10 Best Combat Boots (Review) In 2022

- 1. Under Armour Men's Valsetz Combat Boots
- 2. Ryno Gear Tactical Combat Boots
- 3. Magnum Elite Spider X 8.0 SZ Men's Combat Boots
- 4. Original S.W.A.T. Men's Metro Air Tactical Boot
- 5. Garmont T8 Bifida Tactical Boot
- 6. Oakley Mens Light Assault Combat Boots
- 7. Danner Men's Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boot
- 8. adidas Men's GSG-9.2 Training Shoe
- 9. Thorogood Men's Gen-flex2 Tactical Boot
- 10. 5.11 Tactical Men's ATAC 2.0 Waterproof Military Boots
Although they’ll hold their own in a firefight combat boots aren’t just for use during combat. They’re also ideal for law enforcement officers, emergency responders, corrections officers and anyone who wants to adopt a bit of an edge to their look. Also called “tactical boots” these high performance, high durability boots help you make the most of your natural abilities and keep you safe, warm and comfortable while doing so. All great combat boots share similar core characteristics: flexibility, durability and support. Beyond that feature sets vary and include everything from waterproofing to quick lacing. Below are the best combat boots on the market today. If you like this kind of footwear, take a look at our selection of firefighter boots too.
The Best Combat Boot
1. Under Armour Men’s Valsetz Combat Boots

Genuine rubber sole.
UA ClutchFit Technology.
Strong yet forgiving TPU midsole.
Micro G foam cushioning.
2 part Ortholite sockliner.
Faux leather upper.
What makes newcomer Under Armour’s Men’s Valsetz Tactical Boots so impressive is their winning combination of light weight and outstanding support. The UA ClutchFit technology installs firm but forgiving support under your arch and heel and absorbs shocks all day long so you don’t lose that spring in your step even toward the end of a long day on patrol. They also feature the company’s Ortholite molded sockliner. This is comprised of memory foam over a PU base and it give the boot a custom-style fit that’s both unexpected and welcome.
Like a lot of the best army boots the Valsetz isn’t just for night duty at Shindand Air Base. It’s for those responding to tornado swarms, those conducting foot patrols in urban areas, SWAT team members, corrections officers and even for a bit of light hiking on the weekend. The rubber sole provides excellent grip, ankle support is good to very good and the abrasion resistant skirt around the base of the boot protects your feet from nuisance injuries while keeping it looking good. Make sure you also check our guide to the best welding boots.
Handsome boots that are durable and performance oriented without being too heavy or stiff.
The vulcanized rubber soles provide outstanding grip on a variety of surfaces.
They’re light enough to wear all day long without becoming anchors on your feet.
They epitomize what a combat boot should be: versatile, tough, light and protective.
These desert combat boots are not waterproof. So be aware of that.
2. Ryno Gear Tactical Combat Boots

Slip resistant genuine rubber outsole.
Leather and synthetic upper.
Water resistant inner lining.
Removable shock absorbing insoles.
Coolmax lining with padded collar.
Outstanding traction on mixed surfaces.
These Ryno Gear Tactical Combat Boots are a bit heavier than some competitor’s boots. But because of the way they hug your feet and the sure footing they provide on virtually any surface you don’t really notice. The upper is comprised of genuine leather and a breathable mesh and protects you from biting winds and low level environmental hazards while retaining its breathability.
Much to their credit they have a water resistant lining that means you don’t have to be concerned if it starts raining or if you have to trudge through wet terrain on the way to help storm victims. The padded cuff prevents them from chaffing your lower calf which would otherwise be a concern on such high collar boots. In addition, the outsole is fashioned from slip resistant rubber to keep you upright when you’re navigating that wet terrain.
Some of the most comfortable military and police boots we tested without question.
They’re very breathable which helps them stay nice and cool even on red hot days.
You’ll appreciate the support on those days when you’re pack is full and the trial is rough.
The ankle zipper eliminates the need to re-lace every time you put them on.
Not that it’s a big deal but we’d like them more if they had a reinforced toe.
3. Magnum Elite Spider X 8.0 SZ Men’s Combat Boots

