Top 10 Navy SEAL (Special Forces) Boots
Whether you’re looking for a pair of good hunting boots for the season or gearing up for a military deployment overseas you will need a good pair of boots.
What is the best boot? The boot that fits your foot the best, drains well and lasts a long time in rough terrain.
You could have the most expensive tricked out tactical boots known to man…but if they are ill fitting—they will destroy your feet.
Check out the list of the Top 10 Special Forces Boots and footwear and you decide what is best for your feet.
SGPT also suggest you train in your boots….Yes that’s right—do your daily workouts in your boots.
Why? Train in the gear you use.
#10 Under Armour Valsetz
The Under Armour Valsetz is great!, it feels good and it is super comfortable.
It works great in the rain as it has a really good tread.
The Under Armour Tactical Zip Boots is a great boot for Law Enforcement and SWAT. The female police officers that I work with would like to know when the female version will come out. We know several guys that have used this boot for GORUCK and SEALFIT Kokoro.
Video Under Armour Tactical Zip Boot Review
Check out the Under Armour Speed Freek Boots @ Amazon.com
Question: Is the lowa Zephyr boot good for water?
Answer: Yes; absolutely. The Lowa Zephyr boot drains well and is light weight.
Question: What are the Under Armour Air Force combat boots?
Answer: The Under Armour Men’s UA Alegent Tactical Boots are Air Force authorized.
#9 BATES 922
These are a great overall training boot as it protects the foot while draining easily when getting in and out of the water.
The Bates boots are really lightweight. The Dura-Shock sole also helps on long runs and continual pounding running to the chow hall and obstacle course.
If you need a boot for colder weather, the Bates M6 and M9 have 400G thinsulate insulation. The Bates M9 does not look like a snow boot but can take harsh conditions for short durations. I would not wear it on an Arctic expedition but it can do well in snow in the mountains.
Question: Are Danner boots used by Special Forces.
Answer: Yes; we had a pair of Danner Acadia boots issued on the SEAL Teams.
Question: Which Solomon boots are used by Special operations?
Answer: The Solomon Quest 4 GTX boot is issued to Special Forces.
#8 UNDER ARMOUR SPEED FREEK
Video – Under Armour Speed Freek Hunting Boots Review
Check out the Under Armour Speed Freek Boots @ Amazon.com
We have observed the Under Armour boots and tops being worn by Navy SEALs and urban SWAT teams recently.
Under Armour Speed Freek Hunting Boots Review by Duckhunter
The Under Armour Speed Freek Boots have that broken in feel right out of the box.
Keep my feet cool and comfortable when roaming the hills while scouting for big game or shed hunting. The traction is very nice when walking on all types of terrain.
Question: What are a good pair of German Special Forces boots?
Answer: The Haix boots are made in Germany and used by elite forces including GSG-9.
Question: What are hiking shoes used by Special Forces?
Answer: We used a thin hiking shoe similar to Pallidiums for some training. Rumor has it that Navy SEAL Team Six used Vasque Juxt Multisport Shoes for the raid to kill Bin-laden.
#7 DANNER RAT TEMPERATE
Danner® RAT Temperate Military Boots Review by CT
The first pair of danners I put on I was impressed with.
As much as I was impressed with that first pair over other boots, I am that much impressed with this pair over those. I’ve read reviews where people said “no break in” before, and thought people were exaggerating.
I put my foot in these boots, and I could flex my foot in in direction: forward, backward, right, left and they boot just moved with my foot with no discomfort. I could bend down and flex the toe and the supple leather in both the toe and the back of the boot just flexed perfectly with my movement.
The Danner USMC RAT boots are amazing. I tied them as tight as I would a pair of boots a year old and they just moved with my foot perfectly. I can’t emphasis enough how there was absolutely no break in with these boots.
Question: What is a top rated rough out boot?
Answer: The Danner Desert TFX Rough-Out Hot Military Boot gets great reviews.
Question: If you had one Special Ops boot to pick which one would it be?
