View Full Version : Boots/Shoes for Training
RogerinTPA
05-17-09, 09:25
In the market for another pair of light weight, comfortable hiking boots or shoes for training, yet can be used for everyday wear. What say you?
Derek_Connor
05-17-09, 09:27
In the market for another pair of light weight, comfortable hiking boots or shoes for training, yet can be used for everyday wear. What say you?
Merrel Footware... (http://www.merrell.com/US/en-US/Gallery.mvc.aspx/M-F/Men/Footwear)
I used to be a big advocate of Merrill but the footbeds just seam to breakdown so fast for me. I have since switched and now I recommend Keen Footwear. I now have five or six pairs of their street shoes and sandals and have worn out a couple of pair of hiking boots. I have used Keen Targhee Mids on the range but have switched to the very well ventilated Keen Voyagers for Summer.
Nothing says tacti-cool like Chucks... :cool:
http://www.counterfeitchic.com/Images/Converse%20Chuck%20Taylor%20All-Star.jpg
If I could stand to wear Chucks for 8-10 hours on my feet, I would.
I'm going shoe shopping today myself. Going to be replacing my pair of Adidas running shoes and wearing the replacements at Randy's 101 this week.
I have a pair of Vasque boots that I usually wear at classes and matches. I've been happy with them.
Mr.Goodtimes
05-17-09, 12:21
merrel ftw.
I have a pair of Vasque boots that I usually wear at classes and matches. I've been happy with them.
+1 to Vasque. A pair of Vasque alphas got me through college and a LOT of hikes through the Appalachians.
I still have them, in fact, and they're going to be my carbine class boots till I can afford the $$ for a new pair.
Are they still made in Italy? They moved production to China for a while but I heard they went home a few years back.
SeriousStudent
05-17-09, 13:15
I have been well served by Vasque in the past, I have worn their boots for over 40 years now.
I have also heard good things about Keen footwear, as kmrtnsn says. Here is a link to a pair of their Shellrock low-cut hiking shoes that are on sale for half-price. I'm probably going to order a pair myself.
http://www.sierratradingpost.com/p/,1182T_Keen-Shellrock-Hiking-Shoes-Waterproof-For-Men.html
Best of luck to you, and thank you for your service.
Vasque boots have a good rep that's well-deserved. I love my Asolo TPS 520 GV boots (good thing, too, considering the price tag :eek:), but they're more for backpacking/rough terrain and less for light hiking; I don't think I'll be using these for carbine courses and the like. If their hiking and other footwear is anything like their heavier footwear, buy with confidence.
-B
Oakley SI Assault Boot 8" - Features enhanced load-bearing stability, anatomical fit and great tread durability. Available in Black or the Desert variant that matches split suede leather with breathable Cordura®. Lightweight and athletically inspired, it offers the comfort of prime urethane shock absorption and the climate control of a moisture wicking liner. The vulcanized rubber sole includes directional lug geometry and provides wet/dry traction on both smooth and rough terrain.
IMHO, they are so comfortable, you will never want to wear anything else. And, if you are military or LEO, very cheap at Oakley Military and Government sales.
One great thing about Keens is that they lack that "tactical; I'm a cop" look for everyday wear.
From Over The Beach (OTB) Boots:
Bushmaster
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g124/ClarenceLadd/OTB_Bushmaster.jpg
ThorTC
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g124/ClarenceLadd/OTB_ThorTC.jpg
Ferdelance
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g124/ClarenceLadd/OTB_Ferdelance.jpg
DesertLite
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g124/ClarenceLadd/OTB_DesertLite.jpg
Hope you find what you're looking for and Enjoy! :cool:
Asolo!!!
I havent tried Vasque yet.
I've only had them a couple months so i cant say how they'll hold up long term.These are by far the lightest and most comfortable hiking boot i've ever owned...
http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___10635?CS_003=2477120&CS_010=10635
Salomon Shoes and boot's is what i would recomend.
I were a set at work all day and they feel great, plus they keep water of your feet very well.
http://www.salomonsports.com/us/#/footwear/footwear/trekking
RogerinTPA
05-17-09, 16:29
Nothing says tacti-cool like Chucks... :cool:
http://www.counterfeitchic.com/Images/Converse%20Chuck%20Taylor%20All-Star.jpg
Old School Chuck Taylor tacti-cool...I like that. :cool: Unfortunately after 4-6 hours, my feet will be killing me, but I would be making a very "retro" statement. :)
Another vote for Merrells. All day, every day.
Rob
Crocs makes their tacticool sandals in your color:p
Iraq Ninja
05-18-09, 04:58
If I could stand to wear Chucks for 8-10 hours on my feet, I would.
I'm going shoe shopping today myself. Going to be replacing my pair of Adidas running shoes and wearing the replacements at Randy's 101 this week.