Leather combat boots.
Compression molded midsole.
Cordura AFT 3D fabric for breathability.
Durable Vibram rubber sole.
Rustproof hardware throughout.
Dependable YKK side zipper.
Lightweight and comfortable.
If foot patrols are on the menu the Magnum Men’s Elite Spider X tactical boots will answer the call time after time. We love the way these boots feel when they’re full laced up. They provide a firm, reassuring hold and feel like they belong on your feet. When you stand with your full pack they seem to propel you upward the way a truly good tactical boot should.
The boots feature a half bellows tongue, a padded cuff, Aero Mesh integration throughout to keep the air moving through and a stiffened toe box. While it’s not a steel toe it is nonetheless a significant step up from the toe box of most tactical boots. Also inside is a removable EVA contoured midsole that you’d do well not to remove (except maybe to air the boots out on occasion). And there’s a hardened heel box to enhance stability and protect from day to day hazards. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best winter boots.
They grab hold of and seem to become an extension of your feet.
The composite shank provides control while the EVA midsole absorbs shocks.
The Aero Mesh breathable fabric provides outstanding breathability from arch to calf.
The boot uses a running shoe chassis that allows for more natural gait on any surface.
Water resistant but not waterproof so try and avoiding dunking your feet in streams or deep puddles.
4. Original S.W.A.T. Men’s Metro Air Tactical Boot

Heel air bag absorbs shocks.
Tough 1000 denier nylon upper.
Dependable YKK side zipper.
Slip resistant non-marking sole.
Molded nylon shank.
Highly breathable upper.
Polishable toe and sole.
Light, comfortable, durable and breathable the Original SWAT Men’s Metro Air Tactical Boot is designed with indoor security personnel in mind. But while they will certainly appeal to airport security and corrections officers along with others in similar positions, their appeal is not limited. Those operating heavy equipment, driving trucks, doing light construction related work (electricians note there is no metal toe) as well as those who want a bit of edge to their personal style will also find a lot to like here.
The upper is comprised of full grain leather interspersed with highly durable 1000D nylon. Unique to the Metro is an airbag in the heel the soaks up impacts like a sponge. It’s not something you’ll necessarily notice right off the bat, but rather at the end of the day when you’re not experiencing spirit crushing cramps and quad fatigue. The YKK ankle zipper is robust and dependable, even if you’ve been naughty and got it all mucked up with dirt, mud and other debris.
They absorb shocks well without being too springy.
A tall, well-made if visually unremarkable tactical boot that’s all day comfortable.
They’re very well made toe to cuff and should last a good long time.
They’re designed fairly narrow which reduces lateral stability just a hair.
They’re a bit all over the place from a visual standpoint.
5. Garmont T8 Bifida Tactical Boot

Suede leather upper.
Vibram Bifida outsole.
600 Denier nylon webbing.
Durable polyurethane insole.
Refraction free hardware.
Canvas and Texon lining.
If you’re a fan of more restrained design the Garmont T8 Bifida Tactical Boot is right up your alley. These are no-nonsense lace up combat boots with a coyote brown finish that can be worn with your operational camouflage pattern uniform, or your jeans. Whichever applies at the moment. They’re durable and comfortable as well as being water resistant. So they’ll serve you well whatever the call of duty on a given day.
The genuine Vibram Bifida sole from which the boot takes part of its name is highly slip resistant and provides outstanding traction on dirt, rock, mixed terrain and snow. The metallic eyelets feature a zero optical refraction finish to prevent blinding glare and the midsole is firm enough to withstand the rigors of parachuting, should that be on the agenda. That level of impact protection isn’t easy to achieve nor should it be taken for granted. Not every tactical boot will provide it. You may also like our guide to the best rain boots so check it out.
The Vibram Bifida sole grabs hold of any terrain and doesn’t let go.
The genuine suede upper is comfortable, durable and attractive.
The boot breathes well so even on hot days it rarely gets too hot.
Sizing is not always precise.
Laces are not just old school their out of date.
6. Oakley Mens Light Assault Combat Boots

