The 15 Best Tactical Hiking Boots in 2022

Many argue that tactical boots are too heavy for hiking and make hikers lose a lot of strength, flexibility, and comfort to conquer free roads.

That’s not true! In this case, you may not be able to tell the difference between tactical boots and traditional military boots.

Today, I’m going to tell you why a tactical boot is the most versatile boot in the world. And why it is a great boot to use for hiking no matter how difficult the terrain is.

On top of that, there is a list of 15 best tactical hiking boots as a gift to hikers.

Are you ready for the journey? Let’s start!

Are tactical boots good for hiking?

Many hikers often hesitate when it comes to using tactical boots for hiking because they are too heavy.

In fact, that is no longer true today. The tactical boot now is considered to be a new style of traditional military boots.

What is the biggest difference between tactical boots and traditional military boots? – Tactical boots are lighter than traditional military boots. Because of this, they are favoured by the air force rather than marines or infantry.

Tactical boots are lighter than traditional military boots, so they offer hikers greater flexibility and comfort with less physical loss.

In addition, hiking boots can conquer plenty of terrains (trails, mountains, wet trails…). The tactical boots are equally good with two main categories: hot weather and nasty wet weather.

The hot season tactical boots are also very breathable and lightweight. They offer good air circulation, and a wear-resistant base, etc. From there, they provide maximum comfort and flexibility for hikers to conquer the trails on hot summer days.

On the other hand, tactical boots for wet and nasty weather are insulated, waterproof, anti-slip, light… Thereby, hikers can be balanced, comfortable, warm and dry to conquer wet, slippery terrain.

If hiking boots provide good ankle support, tactical boots do that even better. They have 2 popular heights of 6 inches and 8 inches.

The 6-inch high tactical boot ensures that your ankles are well protected against rough and touch-free terrain.

Meanwhile, the 8-inch high tactical boot guarantees that your ankles are perfectly safe when conquering rocky terrain.

For added safety, some tactical boots also have reinforced heels, toes and TPU shanks to better protect your feet.

Also, tactical boots have many advantages that make them good for hiking: they have comfortable insoles with supported heels, arches, and toes. Along with that, shock absorption also makes long journeys become a breeze.

Some tactical boots also come in handy for hikers with a speed lace lacing system and side zip. This is really helpful to minimize time to put on boots.

The tactical boots with a good shaft height will keep the hikers’ pants and socks neat in place. It is essential for long trips when you need neatness to conquer difficult roads.

In addition, tactical boots are for the military, so they are durable, regardless of weather (rain, wind, sandstorm, snow…).

As such, tactical boots are good for hiking because they provide a very high degree of comfort, safety, flexibility, durability and convenience. Surely, they are not inferior to hiking boots.

And you know what? There are a variety of tactical boots available today that are bred with hiking boots. Also, they have all the features of both hiking boots and tactical boots: lightweight, comfortable, versatile, safe, durable, easy to use…

That’s exactly why we have this topic today: tactical hiking boots can turn you into an outdoor master!

The 15 Best Tactical Hiking Boots in 2021

No more blabbering. We’ll present you with all the great tactical boots that are highly rated by those who have used them for hiking.

These boots will come from a variety of brands (most of them are best known for tactical boots, not hiking boots). Along with that, there are many different prices for your budget.

Shall we?

1. FREE SOLDIER Outdoor Men’s Tactical Hiking Boots

The first boot from FREE SOLDIER brand is a standard tactical hiking boot. FREE SOLDIER is also one of the most popular brands for quality tactical hiking boots.

You’ll experience comfort all day long with these boots. Also, the mesh construction creates a very high level of ventilation. Despite the breathable mesh construction, these boots are still waterproof to keep your feet always dry and cool.

Another thing that makes these boots useful for hikers is that the EVA midsole provides comfortable all-day foot support and shock absorption.

Ultimately, what helps these tactical hiking boots reach the peak of comfort is a smooth padded lining and padded insole. They also absorb sweat well, dry quickly, and are breathable – a great combo for any tactical hiking boots.

At the same time, this FREE SOLDIER boot is safe and durable because its material is scratch resistant.

