When you hear the word “hiking,” chances are you picture conquering a mountain in high-quality, hard-wearing hiking boots. With a rugged, sturdy, and stiff construction, hiking boots are perfect for keeping your feet safe. But are combat boots good for hiking, too?
Before you knock them down, know that combat boots are some of the toughest boots out there. Most manufacturers produce combat boots for military and law enforcement officials. Most combat boots meet specific safety regulations that can come in handy when you’re hiking.
What’s the difference between combat and hiking boots, then? Which of the two would be better for your feet on a difficult and dangerous hiking trail? Worry not, combat boots aren’t as unsuitable for hiking as you might think. We’re bringing you everything you need to know down below!
Combat vs. hiking boots: What’s the difference?
Before we answer the burning question of whether or not combat boots are good for hiking, we do need to discuss the difference between the two. Why do hikers opt for hiking boots when combat boots are much more versatile? We’re pretty sure that combat boots reign supreme – let’s see!
1. About combat boots
Combat boots, for the most part, are military boots designed specifically to be worn by soldiers during combat or combat training. Modern combat boots are designed for a myriad of circumstances. Made to provide you with ankle stability, grip, and foot protection, they’re perfect for every rugged environment.
Moreover, combat boots are heavy-duty, durable, and designed to withstand the test of time. What’s great about combat boots is that they’re made to endure numerous climates and conditions to accommodate the needs of different missions and circumstances.
Because of that, we can assume that combat boots are good for hiking. But are they really, though?
2. About hiking boots
Hiking boots, on the other hand, are lightweight, breathable boots specifically designed for hiking on outdoor trails or rugged, rough terrains. With hiking boots, you don’t need to worry about slipping and falling because they’re made with non-slip outsoles.
Hiking boots are equipped with plenty of ankle and arch support, moisture-wicking ability, and a water-repellent exterior. With that out of the way, the main differences between combat and hiking boots are their materials and functions.
Combat boots are stiffer, bulkier, and more protective, while hiking boots are easier to manage. Contrary to popular belief, different hikers might appreciate different aspects of both combat and hiking boots. We still need to answer the burning question, though: Are combat boots good for hiking or not?
Are combat boots good for hiking?
Now, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to wear your combat boots when going on a hike with friends or coworkers. Seasoned hikers prefer to wear hiking boots because that’s what they’re designed for – not to mention that these people know what does and doesn’t work for them.
So, you might want to put proper hiking boots on your shopping wishlist and continue practicing with your combat boots. But remember to keep the differences between combat and hiking boots in mind when you determine which of the two types accommodates your activities better.
Combat boots aren’t perfect for hiking because that’s not what they’re meant for, but they’re perfectly fine for the time being. Depending on the type of combat boots you opt for, you might even prefer them to hiking boots anyway.
We’re bringing you a few of our favorite combat boots you can wear when hiking to ensure you know what to look for. Comfortable, supportive, and protective combat boots are a must-have for a reason and we’re keeping our fingers crossed you’re happy with our picks.
What are the best combat boots to wear for hiking?
1. Nortiv 8 Men’s Military Tactical Hiking Boots
What’s the verdict – are combat boots good for hiking? Combat boots are great for hiking when you opt for these Nortiv 8 Men’s Military Tactical Hiking Boots.
With slip-resistant outsoles, EVA midsoles, and shock-absorbing footbeds, there’s pretty much nothing about these combat boots that wouldn’t be appropriate for a hike. Combat boots are typically heavy, but these ones are surprisingly lightweight, breathable, and wearable.
When you put them on for the first time, you’ll find that you’re equipped with plenty of wiggle room and a safety toe that ensures your feet are happy and protected for the duration of your hike.
2. Rocky Men’s S2v Predator Military Boots
Lightweight combat boots are difficult to come by, but Rocky Men’s S2v Predator Military Boots weigh under one pound – can you believe that? With a lightweight and breathable construction, these combat boots are guaranteed to allow airflow and keep your feet dry.