Slip resistant rubber outsole.
Speed loop lacing system.
Upper of leather and 1000 denier nylon.
Rugged braided nylon laces.
8 inches to top of cuff.
Molded EVA midsole insert.
Oakley makes some of the most attractive sunglasses on the market and has for well over 2 decades. So it’s a bit surprising that their Mens Light Assault Boot would be so aggressively un-attractive. Perhaps the designers were trying to create a new design standard working under the guise of the well-worn notion that all original and/or beautiful work appears looks ugly at first. If that’s the case we’re sorry to say they missed the mark. Because even after plenty of consideration they still have a face only a mother could love.
The good news is that their lack of pulchritude doesn’t in any way diminish the fact that these are very versatile, effective and durable army boots. They’re light, comfortable and fashioned from 1000D cordura nylon and cow hide. They have a molded EVA insole that provides robust support all day long and the speed lacing system adequately compensates for the lack of a side zipper, such as you’ll find on most combat boots. They’re also fully compliant with the army’s AF 670-1 specs.
Ideal for long distance treks in the Hindu Kush or the state park.
The removal midsole shouldn’t be removed because it provides outstanding support.
The speed loop lacing system is a real time saver and necessary in the absence of a side zipper.
Perhaps the ugliest highly effective tactical boot on the market.
Minimal padding in the cuff can lead to irritation on hot sweaty days.
7. Danner Men’s Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boot

Full leather upper.
Grippy Vibram rubber sole.
200 G Thinsulate insulation.
Genuine Gore-Tex lining.
Fully waterproof.
Narrow fit with lightly padded cuff.
The Danner Mens Recon 200 Gram Uniform Boot is the polar opposite of the Oakley Light Assault Boot in that it’s handsome enough to wear on a night out. Fortunately, it’s also tough enough to lace up for your next extended patrol. It has a Vibram sole that provides outstanding grip on varied surfaces, a full grain leather upper that’s as comfortable as it is attractive and a lightly padded cuff that takes the sting out of the high profile.
Unlike many other lace up combat boots the Recon 200 is also 100% waterproof with a Gore-Tex lining that’s breathable but keeps moisture outside where it belongs. In addition the designers have thoughtfully included 200 G Thinsulate insulation which means you won’t have to think about changing boots when the mercury dips below freezing. These 2 features alone justify the somewhat higher price you’re going to pay for these boots. Our selection of the best snow boots offers some great footwear so check it out.
Think of them as Doc Martens without the punk pedigree.
One of the few truly waterproof black combat boots on the market.
Toss in the Thinsulate insulation and you’re talking an excellent all-around outdoor boot.
Handsome and comfortable full grain leather combat boots with a Vibram sole that provides rock solid traction on a multitude of surfaces.
Like high-end Doc Martens they’re going to cost a pretty penny.
8. adidas Men’s GSG-9.2 Training Shoe

100% leather upper.
Durable rubber sole.
Lightweight and comfortable.
Water resistant treatment.
Seam-sealed membrane.
Grippy Adidas Traxion lugs.
Antimicrobial Ortholite liner.
The Mens GSG-9.2 Training Shoe from Adidas is just that; a training shoe that doubles as a light duty day to day shoe. If features a full grain leather upper that’s reasonably breathable and which has been subjected to the company’s proprietary waterproofing treatment. As such it will keep your feet dry on most rainy days when you’re splashing your way through shallow puddles. But don’t expect to stay dry if you’re standing in ankle deep water for an hour.
That said the main attraction of the GSG-9.2 is its combination of light weight and outstanding flexibility. Should you need to break into a run you won’t feel like you’ve got a couple of cinder blocks attached to your feet holding you back. The GSG-9.2 even looks (a lot) like a high top sneaker because, essentially, it is a high top sneaker that has undergone a bit of re-engineering to make it more durable and waterproof.
Essentially police boots for training and everyday use.
The impact absorbing material in the heel effectively reduces shock fatigue.
The sole provides excellent traction particularly on mixed terrain.
They’re comfortable and provide reasonable waterproofing although look out for deep puddles.
The glorified sneaker laces aren’t going to win any durability contests.
9. Thorogood Men’s Gen-flex2 Tactical Boot