I have a pair of Vasque boots that I usually wear at classes and matches. I've been happy with them.
Rob, you need some yellow Merrells-
http://outdoor.zappos.com/images/745/7459725/8521-733343-d.jpg
merrel ftw.
...not that "for the win" shit again...:rolleyes:
I have a brand new pair of Vasque trail shoes that have then entire stitching attaching the sole coming apart after about 6 hours of wear.
This is only a statistical example of "1" and may or may not be an endictment of the QA/QC but the response I recieved from the company was essentially "the burden of proof is on me" and they will have a technician look a them after I pay to have them shipped and let me know whether or not they can "do anything for me."
You may want to look elsewhere.
We carry OTB, Keen, 5.10, and Salomon. They all offer something in a mid hiker that would suit your needs.
Merrell and Vasque are also both good brands, but we see quite a bit of them in the Bragg area and want to offer something equivalent or better.
Let us know if we can help you out.
FWIW, when I'm going to be on the range all day long, I wear Blackhawk boots. I've been very happy with mine and the black ones really show off that South Hill mud-clay-paste beautifully.
The rest of the time, I've got Merrel mocs.
I have a brand new pair of Vasque trail shoes that have then entire stitching attaching the sole coming apart after about 6 hours of wear.
This is only a statistical example of "1" and may or may not be an endictment of the QA/QC but the response I recieved from the company was essentially "the burden of proof is on me" and they will have a technician look a them after I pay to have them shipped and let me know whether or not they can "do anything for me."
You may want to look elsewhere.
Were they made in China, or Italy? My Italian made ones are nearly bulletproof. I have a SLIGHT separation of the sole in the back of the sole on the left side, but that's after about 1000 miles worth of hiking and 4 years of college.
Nothing a little shoe goo won't fix, anyway.
Were they made in China, or Italy? My Italian made ones are nearly bulletproof. I have a SLIGHT separation of the sole in the back of the sole on the left side, but that's after about 1000 miles worth of hiking and 4 years of college.
Nothing a little shoe goo won't fix, anyway.
Not sure where they were made, I'll look tonight. Either way this could be just a fluke. I liked the shoes alot. What surprised me was the cold response from the "customer service" guys. I am in no way attacking the brand.
...not that "for the win" shit again...:rolleyes:
Thank God I'm not the only one who can't stand that ****ing geek shit. :mad:
Rob, you need some yellow Merrells-
http://outdoor.zappos.com/images/745/7459725/8521-733343-d.jpg
Picked up some Adidas yesterday. Was wearing them around the store when the ole lady said "hey, they even have yellow on them!" I hadn't even noticed. Guess my SA sucks, but at least she's learning! :D
Thank God I'm not the only one who can't stand that ****ing geek shit. :mad:
Funny, I always see "FTW" and think it stands for "**** The World".
Oakley SI Assault Boot 8" IMHO, they are so comfortable, you will never want to wear anything else. And, if you are military or LEO, very cheap at Oakley Military and Government sales.
+1
Add to those the 6" version and or Black Hawk Boots, I have and currently am wearing them while deployed to afghanistan, both Oakley and Blackhawk are comfortable as heck but Blackhawk gets the nod due to great customer Service. I ripped a pair of blackhawks last deployment I took a photo e-mailed it to blackhawk and they sent me new boots no questions.
I love my OTB Ohdins but how are there other boots? I also like to use merrels but my sawtooths sucked. Damn things lost eyelets all the time.
RogerinTPA
05-18-09, 10:59
I have quite the collection of outdoor heavy use footwear, civilian hiking (3), desert (4), jungle (green and black) (4), old school black leather combat(6) and flight boots(4) in a box in the attic. Most are pretty comfortable, but I was looking for something in a low cut hiking/trail boot that can also function for everyday wear, being comfortable/durable, without the Combat/LEO look. Maybe a cross trainer sneaker would be an option. I'll drop by Sport's Authority today and see what they have in stock.
OTB.
I have the Bushmaster and SARS and they are great boots. If I could stand my Russells for long periods I would wear them, but they are moccasin boats and they hurt after a while, but for a great leather boot, I love my Russells.
I did some reading online and it appears that Vasques are made in China now and are nowhere near as well made as they were in the early 90s. Too bad, really.
rharris2163, check out the OTB "Keeper" shoe. It looks like a pretty good option for what you're looking for.
https://www.otbboots.com/main.html It's under the 'performance boating' tab.
Merrell makes some pretty slick hikers that sound like what you're looking for. The Chameleon Evo Mid w/Gore-Tex looks like a good option http://www.merrell.com/US/Default.aspx#store/M/M-F/15476M-36311/.
RogerinTPA
05-18-09, 18:00
Merrell makes some pretty slick hikers that sound like what you're looking for. The Chameleon Evo Mid w/Gore-Tex looks like a good option http://www.merrell.com/US/Default.aspx#store/M/M-F/15476M-36311/.