A must-have feature of tactical hiking boots is ankle protection. These hiking tactical boots can wrap and protect your ankle very well.

Along with that, there are the reinforced heel and toe for increased safety and the shock-resistant heel for foot support.

What else? These tactical hiking boots can give you great balance and stability with extremely good anti-slip soles. Along with their light weight, they make every move light and smooth.

Not just for hiking, these are versatile boots that you can use on any heavy duty, they can carry heavy loads over long distances.

In addition to the comfort, safety, and versatility, they have a speed lace fastening system for your convenience, so you won’t get confused with laces.

These boots can conquer many different types of terrain, from trails, mountain roads, wet roads…

2. Under Armour Men’s Stellar Tac Side Zip Sneaker

Under Armor is certainly not a strange name for those who love Military & Tactical Boots. The favorite specialty of this brand is tactical boots made from black leather.

Under Armor tactical boots are usually popular with law enforcement, police… because they have a cool, serious look.

Men’s Stellar Tac Side Zip Sneaker Under Armor boots are the perfect combination of tactical boots and sneakers. They’ll give hikers a fun and awesome new choice.

Why is that? Can hybrid tactical boots with sneakers be used for hiking?

Look at these tactical hiking boots, they feature light, breathable, water repellent, quick-dry structure with soft and light upper (leather and nylon textile).

What’s more, you can be flexible with good grip outsoles, EVA midsole and shock absorption.

The reinforced TPU shank and ankle support ensure your safety and stability. And a side zip is great for your convenience.

These are a great pair of tactical boots that are ideal for hiking trails or mountain trails, and especially keep your feet warm and dry in winter.

3. Under Armour Men’s Stellar Military and Tactical Boot

The most common tactical boots used for hiking are standard issue boots. As you can see, that’s the Under Armor Men’s Stellar Tactical Boot.

Standard issue boots are tactical boots that can be used for hiking on a variety of terrains, because they are an outstanding mix of different tactical boots.

• For high comfort and flexibility, there is a lightweight construction with Molded EVA midsole.
• For decent stability, these boots have reinforced TPU shanks. The outsoles have a good grip and high collar with good ankle support.

However, you need to distinguish between the tactical boots for hot weather and wet weather. And for these boots, they can be used for all kinds of weather, but it is great if you use them for wet and nasty weather.

Because the Stellar Tactical Boot boots have features such as waterproof, quick-dry minimalist design and anti odor technology. These features can keep your feet dry, comfortable and not smelly on wet days.

Despite being waterproof, the boots still have good ventilation, as the material that makes this tactical boot is the 900D nylon textile upper. Along with that, they are quite durable due to the DWR treated Leather.

In addition, low profile rubber lug sole boots will help you balance well on slippery terrain.

However, the weakness of these boots is that their arch support is not really good. If you have flat feet or high arches, this can be frustrating.

4. FREE SOLDIER Men’s Tactical Boots 8 Inches Lightweight Durable Suede Leather

Look for the weather-friendly tactical boots for hiking? The boots we are going to introduce to you from the FREE SOLDIER brand, they are summer favorites.

Why are FREE SOLDIER Men’s Tactical Boots 8 Inches a great tactical boot for hiking?

That’s because they are extremely light. At only 2.4 lb, these boots will give hikers great flexibility, great comfort on long roads.

Made out of suede leather with 1000D Cordura fabric, these boots are extremely breathable, respectable durability and excellent tear resistance.

If your upcoming hiking is going in a desert, these boots are a very good choice.

In addition, Free Soldier’s tactical boots are also highly secure with anti-kick toe, anti-collision, and against outer shock.

What worries hikers is the quick wear of the sole, but it’s no big deal when you choose these boots because they have good wear resistance and excellent grip.

Longer roads would be smoother with an EVA midsole that provides an extremely smooth cushion.

Also, when hiking on hot weather days, what annoys hikers is the sweat of the legs.

These tactical boots with vented holes on either side will give the boots better air circulation, keeping your feet cool and dry. Summer temperatures are no longer a barrier.

