Choosing the right footwear tends to be a tough task if there’s a myriad of rules and regulations to follow. Contrary to the popular belief, most police officers need to follow uniform classifications that communicate position, rank, and specialty. What are the best police boots, then?
More often than not, the best shoes for any police officer are the ones that follow the guidelines and provide you with comfort, support, and protection. Police boots are much more than a fashion statement – even though they’re expected to be clean, polished, and put-together, they need to be practical, tactical, and wearable, too.
Moreover, police boots affect your performance, agility, and accuracy. The right footwear can make a world of difference and that’s why we’re bringing you a rundown on what you need to consider before purchasing a pair. Moreover, we’ve prepared a few of our top picks guaranteed to get you through the day.
What to consider before choosing the right police footwear?
Before committing to a perfect boot, remember to check your department’s policy and procedures handbook to ensure they’re the right fit.
No matter how snug, secure, and safe your brand-new boots are, there’s a chance your sergeant or any administrative person responsible for your police uniform won’t be happy with them.
Now, when you make sure you’re aware of the rules and regulations, you can proceed to do some shopping. What are you supposed to focus on when you’re searching for the best police boots? What characteristics make for the most comfortable pair of footwear out there?
Right off the bat, police boots need to be made of high-quality, hardwearing, lightweight, and breathable fabrics that guarantee to keep your feet safe and secure.
On the other hand, we can’t forget about padding and cushioning that’s going to provide you with enough shock absorption and comfort. Of course, your boots of choice need to be grippy to ensure you don’t slip and fall while you’re chasing after the bad guys.
Other than that, you can search for added features that are going to get you through the day with ease – we’re referring to side zippers, heavy-duty, durable laces, and waterproof uppers.
Now that you’re up to speed with everything a great police boot needs to possess, take a look at a few kicks created to keep your feet happy and healthy.
What are the best police boots at the moment?
1. Under Armour Micro G Valsetz Zip Mid Boots
OK, the Under Armour Micro G Valsetz Zip Mid Boots have everything you’re ever going to need from footwear. Number one, they’re equipped with something known as Micro G midsole cushioning which provides you with comfort and prevents blisters, bruises, and bleeding.
Number two, they’re made with rubber outsoles that are oil-and-slip resistant which means you’re perfectly capable of catching the bad guys without slipping and falling.
Number three, we can’t forget about the anti-fatigue and anti-bacterial footbeds that are designed to absorb shock and keep you and your feet out of harm’s way. What more could a police officer ask for?
2. Bates Ultralite Tactical Side Zip Military Boot
Moving on to one of the most popular combat boots, the Bates Ultralite Tactical Side Zip Military boots are lightweight, gentle on your feet, and easy to slip on and off. Moreover, these hardwearing, heavy-duty boots are much more flexible than you might think.
They’re designed to move with your feet and allow you to walk, run, and even work out without being dragged down. They’re made with special fabrics that keep your feet warm during the winter and sweat-free during the summer.
These shoes are made with rubber outsoles which means they offer excellent traction. Additionally, they’re able to protect your feet even without the restricting toe guards.
3. Viktos Johnny Combat Waterproof Boots
Weather plays a huge part when you’re searching for the best police boots. Police officers that spend a considerable amount of time outside during a heatwave or extremely hot and humid weather might need to opt for boots made with breathable, moisture-wicking, sweat-proof fabrics.
However, those who are more likely to work during the wet season, on drenched, muddy surfaces are better off choosing something waterproof, slip-resistant, and protective.
And, that’s exactly who these Viktos Johnny Combat Waterproof Boots are perfect for.
They’re made with patented STRIFE™ outsoles that promise to keep you on your feet regardless of the circumstances. They’re strong and sturdy, but they’re made with lightweight fabrics that aren’t going to weigh you down. They’re designed by vets which earns them a few extra points, too.
4. Thorogood Deuce Waterproof Side-Zip Black Tactical Boots
Searching for boots that are going to make you appear, feel, and act tough? Search no more, because these Thorogood Deuce Waterproof Side-Zip Black Tactical Boots might be the right fit for you.