Removable polyurethane midsole.
Features BBP X-Stream waterproofing.
Flexible Gen-flex 2 outsole.
Slip resistant outsole.
Stedair linings resist blood-borne pathogens.
1000 denier panels for flexibility.
Heavy duty YKK zippers.
These handsome, tough, comfortable, waterproof Thorogood military boots are easy on the eye and will likely win you over the minute you lace them up and start walking. They have all the features you want to see including waterproofing (via the BBP X-Stream Waterproofing system), outstanding support (thanks to the poly footbed) and a durable grippy Weinbenner outsole.
The Gen-Flex 2 army boots live up to their name by featuring first class flexibility which allows you to maintain your natural gait. The composite shank provides plenty of support through the mid-foot and the rugged heel cup prevents lateral sliding that can compromise your stance when you’re carrying a full pack. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best Gore-Tex boots.
Handsome well-made military boots for patrols, work or play.
Some of the most effective waterproofing we tested all the way up to the cuff.
They promote a nice, natural gait that reduces fatigue on long hauls.
They’re not the lightest but you won’t care when your feet are dry and everyone else’s are soaking wet.
They’re very comfortable but they can be a bit noisy as you walk. Not great for stealth.
10. 5.11 Tactical Men’s ATAC 2.0 Waterproof Military Boots