One thing that is indispensable is that this boot has a size zip for you to put on / take off easily. In addition, the 8 inch height of boots provides good ankle support while keeping your pants and socks neat.

Finally, the dashing looks of these boots definitely captured your love!

5. Merrell Mens Moab 2 8″ Tactical Waterproof

A pair of tactical boots with a rugged and powerful appearance will be a great choice for you to go on a weekend hike.

Why do I say that? Because these Merrel tactical boots are built for the toughest environment.

The strength of these boots is waterproof leather and a tear-resistant upper. So boots can withstand extreme terrain and weather conditions.

The upper exterior of these tactical boots is sprayed with a layer of rubber for added durability as well as safety.

What makes this tactical boot comfortable? That is the midsole with a heel cushion to absorb shock and add stability for you.

In addition, lightweight boots will not hinder your steps on long journeys. Along with that, the boots get arch and ankle support for comfort and safety.

The toe and heel of the boots are reinforced to ensure foot safety, wear resistance, and increase balance during hiking.

5mm lug depth will make the outsole easy to grip and balanced on slippery wet roads.

Finally, the side zip makes it easy on / off. Along with the bellows tongue, you won’t have to worry about debris or dangerous small objects falling inside the boots.

However, these boots also have a weakness: although they are used for wet weather, they do not insulate too well, you will have to wear thick socks if you want to use them in winter.

6. Reebok Work Duty Men’s Rapid Response RB RB8874 8″ Tactical Boot

Hiking treks in stormy deserts are certainly not an easy task. This is because of two factors: high temperatures and heavy loads.

To survive the harsh heat of the desert, hikers need lightweight, well-ventilated tactical boots that don’t allow sand to get inside.

It sounds difficult, but there are many tactical boots that can do that, like the Reebok Work Duty Men’s Rapid Response RB RB8874.

Reebok’s tactical boots are a good choice with a strong and masculine look. They are designed with Cattle Hide Leather upper and nylon mesh lining to ensure good ventilation, your feet won’t feel the heat of ambient temperature.

The hikers’ long trips will be more favorable, thanks to cushion insert insoles with good foot support at arch, heel and ball of the feet.

Besides, the base of these boots is well-designed with great grip for normal terrain, or even mountain roads.

In addition, the sole of the tactical boots can also resist heat, chemicals, wear and shock.

These tactical boots are invincible in sandy and gravel-rich environments.

7. Salomon Unisex-Adult Xa Forces Mid GTX En Military and Tactical Boot

If you don’t like the high tactical boots because you think they’ll be cumbersome on your hiking trip, you can check out the Salomon Unisex-Adult Xa Forces Mid GTX En Tactical Boot.

As for the outlook, it has a similar design to a sneaker. The pride of the Salomon manufacturer is the absolute flexible boots that help the wearer adapt to any situation.

Evidently, these tactical boots are lightweight and durable, which makes hiking treks simple and convenient.

These tactical boots protect the wearer from the harsh weather. Together with flexible outsoles, they are perfectly suited to activities requiring speed with perspiration.

Also, these boots meet many European safety standards, such as anti-static, anti-slip, and anti-puncture.

In addition, these boots have a great construction to bring the wearer good stability.

The boots also have many colors to choose from – this is also a great advantage.

However, their shafts are quite low and will not be able to fully cover your ankles. Saying this is the tactical shoe is not wrong.

These tactical boots can be used for trail, or wet roads. But for mountain use, you need to consider.

8. FREE SOLDIER Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots Tactical Boots

The next tactical hiking boots from Free Soldier’s are also highly appreciated by many.

These tactical hiking boots have a tough, strong, and masculine appearance.

Besides, another thing that I like about Free Soldier is that they describe their products very carefully. Their boots pay attention to details and almost exactly as they say.

These tactical hiking boot uppers are made of lightweight plaid fabric, so they are puncture-resistant and extremely durable.

Besides, the rest of the boot is made of scratch-resistant TPU material and is highly flexible to optimize your activites.

Talking about the outsole, it has a lot of textures to increase the grip, offer balance on many slippery and wet terrain.

Meanwhile, the cushioned insole and lightweight, flexible midsole will bring great support for your outdoor trips. In addition, the ability to absorb moisture will also make your feet always dry.

