As English author, A.A Milne once said, “When you see someone putting on his Big Boots, you can be pretty sure an Adventure is going to happen”. Therefore, if you are researching about boots, you might have planned a big adventure ahead.
Boots come in different types and different shapes; all boots are not made equal. Some are made to be more durable and of higher quality than others because of their uses. The tactical boot is one of such boots.
Tactical Boots
Popularly known as “police boot” or “combat boot” are boots specially designed for military personnel to protect their feet against challenging landscapes. However, the usage of tactical boots has become popular. Nowadays, military personnel are not the only ones using tactical boots. Some other categories of people have joined the train. They are:
- Hikers
- Law Enforcement Agents
- Firefighters and EMTs
- Tactical Boot Lovers
Originally tactical boots were made bulky and heavy, but this feature made them hamper performance hence the need for enhanced ones called lightweight tactical boots.
Lightweight Tactical Boots
As the name implies, lightweight tactical boots are tactical boots that are designed to be light. Some of these boots weigh as little as one kilogram (1 kg). They are generally quicker than normal tactical boots because of their weight.
With the widespread use of tactical boots, many are thrown at a loss about which type to choose from. Well, it is advisable to go for the lightweight ones. Their importance overrides that of the traditional bulkiness because they come with an extra advantage.
- Comfortable:
Any other aspect of the lightweight tactical boot cannot be discussed without first talking about comfort. These days, these boots are designed with an extra cushion that prevents wearers’ feet from feeling sore after being on them for a very long time. The inner lining of these boots usually feel extra soft such that one can easily traverse jagged, uneven landscapes.
- Lightweight:
This is of the highest importance of the lightweight tactical boot. Older, bulky, and heavier tactical boots restrict your movement. Unlike them, the lightweight version allows for easy and quicker movements. They feel more like running shoes than boots and offer you a wider range of motion while keeping your feet protected and secured. This flexibility which enhances your performance is an added advantage.
- Anti-Slip (Slip Resistance):
An integral part of tactical boots is the “lug”, that is the patterned designs in the rubber soles. Most lightweight tactical boots outer soles are made from very strong rubbers with heavy lugs. These lugs make it very difficult for the wearer to trip. This is called the slip resistance feature. With this feature boots, wearers can comfortably and safely traverse swampy areas, ice, and debris-filled areas without slipping.
- Shock Absorber:
The midsoles of lightweight tactical boots are usually made up of two materials;
- Ethylene-vinyl-acetate (EVA): This is a kind of foam used for the midsoles. It is very light, cheap, and it is waterproof. It serves as good protection from sharp objects. EVA is the commonly used material for midsoles.
- Polyurethane: This midsole material is much stronger and more expensive than the EVA.
These materials are extra cushioned to absolve shock caused by high impact, and long duration activities like running, and long treks respectively. They create room for your muscles to stretch.
- Protection:
The upper part of the lightweight tactical boot is the part that serves as the covering to our feet. They are usually made up of materials such as:
- Full-grain leather
- Spill grain leather
- Nubuck leather
- Suede or faux leather
- Synthetics
These materials are high-quality protective materials. Most of them are water-resistant like full-grain leather and synthetics. Toe guards are also another protective part found in tactical boots. The protectiveness of the lightweight technical boot comes in handy against sharp objects, deadly poisons from animals, say snakes, and harsh weather conditions.
- Breathability:
Breathability is now one of the important features added to shoes. It allows proper airflow to your shoes keeping your feet moisture-free, especially during rigorous activities. Most lightweight tactical boots are now made with mesh lining which not only promotes airflow but also resists water retention.
- Longevity/Durability:
Stated earlier, the materials used in the production of lightweight tactical boots are of high quality and very strong. It can, therefore, be deduced that these boots are durable and will have a longer lifespan despite the situations they are used in. The combination of different materials such as nylon, leather, rubber, synthetics, etc. gives the best combination for durability.
- Stealth:
One of the features of a tactical boot is stealth, otherwise, it is just a normal shoe. The production material used for these shoes has an extra benefit–quieter soles. This comes in handy when in special circumstances, especially during battles or hiking in the wild.
- Extra Support:
As with all types of shoes, the tactical boot comes in different styles and designs. Some have ankle-length shafts while those of others are longer. These shafts are not merely for aesthetics, but they act as extra support to you when:
- You are carrying massive loads
- Your muscles are weak
- Your ankles are injury-prone
- You have a knee sprain.
- Fashion:
Aside from its protective and durable features, the lightweight tactical boot can also add to your style, even during adventures. With the modern sleek design and wide variety of options available, you can never go out of style.
Conclusion:
The significance and usability of lightweight technical boots are too enormous to ignore. Whether you are looking for nice boots for your next hike or comfortable yet fashionable boots while at work, the lightweight tactical boot is your “go” shoe. It is an important and indispensable kit for military personnel, hikers, and other law enforcement agents.