10 Best Tactical Boots For Hot Weather (Buying Guide)

Tactical boots are made to withstand the toughest outdoor elements, including hot weather. It protects your feet, whether you’re hiking, mountaineering, working, and doing other rigorous activities. For this post, I reviewed the best tactical boots for hot weather to ensure that your soles are protected in the harshest weather conditions.

Unlike regular boots, tactical pairs are rugged and can put up against wear and tear. However, it can get pretty hot to wear during summer, so a breathable pair is what you should look for. Nevertheless, such comfort shouldn’t compromise the protective benefit across all terrains.

To help narrow down your options, you can consider these 10 tactical boots and see which one you’ll like best:

TACTICAL BOOTS	BRAND	EXPERT RATING	CHECK PRICE
	Our Top Pick!  Maelstrom TAC Force Tactical Work Boots		Check Price
	Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Tactical Boots		Check Price
	NORTIV 8 Military Tactical Work Boots		Check Price
	FREE SOLDIER Breathable Tactical Boots		Check Price
	Danner Tanicus Coyote Hot Duty Boots		Check Price
	Bates Ranger II Hot Weather Tactical Boots		Check Price
	Under Armour Infil Ops Ankle Boots		Check Price
	Thowi Tactical Jungle Boots with Zipper		Check Price
	Belleville 550 Hot Weather Boots		Check Price
	Rocky Men’s S2V Tactical Work Boots		Check Price

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10 Best Tactical Boots For Hot Weather

OUR #1 CHOICE

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RUNNERS-UP

Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Tactical Boots

If real leather isn’t your thing, the Under Armour Valsetz Tactical Boots might be the right choice for you. It’s made of fabric with a synthetic leather sole.

Inside, this has a lightweight but durable TPU shank and toe cap for the right level of rigidity. It’s paired with an ultralight G EVA midsole and a rubber lug outsole. Overall, these Under Armour boots are made for avid hikers and adventurers who want comfy footwear.

Moreover, these boots have a UA ClutchFit ankle support system that contours on your feet. This is aside from the welded PU film all over the boots that added abrasion resistance.

The Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Tactical Boots also have an antimicrobial Ortholite sock liner to prevent odor buildup.

Overall, these Under Armour Boots are available in black, desert sand, and coyote brown colors. Just make sure that you check the sizing chart to get the right fit.

When it comes to downsides, users notice that it takes longer to break in than other boots. Also, there’s a strong smell coming off the shoes, so make sure to aerate it well before use.

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NORTIV 8 Military Tactical Work Boots

For those looking for motorcycle tactical boots, I highly recommend the NORTIV 8 Military Tactical Work Boots. These are made of breathable fabric with real leather. It’s abrasion-resistant for optimal protection while riding, hiking, walking, and doing other outdoor activities.

Aside from that, the NORTIV 8 has a Dynamic 3-Sole System that uses a soft linen insole, flexible EVA midsole, and a slip-resistant rubber outsole. The outsole has the right flexibility for comfortable strides.

The NORTIV 8 has a zippered side and traditional lace-up design. This makes it easy to put on and off, especially if you’re in a hurry.

Inside, these boots have a fabric lining and mesh tongue for added breathability during hot weather. I also like that these comfy boots are available in different colors and a longer upper length option.

Overall, these NORTIV boots run fairly true to size. But if you tend to wear thick socks, going half a size up may not hurt that much.

The only thing I noticed is that the zippers have a vinyl gusset, which prevents it from opening fully. It’s just a small niggle, but something to keep in mind.

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FREE SOLDIER Breathable Tactical Boots

The FREE SOLDIER Breathable Tactical Boots are made of suede leather blended with 1000D Cordura fabric that offers a comfy, breathable, and scratch-resistant performance.

Aside from that, these boots have an EVA midsole with the right flexibility and cushioning. This is aside from the removable insole and all-terrain outsole with patterns for traction.

These boots also have a waterproof coating on their internal lining to keep your feet dry up to 5 cm in depth. Also, the tongue prevents dirt and debris from getting inside your boots. I also like the added internal padding on the ankle area, making these boots suitable for four-season use.

Moreover, the FREE SOLDIER Tactical Boots have a strengthened toe cap to protect your feet against impact. It’s a good choice for hunting, hiking, and airsoft battles. I also wear this at work sometimes since it looks good and very comfortable even during hot days.

I can say that these are some of the best tactical boots for hot weather I ever had. However, I don’t think this has a shank, so it’s best to reserve this for recreational purposes. Other than that, this is a very affordable pair of tactical boots.

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Danner Tanicus Coyote Hot Duty Boots

If you’re looking for a higher shaft, you should consider the Danner Tanicus Coyote Hot Duty Boots. It has a 6” shaft from the arch for a total of 8” in length. This offers better protection against various outdoor hazards. I also like how the extra length supports the calves.