They’re made with leather and mesh which means they’re lightweight, breathable, and durable – all at the same time. On top of that, they’re made with rubber outsoles which means you don’t have to worry about the amount of traction you’re getting.
They’re water-and-sweat resistant, and they’re provided with removable footbeds to ensure you get the finest fit, every single time. They’re made with cement construction and toe guards to protect your feet from pretty much everything. But, they’re a little on the stiffer side which could sway you another way.
5. Nortiv 8 Military Tactical Work Boots
So, there’s a reason why Doc Martens aren’t that popular among police officers even though they’re high-quality and heavy-duty. Since Doc Martens require you to wear them down before they mold to your foot and become more comfortable, police officers aren’t drawn to them.
Oftentimes, officers don’t have the time and energy to suffer through blisters and bruises.
But, the Nortiv 8 Military Tactical Work Boots are comfortable straight from the package. It’s not only that these boots don’t require you to break the bank, but they are also they’re made with lightweight, breathable, and durable fabrics.
They’re waterproof, sweatproof, and even dirt-proof considering that the upper sheds dust and debris with ease. They’re supportive and protective, and they’re great for people who need added ankle support.
6. Oakley SI Patrol Boots
Heat and humidity were never a problem for the Oakley SI Patrol Boots. We’ve been talking your ears off with the importance of fabrics – but, when you’re wearing a boot that’s keeping your feet fresh, frisky, and dry, you feel all the benefits.
We suggest trying out the Oakley SI Patrol Boots because they’re designed to keep your feet that way at all times. They’re equipped with strategically placed eyelets that allow airflow, and they’re made with a mesh upper for the same reason.
They’re easy on the eye, too, because they’re made with canvas, leather, and suede. They’re supportive around the ankles and easy to wear. Overall, Oakley boots deserve a spot on our list because they’re truly one of the best police boots out there.
7. Altama Vengeance Side-Zip Boots
When you’re on the lookout for a boot that’s beaming with tread and traction, check out the Altama Vengeance Side-Zip Boots. When you catch a glimpse of them on the website, you’re greeted with boots that look tough and rugged.
But, they’re quite lightweight, wearable, and ready to take out on the town straight out of the box. Besides, they’re equipped with pretty much everything you might need, from carbon rubber outsoles and YKK zippers to mesh uppers.
8. 5.11 Tactical A.T.A.C. 2.0 Side Zip 8 Boots
Boots don’t have to be boring, right? Before you opt for the toned-down, bland black boots, we suggest checking the 5.11 Tactical A.T.A.C. 2.0 Side Zip 8 Boots out.
Whether or not you’re in the market for something exciting, you have the admit that these boots are on a different level. Even the name sounds like something straight out of a Bond movie. We can’t help but start with the fact that these boots are equipped with a hidden knife pocket.
They’re lighter, more comfortable, and more durable than some of the other boots we mentioned. They’re padded for support and comfort, and they’re designed to allow airflow and keep your feet fresh for longer. Without a doubt, they’re worth the steep, staggering price tag they come with.
9. Reebok Sublite Cushion Tactical RB8605 Boot
We’re getting closer to the end of the article with Reebok Sublite Cushion Tactical RB8605 Boots.
“These boots are made for walking,” and we couldn’t agree more when we’re referring to Reebok footwear. These boots are flexible because they feature flex grooves that move with each step you take. They’re made with memory foam footbeds that provide you with comfort and support.
They’re equipped with rubber outsoles to ensure traction and shock absorption. And, they’re well-made and well-designed. We recommend these for officers that spend most of the day walking, running around, and standing on their feet.
10. Fila Chastizer Military And Tactical Boot
Finally, we had to mention the Fila Chastizer Military And Tactical Boots, too, because of their excellent shock absorption characteristics.
Additionally, these boots aren’t high maintenance because they’re made with moisture-wicking and dust-proof fabrics. At the end of the day, they’re supportive and protective and they’re a great addition to your boot collection.
