Sneakers are good for many things – sports, yard work, taking a trip to the grocery store. But for tackling a tough trail or wading through a creek, you need a pair of footwear that’s up to the task. And tactical, military-grade gear is the toughest there is. That’s why we decided to review the best tactical hiking boots online.
So here’s what we’re looking for:
A good pair of combat hiking boots will provide plenty of grips, and will have a durable upper sole that can handle any abuse that the woods dish out. They should also be waterproof since you never know when rain is going to blow in and turn the trail into a small stream – or if you’re going to want to walk through a stream that’s already there.
And since everybody likes a bargain, we looked for special forces hiking boots that won’t break the bank.
Let’s dig in!
Best Tactical Hiking Boots Available
1. 5.11 ATAC 2.0
5.11 Men's ATAC Tactical Side Zip Military Boot
Features
- The A.T.A.C 2.0 Side Zip 6-inch boot features a full-length dual durometer Ortholite foot bed with Achilles heel flex zone for enhanced comfort and flexibility. Ortholite Acilles cuff for extra comfort.
- This tactical boot has a shock mitigation system, strobal construction with lighter weight upper construction making these military boots ideal for use as patrol, missions, or law enforcement boots.
- The Slip and Oil Resistant Outsole with 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.
- These 6-inch military & tactical boots are available in Regular and Wide, sizes 4-15. Perfect use for Law Enforcement, security, hiking, outdoor enthusiast, patrol, deployment, missions, or work boots.
- WHY 5.11 - Apparel that is built for your environment. 5.11 creates products for both professionals and consumers that embody our mission to create purpose-built tactical gear for the most demanding missions. Always Be Ready
The 5.11 ATAC has a built-in pocket for carrying your boot knife.
Key Features
- Rubber sole and nylon upper
- Full grain leather toe
- Lace-up design with zippers
- Available in “Wide” sizes
- Slip and oil resistant outsole
- Built-in knife pocket
The 5.11 ATAC is a tactical boot in every sense of the word. From the slick black nylon upper to the tough nylon sole to the built-in knife pocket for carrying your boot knife. It laces all the way up to the top but includes a sturdy YKK side zipper for putting them on and removing them quickly.
This boot is comfortable enough to wear all day on the trail. It features a breathable tongue and upper for plenty of air flow and has a full grain leather toe that’s attractive and tougher than anything short of a steel toe. However, it’s not waterproof, so it’s better suited to drier climates than it is to stomping through the woods of the American North.
The ATAC is available in “Wide” sizes to accommodate just about any sized foot. It’s also the same price for all sizes, which is a nice feature for anyone with big feet.
Pros
- Excellent arch support
- Durable heel and toe
- Breathable and comfortable
- Same price for all sizes
Cons
- Not waterproof
This is a tough, grippy boot that can take some abuse.
2. Bates Gx-8 Sage
Features
- Mixed-media lace-up boot featuring ribbing at side, padded collar, and high-traction outsole
- Medial-side zipper
The Bates GX-8 has a soft, breathable upper that’s very comfortable.
Key Features
- Suede and nylon upper
- Hard composite toe insert
- Lace-up design with zippers
- Available in “Wide” sizes
- Synthetic sole with rubberized outsole
- Available in 4 colors
The Bates GX-8 is a soft suede and nylon boot that’s available in four colors: sage, desert, desert/tan, and tan. It’s thickly padded for comfort, and the nylon is breathable enough that your feet will stay dry from sweat. Be careful, though. These aren’t waterproof boots, so your feet will still get wet if you decide to wear them through a creek or a puddle.
These boots have a supportive EVA midsole, with a rubberized outsole that provides plenty of grip and slip-resistance. They also feature crush-resistant composite toe inserts, similar to a steel-toed boot without the weight of carrying hunks of metal around in the toes of your boots. These boots are also available in “Wide” sizes, so more people can find a suitable fit.
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable
- Comfortable padding
- Crush-resistant toes
Cons
- Not waterproof
This rugged boot is a good choice if you also wear your hiking boots for work.