How about other features? It’s good ankle support with a breathable and soft lycra fabric collar.

These hiking tactical boots provide extra security with a well-reinforced toe cap and heel.

The Gusseted tongue will also protect your dry feet from attack by sand, grime, or strange objects…

These are tactical boots that can be used for all kinds of weather, from wet weather (jungle) to hot weather (desert).

9. Bates Men’s 8″ Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot

Bates is a huge name in the military & tactical boots industry.

Take a look at the design and use of Bates Men’s 8 “Ultralite Tactical boots, you will understand.

Crafted with 70% leather and 30% nylon, these tactical boots provide breathability (from nylon) and a sense of flexibility and security (from leather).

Ultralite Tactical boots is one of the leading flags of the Bates brand that can satisfy even the demanding hikers.

The extremely light, waterproof yet breathable design will make your feet feel comfortable, cool and dry during the journey.

In fact, these policemen’s boots are popular for long shift patrols. Because it provides comfort for the wearer, and it’s also what hikers need.

In addition, the well-designed construction provides high durability for the boots. Boots have good ankle support with a shaft height of 8 inches.

Besides, a composite toe also gives your toes a pretty good safety.

Non-slip outsole gives you high balance and stability to walk on various terrain, from dry, wet trails and mountain trails.

Finally, the side zip of these tactical boots offers the convenience of putting on / take off, and also makes it easier to tuck the pants into the tactical boot shaft.

10. Bates Men’s GX-8 Gore-Tex Waterproof Side Zip Boot

Another great Bates tactical boots are the Bates Men’s GX-8 Gore-Tex Waterproof Side Zip Tactical Boots.

The pride of these tactical boots is that the GORE-TEX membrane is both waterproof and breathable.

In addition, the boots have moisture wicking lining to keep your feet always dry. So, there’s no worry about the attack of water from the outside or sweat from the inside the boots.

Besides, what we like is that the full grain leather gives these tactical boots great durability.

And yet, the removable cushioned insert insole with a flexible lightweight cushioned EVA midsole will give you great comfort and maximum flexibility.

Just a quick look at the features of this boot, you can guess that it is designed mainly for wet weather. The deep lugs of outsoles offer great traction. Its outsole is also scratch-resistant, ensuring high durability.

Lastly, just like other Bates, these boots provide great convenience with side zip.

11. Under Armour Men’s Valsetz Rts 1.5 5-inch Military and Tactical Boot

Come back with a pair of Under Armor tactical boots, but this time you’ll have more flexibility and freedom to conquer free roads with a lower, more compact design.

Unlike many other tactical boots that are 6 inches to 8 inches tall, these tactical boots are only 5 inches tall.

At this height, these tactical boots may not offer the best ankle support like those above.

But in return, your ankles don’t feel constrained with the extremely light weight structure. You will have absolute flexibility.

The above features make these tactical boots an ideal choice for summer hikes. Besides the above advantages, the anti-microbial ortholite sockliner will keep your feet clean, dry and comfortable.

In addition, the wear-resistant sole will be great for you to conquer rocky trails.

The tactical Under Armor Men’s Valsetz Rts tactical boots are highly durable because they are made of synthetic leather mixed with breathable textile upper.

With these boots, hot sunny trails can’t stop your steps anymore.

12. Danner Men’s Tanicus 8″ Hot Duty Boot

Aside from the above mentioned tactical boots, another boot brand you should look out for for your hiking trip is Danner.

These boots are perfect for hiking. You’ll feel immediate comfort with a well-circulated airflow when putting on these boots.

Besides, the light weight, which guarantees great flexibility, is also a must-mention.

And the speed lace lacing system is also great, you can finish the rope in a few seconds.

The outsole has a very good grip to bring you balance on steep mountain roads. In addition, steep roads are also safe because these boots can ensure good ankle security.

Overall, these tactical boots are perfect for hiking in the summer, but you can still use them during the cold season without too many problems.

You will be satisfied with their support, comfort and safety.

