top-quality hiking boot that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for comfort, support, and durability.
The boot’s combination of leather and textile materials and a rubber sole provides excellent traction on any surface. The supportive and breathable design, including the looped eyelets and padded tongue and collar, ensures a comfortable fit for long hikes.
Buying Guide for Best Tactical Boots
Tactical boots are specially designed footwear that is ideal for those who work in the military or law enforcement, as well as those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or hunting. These boots are designed to provide comfort, support, and protection in a variety of different environments.
With so many different tactical boots available, it can be challenging to know which ones to buy. In this buying guide, we’ll cover some of the key factors you should consider when shopping for the best tactical boots.
Material:
Tactical boots can be made from a variety of materials, including leather, synthetic fabrics, and Gore-Tex. Leather boots tend to be the most durable and provide excellent protection, while synthetic materials are often more lightweight and breathable. Gore-Tex boots are waterproof and breathable, making them ideal for wet environments.
Comfort:
Comfort is essential when it comes to tactical boots. Look for boots with cushioned insoles and padded collars and tongues for added comfort. Additionally, a boot with a flexible sole will provide a more natural feel when walking. It’s also essential to choose a boot that fits well, so make sure to measure your foot and try on several sizes before making a purchase.
Support:
Tactical boots should provide adequate support to prevent injury and ensure your comfort. Look for boots with a sturdy shank that will support your arch and prevent overpronation. Additionally, a boot with ankle support will help prevent ankle sprains and provide additional stability.
Traction:
Traction is critical when it comes to tactical boots. Look for boots with a slip-resistant sole, as this will prevent slips and falls on uneven or slippery terrain. Additionally, boots with deep treads will provide better traction on loose or uneven surfaces.
Durability:
Tactical boots are an investment, so it’s essential to choose a pair that will last. Look for boots with high-quality construction and materials that can withstand the wear and tear of tough environments. Additionally, boots with a reinforced toe box will provide added protection against rocks or debris.
Style:
While style should not be the primary concern when choosing tactical boots, it is still important to consider. Tactical boots come in a variety of different styles, from traditional combat boots to more streamlined designs. Choose a style that suits your needs and preferences, but remember that comfort, support, and durability should be the top priority.
Brand:
There are many different brands that produce high-quality tactical boots. Look for brands that specialize in tactical footwear, as these brands are more likely to produce boots that meet your needs. Some of the most popular tactical boot brands include Salomon, Lowa, Bates, and Danner.
Conclusion
Choosing the best tactical boots requires careful consideration of a variety of factors, including material, comfort, support, traction, durability, style, and brand. By keeping these factors in mind, you can select a pair of boots that will provide the comfort, protection, and support you need for your activities. Remember to measure your feet and try on several sizes before making a purchase, and don’t hesitate to consult with a professional or ask for recommendations from others in your field or activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tactical boots suitable for everyday wear?
Tactical boots can be worn as everyday footwear, but they are designed with specific features that make them better suited for tactical situations.
How do I care for my tactical boots?
To keep your boots in good condition, you should clean them regularly with a brush or damp cloth and a mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the leather or synthetic materials.
How do I choose the right size for my tactical boots?
You should consider the thickness of your socks and any orthotics or insoles that you may be using. If you are unsure about your size, it is recommended to try on different sizes and styles in person.