I saw some good choices at the Sports Authority today, one from Merrell and another from Columbia. Both low cut hiking boots, but either I have a weird foot size (11&1/2) or most common. They hardly had anything in my size that I liked that wasn't totally gay. I'll try other SA stores and or a trip to an outlet mall this weekend.
RogerinTPA
05-18-09, 18:15
I did some reading online and it appears that Vasques are made in China now and are nowhere near as well made as they were in the early 90s. Too bad, really.
rharris2163, check out the OTB "Keeper" shoe. It looks like a pretty good option for what you're looking for.
https://www.otbboots.com/main.html It's under the 'performance boating' tab.
Thanks for the link, but wasn't looking for boat/deck shoes. :p And please, no tactical sandals or flip flops!
The tread looks pretty gnarly on them :D
I saw some good choices at the Sports Authority today, one from Merrell and another from Columbia.
Recommend you pass on the Columbias.
I've only had them a couple months so i cant say how they'll hold up long term.These are by far the lightest and most comfortable hiking boot i've ever owned...
http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___10635?CS_003=2477120&CS_010=10635
+1 I bought the same pair early last fall. They're great for light hiking and every day wear. Mine are holding up very well thus far. They do tend to track more mud into the house than any other shoe I've ever owned though. :rolleyes:
Yeah,they've got me in trouble a few times.:)
More comfortable than my Nikes though.
For light-moderate use like training and everyday wear -- I like my New Balance mid-heights
http://www.newbalance.com/outdoor/countrywalking/MW977/
tango-papa
05-20-09, 15:16
Anyone have experience with the Asolo FSN 85's (non-waterproof) and/or
FSN 95's (waterproof)?
JeffLester
05-20-09, 15:53
Lows Renegade GTX Mid's... Been wearing them everyday for a year and a half, and seen a handful of pistol and carbine classes and a bunch of competitions. More support and just as comfortable as a pair of nice running shoes. YMMV
You might want to let people know what kind of feet you have also..., narrow, hi/lo arch, low volume (Wilma Feet), wide beefy (Fred Flintstone feet):p
I wear almost exclusively La Sportiva because they are great for people with low volume, hi arches (which must be common in Italy)
Oakley SI Assault Boot 8" - Features enhanced load-bearing stability, anatomical fit and great tread durability. Available in Black or the Desert variant that matches split suede leather with breathable Cordura®. Lightweight and athletically inspired, it offers the comfort of prime urethane shock absorption and the climate control of a moisture wicking liner. The vulcanized rubber sole includes directional lug geometry and provides wet/dry traction on both smooth and rough terrain.
IMHO, they are so comfortable, you will never want to wear anything else. And, if you are military or LEO, very cheap at Oakley Military and Government sales.
Just got an Oakley store in the local mall that sells their boots, both black and desert. I'll have to give them a try. I'm always leary about ordering boots online, not knowing the exact size I need, if they will be comfortable... How have your Oakleys held up? Any major wear problems? If I like them I'll order through usstandardissue for the price.
Just got an Oakley store in the local mall that sells their boots, both black and desert. I'll have to give them a try. I'm always leary about ordering boots online, not knowing the exact size I need, if they will be comfortable... How have your Oakleys held up? Any major wear problems? If I like them I'll order through usstandardissue for the price.
I wore the pair I bought through the LEO/MIL program through our Police Special Forces training which is 6 weeks of hell. They held up very well shooting daily in 30 Deg C+ sandy condition, boot runs through muddy duck crap infested creeks, O course, and shoot house training.
I liked that they were very light and comfortable with good ventilation. The drain holes on the in-step came in handy during the runs through the creeks or into the river. They are not waterprooof but drain water well. I am still using them as duty boots even after all this abuse. No rips, tears or other abnormal wear to be seen. Best suited to warm weather.
RogerinTPA
05-31-09, 08:58
I finally made a decision to go with Merrell's chameleon mid EVO gore-tex hiking boot, for a second pair of range boots and can serve as everyday street use, hiking, camping, etc... They are very sturdy, comfortable for all day wear, and waterproof. :cool:
Roger
http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___16811
RogerinTPA
05-31-09, 09:02
For light-moderate use like training and everyday wear -- I like my New Balance mid-heights
http://www.newbalance.com/outdoor/countrywalking/MW977/
Those do look pretty comfy and more urban friendly. I might get a pair of those as well, just for shits and giggles, but decided to go with the merrell's.
Chadzillaa
06-03-09, 17:20
I would go with a pair of 5.11 Atac or Advance boots. I just got a pair of the Advance boots and they are unbelievable. Sooo comfortable and light weight, and you can romp over anything. The zip-up side is perfect because you can leave the laces tied and get in and out of your boots with a quick zip.