3. Belleville Khyber
Belleville Khyber Mountain Hybrid Boot
Features
- TR-1 premium load-bearing orthotic insole helps prevent foot, back, and knee pain
- Highly cushioned EVA midsole absorbs the shock of impact as the foot strikes the ground
- Breathe-Right combat lunar lining helps to keep feet dry and wicks away sweat
- Tactical Research Khyber boots run about ½ size larger than your normal running shoe size, which means you should order a half size down. If you wear a size 10 running shoe, consider purchasing a size 9.5 Tactical Research men's Khyber tactical boot
The Belleville Khyber comes with padded orthotic inserts for extra comfort.
Key Features
- Soft leather upper
- Lace-up design
- Available in “Wide” sizes
- Durable rubber sole
- Built-in orthotic insert
- Waterproof
The Belleville Khyber is a pair of tall, mid-calf boots that are waterproof up to significantly higher than the ankles. These boots lace up all the way to the top, which makes them very supportive. However, there’s no quick release zipper, so they take a couple of minutes to get in and out of. The upper itself is constructed from soft leather that’s both durable and flexible.
While these boots are waterproof, there’s a downside. They’re not as breathable as non-waterproof boots, so you’ll want to make sure and air them out after a day of wearing them in the field. Provided you keep them dry on the inside, they’re exceptionally comfortable, with orthotic inserts that relieve pressure points and distribute weight evenly.
Pros
- Durable upper
- Plenty of grip
- Comfortable arch
- Waterproof
Cons
- Difficult to put on and take off
- Not very breathable
These boots are ideal if you’re going to need to wade through water that’s deeper than your angles.
4. Under Armour Stellar
Under Armour Men's Stellar Military and Tactical Boot
Features
- DWR treated Leather & 900D nylon textile upper
- Polishable toe
- Quick-dry minimalist design
- Anti-odor technology is a superlative innovation which helps prevents odor
- Molded EVA midsole with reinforced TPU shank for protection & support
The Under Armour Stellar is very easy to get in and out of.
Key Features
- Leather and nylon upper
- Lace-up design with quick-lace loops
- Textured rubber sole
The Under Armour Stellar is a pair of black leather and nylon boots that end just higher than your ankle bone. If you’re looking for a pair of hiking boots that you can also go running in, this is a good choice, since they offer significantly more flexibility than boots with higher tops. They’re also waterproof, so they’ll keep your feet protected under just about any circumstances
These boots have quick-lace loops across the tongue, which makes tying and untying them faster and easier than it would be with standard eyelets. The sole features a finer texture than most hiking boots, further improving its usefulness as a running shoe under the right circumstances.
The Stellar is a very reasonably priced pair of boots. However, it’s only available in a few sizes, so your availability may vary.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Plenty of range of motion
- Waterproof
- Affordable
Cons
- Limited size selection
This is a good choice if you plan on running in your hiking boots.
5. Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5
Features
- Lightweight, durable synthetic leather & updated textile upper
- Medial side zip for ease of entry
- UA ClutchFit ankle support system contours & provides supports where you need it most
- TPU toe cap for added protection
- Welded PU film surrounds the perimeter of the boot for abrasion resistance
The Under Armour Valsetz is a flexible nylon boot with a leather-reinforced toe.
Key Features
- Nylon upper
- Lace-up design with quick-lace loops
- Textured rubber sole
- Full grain leather toe
The Under Armour Valsetz is a beefed-up version of the Stellar, with a nylon upper that’s even more flexible than the one on the Stellar. It’s still durable, though, with a full grain leather patch over the toe to protect the toe from kicks, bumps, and scratches.
These boots are very comfortable, with plenty of cushion around high-stress areas like the top of your ankle. They’ll keep your feet dry under almost any circumstances, provided you’re not standing in any water that’s deeper than your ankle bone. They also feature quick-lace loops, which allow you to get in and out of them quickly.
However, like the other Under Armour boots we looked at, they’re only available in a handful of sizes. Provided they’re available in yours, they’re a solid pair of tactical boots.
Pros
- Rugged, durable design
- Comfortable
- Extremely flexible
- Waterproof
Cons
- Limited size collection
These boots are another good choice for running, and they’re even more durable.