Answer: You can’t go wrong with the Bates 922 but I also like the Oakley SI Assault 6″ desert hiking boot and Lowa zephyr Spec Ops boots.
#6 DANNER RIVOT TFX
Danner Rivot TFX® Hot Military Boot Review by Anton
I am using this boot for training up for and going through ranger school. To start off, i put warm as a con because i live in the pacific northwest, my feet were super warm in this boot and I am concerned about going down to georgia in the summer.
That being said, the pros of this boot outweigh the cons. However hot my feet have gotten, so far.I have tried many boots, and am writing this review so that readers can get a good idea of what the Danner Rivot Boot is all about.
I have used/own the following boots: issue Alama’s, issue Bates, Danner Desert Acadia’s, Danner Roughout TFX, Garmont T-8, Nike SFB, Lowa Desert Elite, Lowa Uplander Desert, OTB 8″ Bushmaster, Salomon, and the Rocky S2V’s.
I also don’t just walk around the street or go to the range and get them muddy. I’ve done climbs of over 6000 vertical feet in rough terrain, including snow, ice, mud, scree, rock, dirt, etc.
Question: 6 inch special forces desert boot?
Answer: The Voodoo Tactical Desert Boot is a good 6 inch desert boot. It is low cut 6 inches and a very good price under $60 US.
Question: What is a pair of multi-sport shoes used by Special Ops?
Answer: The Vasque Juxt Multisport shoe is used by SEAL Team Six aka DevGru. The Teva Raith eVent waterproof hiking shoe is a similar multi-sport shoe.
#5 LOWA ZEPHYR
Lowa Zephyr boot review by Doc
These boots are AWESOME. They are indeed the lightest pair of boots (summer Bates included) I have ever owned.(15 years and counting) I ordered the GTX version for the added water protection and my dogs didn’t really “sweat” in them.
The laces provided were flimsy and didn’t last very long. Simple fix…take white “issue” laces-ask your supply and soak them in tea (you have limited resources downrange-those that have been will attest) and these laces still are in the boot to this day(almost a year out of country).”Break-In” time is virtually non-existent with these as well.
Check out more info on the Lowa Men’s Zephyr Mid TF Desert Hiking Boot
I actually took a PT test in them (once) and they felt like sneakers(and yes, I passed). I have plantar fasciitis (read: flat feet) and between those and some good orthotics, I’ll probably order another pair for my next deployment.
LOWA is a German manufacturer so there is no NSN. (Cannot order via your supply chain) Bottom line: WELL worth the money.
Only this time I’ll secure them BEFORE movement into theater. And yes, order them a size larger as they are made in Europe so they tend to run a size smaller than what you’re used to in the US. (I only gave them 4 stars because of the laces issue.)
Question: What’s a boot with good drainage?
Answer: The New Balance Tactical Abyss II has great drainage.
Question: Which do you prefer with the jungle vs desert boots?
Answer: It depends on the mission but I am partial to jungle boots as most of my training is in the forest and streams.
#4 NIKE SFB
Check out the NIKE LUNARCE Special Field Boot
Nike Special Field Boot Review by CORNELL from Stuttgart, Germany
Good boot buy it if your in the military and if you’re any law enforcement.
I run: 16-30 miles a week, primarily to stay in shape.
Question: What about keen vs Salomon boots? Or Keen vs Merrell?
Answer: Both are good boots but I would try them both on and see which one fits your foot better.
Question: what about the UA Jungle Rat vx Nike SFB? Both are good boots.
Answer: I would try each pair on to see how they fit and then make a better decision.
#3 OAKLEY LSA
Check out Oakley Men’s LSA Terrain Boot
#2 Oaley SA Boot
Oakley LSA boot review by Ian Hill
I live in Florida and frequently hike through very wet/swampy areas and have a difficult time finding a boots that can drain water and dry out fast enough to keep my feet comfortable.
