boots - ALTAI® Footwear

Experience the ALTAI™ Difference: Side-zip models

altaidev on August 15, 2017

Boot laces are a critical part of all-day comfort and continuing performance. With proper gussets, laces gives you the unique fit you require; the last touch that give you a ‘custom’ feel. But as we all know, lacing to get that exact fit can take time. Configuring the snugness takes some trial and error to dial it in and undoing your intricate ‘custom’ lacing every time you remove your boots, means starting over again each time.

That’s why we introduced the MFT100-Z and MFT100-ZS, our side-zip models, to get the best of a ‘custom’ fit without the hassle of lacing up every time the mission calls for action. Lace up your pair to fit your exact needs; essentially now because of the side-zip, you can set it and forget it. Also, 2% of the sales from these models go to help support a national program to thanking law enforcement officers around the country, learn more here.

A real-life test of our boots came during the behemoth that is known as SHOT Show. Thousands of square feet of show floor featuring firearms, Personal Protective Equipment, tactical gear, and more. So when you’re about to put in close to 10 plus miles in a single work day, here’s a real-world testimony of the ALTAI™ Difference from PoliceOne.com reviewer, Nikki Lawson. [Hint: side-zips also make going through security at the airport a breeze!]

If your job has you constantly jumping into action, or if you have a penchant for nifty conveniences, our tall and short side-zip models will ‘fill those shoes.’ See our current side-zip models at our online store.

For those of you who prefer a lacing-only model, learn more about the best lacing technique.

ALTAI™ Top Picks: Gear Reviewers

altaidev on June 27, 2017

It’s that time of year. You’ve dragged out all your gear from the closet and are inventorying and testing how your gear is holding up. So, if you’re in need of a ton of new gear, here’s our Top Picks for Gear Reviewers, to help you find the best gear for your adventures.

Instinct Survivalist – http://instinctsurvivalist.com/

For the ultimate bushcraft expertise, Instinct Survivalist is a wealth of knowledge beyond your wildest dreams. From reviews on machetes to DIY advice on how to fashion almost any piece of wood into a survival tool, this blog can probably save your life. As far as product reviews, Instinct Survivalist doesn’t hold back. He gets down in the real world, the real wilderness, and pushes every product to its limit. Take a look at his review of our MFT100 boots: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaiWuxSNzgY

The Smart Lad – https://thesmartlad.com/

Hands-down, yes, The Smart Lad is your quintessential “geek at heart” when it comes to outdoor gear. Shawn Michaels, a Florida native, took life by the horns at a young age and decided to pursue his dreams: outdoor adventure. For someone who has rejected the “normal office job,” Shawn has developed a keen passion for finding gear that will not disappoint. Check out one of his reviews here: https://thesmartlad.com/hunting-boot/

Geek Prepper – https://geekprepper.com/

Combining the powers of geekery and preparedness, Geek Prepper has thought of everything and the gear needed when self-reliance is a necessity. Besides the knowledge-base of this survival resource, check out how real-world this reviewer’s attitude is when it comes to reviewing outdoor gear:

“If I’m going to review boots, I am going to live in them. I’m going to climb, slip, and stomp around for more than a day or two. When I review any gear, like a boot, I’m not trying to make the supplier happy. I am very clear about that right from the beginning… ALTAI™ didn’t even hesitate.”

ALTAI™ Toughest Jobs Spotlight: Tree Fallers

altaidev on June 13, 2017

Some of the toughest occupations in the world are not the ones you always expect. Tree fallers, wildlife officers, paramedics, the list goes on… and so do the folks in these types of jobs. Today we spotlight tree fallers and the occupations that demand 110% from its workers and how we strive to improve every single step.

Tree Fallers – Chainsaws, sharp axes, broken branches, rock, and typically, some of the most untamed forests make tree falling an extremely rugged job; not for the faint of heart. While leather is a common material used to fend off these kinds of nasty, sharp objects, we all know how easily leather erodes under long-term, daily abuse. All it takes is one decent scuff and that’s the beginning of the decline of your work boots.

SuperFabric® materials change the game when it comes to long-lasting, durable work boots. With this futuristic level of abrasion and slash resistance, we were able to engineer a better boot, meant to thrive in these kinds of harsh environments.

Are you a tree faller or work in a similar rugged environment? We dare you to take the next step and experience the ALTAI™ Difference.

The Next Level of Protection That Hard Working Feet Deserve

altaidev on June 5, 2017

Leather, suede, nylon, canvas, waterproof sealed seems, plastic, metal, and rubber; the list of traditional boot materials goes on. We, at ALTAI™ realized that for the hardest working feet in the world, these materials just won’t make the cut. And here’s why.

Suede, leather, and other animal skin or faux version has a relatively delicate surface texture. A quick scuff against a cement block or an unexpected tangle with a thorn bush are kinds of activities that put that brand new “pristineness” out of a new boot in an instant. Overtime, thousands of little scuffs and scrapes add up to eventual boot failure. Seems like a waste: we want to build a stronger boot.