6. Smith & Wesson Breach 2.0
Smith & Wesson Footwear
Features
- SMITH & WESSON FOOTWEAR Men Breach 2.0 8" Side Zip, Color: Black, Size: 11, Width: R (810201-11)
The Smith & Wesson Breach features oil-proof soles, for good traction under virtually any conditions.
Key Features
- Leather and nylon upper
- Rubber, oil-proof sole
- Lace-up design with zippers
- Available in “Wide” sizes
- Available in black or coyote brown
The Smith & Wesson Breach is a comfortable pair of boots, with plenty of cushion in the sole to keep you going through a day on the trail or on the job. They lace securely up to your mid calf, but they’re easy to put on and take off, thanks to the zip-up sides. And the oil-proof rubber soles are extra grippy, giving you plenty of traction even in workplace situations where you’re encountering slick pavement.
These boots are breathable enough to keep your feet free of sweat. However, they’re not waterproof, so wearing them in the rain for extended periods will eventually get your feet wet. While this is an affordable pair of boots, you get what you pay for. The split grain leather in the upper is easy to scuff, and split grain leather is impossible to bring back to a full shine once it’s been scuffed.
Pros
- Comfortable, breathable, and supportive
- Plenty of traction
- Affordable
Cons
- Split-gran leather construction
- Not waterproof
This is a cheap pair of boots that provides plenty of support and grip.
7. Danner Tachyon
Features
- Removable insole
- Shank Material is made up of Nylon
The Danner Tachyon is a well-engineered boot that runs lighter than most combat boots.
Key Features
- Leather and nylon upper
- Rubber sole
- Lace-up design with quick-lace loops
- Removable, replaceable insole
- Available in “Wide” sizes
The Danner Tachyon is a brown leather boot that’s designed to look and feel like a standard combat boot. Indeed, it is a combat boot, based on Danner’s heavier models. However, it’s more lightweight, designed for rucking or other intense activities that are best done without a pair of heavy boots on.
These boots have a breathable leather and nylon upper, which wicks sweat away from your foot and keeps you dry even during an intense workout. However, they won’t keep you dry if it’s raining or you’re running through water, so take that into consideration.
The other thing we liked about these boots was the removable insole, which relieves pressure points, and provides excellent arch support.
Pros
- Breathable
- Very comfortable insole
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not waterproof
These boots are a good choice for long hikes or rucking.
8. Bates Ultra-Lites
Features
- YKK side zipper for quick on/off
- Slip resistant rubber outsole
- Durable leather and performance nylon upper
- Moisture wicking, breathable lining
- Removable cushioned insert
Bates Ultra-Lites have a cushy insole for extra support.
Key Features
- Leather and nylon upper
- Rubber sole
- Lace-up design with quick-lace loops and zippers
- Removable, replaceable insole
- Available in “Wide” sizes
- Available in black or sage
Bates Ultra-Lites are leather and nylon boots that are designed specifically for people whose jobs require them to spend all day on a concrete floor. They have thick, rubber soles that provide plenty of grip as well as enough cushion for support. In addition, they feature removable insoles that relieve pressure and support your arches through a full day’s work.
These boots offer two options for quickly putting them on and removing them. They have quick-lace loops, which are easy enough, but also zippered sides if you prefer an even faster change of shoes. They’re lightweight, which makes them easy to run in, and have a durable design that can take some abuse.
These boots are very reasonably priced at small sizes, but fairly expensive if you’re getting into NBA player territory.
Pros
- Tough, rugged design
- Lightweight
- Comfortable enough for all-day wear
- Breathable
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Wide price variation based on size
This is a good pair of boots if you spend long days working on a concrete surface.
