Boot Conondrum

[snellkid]

I've followed all the Boot threads with great interest and there are a lot of really great boots out there to choose from. My problem is that I need a narrow width. Most manufacturers do not make narrow widths for sale to the general public, they fill thier Military contracts that require all sizes and widths be made,but will not sell to the public unless they have overruns or defects. I also require Black boots (for work) and most are making desert tan rough outs. I have the chance to buy a pair of Bates Durashocks, 9" U.S. Navy style w/ steel toes, I'm not overly excited about the Steel toe though, I can get these for less than $90 (slight Blemish)

Anyone have any prior experience with this boot, or know of any other types that come in Narrow widths?

http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp296/tsk5408/X-Boots-1.jpg

[Complication]

I don't know about that boot in particular but I just got myself a new pair of Corcoran II jump boots (http://uscav.com/Productinfo.aspx?productID=7615&TabID=548). By my count, you can get them in 8 different widths. They're not really "tactical" boots, but they're hella comfortable (require a short break-in period) and the first pair lasted me 8 years of nearly daily use (just walking about, some hiking every now and again, no door-kicking or anything). Once they're broken in, they'll be one of the most comfortable shoes you've worn.

If getting the right width is your main concern, I'd start with Corcoran. Not all of their boots come in 8 widths, but they seem to offer 4 widths on most of their boots. If you don't like Corcoran, USCav's got quite the offering and I've always been pleased with their customer service and return policy.

[Sluggo]

If you have difficult boot needs my advice would be to spend the money and go to http://lathropandsons.com/catalog/index.php and have them custom fit a pair for you (click on sizing instructions) if you have the cash to spend go for the Hanwag Special Forces if not they offer a SWAT boot for like $95. The main thing is to spend the money getting the right fit. A $500 pair of boots won't mean jack if they fit you like shit.

[Delta1067]

I like the Bates Durashocks. I haven't tried the all leather pair you are looking at. I would think that they will be to warm to wear in the summer.

[snellkid]

I went and purchased the Bates Durashocks that are pictured above, they fit like a glove, I ordered 10 Narrows, which is a difficult size to find, These boots retail for $189.00 on the bates website, the ones I bought were blemished Gov't rejects, it took a while for me to find the blemish. $75 delived to my door. Probably a little warm in the summer, but, I like an all leather boot.