Are tactical boots suitable for hiking?

“Are tactical boots suitable for hiking?” – Every ‘tactical gear loving‘ hiker since the dawn of time!

Fret not! We have all the info you need!

Well, tactical boots are suitable for hiking. They possess the necessary features to protect against foot and ankle injuries, provide ankle support, and last long enough to make them worth your hiking escapades.

What is the Difference between Tactical and Hiking Boots?

Alright, all is set for your adventurous hike! All but the boots you are to use during your hike.

If you’re torn between a tactical and hiking boot, what you decide will depend on the hike itself. I know… Let me explain!

Hiking and tactical boots don’t have much difference in features on function. The difference is almost negligible. Almost!

Whereas hiking boots are comfy and low-cut, tactical boots are tougher and have better support for your ankles.

Hiking boots are best used on light or short hikes to well-traveled or hiked trails.

In contrast, tactical boots thrive on rough terrains and extreme conditions. They will protect you from injuries and provide better support!

Do you see how your planned hike might affect your choice of footwear?

If you still need more information, here’s a detailed and thorough article on hiking vs. tactical boots.

Are all hiking boots tactical?

No. Hiking boots come in different types and brands; tactical and regular hiking boots. Depending on one’s preferences, selecting one over the other is entirely an individual’s choice.

Three things to consider when selecting your hiking boot

Several factors would make a hiker choose a tactical pair of boots to go hiking with over a regular pair.

Here are three things that should factor heavily in your choice of hiking boots:

Safety

Tactical boots have more sophisticated features like slip-resistant soles, are often breathable, toe-reinforcements, and ankle protection, among others.

A good hiking boot should cushion your feet against the harsh ground terrain.

The Hikes

Are you inclined to simple day hikes or adventurous and demanding (most probably, weekenders) hikes?

Rocky mountains, rugged creeks, desert areas, and icy terrains necessitate using tactical boots for reasons already mentioned.

The type of hike you embark on should guide your choice of boot type!

Fit

Hiking boots should fit snugly while leaving your toes some room to wiggle.

Ill-fitting boots will only cause you injuries and pain after your hikes.

Do unisex tactical hiking boots exist?

Yes. You can get a pair of unisex tactical hiking boots. Some examples above have unisex brands like Keen Targhee, Merrel, and Northside.

Albeit, obtaining a unisex brand isn’t for sharing but because it fits you well and you are comfortable in them compared to the gender types.

It is crucial to remember that the breaking-in method ensures a proper boot-foot match to a single individual. Sharing unisex hiking boots is not advisable.

You can find the best ten types of women’s tactical boots in case you don’t like the unisex brands.

What are the features that make tactical boots best suitable for hiking

Suitable Midsole provision

The advantage of having a midsole varies depending on the terrain and functionality needed.

For better shock prevention, enhanced strength properties, and increasing sole quality and durability, midsoles play a more significant role.

Furthermore, flexible midsoles with long shafts are suitable for long hiking treks.

Ankle support

Traversing steep slopes exposes your feet to inappropriate angles. Wearing tactical boots shields your ankles from injuries and strains.

A good-fitting boot with its upper extending upwards along your leg enhances ankle support.

Traction

It means prevention from slipping, which comes as a result of an excellent sole grip on the ground.

Hiking on a wet day in the mountains can result in deadly accidents like slipping off a cliff or ridge.

You can have a beautiful view from the top of a hill without fear of slippage in tactical hiking boots.

Either rubber or synthetic soles provide traction. What matters is the design for use. Regular hiking boots also come with traction performances.

Durability

The wear and tear action on soles retards the functionality of boots. A good hiking boot lasts from a few months to years, depending on usage.

Compared to regular footwear, tactical hiking boots have a longer service life. Declarations from hikers highlight even six years of using the same boot.

Nonetheless, it all depends on the usage and hikes you take.

Insulation

Heat and cold insulation from the external extreme weather conditions are properties equipped for these hiking boots.

Walking on snow could freeze your feet in minutes. The extra layer of wool or any fabric material padded to your boot provides warmth to your feet. A feature not available in traditional footwear.

Breathable

Proper boot ventilation to aerate your feet is also an added feature in hiking tactical boots.
It provides comfort and eliminates the boot and foot smell.

Boot weight

We recommend wearing lightweight hiking boots. That is if you don’t want to drag your feet midway into your hike.

Currently, manufacturers are combining lightweight sneaker features and have them in tactical boots by using the polymer printing process.

In addition, other components in tactical boots add their weight properties, do not go for heavy boots.

Can I Wear my Working Boot during Hikes?

One thing about outdoor footwear is you can use them absolutely however and wherever you want. They are boundless yet limiting in fascinating ways.

So, what happens if you fancy taking your working boots outdoors?

The good news is that your working boots can take some weekend hikes. The bad news? Well, they probably won’t last very long for obvious reasons.

If that is a trade-off you don’t mind making, work boots will serve you well on light and comfortable hikes! The keyword being LIGHT!