13. Bates Men’s 5″ Ultralite Tactical Sport Military Boot

If you don’t like the 8-inch Ultralite tactical boots don’t worry, the Bates Men’s 5″ Ultralite Tactical boots is ready for you.

Featuring a lower-height design, these tactical boots are great for hot hiking days.

Made of 30% nylon, the boots will give your feet coolness because of its breathable properties. Besides, the rest of uppers made of 70% leather will give your feet a smooth, safe and flexible feeling.

These tactical boots have slip resistant rubber outsoles for good balance for hikers. Plus, the removable cushioned insert insole with cushioned EVA midsole is a harmonious combination to ensure comfort for the wearer during long travel.

Moreover, the light weight of the boots also offers great flexibility for hikers. You won’t lose too much energy on a long trip.

Like the Bates Men’s 8″ Ultralite Tactical boots, these boots have one thing to be proud of: Bates DRYGuard membrane can make the boots waterproof yet breathable.

Another great feature of these hiking boots is the side zip. It comes in handy when you need to on / off, or loosen or tighten your boots.

Finally, there is no doubt about the durability of these tactical boots as they are made of high-quality leather. If properly cared for, they can last more than 10 years.

14. Merrell Work Men’s Moab 2 8″ Tactical Response Waterproof

The tactical boots require high safety, good balance, excellent comfort and toughness to be able to conquer the terrain in harsh conditions, rugged mountain roads, or slippery forest roads.

Merrell Work Men’s Moab 2 8″ Tactical boots can meet the above requirements.

Why do I say that? The first thing to mention is its good waterproof ability, this is essential because hikers will encounter wet roads, sudden rain or white snowy roads.

The lightweight yet durable construction will give your foot comfort, support and protection during hiking trails.

Also, if you hike on sandy roads, these tactical boots with bellows tongue will protect your feet from debris, dangerous small animals (snakes, leeches).

Another thing that cannot be ignored is that a toe cap is reinforced with abrasion-resistant rubber.

Heel pull tab with side zip will give you the freedom to put on or take off boots.

For added ankle support and security, these tactical boots feature rubberized mesh collars. Besides, this collar design is also very durable.

Ultimately, for added comfort, the arch and heel are the two most important foot positions. And Merrel’s tactical boots have arch support and heel cushion to complete their jobs.

15. ANTARCTICA Men’s Lightweight Tactical Boots for Hiking Work Boots

A lot of people like ANTARCTICA’s tactical boots, simply because they often come up with boots that are suitable for hiking but at a very affordable price.

The above tactical boots are a hallmark of tactical hiking boots – they are incredibly light in weight. With only 1.5 lb, you will feel like you are wearing nothing on your legs.

Along with that, 100% full grain leather features impressive durable, beautiful and breathable boots.

These tactical boots can dry quickly, which is a good thing for hiking in humid environments.

In addition, rubber outsoles with anti-slip, maximum traction and anti-wear capabilities create high stability for the wearer during use.

EVA midsole and polyylu insole can care for your foot and reduce shock, providing flexibility for the wearer during hiking.

The toe cap of these tactical boots is reinforced with a digital absorbent rubber to increase toe safety. What’s more, they have wear resistance, and scratch resistance. With its waterproof structure, it will protect all of your feet well.

FAQ

What are the best men’s tactical hiking boots?

In general, to choose the best tactical hiking boots, you need to determine what kind of terrain boots you will use, and what the weather is.

• Choose the best weather-based tactical boots:

If you use tactical hiking boots during wet weather, the best boots to choose are waterproof, anti-odor, and well insulated boots.

Meanwhile, if you’re planning on using tactical hiking boots in summer, it’s important that your hot weather tactical boots have good ventilation and air circulation. That will keep your feet dry and cool.

• Choose the best tactical boots by terrain:

You will need to determine the target terrain to pick the suitable tactical hiking boots.

For example, when facing slippery terrain (woods, ice, snow…), your tactical boots should have really good anti-slip outsoles with deep lugs and multiple patterns. These characteristics will ensure balance and stability for you.

As for trail terrain on hot days, or desert terrains, the best tactical hiking boots are lightweight to minimize the hikers’ energy loss. Plus, the boots must be tight and do not allow sand or debris to enter.

