5.11's Halcyon, $129.99, is
the brand's most lightweight,
breathable, cushioned tactical
boot. It features a rapid-dry
micro suede upper with larger
air-mesh panels, a slip stream
lining to reduce heat and
blisters and Ortholite X-40
foam cushioning.
Bates' Rage, a waterproof
8-incher, and the Charge and
Charge 6 safety-toes feature
the brand's patent-pending
EMX contouring memory-foam
technology in the heel for a
custom fit. They also have a
thermoplastic polyurethane heel
stabilizer that increases torsion
control for added stability.
Merrell's
Moab
2
8-inch
Tactical
Response
Waterproof,
$175,
is
a
men's
tactical
boot
built
for
outdoor
on-duty
performance.
T
he tactical category continues to flex its toes and kick up its heels, delivering high-performance boots that stay on alert 24/7. Lightweight, breath-
able, comfortable and packed with technology, tactical boots are slipping into athletic styles with ease. "We are seeing a continued increase in smart
materials that interact with our consumers," says Brendan Rynne, footwear category manager for 5.11. "Customizable fit and performance that work
with the nano/smart materials allow our consumers to fine-tune footwear to their mission-specific needs. Customers are noting the need to be lighter,
faster and more comfortable in a wide array of difficult situations." O
BOOT BOOK
46 • Footwear Insight ~ July/August 2017 footwearinsight.com
Tactical Boots / Channeling the Inner Athlete