It’s just one of the reasons our boots are all made with SuperFabric® materials for the upper construction. SuperFabric® is made of tiny guard plates covering the boot, deflecting rock, ice…. Whatever you throw at it. In fact, many motorcycle gear makers use the same material in their protective gear. SuperFabric® creates a protective barrier between the pavement and a rider, especially in the event of a crash that causes the rider to slide across the road. A material that can save a motorcyclist’s life; we decided that hard working feet deserve that level of protection, too.

And like we always say, don’t take our word for it; take our real-world reviewers’ words. Watch as Ghosthawk Prepper demos what happens when a machete and box cutter meet our boots.

SuperFabric® – Perfectly Engineered for Harsh Environments

altaidev on May 30, 2017

Our champion boot component: SuperFabric®.

Rugged, work boots. You’ve probably tried them all: leather, nylon, some fancy new synthetic that promises durability beyond your wildest dreams. And if you have a truly rugged job, you’ve probably been let down by a pair of boots with early wear and just won’t get the job done.

We at ALTAI™ recognized the obvious need for a superior level of durability for the hardest working feet in the world. Usually, people compromise and opt for thick, heavy boots to get the durability they need. Or, durability is compromised for the sake of comfort and dexterity.

So we engineered a boot that does not compromise either. SuperFabric® is our champion-component that allows for maximum abuse to your boots, while remaining freshly clean and ultra lightweight for long, extended hours. Made up of precisely placed, small, durable guard plates protect an underlying fabric from destruction. Unlike leather or nylons, SuperFabric® resist fraying and also provides a tough barrier from scuffs that compromise protection and aesthetics, making them an ideal slash resistant material.

With every pair of our boots, you can forget about rips, snags, and tears, so you can focus on what really matters: the task at hand. Learn more about how we’ve stepped up the durability-game with SuperFabric® here.

How to Pick the Best Socks for Your Boots

altaidev on May 26, 2017

Behind every great pair of boots, is a great pair of socks. We’ve all experienced a horrible mismatch between the two: too hot, too ‘slippery,’ blistery, the list goes on. Finding the right match between which socks to wear with your boots can mean a world of difference while you’re on your feet for extended periods of time.

Some sock materials will be better for certain temperatures, wetness, or sometimes just come down to personal preferences. Here’s a general guide to the typical socks materials to consider:

Synthetic Fabrics: There are a huge array of synthetic fabric socks. From cooling polyester fibers for the summer, to fabrics that “trap in” heat, without the bulkiness of thicker materials.

Wool: Known for its incredible insulating abilities, wool is one of the most popular types of socks for many adventurers. Synthetic blends of wool or merino may be preferable, since wool can be considered scratchy for some.

Cotton: Although the most common sock material, cotton socks are not recommended for hikes or long excursions. Cotton is extremely absorbent (imagine foot sweat!) and tends to dry very slowly.

Silk/Wicking Materials: Other kinds of socks, like silk, can be used as a liner inside your sock. These materials can help wick away moisture, keeping your “main sock” comfortable and dry.

Amongst these sock options, you will also want to consider whether your adventure will require lightweight, middle-weight, or mountaineering socks. Choose based on the temperature, dry/wet environment, and weather you will be facing. And it’s never a bad idea to have a back-up pair, for the unexpected.

Your boots should allow “extra” room for a variety of sock options. Our boots are designed to allow for whatever sock or combination of socks you might need; it’s why our boots are sized about half a size larger. (In most cases, if you are a men’s 9, we recommend an 8.5; this will depend based on your sock needs).

The History of the Combat Boot – We’ve come a long way, baby

altaidev on May 23, 2017

The history of the combat boot in the military.

Footwear for warfare; it’s come a long way since its first emergence onto the battlefield. Since the 1700s, combat boots have been a critical component to a soldier’s arsenal of gear. Frontline troops spend extended hours in their boots, trudging through the roughest of terrains.

The earliest combat boots were surprisingly simplistic. But countless injuries from poor insulation from the cold and trench foot from excessive moisture were clear signs that soldiers on the ground need better footwear. In fact, some have even reported seeking ongoing treatment from footwear-related injuries almost 30 years later. Now it’s not so tough to see what sparked decades of improvements to combat boots, with plenty more to come.

Today, combat boots come with an array of features; ranging from new space-aged materials to incredible waterproofness. Side-zips offer quick gearing up with perfect comfort, every time. Super lightweight materials for outsoles make a world of difference for weary feet during long missions. The military also expanded its offering to soldiers: two pairs of hot weather boots and one pair of temperate weather boots for Basic Training. Modern combat boots offer superior ruggedness, depending on the environment and situation; beyond what one standard-issue boot from the past could do.

Many components are used in modern combat boots, unlike the typical leather boots from the past. Our main, and most noticeable, champion-component, SuperFabric®, is incorporated into every one of our boots. The result: a combat boot that can defend from the harsh terrain any soldier of the Armed Forces faces. For a complete look at our version of the modern combat boot, check out our offering here.

Boots for Men & Women

altaidev on June 3, 2016

It’s a common opinion that life is better in boots, we couldn’t agree more! The kind of boots we live for are the ‘work hard, play hard’ type – one that both men and women can enjoy. Our entire line of tactical boots come is sizes for both men and women. The original black boot, the hiking boot, military boot, all of our tactical boots are sized for both men and woman. Read Full Post