When choosing a pair of boots for hiking, backpacking, or trekking, you may consider army boots vs. hiking boots. Which one is for you? Let’s explore together!
Army Boots vs. Hiking Boots: Comparison Table
When deciding what type of boost you want to wear for hiking, trekking, or backpacking, you can choose between army boots and hiking boots.
If you don’t know which one is best for you, you usually have to do a lot of research. We will assist you by comparing army boots and hiking boots.
|
Army Boots |
Hiking Boots |
|
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
| Best for |
|
|
Army Boots and Hiking Boots: The Difference in Pros and Cons
Army Boots and Hiking Boots are better for a specific purpose, which I will discuss further in the following sections. are better for a specific purpose, which I will discuss further in the following sections.
1. Pros
Army Boots
You can expect ultimate foot protection from army boots. These boots come with loads of safety features, such as:
- Great balance
- Ankle support
- Excellent grip
- Heel break
- Decent stability
- Good toe protection
- Shock-absorption
- Anti-slip outsole
- Protection from water and oil.
Army boots give you the precious comfort you need when carrying heavy backpacks and camping gear.
In addition, army boots feature side zippers and a speed-lacing system, allowing you to wear them or take them off quickly and easily.
It is safe to say that army boots provide the best protection as they are built to withstand harsh operations, rough terrain, and extreme weather conditions. That said, they’re more than good enough for long hikes.
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are perfect for:
- Go camping
- Walking around the neighborhood
- Walking through the forest
- Hike on trails or uneven and rough terrain.
These boots flex relatively easily, allowing you to put them on or off quickly. Plus, it also offers enough features to ensure your feet stay well after a long trip.
A decent pair of hiking boots will ensure the following factors:
- Non-slip outsole.
- Grip.
- Traction.
- Ankle support.
- Balance.
- Stability.
Some models are even snowproof, waterproof, or come with steel toe protection. Hiking boots are lightweight and flexible, ensuring you can go hiking with maximum comfort.
2. Cons
Army Boots
- Army boots are usually very stiff, so it will take longer to break them in. Therefore, you need to prepare before participating in strenuous outdoor activities, such as hiking, backpacking, or trekking with them.
- Army boots can be less comfortable than hiking boots as their soles are relatively inflexible.
- Army boots are pretty heavy compared to hiking boots. The more weight your gear, including boots, the faster you get tired. If you get tired quickly, you won’t get far.
Hiking Boots
- These boots do not have zippers like army boots. So Hiking boots don’t allow you to put on or take off your boots quickly like army ones.
- Hiking boots are not always snowproof, waterproof, or added toe protection.
- Hiking boots are not as light as hiking shoes in most cases, like hiking sandals or trail runners.
It will be a problem for those who want lighter-weight boots, which are more comfortable and will work great with any hiking terrain.
3. Best for:
Army Boots
- Best for technical hiking, mountaineering, trekking, and backpacking into areas that you never traveled before or have not often visited.
- You have to carry a lot of equipment or heavy gear.
- You want the best protection for your feet from various elements, such as extreme weather, rocks and rough terrain, and other elements.
Hiking Boots
- Best for camping, hiking, backpacking, beginner canyoning (kloofing or canyoneering), casual walks, light mountain climbing, etc.
- Weight is one of your concerns. You want your equipment to be as light as possible.
- You prefer to get more stylish and traditional boots while going hiking.
Army Boots and Hiking Boots: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re one of the heavy-duty mountaineers, a trail hiker who often visits the wilderness, or on active duty, the army boot will be your best bet.
These boots are designed to withstand the heat, weather, and environmental conditions that civilians rarely encounter. In other words, army boots are the best choice to protect your feet in the harshest conditions.
If you enjoy walking on convenient routes or trails for half a day to a day or two, you can’t go wrong with hiking boots.
The models, from expert to casual, are perfect for those purposes and often a bit more lightweight than army boots. Hiking boots work well in normal situations and normal climates generally.
Both army boots and hiking boots work great for anyone. But if you have to hit the most challenging mountain trails or hike deep into areas you’ve never been to, a pair of army boots should be in your backpack.
If possible, we recommend that you invest in both. If not, it is wise to try on the spot to see which boots give you a better feel. You should combine them with Merino wool or trail socks for the best experience.
FAQ
Don’t skip this section if you still have more queries about these two boot types.
The answers and information below will help you gain more insights into the traits and qualities of Army Boots and Hiking Boots
Can Army Boots Be Used for Hiking?
Army boots will work well for backpacking and hiking, especially for those wanting additional ankle support and durability.
These boots are designed to survive extreme use and extreme conditions. As a result, they are the ideal option for any backpacking and hiking trip you plan.
What Is the Difference Between Hiking Boots and Combat Boots?
Both provide excellent protection for your scales. But army boots come with more safety features and better protect your feet. Tactical boots are designed to protect your feet from any adverse elements.
Are Hiking Boots and Work Boots the Same?
Hiking boots tend to be more flexible than work boots. In addition, they provide better support on uneven ground.
Work boots often sustain and stiffer, helping protect your foot from cuts, punctures, and impacts. Wearing work boots for hiking is okay, but you will want to ensure their soles have grip.
Are Hiking Shoes as Good as Boots?
Hiking shoes are the perfect combination of trail runners and hiking boots.
They’re more comfortable and lighter than hiking boots but typically deliver the same protection level (except for the cuff around the ankles).
What Are Military Boots Good For?
Military boots are suitable for technical hiking, mountaineering, trekking, and backpacking into areas that you have never traveled before or have not visited.
Also, you should consider these boots if you want the best protection for your feet from various elements, such as extreme weather, rocks and rough terrain, and other elements.
What Are Hiking Boots Good For?
The main purposes of these shoes are:
- Protect your feet against abrasion and bruising from rough wilderness terrain,
- Cushion your soles,
- Provide good traction on steep, slippery, rough, muddy, and wet terrain.
Are Army Boots Waterproof?
Army Boots contain a waterproof breathable membrane with many safety features, such as thermal insulation, liquid fuel penetration protection, and limited flame resistance.
Are Military Boots Good for Your Feet?
Military boots are designed to protect the user’s feet in most cases. They will provide maximum comfort for your feet, even walking on rough terrain.
Are Army Boots Comfortable for Walking?
Combat boots make a terrific fall shoe and can carry into the winter if you want a waterproof pair of boots.
When traveling, you want to feel that your ankle and feet are supported and comfortable, which army boots are ideal for.
Should Military Boots Be Loose Or Tight?
These boots should feel snug around the instep and ball of your foot but should be loose enough that flexing the foot forward isn’t uncomfortable.