9. Maelstrom TAC FORCE
Features
- [ EASY TO PUT ON AND TAKE OFF ] – Our black boots men feature a simple and efficient design, making it quick and easy to get in and out of them. This is perfect for those who need to move quickly and don't want to tie and untie the laces
- [ VERY COMFORTABLE RIGHT OUT OF THE BOX ] – The comfortable work boots for men offer soft and supportive comfort, even on extended missions. You won't have to worry about your feet feeling tired or sore, so you can stay focused on the task at hand. These will be the most comfortable boots you will ever own with a minimal break-in period
- [ DURABLE AND PROTECTIVE MATERIALS ] – These combat boots men are designed with quality and performance in mind, ensuring that you have the best equipment for any tactical operation. These are made with full-grain leather & nylon fabric for optimal durability and flexibility and are constructed with superior craftsmanship. The tough exterior protects against the elements and rough terrain, while the reinforced design provides added protection against wear and tear
- [ PERFECT BOOTS FOR HIKING, MILITARY & WORK ] – These men's hiking boots are designed to meet the demands of various outdoor and tactical activities. Whether you're hiking through rough terrain, working in tough conditions, or on a military operation, these hunting boots provide the protection, comfort, and performance you need to succeed
- [ 3-SOLE SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR EXCELLENT TRACTION ] – The 3-sole support system provides excellent traction and stability, giving you better control and reducing the risk of slips and falls. This is especially important when you're operating on unpredictable surfaces. Our work boots feature EVA and rubber combo soles that are designed with cushioning and support in mind. These soles are lightweight and flexible, reducing foot fatigue and providing a softer landing with each step
The Maelstrom Tac Force is both waterproof and breathable.
Key Features
- Leather and nylon upper
- Rubber sole
- Lace-up design with zippers
- Available in “Wide” sizes
- Available in black and tan
- Waterproof
The Maelstrom Tac Force is a pair of boots with a leather and nylon upper that’s flexible enough for comfort, as well as being breathable. The iH2O-Tex liner is waterproof and wicks moisture away from your skin to keep you free of sweat. They’re available in “Wide” sizes to fit as many feet as possible, and feature zip-up sides to allow you to get in and out of them quickly.
This is a very affordable pair of boots. Anyone can buy a pair, on virtually any budget. On the other hand, they’re not terribly durable. The split grain leather upper can’t take a lot of abuse, and the liner starts to wear out after a few months of daily wear. Consider these if you’re looking for a good pair of boots for one season.
Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Affordable
Cons
- Not very durable
This is a good pair of boots if you’re looking for a quick fix on a budget.
10. Tactical Research Belleville MAXX8ZWP
Tactical Research Belleville MAXX8ZWP
Features
- OUTSOLE: 100% rubber EXCLUSIVE VIBRAM “BALLISTIC”
- INSOLE: OrthoLite high performance removable insert: single-density molded insert with high rebound memory foam and heel cup stabilizer
- Stack height of 29mm at the heel and 23mm at the forefoot
- 6mm heel to toe “drop”
- ”Rocker” midsole geometry encourages smooth gate from heel-strike to toe-off
The Belleville Maxx is designed to be as comfortable as possible for all-day wear, under any conditions.
Key Features
- Nylon and leather upper
- Italian-made Vibram rubber sole
- Lace-up design with quick-lace loops and zippers
- Extra cushion in the midsole
- Available in “Wide” sizes
- Waterproof
- Available in black or brown
The Belleville Maxx is a durable pair of leather work boots that’s available in both black and brown. These boots have quick-lace loops that allow you to remove them or put them on in a snap, as well as zippers if you prefer to go that route. The zippers are waterproof, in addition to the rest of the upper, which means you can trek through ankle-deep water without getting wet.
Maxx boots feature a Vibram rubber sole, which is an Italian-made high-grade rubber that’s formulated specifically for boots. The leather and nylon uppers are durable enough to stand up to all the demands of daily use, and the midsoles feature a dense foam layer that provides support and springs back into shape after each use.
These boots are on the pricey side. However, they’re the same size no matter what size you’re buying, so they’re a bargain if you have large feet.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Very durable
- Extra grippy soles
- Same price for all sizes
Cons
- Pricey
These boots are rugged enough for law enforcement and security, which is who they’re designed for.
11. Belleville 500 USMC
Belleville 500 USMC
Features
- OUTSOLE: 100% rubber VIBRAM Sierra
- INSOLE: Single density molded removable insert
- VANGUARD running shoe sole construction
- Durably waterproof and highly breathable GORE-TEX fabric
- CERTIFICATION #150M22-000541-6-49
Belleville USMC Combat Boots are rugged enough for the rigors of combat
Key Features
- Leather upper
- Vibram rubber sole
- Lace-up design with quick-lace loops
- Polyurethane cushion in the midsole
- Available in “Wide” sizes
- Waterproof Gore-Tex lining
Belleville USMC Combat Boots are exactly what they sound like they are – rugged, high-topped brown leather boots that lace all the way up. They feature quick-lace loops for easy removal and quickly putting them on, as well as a thick polyurethane cushion in the midsole to support your arches through miles of running and hours of workouts.
