A Guide to Choosing the Right Tactical Boots

Features to Look For When Shopping For Tactical Boots

Tactical boots are an important piece of equipment for those in military and law enforcement, as you need to take care of your feet if you’re going to be relying on them a lot. Otherwise, it can have a tremendous impact on your performance and how you react in situations that require your undivided attention.

After all, our feet are comprised of over 100 different muscles, 26 bones, and 33 joints. They are fragile, yet they hold the weight of our entire body.

With that being said, on this article, we will explore the purpose of tactical boots and why you need to select them carefully. We’ll also explore their function and the factors you need to keep in mind when selecting them.

 What are Tactical Boots?

Tactical boots are footwear which are typically worn by military personnel, security professionals, law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and other fields which require foot protection. These boots are used to protect and secure your feet while on the job.

Nowadays, though, tactical boots are used in many casual circumstances as well, due to their light weight and comfort.

How do They Compare to Other Standard Boots?

Tactical boots are specifically designed for various terrain, providing a good fit that cradles your feet and supports your ankles. There are many different types of tactical boots, such as standard issue combat boots, jump boots, tanker boots, and tactical boots for extreme weather conditions. Tactical boots are built for heavy use, all kinds of different elements, protection, and safety.

Why They Are Necessary

Tactical boots are sturdy and provide significantly more stability around the ankles. They help protect you from sharp objects and protrusions. In addition, they are reliable boots that will get you through all kinds of different scenarios that regular boots simply would not. They are built tough for tough jobs.

 Factors to Consider

There are specific factors to consider when making your selection. It’s not a one size fits all approach. Consider your environment, how you will be using the boots, what you expect them to do for you, and how often they will be in rougher terrain. Below, we list some of the more important factors relative to the above questions.

Safety

Safety is of the utmost importance. If you are going to be using your boots in various dangerous terrains or in work which has the potential for injury, you will want to choose a boot that is high on the safety and protection ladder. The number one priority is to protect your feet, so choose based on your circumstances and don’t compromise safety to save a few dollars. It simply is not worth the risk.

Durability

Again, this is dependent on your situation, but if you’re going to be putting your boots through the ringer, you will want something as durable as possible. You’re investing in boots so that they last and serve you. Make sure you’re buying the right level of durability for your circumstances.

Comfort

The last thing you want is for discomfort to impact your job and decision-making abilities. If you’re walking, running, or climbing for hours on end, you want a boot that will provide your feet with the level of comfort you need to get through the task at hand. Don’t sacrifice comfort. Try them on. Walk around with them. Try to get a really good feel for the boot before making your selection. After all, you’re going to be living in them a lot, so make sure to choose something that you feel comfortable wearing for long periods of time.

Professional Requirements

There are different boots to choose from depending on your profession and whether or not you must follow certain professional requirements for your gear. For instance, some will be using them to walk through burning buildings (firefighters), some will be using them in the desert, some will need to walk through water and swampy areas. Some simply wear them while pounding the pavement. What you choose will be dependent on what they will be used for, how often, and which type of environment you will be in.

Which Boots Are Best For Your Profession?

Military

These boots are your basic army boots. They are waterproof and made of black leather that is typically hardened. The design has extra ankle and foot stability in mind. They are made to handle rough terrains that you would typically encounter in training or combat situations. They can also be used as comfortable hiking boots.

Law Enforcement

Tactical boots for law enforcement are much more focussed on safety, support, and comfort. Those in law enforcement require a lighter more agile boot. Those which would make walking for long periods of time or suddenly breaking out into a chase, easier to handle.

Firefighter/EMT

Protection is crucial for these folks. Firefighters and EMTs are usually running into buildings when everyone else is trying to run out. Feet must be both protected and supported. Boots must be easy to pull on, provide protection from heat, and keep feet comfortable and safe. They also need to repel water and let your feet breathe.

FindingThe Right Boots Is Critical

It’s safe to say that finding the right tactical boots is pretty important. Tactical boots not only provide extra stability around the ankles, but they help protect your feet from the various obstacles you may encounter, and they are meant to provide lasting comfort and durability. So, make sure to choose wisely, and for more information, speak to your local tactical boot shop.