Tactical boots and hiking boots are both durable footwear options that you can wear for hiking or backpacking. However, you should understand the distinctions between the two options so that you can choose the best footwear for you. Here’s a brief guide on tactical vs. hiking boots and their differences.
Manufacturers produce tactical boots for the needs of the military and law enforcement officials, so they have footwear that meets specific regulations. While manufacturers gear these boots more toward the military and law enforcement, you can also wear them to hike and in other situations, such as working outdoors or hunting. These boots can withstand various climates and conditions and come in several styles to meet the needs of different missions and circumstances. Tactical boots work to provide safety and protection during extreme conditions, which makes them great options for long treks in rugged terrain.
On the other hand, manufacturers design hiking boots specifically for hiking on outdoor trails in the wilderness or mountains. Hikers will wear these boots on various types of treks in multiple weather conditions to provide support and protection for their feet during the hike. These boots often feature a heel break outsole, which is when the tread on the heel differs from the tread on the arch and forefoot. This design provides additional support and slip resistance for hikers. While manufacturers design these boots with hiking as the primary function, you can also wear them for other outdoor activities and purposes.
The main differences between tactical and hiking boots are their materials and functions. Tactical boots tend to use polyurethane or ethylene-vinyl acetate materials, while hiking boots generally use leather, nylon, or suede materials. Tactical boots are also usually taller than hiking boots, coming up to the mid-calf, while hiking boots only come up to the ankles. Hiking boots are usually more lightweight than tactical boots and may provide a bit less protection and support. You can wear both of these types of boots for treks and hiking. But if you’re in the military or law enforcement, you should choose tactical boots over hiking boots. Tactical boots are specifically for tactical missions and military-related purposes, while hiking boots are generally for hikes, backpacking treks, and other outdoor activities.
So keep the differences between tactical and hiking boots in mind as you determine which boot is best for your activities. ALTAI™ has a durable selection of men’s tactical boots that work well for tactical purposes and hiking or backpacking long distances.