These boots also have Gore-Tex lining, which makes them suitable for wearing in even the most visible weather. They also have Vibram rubber soles, so you know that when you plant a foot, it’s going to stay planted. All of this comes at a steep price, but paying top dollar gets you top quality.
Pros
- Very durable
- Very comfortable
- Extra grippy soles
- Designed for running and other intense activities
Cons
- Pricey
These are official Marine Corps combat boots; enough said.
12. Garmont T8 Bifida
Garmont T8 Bifida Tactical Boot
1 used from $139.26
Features
- This Tactical boot is known for outstanding quality and attention to fine detail. Made of durable nylon webbing and metallic eyelets.
- Unsurpassed confront accomplished with the PU Breathable Footbed, and the EVA insole. Zero optical refraction hardware at the instep for flawless performance in all operating environments.
- Slip resistance offered from the well-constructed rubber outsole and treads designed to grip the ground as you are completing your mission.
- For Missions where the need for speed is paramount, this lightweight high-performance tactical boot provides unsurpassed comfort and protection even under a heavy load and on assignments requiring long periods of standing and excessive walking.
- The durable upper construction offers excellent breathability and ventilation and the quick-drying materials are suitable to an amphibious environment or extremely wet climate.
Garmont T8 Bifida boots are made and inspected by hand in Italy.
Key Features
- Suede upper
- Vibram leather soles
- Lace-up design with quick-lace loops
- Available in “Wide” sizes.
- Made and hand-inspected in Italy
Garmont T8 Bifida boots are designed just like military combat boots and are well-suited for the purpose. With their high ankle and heavy, Vibram rubber sole, they provide plenty of support and grip for almost any athletic activity.
It’s hard to overstate how comfortable these boots are. They’re inspected by hand and have thick padding in the soles to keep you comfortable through a day on the trail. Unfortunately, they’re not waterproof, so they’re best used in drier climates.
They’re also expensive. But you’ll never need to buy another pair of tactical boots again.
Pros
- Very durable
- Very comfortable
- Plenty of grip
Cons
- Pricey
- Not waterproof
These boots are extraordinarily comfortable as long as you’re wearing them in a dry environment.
Bottom Line
As you can see, there are plenty of boots out there that could be considered the best tactical boots, depending on what you’re looking for. Are you looking for a tall military hiking boot that will keep you dry halfway up your calf? Or a shorter boot with more flexibility? For those and many other reasons, we tried to offer a wide variety of choices. We hope we succeeded.
One thing we do need to address is sizing. All of the boots we listed are sold in US men’s sizes. Those sizes are different from the UK, European, and Mexican sizes. They’re also, as you’re probably aware, different from women’s sizes. If you’re not sure, here’s a handy comparison chart to help you out.
Remember, sizes differ from manufacturer to manufacturer. So even if you’re a US man with no need for a sizing chart, try on your boots right away to make sure they fit. It’s easy to return them right away. Wait a few months, and most sellers will tell you to take a hike.
The Review
Best Tactical Hiking Boots
If you're looking for the best hiking boots, read through our reviews of the best tactical hiking boots on the market.
Review Breakdown
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5.11 Men's ATAC Tactical Side Zip Military Boot
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Bates Men's Gx-8 Sage
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Belleville Khyber Mountain Hybrid Boot
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Under Armour Men's Stellar Military and Tactical Boot
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Under Armour Men's Valsetz
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Smith & Wesson Footwear
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Danner Men's Tachyon
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Bates Men's Ultra-Lites
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Maelstrom Men's TAC FORCE
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Tactical Research Belleville MAXX8ZWP
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Belleville 500 USMC
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Garmont T8 Bifida Tactical Boot
Best Tactical Hiking Boots DEALS
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