This is a non-insulated pair of booths with a polyurethane footbed and a Bi Fit board shank. Aside from that, these boots have a mesh liner and plain toe protection that combines comfort with safety.

Moreover, the Tanicus Coyote has a proprietary outsole with pentagonal lugs that provide utmost grip on all terrains. The midsole also adds a layer of cushioning together with a dampening heel cup.

The Danner Tanicus Coyote has a rugged construction of a full-grain and brushed leather upper with a nylon blend. For the fastening, this has a lace garage design that prevents loose laces from dragging on your feet. There’s also a stretch fabric pocket located at the tongue where you can tuck the lace ends.

Another thing I like about the Tanicus Coyote is the 365-day warranty for any manufacturer defect. For this quality and price range, this guarantee is unbeatable.

If you’re a woman planning to get a pair of these boots, Danner recommends getting 1.5 to 2 sizes down for the right fit.

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Bates Ranger II Hot Weather Tactical Boots

The Bates Ranger II Hot Weather Tactical Boots have a longer upper than the Danner Tanicus Coyote. Unlike Tanicus’ 6” from the arch, Bates Ranger II has a total of 8.5” for optimal heel and lower calf protection.

Moreover, the Bates Ranger II has abrasive-resistant cattle hide leather and nylon. It’s tough and breathable at the same time, making it one of the best tactical boots for hot weather. There are also side vents on the boots for airflow.

Aside from that, these boots have a moisture-wicking mesh lining to keep your feet cool and odor-free. The tongue is also padded to utmost comfort while preventing the material from chafing your leg.

Another thing I really like about the Bates Ranger II Boots is its composite toe cap. It won’t set off metal detectors, and it’s also safe to wear around magnetic engines. I also like that these boots offer electrical hazard protection, which is a must for those exposed to such risks.

Lastly, this has an EVA midsole and a rubber outsole with excellent traction. There’s also secure lacing to ensure the best fit from toe to tongue.

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Under Armour Infil Ops Ankle Boots

The Under Armour Infil Ops Ankle Boots offer 7.75” of shaft length from the arch. It provides your feet and calf better coverage, perfect for rigorous outdoor activities.

Despite that, these boots remain breathable and comfy to wear on warm days. This pair also has a GORE-TEX membrane for 100% waterproof construction. It still allows sweat to dissipate, so you’ll feel comfy on long hours of wearing.

Moreover, these Under Armour boots have an Anafoam overlay that’s molded for precise support and fit. I also like the molded rubber toe cap that’s very effective against bumps and scuffs. This is aside from the TPU chassis with reinforcements on the heel.

Aside from that, these boots have Cupron Anti-Fungal Pro Fibers that neutralize the athlete’s foot fungus by up to 99%. This remains effective even if your feet are in contact with the sock liner for up to 12 hours.

Lastly, the Infil Ops Boots have an EVA midsole with a TPU plate insert. Underneath, your feet will be cushioned by a Vibram outsole made with MegaGrip rubber for dependable traction.

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Thowi Tactical Jungle Boots with Zipper

When it comes to affordable jungle boots, I highly suggest this pair from Thowi. This has an upper made of genuine cow leather blended with nylon and rubber.

Aside from that, this has an EVA sole midsole and a runner outsole with excellent traction. There’s also a removable insole as well as protective YKK zipper closure for easy wearing.

The Thowi Tactical Jungle Boots has handcrafted nylon eyelets for guaranteed durability and comfort. The sides and heels are also shaped by hand to ensure their quality. However, if you have a wider than usual feet size, I suggest getting one size larger for the right fit.

Moreover, these boots have a breathable line that prevents sweat and odor buildup. The tongue and collar are also padded to prevent irritating your skin.

Whether you’re running, climbing, or hiking, these boots are a champ. You can also get this in tan color to match your style. I also like how more convenient the zippers are in these boots than the one in NORTIV 8.

However, the zipper and eyelets feel stiff at first. But once you break it in, it would be more comfortable.

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Belleville Arm Your Feet 550 ST USMC Hot Weather Boots

The Belleville Arm Your Feet Boots have an 8” standard military height. Its upper is made of split-away full-grain leather paired with nylon fabric for breathability.

Aside from that, these boots have a removable molded insole and a shock-absorbent midsole. It also has a Vibram Sierra outsole to ensure traction and comfort on any terrain. The VANGUARD sole construction ensures that you have utmost protection at all times.

These boots have a steel toe that meets the ASTM standards for compression and impact. It’s safe for work use, and it doesn’t go out of style for outdoor adventures.

Another thing I like about this Belleville Boots is its speed tie laces. The design is also convenient for running, which is surprising since it has a steel toe. The soles are also thick and can last a long time even if it’s taking the beating of regular use.