Fully waterproof.
Leather and fabric upper.
Discrete side pocket.
Durable reliable YKK side zippers.
Anti-bacterial lining.
Oil resistant sole.
The final entry on our list of best combat boots is the ATAC 2.0 Waterproof Mens Military Boots from 5.11. This is another pair of handsome purpose built black combat boots that are going to find favor with those whose duties are mostly of the outdoor variety. As opposed to corrections officers or airport security personnel who ply their trade indoors most of the time.
The YKK side zipper is robust and reliable and allows you to slip in and out without having to relace. The Ortholite injection molded insole provides good support through the arch and prevents too much force from coming to bear on the toe box. And the moisture wicking capabilities of the leather/nylon mesh upper will serve you well on the hottest day in the Middle East theater.
The combination of waterproofing and warmth make them outstanding hiking or jungle boots.
The waterproofing is reliable even when you’re pushing it a bit.
The non-metallic shank and lack of steel toe means you’ll glide through airport security.
They absorb shocks well and stay comfortable all day, even with a heavy pack.
Remember that ‘waterproof’ means that if water gets in over the top it’s not going anywhere for a while.
Combat Boot Buying Guide And FAQ
Anyone who leads an active lifestyle needs some basic items. The right clothing, accessories, and footwear go a long way to ensure that you have a wholesome experience. By now, it should be obvious that combat boots are a nifty pair of shoes to have if you're in the military or simply have to be on your feet for extended periods of time. But getting the right one is a journey you don't want to go on without some guidance. So, if you're looking for tips to help you land one of the best options out there, then this is truly the place to look. Think of it as your one-stop destination for all things combat boot related and then some.
Features To Look For In Combat Boots
Break-in time - With combat boots, you typically want to go with something that offers a snug fit. That way you can go about all your high energy activities without them falling off. What this means though is that initially, these shoes will be quite uncomfortable. The great thing is that you can break them in, but the time involved here depends on the boots in question. Typically you should be on the lookout for something that takes a couple of days to fully take the form of your feet.
Proceed to have these on while you go about your day to day business. Don't exert yourself at this stage, you're simply trying to break them in, not cover your feet in blisters. All in all, go for footwear that takes a relatively short time to be broken in, that way you get to use them as soon as possible.
Durability - This seriously goes without saying seeing as most of the activities you'll carry out with the boots you pick will be high-energy. Based on this alone, you need to make sure that whatever you pick out is sure to stand the test of time. There are a handful of factors that can determine how long it'll last. First, you need to look at the material used, the all-around design and even the brand. These factors merely scratch the surface, altogether, you really need to do your research when looking to buy one of these.
Above all, durability is truly key. It's the main feature you can use to determine if you truly get your money's worth at the end of the day. All in all, it's imperative that you shop smart, try your best not to sacrifice quality, sturdiness and all-around durability for the price.
Fastening system - This is another important aspect to take into consideration when looking for the best boots for you. There are different kinds of Fastening systems; you should probably go for one that's hassle-free. The most common fastening system when it comes to shoes like this is the lacing system. The main components here are the laces and eyelets. It's an efficient system altogether, but you'll find that it's not exactly durable. If your boots are fitted with metal eyelets, they may not necessarily be the most durable.
Clothes, on the other hand, are good as long as they are made from high-quality fabric. The laces are equally susceptible to breaking seeing as they go through a whole lot of use and abuse. Another alternative comes in the form of zips. These are highly convenient for the mere fact that they are easy to do-up and zip down. They are often combined with buckles to ensure that you get a good grip. All in all, ensure that you get something high-quality.
Fit - This is a major issue when it comes to all types of footwear. So, it's no surprise that it's featured here as a major factor to look out for. Even more, than it is required with other kinds of footwear, it is paramount that combat boots fit well. These shoes are meant solely for high energy situations. There's going to be a whole lot of movement; running, jogging, walking, marching, climbing. To ensure they don't fall off at some point and they offer up all the support needed, they need to fit you like a second skin.
Don't worry about the initial snugness, once you break them in, these shoes will feel like a part of you. If you're buying these in a store, there won't be much of a hassle there. It's a different ball game when you're shopping online though. For this reason, study sizing charts religiously and scour through reviews to figure out whether you should go a size up or down.
Grip - This works hand in hand with the fitting of the shoe and is just as important. Just so you can go about your duties and activities adequately and safely, these boots need to have a firm grip on your feet. Anything short of this will land you on your butt or face more times than you'd like. Also, ill-fitted combat boots are incredibly uncomfortable. All in all, without a good grip, your boots will be as far from functional as can be.
Material - If you're looking for a pair of boots that will stand the test of time (which is always the case), then you need to pay close attention to the materials used. If you don't, saddle up to buy a new pair in the next couple of months. For the most part of it, manufacturers try to take durability into consideration, but not all fingers are equal.
To be on the safe side, look out for boots made using Denier or ballistic nylon, suede leather, cowhide leather as well as an array of materials that are both lightweight and sturdy. Also, ensure that these materials can take a beating if not they are bound to wear out quite fast.
Weatherproof - Chances are that if you need a pair of combat boots, you're going to be braving different kinds of terrain in different weather conditions. Based on that, it is a must to get a pair that has a wide range of properties. First, ensure the material used is UV resistant, that way the sun doesn't degrade rapidly. Then, look for waterproof or water-resistant materials that ensure you are comfortable wading through water or when it rains. You can also check out our guide for best water shoes for men currently available.
Use - Typically, combat boots are categorized as army shoes. Nevertheless, that's not the only scenario they fit into. Even hikers and backpackers can benefit from a good old pair of combat boots. Altogether, these different categories of people may value different features. They may prefer different fastenings or materials. All in all, it's important to narrow down your choices based on what you want to use these shoes for.
Types Of Combat Boots
Professional - As aforementioned, combat boots are originally affiliated with the military. This sturdy footwear has all the qualities needed to ensure that our brave men and women get all the support they need out there. For that reason, the best option for them is the professional combat boot. These boots are built to certain specifications to ensure that the wearer can brave all that the war exercises/front has to offer.
Designer - You have to admit, combat boots have some sort of allure to them. Their aesthetics fit right into a number of fashionable get-ups. So, these days, it's not unusual to see teens and adults alike sporting these boots casually. Not only are they stylish and trendy, but they are quite comfortable once you get the right fit. They give you an added edge as far as fashion and style are concerned.
The thing about these shoes is that they have some leeway when it comes to construction. Yes, they have to be durable, but since they don't go through the same stress that traditional combat boots do, their construction doesn’t have to be as airtight.
Combat Boot FAQ
Q. How can I make my combat boots more comfortable?
A: First and foremost, you need to make sure that the shoes you get fit you well. You can further visit a shoe repair shop to have the leather stretched out since it's often too tight. You can also place an insert inside the shoes to widen and shape them up properly.
Q: How tight should combat boots be?
A: In general, it's necessary to have quite a snug fit with this kind of footwear. It shouldn't be stifling though, leave a little wiggle room in there for your toes. To ensure that the shoes are snug enough to keep your heels in place while you walk. If not, you are going to end up with a truckload blisters.
Q: Do combat boots go with everything?
A: The answer is a big, fat, yes. Combat boots are quite versatile when it comes to style. You can sport them with jeans and still pull them off while wearing a skater dress. Note that these are statement shoes, so they are really going to amp up your whole get up. The bottom line is that you can try them out with a number of looks and still remain winning.