What about the mountainous terrain? The best hiking tactical boots for hilly roads are those with good anti-slip, anti-wear outsoles. And it’s important that your boots have really good ankle support.

In general, tactical hiking boots are very durable, along with good carry heavy loads,…

However, in order for the boots to be as durable as possible, you need to take care of them properly.

The best hiking tactical boots would have suitable features for different weather and terrain.

Why hiking boots instead of military tactical boots?

In fact, many people prefer specialized hiking boots over military tactical boots.

This is often because the majority of military tactical boots are heavier than hiking boots. And that makes hikers take more effort in the long journey.

Military tactical boots are heavier than hiking boots because they are often more reinforced, with more metals inside to ensure greater safety for soldiers.

As a matter of fact, hikers don’t need those things, so hiking boots are just enough for them. While not as secure as military tactical boots, hiking boots still have many advantages to help hikers conquer a variety of terrain in different types of weather.

Hiking boots provide high flexibility, safety, comfort and convenience for hikers.

However, tactical boots today are much lighter. With the advent of tactical hiking boots, hikers now have more options.

Can you use tactical boots for mountain hiking?

Tactical boots are perfectly fine for mountain hiking, because they have three great attributes: light weight, great ankle support, reinforced toe and heel, shock-absorbing insole, scratch resistance and good grip outsole.

• Light weight

The first thing to mention is that the tactical boots are very light in weight, which is essential for mountain hiking. Lightweight boots will help hikers retain ample physical resources and flexibility when conquering mountain roads.

Note: You need to distinguish between tactical boots and military boots. Tactical boots are the new style of military boots. They are lighter, more versatile and are preferred by hikers, police, law enforcement.

• Great ankle support

An important feature of hiking boots to conquer the road is great ankle support. And the tactical boots have that.

Meandering mountain roads sometimes can absolutely damage your ankles. Since tactical boots can provide great ankle support, they are great boots for mountain hiking.

• The reinforced toe and heel

Besides the vulnerable ankles, your toes and heels can be completely injured when you kick hard rocks on mountain roads.

Tactical boots have well-reinforced heels and toes, so your feet can stay safe.

• Outsole has good grip

When participating in mountain hiking, you are more likely to slip while walking rather than on a flat trail, so you’ll need well-grip outsole boots.

And this is exactly what the tactical boots have. They have good grip outsoles to offer you a sense of balance and stability during mountain hiking.

• Insole shock relief

Walking on a mountain road is different from walking on the plain. Sometimes, you encounter large rocks and need to jump over them. Tactical boots will come into play at that time as they have a shock reduction ability.

• Scratch resistance

The tactical boots are the preferred type of boots for heavy, physical and impact demanding activities. Mountain hiking can also be said to be among these activities.

To withstand the kicks in the rock, tactical boots have to be scratch resistant to provide durability and protection for your feet.

Can military and tactical boots be used for hiking?

You should clearly distinguish between military boots and tactical boots.

In general, tactical boots are new style military boots. If military boots are used during wartime by marines or infantry, tactical boots are often worn in peacetime, or favored by the air force.

So, the tactical boots are lighter than traditional military boots. This is one of the huge differences that makes tactical boots suitable for hikes, while military boots are not.

Tactical boots are popular and used by law enforcement, police, hikers. Or they can serve activities such as hiking and long shift patrols. Because they are lightweight and have greater comfort and flexibility than military boots.

In short, you should use tactical boots for hiking, while military boots need to be considered in this case.

Personally, my stamina isn’t as abundant as soldiers, so I’ll opt for tactical boots for hiking.

Conclusion

Tactical boots are the perfect choice for you when you go hiking on different terrains. Whether it’s dry, hot or wet and nasty terrain, because the construction of tactical boots is extremely versatile.

Tactical boots are not as heavy as traditional military boots. Besides, tactical boots have higher foot protection than hiking boots and the comfort is surely not inferior.

That is the basis for proving that tactical boots are a wise choice for hiking.

Is it convincing enough for you to choose a pair of tactical boots for your upcoming hiking trip?