Atac
http://www.lapolicegear.com/5a8sizipbo.html
Advance
http://www.lapolicegear.com/511-11007.html
Edit/Delete Message
Does anyone have any experience with the Oakley Boots? I usually only like to buy from a company that specializes in a product and buying boots from a sunglass maker does not sound right to me, but a SEAL buddy of mine said he wore them in Afghanistan and loved them, so I guess maybe they got them right. Any experience?
Does anyone have any experience with the Oakley Boots? I usually only like to buy from a company that specializes in a product and buying boots from a sunglass maker does not sound right to me, but a SEAL buddy of mine said he wore them in Afghanistan and loved them, so I guess maybe they got them right. Any experience?
There's 3 guys who've chimed in about firsthand experience with the Oakley's already. Unanimous in the affirmative. I actually bought mine through government sales this week after the recommendations from this site. You have to call first though, some sizes are backordered.
Thanks...do they run wide? I have narrow low volume feet. Thanks Again!
Apparently they run similar to Nikes. So order whatever size you wear in Nikes, be it wide or normal.
Apparently they run similar to Nikes. So order whatever size you wear in Nikes, be it wide or normal.
Not true.
Nikes always run small. I wear a 14 in Nikes. My last few Oakley's I bought were 12.5 and fit perfect. My left foot is a true size 13 when measured. I have a very narrow foot too.
For comparison; Danner boots (Acadia's, Ft. Lewis and Acadia Elite) , size 13. Addidas shoes, size 13. Under Armour running shoes, size 14. These boots are true to size, if not a little bigger.
Infact, I just recieved my first pair of black 8" SI Assault boots 2 days ago. I had to double check that they were in fact 12.5 because they were so roomy. Yesterday I worked 0600 to 2100 hrs in them....perfect! Orgasms on my feet.
For pure comfort, the 6" "offshore" SI Assault boot in the most comfortable casual/training boot I have ever owned. The USA made SI boots are not as "plush" and comfy, but are more durable.
www.usstandardissue.com if you are mil/gov, register. You wont be sorry.
I'm just going off what the guy on the phone said. I probably should have waited until mine got here to comment.
Tried them on today and I wear an 11 normally and the Oakley sz 10 fit and was little wide and I will try on tomorrow with some SOLE brand insoles (blue versions) and see how they fit.
Thanks...do they run wide? I have narrow low volume feet. Thanks Again!
I bought some of the Oakley boots (offshore) a number of years ago -- must have been before they started offering the Wide versions. I found them to be narrow for my feet (I often find Nikes to be a bit narrow too, and tend to prefer New Balance shoes in Wide).
Rob, I just bought a pair of these at Cabelas and I don't think I'll ever buy any other brand, ever!
http://www.merrell.com/US/en-us/ViewProduct.mvc.aspx/12005M/0/Mens/Moab-Ventilator-Mid?galleryId=M-F
They are the most comfortable boot I have ever worn.
I have only had them for 2 weeks, so I have no report on long term durability, but they are comfortable and waterproof.
Terry.
Yup.
I know i've already talked about them before but...
For $100 those things are excellent.I bought mine intending to wear them occasionally when going into the mountains or to the range.I've ended up wearing them almost daily.
I plan to buy a few more pairs now that i know my size and can order them online.I see no reason to even try anything else at this point.
Love um!
Outlander Systems
06-19-09, 09:10
Merrel Moab Ventilator
http://img5.imageshack.us/img5/72/merrell.jpg
Pros:
Lightweight
Cozy
Have taken 24 months of a beating
Waterproof
Don't make your feet too hot
Great traction
Cons:
Not as much ankle support as one might assume
Lightweight nature = less rugged than I would prefer
Waterproofing isn't as long-lasting as some boots. Mine starting seeping water after about a year.
ETA: Less rugged nature = lots of rough roots beating up your hooves.
All in all, a great boot for "****ing the World", but I wanted something more nasty.
Asolo Fugitive:
http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/5179/kicksi.jpg
Pros:
Rugged as a tank
Awesome ankle-support
Wicked tread
Waterproof
Cons:
Heavy
Uglier than Susan Boyle
Hotter than I'd like
I've only been sporting these at work for a month or so, thusly I haven't done a 24-month field test on 'em.
They're extremely tough, so there's definitely not chance for rolled/sprained ankles when descending steep slopes covered in leaves. They're hotter than the Merrels, but I'm hoping this might translate into better waterproofing.
They're very sturdy, which makes walking seemingly more propulsion oriented, if that makes any sense. My dogs are doing less work, so-to-speak.
Absolutely excellent boot thus far; however it's been too soon to work out any possible flaws.
Black Blade
06-29-09, 17:44
http://www.uspatriotstore.com/images/products/Altama/hoplite/hoplite-boot_6-inch.jpg
hoplite altama
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