Tactical Research/Belleville Kiowa boots (initial impressions, pics)

[021411]

In addition to the Nike SFB boots I'm currently wearing, I ordered a pair of black TR Kiowa's for work. I am currently in the lightweight boot buying phase.
They arrived today and I immediately put them on to make sure I ordered the right size. As with the Oakley SI Assault boots, Nike SFB, and Danner GTX that I own, the Kiowa boots ran true to size (at least to my feet).
I'll update with pictures when I am off.

Out of the box and onto my feet impressions..(I am 4 hours in on an 8 hour patrol shift as of this post)

1. Lightweight
2. Very supportive insoles. They feel almost orthotic like.
3. Excellent ankle support so far.
4. Very stiff out of the box. They definitely need to be broken in.
5. It doesn't feel like there is much of a heel cup. I think it's due to the insole.
6. I ordered the wide version but I can feel a bit of pain near the outside of my pinky toes.
7. Tread pattern is not aggressive and not as grippy. That might be the trade off for longevity.
8. Your feet will get wet.

Well that's it so far until I can get more time in the boots.

[deuce9166]

Please keep us posted, one of my TL's bought a pair of the Multi Cam, but hasn't worn them yet.

Are they not water proof? That might be a deal breaker for me.

[021411]

Negative on the waterproofing. It rained good the other night and I happened to step in a puddle large enough to cover up to the top of my foot. It was quick but my socks did get a bit damp.

[99superduty]

For a black boot those look really good.

I asked them a while back if there was any plan on making them in a shorter height and was told no. I think that would be an awesome boot if they had a shorter model.

[C45P312]

awwww ... not waterproof ... or at least not water resistant. Oh well.

[skd_tactical]

Thanks for the review. I have been eying those in Tan on their website.


SOS