Waterproof boots don’t work in many of these areas because the water goes over the top of the boots and then they take forever to dry out and leave you with swamped feet. For a while I have been using Vietnam style jungle boots, but I sure am glad I found these as they are much more comfortable.
Check out the Oakley Men’s LSA Water Boot
The Oakley LSA Water Boot drains water incredibly fast and also dry out extremely fast. In addition, they are very comfortable. The second day I had them I took them out into the sticks and wore them for about 8 hours and had no blisters or hot spots on my feet, and this was without any sort of break in period.
They are great for warm weather climates because they breathe exceptionally well, keeping your feet quite cool. They are also very flexible and feel like you are wearing a comfortable sneaker more than a boot. Overall, these boots are absolutely wonderful if you live in a wet and warm climate. I highly recommend them.
Question: What are a good Special Forces hiking boot?
Answer: The US Army Rangers are issued Salomon hiking boots for arduous mountain and snow terrain.
Question: Coach, which boot would you prefer with the Salomon quest or jungle boots?
Answer: I would go with the Salomon vs jungle boots.
#1 DANNER DESERT ACADIA
Video – Desert Acadia® 400G Military Boots Review
Check out the Danner Men’s Acadia Boot
Desert Acadia Military Boots Review by Major “O”
I wore these boots in the winters of Afghanistan. I took a 45 minute ride in a Blackhawk Helo from Kandahar AF out to a base in Helmond province. When we got there the Army guys were about frozen wearing the GI Issue boots.
My feet were nice and warm. Even with an average sock on. Danner is my one & “ONLY” choice for quality footwear.
Question: What boots are currently being used by US Army Rangers?
Answer: I got in touch with one of my buddies in Ranger battalion and he was just issued two pairs of boots. The Salomon Quest 4D GTX boot and Salomon winter weather boots
are standard issue for US Army Rangers at Ft. Lewis.
Question: Coach, how can I know if bates 922 fit with different sized feet?
Answer: Many athletes have feet that are slightly different in shape and size. The best thing is to try on the Bates 922 boots and get a feel for them. You can always add a thicker sock to compensate.
Runner Up Boot
Salomon XA Pro boots and Salomon Quest boots.
If you are training for SEALFIT Kokoro, 20X Challenge or GoRuck here are a few tips. You want a boot that is light and drains well. Get a boot that fits your foot as every athletes feet are different and boots are cut different.
Question: What are the best boots used by US Special Forces?
Answer: It all depends on the mission first as that will tell you which boot to choose. The Bates 922 is probably the go-to boot for most missions but probably not for cold weather snow work.
Question: I have flat feet and trying to train for Special Forces. What do I need to do to trick out my boots?
Answer: You need to add a good orthotic like the Superfeet Green Premium Insoles. This will help you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Brad McLeod knows first hand about mental toughness. After passing Hell Week and Dive Pool Comp at BUD/S, he failed a math test and was kicked out of training. A year later, he returned, graduated, and served as an operator on the Navy SEAL Teams.
Today, he is one of the most sought after mental conditioning coaches in the world. SEALgrinderPT audios and ebooks have been downloaded in 20 different countries around the globe. Check out SEALgrinderPT Coaching to help you step up and take hold of your dreams and realize your goals.
Proceeds from this website go to help raise funds for the Navy SEAL Foundation on CrowdRise.
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March 12, 2014 @ 10:17 pm
I owned those pair of Oakley. Worst boot ever. Looks nice but the quality is pathetic. The seams were falling apart in less than 5 months.
April 24, 2014 @ 11:10 pm
Have you tried the otb/new balance abyss boots? I know they’re discontinued, but they’re supposed to be a really awesome water boot. You can still find some on eBay and amazon.
March 19, 2015 @ 8:26 am
Used a pair of Merrill boots for two tours in Afghan, in the Musa Qala mountains and Sangin River Valley durring the feild flooding those boots saw summer and winter and were worn every damn day… 3 years later I still wear them, great boots last a long time, light and confortable.