The only thing I don’t like that much is that the upper isn’t as rigid as I thought it would, considering that it’s made of leather. Also, the size tends to run a bit big than standard fits.

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Rocky Men’s S2V Tactical Work Boots

My last pick for this roundup is the Rocky S2V Steel Toe Work Boots. While designed for the workplace, this pair is also tried and tested for outdoor adventures.

These boots have water and flash-resistant leather upper with Cordura fabric. It’s also fitted with a Lycra tongue for comfort and the best fit. The entire boots have been treated with PTFE to boost their flame resistance.

Moreover, these Berry-compliant boots have a steel toe that will protect you against falling objects. This is a useful feature when dealing with sharp rocks and carrying heavy tools.

Despite its rugged construction. The Rocky S2V Tactical Work Boots remain breathable. It will keep your feet cool during hot weather and extended use.

Aside from that, these boots have Aegis Microbe Shield that fights odor and bacteria. It’s paired with a Rocky Air-Port cushion footbed to make each step comfy.

Underneath, the Rocky S2V Boots have a high-walled Vibram outsole with Roll-Stop Ankle Stability to give you the best footing on all terrains.

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How to choose the best tactical boots for hot weather

There are so many tactical boots in the market that choosing a pair can be challenging. If you’re new to tactical boots or planning to replace your old pair, the following are some of the things to consider:

👢Size and fit

Fit is king when it comes to any pair of shoes. No matter how durable the boots are, it will make your feet a big disservice if it isn’t sized well.

Most tactical boots follow standard US, EU, and other sizing references. Still, it’s best to check the individual sizing chart of each brand for an accurate measurement.

If you have the luxury, you can avail of special boot fitting. Still, you can always trust your manual measurements, especially when purchasing your boots online. You can always ask the seller if a specific size suits you based on the typical shoe size you wear.

👢Purpose

The next thing you should consider is the purpose of the tactical boots. This will impact the features, design, and material.

The following are some of the most common uses of tactical boots:

• Military. Tactical boots are initially made for military purposes. It’s built with tough materials that can be used on all terrains and weather conditions. These boots have solid arches and must meet uniform requirements.
• Law enforcement. Similar to military boots, those for law enforcement need to adhere to the uniform code of a specific agency. It’s mostly black and made of full-grain leather. Sometimes, law enforcers can opt for mesh. What’s most important is that the tactical boots have excellent traction.
• Firefighting and EMT. EMTs and firefighters require protection against chemical, sharp objects, and impact. This is why most of these first responders opt for a steel toe design.

Recreation and leisure. Meanwhile, tactical boots for recreational purposes like hiking, trekking, and hunting are more versatile. You’re free to choose the design, material, and look that you want. Most of the time, the goal for these tactical boots is comfort and protection.

👢Boot type

There are multiple types of tactical boots, which vary in material and purpose. Before you put your money on a specific pair, make sure that you’ve considered these types:

• Standard issue boots. These boots are the most common pairs in the market. It’s often issued to soldiers and law enforcers, bearing a classic black leather material. This is slip-resistant, waterproof, and durable for all terrains. And since it only has mid-range insulation, it’s not too hot or too cold to wear.
• Tanker boots. Tanker boots aren’t common options for outdoor use since it’s initially made for the Tank Corps. While it borrows the look of standard-issue boots, tank boots don’t have laces. Instead, it uses straps to prevent the laces from interfering inside the tank.
• Jumper boots. These boots were first made for the U.S. Army paratroopers. It has a tall upper that provides protection on the wearer’s legs during parachute landing. With this, jumper boots have reinforced heels and ankles to endure the intense impact.
• Desert boots. Walking in a desert is like walking on fire if you don’t have the right pair of boots. Desert boots intend to solve this problem through their sand-resistant design. It often uses brushed leather or suede material with minimal lacing. Desert boots don’t have metal parts that would absorb heat.
• Extreme weather boots. If you’re exploring through a jungle or facing harsh weather conditions, a pair of extreme weather boots is a must-have. These are divided into three sub-types: desert boots, jungle boots, and winter boots. Each one aims to keep your feet protected and comfy, especially in extreme temperatures.

👢Shaft/upper

In terms of construction, you should check the boots’ shaft or upper. This is the portion that extends toward the leg. It contains most of the safety and weatherproofing features.

For tactical boots, you’ll have to choose between a mid-top and a high-top for the shaft height. A mid-top boot extends between the calf and ankle. Meanwhile, high-top pairs will stretch up to the calves.

For summer or hot weather, I recommend a mid-top boot height. This is to keep your legs ventilated while maintaining a lighter feel to reduce the strain on your feet. When it comes to my boots, I reserve high-top pairs when I have to walk through wet trails or if there are hazards that may injure my calves.