Rocky boots are worth your money – with full-grain leather and 1000D Cordura nylon upper construction, they’re guaranteed to carry you through thick and thin for years and years to come.
Rather than getting distracted by your swampy, soggy feet, these boots ensure you’re on top of your game. The advanced S2V Sieve technology pushes excess moisture through the vents, while the Dri-Lex lining keeps your feet sweat-free. What’s not to love?
3. Khyber Lightweight Waterproof Tactical Boots
With an attractive appearance, Khyber Lightweight Waterproof Tactical Boots are one of the most popular, prominent combat boots out there.
Combat boots are good for hiking when they’re made with a highly cushioned, shock-absorbent midsole and an outsole made of 100% Vibram Ibex – and that’s exactly what these combat boots are.
Contrary to what you might think, you probably won’t need the waterproof and bloodborne pathogen-proof membrane that protects your feet from potentially harmful substances on a hike. But having that kind of protection eases your mind when it comes to other dangers you might come across.
4. Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military Boot
Combat boots are much more than the chunky, maximalist boots you’ve been seeing on celebs thanks to the “ugly footwear” trend. With combat boots, your feet are supposed to be protected from pretty much everything you come across during combat or combat training.
We’re sure you won’t be fighting the enemy on your hike, but your combat boots should still satisfy your needs. With lightweight EVA midsoles, PU footbeds that offer excellent shock absorption, and non-slip Vibram outsoles, there are no boxes Garmont Men’s T8 Bifida Tactical Military Boots don’t check.
5. Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS 1.5 Tactical Boots
Maybe you don’t want to wear heavy-duty combat boots on your hike. Perhaps you don’t like the feeling of your feet getting dragged down because of heavy, bulky combat boots.
If that’s the case, we’re sure you’re going to appreciate the simple, sleek construction of Under Armour Men’s Valsetz RTS 1.5 Tactical Boots.
Water-resistant and abrasion-resistant thanks to the PU film, you can wear these combat boots on wet terrain without worrying about getting soggy feet. Moreover, the PU toe cap protects your toes from hard rocks and tree branches and the UA ClutchFit system protects your ankles.
We’re rooting for these combat boots for a reason, right?
6. Danner Reckoning 8″ USMC Boots
We couldn’t pass on the opportunity to rave about Reckoning 8″ USMC Boots. Whenever you’re stuck wondering if combat boots are good for hiking, remember that Reckoning boots exist.
Specifically designed for Marines expected to hike and ruck on rough terrain, you truly can’t go wrong with these bad boys. With Vibram All-Terrain platforms, superb shock absorption, and moisture-wicking air mesh lining, these combat boots are what every hiker’s dreams are made of.
7. Vengeance SR-8 Side Zip Boots
With a side zipper that allows you to take them on or off with ease and a gusseted tongue that keeps dirt and debris out, these combat boots are different from anything you’ve ever worn. Military-grade, Vengeance SR-8 Side Zip Boots are perfect for a particularly difficult or uphill trail.
Made with full-grain leather and high-quality fabrics, they’re guaranteed to keep you on your toes no matter what. We can’t forget that they’re attractive, too, which might be something you’re on the hunt for.
8. Havoc Commercial Military Boots
At the end of the day, we can’t forget that there are numerous combat boots that might not be the best choice for a challenging hike. Doc Martens, for example, are fashion-forward combat boots that were never meant for – well, combat.
We wouldn’t suggest wearing Doc Martens on a hike, but that doesn’t mean that we wouldn’t recommend comfortable and supportive Havoc Commercial Military Boots. These are perfect for hikes on rough terrains because they’re made with shock-absorbing footbeds.
Their fiberglass shanks are perfect for people suffering from foot problems that need added arch and ankle support. Comfort is a huge part of the hiking experience, and you can count on just that with these lightweight, breathable combat boots.
Safe trails!