March 19, 2015 @ 10:18 pm
What kind of Merrell’s Evan? Thanks for your service brother.
April 21, 2014 @ 11:55 pm
I’ve been considering the Salomon xa pro boots for some time now. I just read this article and saw that the author rated those boots as a first place runner up. What makes this boot a contender for the number one spot? Also, is it safe to use this boot while wearing a heavy pack?
April 22, 2014 @ 8:21 am
Good question Jason.
The Salomon Quest are issued to the Ranger MTN division and are a very sturdy boot to help you support a load. They are made for backcountry trekking.
April 24, 2014 @ 11:04 pm
Mr McLeod,
Thank you for the response… And thanks for being a Navy Seal.
Although my question had nothing to so with the quest boots, I’m pretty much sold on them. Thank you for the input and the post.
April 25, 2014 @ 8:00 am
One of the SEALFIT Instructors has the Abyss and loves it.
Review here: https://sealgrinderpt.com/new-balance/new-balance-abyss-vs-under-armour-speed-freak.html/
April 30, 2014 @ 12:34 pm
Under Armour Valstez for me. Highly recommended
April 30, 2014 @ 8:44 pm
I like the Danner RAT Military boot. Great boot and very comfortable. I have owned a number of Danner boots and they have all be great. Comfortable and well made.
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July 27, 2014 @ 9:59 pm
2 pairs of Salomon Quest’s later… I wanna say thanks, Brad.
If anyone else wants a boot that candle whatever you throw at it, buy some Quest boots. I backpack in a lot of wet, rocky places, and these boots are what I trust my foot in.
I have had two other pairs of these boots go bad; one was an issue with the lacing system, and the other was due to a gore tex failure. That being said, Gore Tex, and Salomon take care of you.
Thanks again for the article and the comments, it’s really helped me find the right gear.
July 27, 2014 @ 11:51 pm
Thanks for the comment and info
Hit me up with an email and I will send you a free audio
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June 11, 2015 @ 8:47 am
I am going to be trying out for the danish frogman corps, and will therefore be in and out of water alot, however since Denmark is a pretty cold country with alot of snow in the winter i will need a pair of boots that can keep my feet warm but at the same time is able to drain pretty well. Do you have any recommendations?
June 11, 2015 @ 10:59 am
Casper – the Bates 922 boots will be overall the best boot for Special Forces training. Not too expensive and last a long time.
June 11, 2015 @ 2:10 pm
Sounds good – will definitly get my hands on a pair then. Thank you for the quick response Brad, appriciate it.
November 28, 2016 @ 12:46 am
What are the tan boots in the picture at the top of the page?
December 15, 2016 @ 1:48 pm
I think those are Rocky C5C. I have a tan pair of Lowa Zephyr’s that look similar.
December 12, 2016 @ 11:42 am
British SAS & SBS use salomon xa pro 3d Mid Boots, good cross between boot and cross country trainer
December 13, 2016 @ 12:59 pm
Thanks for the comment Paul.
December 28, 2017 @ 10:17 pm
Any opinion on the Salomon Forces Speed Assaults?
January 3, 2018 @ 8:20 pm
good question KCurtis – we are working on a review now –
Check out the Salomon Forces here: http://amzn.to/2CBkHhe
May 28, 2018 @ 12:04 pm
GREAT!!!!! boot I just had to get new boots after training,working,and just everyday wear for two years… Now i have some merrell reflex boots so far there good but the new balance was better because you dont have to break them in the way they are when you buy them is they way they will be two years from now just with a ball head sole..
February 7, 2019 @ 5:31 pm
I’ve been using the Nike SFB but they’re now worn to slicks. Thinking of trying either the new Nike FSB (Gen 2) or switching to the Under Armor Jungle Rat. I want a light footed feel of a tennis shoe and the quick drying nature of both sets of boots. Most of my military work is behind a desk stateside but I occasionally have to go to the sand and get physical. Has anyone on your teams used either of the above mentioned boots with good success?