👢Material

After choosing the boot height, you should also consider the material. The following are the most common options:

• Full-grain leather. This material has topnotch durability and water resistance. When buffed, it becomes nubuck leather. It’s also a good choice for heavy use, though it will come with a high price.
• Split-grain leather. If you find full-grain leather too heavy and expensive, you can opt for split-grain type. Basically, this is full-grain leather where the inner part of the cowhide has been split away and paired with mesh material. It’s lighter, cheaper, and more pliable, but it has lower water and abrasion resistance.
• Synthetic materials. Tactical boot uppers with synthetic materials are made of nylon, polyester, and other fabrics. On the upside, these materials are comfy, dries fast, and cheaper than genuine leather.
• Waterproof membranes. Both leather and synthetic materials can be paired with waterproof membranes. The most popular is Gore-Tex, which keeps the boots more protective against harsh weather.

👢Soles

A tactical boot has three soles: the insole, midsole, and outsole.

The insole is located inside the shoes, which cushions your feet. It’s removable and washable, so people with arch issues can easily switch to better options.

On the other hand, the midsole is sandwiched between the insole and the outsole. It’s buried within the boot and provides just the right amount of flex. If you’re walking on rocky trails and areas that require utmost stability, you should opt for a stiffer midsole.

Lastly, the outsole is the one that touches the ground. It’s often made of high-friction rubber with strategic treading to provide ample traction.

Always look for lug patterns, which should be deeper the more challenging your outdoor activities are. Also, you should look for a heel brake on the outsole to reduce the risk of sliding when climbing steep areas.

Another feature I recommend, which isn’t really a requirement, is a crampon-compatible outsole. This will come in handy when mountaineering or using your boots on winter adventures.

Collectively, these three layers of soles provide comfort on your feet. It also delivers the right amount of bounce to cushion your feet and knees from the impact of your outdoor activity.

👢Toe cap/box

The toe cap or top cap protects your toes from direct impact. We all know how painful it is to bump a toe on a corner, so this one is important for rigorous outdoor activities.

Moreover, toe caps are either made of synthetic material or steel. Most military and law enforcement agencies will opt for steel toe caps for utmost protection. But if you’re not going for combat, synthetic toe caps will do. Some individuals forego this part as they find stiff toe caps uncomfortable.

👢Internal support

Since tactical boots are made to endure tough environments, it’s fitted with internal support. These are the shank and the plates.

Shanks are elongated inserts about 3 to 5 cm long. It can be made of steel, composite material, and more. It’s intended to keep the boot from flexing too much while keeping other parts altogether.

However, shanks also tend to become the weakest link among tactical boots. Make sure that the pair you’re buying has a durable shank that can put up with your level of use.

Like shanks, plates are thin and semi-flexible inserts located between the outsole and midsole. If there’s a shank, the plates will be located below it. The purpose of plates is to prevent your feet from getting punctured or bruised by sharp objects.

👢Fastening method

Lastly, you should consider the fastening method of the boots. Most tactical boots use laces or webbing since they are easier to adjust and replace once they get worn out.

Other boots use laces and straps at the same time for better fastening. You can also find pairs with zipper components. The choice depends on what you find comfortable for your outdoor activity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are insulated work boots too hot in the summer?

A: Insulated boots can make your feet hot and sweaty during summer. It will also increase your risk of developing skin problems on your feet if you wear insulated boots in hot conditions. Instead, you should consider getting the best tactical boots for hot weather. These are more comfortable and breathable without compromising the protection.

Q:  Is it bad to wear boots every day?

A: Wearing boots daily can be a problem if the support has already worn out. It’s important to give your feet a rest while ensuring that your shoes are still in good condition. If you notice that your shoes are no longer as comfortable and supportive as they used to be, it might be time for a replacement.

Q: Are waterproof boots too hot in the summer?

A: Waterproof boots can be comfortable during summer as long as you avoid insulated pairs. To be fair, tactical boots are made thicker than other shoes to endure harsh elements. It’s slightly warmer, too, but you can still find breathable pairs in the market.

Q: Can you wear Thinsulate boots in summer?

A: Thinsulate is popular insulation material for various clothing and footwear products. While thin, it remains warm during winter. But during summer, this insulation allows proper airflow to keep you cool. If you’re looking for all-around boots, a Thinsulate pair might be a good choice.

Q: How do I keep my feet cool while wearing boots?

A: Aside from choosing the right pair of boots, you can also wear absorbent socks to keep your feet cool. An antiperspirant will also work if you tend to have very sweaty feet. It will also help to let your feet breathe by taking the boots off for a few minutes after hours of wearing.

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Final words                                                                          

With the best tactical boots for hot weather, you can take each step with confidence. It’s an excellent choice of footwear for long hikes, trekking, mountaineering, and other extreme activities. Just make sure that it has the right fit, material, and features to keep you comfy even in hot weather.

What do you think of these boots? Share your thoughts below!